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Massage schools or massage therapy classes are the first step for anyone considering a new career as a massage therapist. This is a growing and popular field, which means that you can almost certainly find a massage school, or a college or vocational school offering a massage therapy program.
Massage therapy regulations differ by location. In the US, for example, many states, but not all, regulate the practice. These states require that massage therapists take the NCE, or National Certification Exam. The major association that accredits massage is COMTA, the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation.
| Before you consider enrolling in any school or program, you should find out what kind of accreditation is offered. This may prove to be important later on, especially if you want to get a job with an institution that requires a degree from an accredited program. |
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Even if you plan to set up a solo massage practice, it's good to have the right credentials so you can display your degree or certification.
Massage therapy encompasses several kinds of practices and styles. Different massage schools will offer different classes or emphasize different things, so you should think about what kind of skills you want to acquire.
There are several kinds of massage, such as Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai. There are also related healing arts that many massage therapists incorporate into their practice, such as reflexology, reiki and aromatherapy.
There are various types of careers you can prepare for as a massage therapist. You can plan to enter the field of medical massage, where you would be working with patients and helping them cope with symptoms and conditions. Doctors and hospitals are increasingly recommending massage for their patients. Massage is a therapeutic practice that is beneficial for relaxation, circulation and stimulating the lymphatic system. It is beneficial for almost any condition.
There is also sports-related massage, which focuses on helping people cope with sports injuries. As a massage therapist, you can also work out of a resort, spa or health club. Then, of course, you always have the option of starting your own private practice.
In massage school, you will learn all about anatomy and pathology and the ways the parts of the body work; this is similar to training in the medical field. You will also learn techniques of therapeutic massage, as well as ethical, legal and business aspects of a massage therapy career.
You can find information about massage therapy schools online, in health related publications or in course catalogs for colleges, universities or vocational training centers in your area. Before deciding on a school or program, you should find out if it offers a program that is compatible with your needs. You should visit the school and get a feel for it, speaking with students and faculty. There are many massage schools operating today, so you have many choices.
Massage school or massage therapy classes can prepare you for a truly rewarding career in a field that is quickly growing.
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