Massage Therapist
Massage therapy is a manual manipulation of soft body tissues (muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments) to enhance a person’s health and well-being. As a massage therapist, you will use your hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows to apply pressure to the muscles and soft tissues of your clients.
Career Values, Traits, and Skills
To excel as a massage therapist, one should possess certain values, traits, and skills. Some of them are:
Values
- Helping people
- Relieving pain
- Promoting relaxation
- Improving overall wellness
Traits
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Good communication skills
- Patience
- Physical stamina
Skills
- Knowledge of massage techniques
- Ability to assess client needs
- Ability to maintain client confidentiality
- Ability to work with a wide range of clients
- Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
Career Path
To become a massage therapist, you must complete a training program in massage therapy at an accredited school, college, or vocational/technical school. After completing the training, you will have to pass a state licensure exam to practice as a licensed massage therapist (LMT). Some states may have additional requirements, such as continuing education.
As a massage therapist, you can work in various settings, including spas, salons, health and fitness centers, hospitals, physician offices, and wellness centers. You can also choose to work independently and start your practice.
Salary Range
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for massage therapists was $43,620 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $22,670, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $80,390. The salary range depends on factors like education, experience, location, and type of employer.
Tips for Success
To succeed as a massage therapist, consider the following tips:
- Continue learning and practicing new massage techniques
- Develop good communication skills to connect with clients and understand their needs
- Build a strong professional network to grow your business
- Take care of your own physical and mental well-being
- Keep up with industry standards and ethical practices
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Massage Therapists
- American Massage Therapy Association: How to Become a Massage Therapist
- Massage Magazine: Tips for Success as a Massage Therapist
