subject: Licensed And Certified Massage Therapy - Find The Right Professional [print this page] Why seek licensed massage therapy? Most states have a professional board that
regulates those that perform massage and other body works within their borders.
They require therapists to have special training for a given number of hours at
certified massage therapy schools. Many require therapists to take follow up
training every year or two to retain their license. With the license from the
state, you have a level of assurance that the person performing the massage
knows what they are doing. Some states do not require licensing of massage
therapists, however. In those cases, how do you find a good one?
Some therapists advertise certified massage therapy instead of licensed massage
therapy. In states with regulatory boards, it is important to verify they have a
license to practice. However, in those states without such boards, finding one
with certification is a good sign. The question to ask is who provided their
certification. A few boards provide certification for massage therapists. One is
the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or NCBTMB.
With their certification, you get someone who has completed at least 500 hours
of training, demonstrate the required skill sets, pass a standard test, and go
through continuing education to retain their certification. Many states use
their exam as the state standard for licensing.
When you combine licensed massage therapy and certified massage therapy, you are
dealing with a professional dedicated to the work. That is the ideal situation.
Think about it. You are asking that person to perform muscle massage on your
body. If someone is unqualified, they can do damage. The wrong movement or
pressing in the wrong area can be painful. Why take the chance? Find someone who
knows their craft and takes pride in their work. In the long run, it pays to
find a professional instead of an amateur.
There are varied types of massage. Most therapists train in one or more
extensively. Once you find someone who practices both licensed massage therapy
and certified massage therapy, ask that person for what types of massage he or
she specializes in. Deep tissue therapists may not be a good choice for someone
who is sensitive to pressure. However, many therapists offer different types of
massage. Some integrate other practices such as aromatherapy and reiki into
their work. They provide a full range of services for those looking for an
