Pop quiz.
Do you love helping others?
Do you have strong hands and stamina?
Are you interested in anatomy and wellness?
Are you comfortable with close physical contact?
If you answered yes to all (or most) of these questions, starting a career in massage therapy might be an ideal choice for you. Already picturing yourself in a candlelit spa room, working out a knot for a client? Awesome. Let’s get you on your journey.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to become a massage therapist.
Understanding Massage Therapy as a Career
Massage therapists are trained bodywork professionals who manipulate the tissues of the body to promote relaxation, relieve pain, and improve overall well-being.
Essentially, they work to help clients feel better!
Once you go through massage therapy training, your day-to-day activities can include:
- Creating a calm, relaxing environment
- Assessing clients’ medical history and goals for each session
- Performing hands-on techniques to reduce tension and stress
- Customizing treatment during sessions based on client needs
- Documenting treatments, progress, and any client concerns
- Collaborating with healthcare providers, like physical therapists and doctors
- Managing business operations (bookings, payments, etc.) if self-employed
Work settings include:
- Spas
- Salons
- In-home studio
- Hotels/resorts
- Client homes
- Cruise ships
- Sports clubs
- Fitness centers
- Clinics/hospitals
- Franchise massage spas
There are many types of massage therapy you can specialize in:
- Swedish
- Deep tissue
- Hot stone
- Prenatal
- Animal
- Shiatsu
- Sports
- Thai
- Chair
- Trigger point
- Reflexology
Massage therapy is a flexible career that allows you to choose where and what to practice. You can start as a mobile massage therapist, traveling to homes and offices, and build your client base. Or, begin working at an established spa as an employee or independent contractor.
There are many different massage therapy career options — all enabling you to do what you love!
Comparison of Common Massage Therapy Workplaces
| Workplace Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
|
Spa or Salon |
Steady flow of clients, marketing handled, lower overhead |
Lower pay per session, less scheduling flexibility |
|
Chiropractic Office |
Medical focus, consistent client base, potential for referrals |
May require medical documentation, more structured environment |
|
Wellness Center
|
Collaborative environment, holistic care team, good learning experience |
May need to follow center protocols, varied pay structures |
|
Mobile/Outcall |
Flexible schedule, high per-session rate, low overhead |
Travel time/cost, physical demands, safety concerns |
|
Self-Employed (Studio) |
Full control over rates/schedule, brand building |
Must handle all marketing, licensing, and business expenses |
|
Franchise |
Reliable traffic, streamlined systems |
Standardized routines, lower autonomy, commissions may be taken |
Key Considerations Before Pursuing a Career in Massage Therapy
Pursuing a bodywork career isn’t all scented candles and moments of zen. (Though, that’d be nice!) Be sure to consider the following before committing to a massage therapy career.
Physical Demands
Massages are relaxing for your client, but a lot of hard work on your end! Doing multiple sessions a day can be physically taxing, requiring you to stand and use your muscles for hours. So, you must be prepared for the physical toll it can take on your body.
Consider your physical health and if you believe you can sustain it for the span of your future career. Additionally, ensure you can maintain a healthy work-life balance so you don’t burn out.
Interpersonal Skills
You also need interpersonal skills to communicate effectively and pick up on nonverbal cues. For example, if a first-time client feels nervous going into a session, you need to be able to put them at ease and explain techniques in a calming, professional manner.
Finding Clients
A common struggle massage therapists face is finding and keeping clients. Establishing trust, gaining loyal clients, and building up your booking calendar takes time. Be prepared to market your business heavily:
- Offer promotions
- Set up a referral system
- Give away freebies (massage oil samples, candles, etc.)
- Perform mini massages at local events or businesses
- Promote your business on social media
Always talk about your business to anyone you meet. You never know who might be interested in your services.
But above all, don’t get discouraged. Your client base will grow if you offer consistently excellent service — word-of-mouth recommendations will naturally come about as clients experience the benefits of your massage practice.
Salary Expectations
- It can be physically demanding
- It requires strong interpersonal skills
- You may not get clients right away
- You may not make that much money right away
How to Become a Massage Therapist
Ready to jump into your new career? Across most of the U.S., you need a state-issued massage therapy license to offer massage services.
To qualify for a license application, you typically need to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Here’s how to become a licensed massage therapist.
1. Enroll in an Accredited Program
Enroll in an accredited massage therapy program in the state you want to work in. Make sure your state board of massage therapy has already approved the curriculum.
2. Complete the Required Hours
Get hands-on experience by completing the required classroom and practical hours. The required number of hours ranges from 500 to 1,000 of study.
3. Pass the MBLEx
4. Apply for State Licensure
- Pass a state laws and rules exam
- Show proof of liability insurance
- Obtain CPR and first aid certification
5. Bonus: Get Certified
- Is passionate about massage therapy
- Can balance education with experience
- Has a teaching style you resonate with
- Can commit to developing your talent
- Is flexible, fun, and quick to praise excellent work
Setting Up Your Massage Therapy Career
After you become a massage therapist with a shiny new state license, it’s time to set up your career.
Finding a Job
Protecting Your Practice
Staying Educated
Good Luck With Your New Career
You’ve got an exciting journey ahead of you. After studying, getting licensed, and finding a job, you’ll be well on your way to helping clients feel their best.
FAQs About Starting a Massage Therapy Career
How Fast Can You Become a Licensed Massage Therapist?
The time it takes to become a licensed massage therapist varies by state, but most programs take about 6 to 12 months to complete, followed by passing a licensing exam.
