Massage Therapist Career

Services Industry

massage-therapist-500 Massage therapists use touch to manipulate soft-tissue muscles of clients for either therapeutic or relaxation purposes. They have over 80 types, or modalities, of massage to select from, each of which requires a certain technique. Most therapists specialize in a few modalities to provide massages ranging from five minutes to two hours. Physical condition and needs of the client usually determine the type and length of massage.

Massage therapists work by appointment in private offices, within the home of a client, or at locations like fitness centers, hospitals, or even airports.

Massage Therapist Snapshot

Massage therapists work closely with clients from their own office, spa, health club, or even a hospital. They spend most of their day standing and bending. The hours are flexible.

More details on a career as a massage therapist follow (statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Onet Online):

$38,040

is the average earnings for massage therapists per year.

22%

increase in employment between 2014 and 2024.

97%

have some college, but no degree.

Massage Therapist Education

Massage therapists must abide by regulations in many parts of the U.S. To practice in most states, you will need to take a National Certification Exam. Massage school is recommended and often a requirement of those considering a career as a massage therapist.

Massage Therapist Job Duties

Massage therapists treat their clients to personal massages. They can choose to specialize in sports massages, spa therapy, or medical massages.

Massage Therapist Salaries

The average pay for massage therapists is about $38,040 per year. It’s possible to make over $74,860 per year with the right position and background. Up to 20% of a massage therapists income is earned from gratuities.

Massage Therapist Job Outlook

According to the BLS.gov, careers in massage therapy are expected to increase by 22% between 2014 and 2024 which is faster than the average occupation. This is due in part to an increase in the understanding of the benefits of massage therapy.