About Therapeutic Massage Schools

People who enjoy helping others may like a career in therapeutic massage. Massage therapy is an area of alternative health. It involves using many different techniques, oils and lotions to relieve stress and tension in the body.  Men and women can learn massage online or at a nearby massage school.

Therapeutic Schools

Future massage therapists obtain their skills and training from schools like the Institute of Therapeutic Massage, Inc.  This school and many others offer core courses that teach students how to apply lotions, oils and other aromatic applications. Courses also train students how to use various techniques such as Swedish massage and aromatherapy.

Another school option for students is online learning. Although they cannot perform the skills immediately, they can learn about the main academics such as anatomy, physiology and kinesiology. Once they complete their academic courses, they can do their clinical training at a spa, salon or other therapeutic location.

Types of Programs

Therapeutic schools have numerous program options. Students can choose to study many programs or one at a time. Some institutions base programs on specific areas of health. This allows students to achieve their career goals by studying one specific technique or area.

The options students may choose from include:

• Hospital (medical)


• Sports medicine (rehabilitative)


• Self-employed (sets own hours and choose clientele)

Certification

Massage therapy schools typically give students diplomas once they graduate. But, they must also certify with the state of which they live before working in massage. Graduates may take any one of several massage therapy certification examinations. They generally take an exam provided by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. The organization is highly recognized and respected in the world of therapeutic massage.