Massage Therapy Programs

Massage Therapy Schools in Flintstone GA 30725

Find schools and get information on the program that’s right for you.

A massage therapist, or masseuse, is a health care professional in Flintstone GA who provides massages to patients who are undergoing physical therapy, suffering from health problems or want to relieve stress. Massage therapists aim to reduce pain, heal injuries and rejuvenate patients. Common duties include evaluating patients, explaining massage options and providing guidance to help patients relax. Such therapists may be employed in spas, fitness centers or medical facilities. Work is often part-time, and hours can vary widely depending on clients’ schedules. A therapist’s work requires standing for long periods and making repetitive motions.

Massage therapists must usually hold a high school diploma or the equivalent and have completed a minimum 500-hour training program. Most states require massage therapists to be licensed.

Educational Requirements in Georgia

Step 1: Complete a Training Program

Individuals interested in becoming massage therapists must complete formal training, which may be offered as certificate and diploma programs through community colleges and technical schools. A high school diploma or the equivalent is required to enter most training programs. Most massage therapist training programs can be completed in less than one year. Through a blended curriculum and on-the-job training, students acquire and apply their knowledge of massage techniques through hands-on training sessions. Course topics may include holistic health, medical massage, reflexology and physical arts. Students may also learn various massage techniques, including Swedish massage, Thai, pre-natal and deep tissue massage.

Step 2: Become Licensed or Certified in Flintstone Georgia

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that state boards regulate massage licenses and requirements, and that individuals may need to pass either a state or other nationally accredited exam to become licensed. The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) offers the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). Prior to applying for licensure, applicants must first complete at least 500 hours of training.

Massage therapy coursework in Flintstone 30725 covers such topics as organ and tissue anatomy, motion and body mechanics, physiology, kinesiology and ethics. Additionally, students learn various massage techniques, including Swedish massage, reflexology, sports massage, acupressure and neuromuscular massage. Certificate programs in massage therapy generally involve lectures, readings and theoretical work, as well as labs and clinical practice. Upon completion of the program, students will have accumulated between 500 and 750 hours of hands-on and didactic instruction.

The BLS notes that some training programs offer job placement for graduates. Massage therapists may find employment in spas, salons, fitness centers, medical facilities and resorts. They may also choose to open their own massage business in Georgia or work independently by traveling to client locations.

Step 4: Consider Earning Voluntary Certification

Massage therapists who want to improve their job prospects and demonstrate their expertise can pursue voluntary board certification from organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). Qualifications include 750 hours of training, 250 hours of work experience and passing scores on a certification exam.

Below are some of the commonly offered online massage therapy courses.

Anatomy and Physiology: Massage therapists need a firm understanding of the body systems and how massage affects not only muscles, but also bones, joints and circulation. In this course, students learn how massage therapy can be used to alleviate physical pain and prevent future injury or disease. Students are taught how massage techniques can benefit the body, improve immune system defenses and facilitate digestion and circulation.
Swedish Massage: In this course, students learn the foundational massage style of Swedish massage, which implements long strokes using oils. Other massage approaches based upon Swedish techniques, such as deep tissue, hot stone and prenatal, are also taught and practiced. The online course commonly uses videos and photographic manuals to show students how to perform the proper techniques.
Sports Massage: Students learn a variety of sports massage styles that incorporate stretching to help athletes’ recovery and performance. The ways massage affects organ systems, from the skin to muscular systems, is discussed. Swedish massage techniques, which are commonly used in sports massage, are built upon in this course. Online versions of the course typically utilize videos that demonstrate massage techniques, and students may be encouraged to practice at home with a volunteer.
Energy Techniques: Holistic traditional Chinese medicine philosophies and practices are learned in this online course, which typically uses a video format. Students in Flintstone study various energy techniques, including information on how to use chi to balance the body and various acupressure points. Swedish massage techniques, which incorporate many movements integrated into personalized massage styles, are further discussed and practiced. Bones, joints and muscles are identified.
Hand & Foot Reflexolog: Students are educated about the fundamental basics of hand and foot reflexology, a treatment option which involves applying pressure therapy to reflex points located on the hands and feet. They also learn the reflex zones that correspond to different parts of the body. This treatment may not only aid the body and mind in becoming deeply relaxed, it may also promote healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being.

Career Information

According to the BLS, 46% of massage therapists in 2012 were self-employed and worked either as contractors or through their own businesses. Massage therapists were also frequently employed in private doctor’s offices, spas, fitness centers, hotels and resorts. The BLS indicated that in 2013, massage therapists made a median salary of $35,920 per year.