What Training Do You Need to Be a Massage Therapist?

Exploring a fulfilling career in wellness and helping others heal can be challenging, but pursuing massage therapist training might be the ideal path for those drawn to this rewarding work. Being a massage therapist offers numerous benefits, including flexibility and a wide variety of styles that allow you to develop specialties, which also require dedication, proper training, and licensing. It’s important to understand what training you need to be a massage therapist, whether you are planning to practice in New Mexico or elsewhere. This guide is meant to guide you on your new path. 

We will cover:

• Types of Massage Therapy Programs You Can Choose

• What It Takes to Get Licensed in New Mexico

• Where Your Career Can Go After Graduation

• Is a College Degree Really Required?

Massage Therapists Don’t Need a Degree—but They Do Need Training

The study of massage therapy differs from many other healthcare professions as it doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree. In most states, including New Mexico, massage therapy education requirements include training at a state-accredited training school and passing a licensing exam to legally practice. 

To be a massage therapist, most programs require 500-1,000 hours of instruction. At New Mexico School of Massage, students complete a comprehensive 650-hour training program designed to build both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The study of massage therapy typically includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathology, ethics, and multiple massage techniques. These courses are intended to be combined with practical training to set you up to provide the best care possible and thrive in your new career. 

Types of Massage Therapy Education Programs

Schooling for massage therapist careers can be achieved through a variety of educational paths. Most students opt for the straightforward certificate or diploma programs offered by schools devoted to massage therapy education. By being focused on massage therapy, these schools offer programs that can be done either part-time or full-time and range from 6 months to one year in duration. The curriculum includes practical subjects about anatomy and various massage techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and trigger point therapy. Comprehensive programs often include classes in business practices, helping you prepare for private practice. 

The foundational skills and taking advantage of any additional courses offered can help you enter the field of massage therapy with confidence. 

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

We’ve covered the education requirements to be a massage therapist, now it’s time to move on to the next step, licensing. While state laws may vary, most states require some licensing for massage therapists including New Mexico. 

Many states use the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), a standardized national exam that covers topics like client assessment, treatment planning, and professional ethics. Additionally, new massage therapists must pass a background check and qualify for the state licensing board to enter the field professionally. 

Maintaining your license, or renewing it, will also require continuing education, similar to any medical field. This not only shows you continue to provide safe and ethical care but improves the care you offer by keeping you up-to-date with latest techniques and any therapy education requirements that may come. 

Career Specialties After Completing Your Education

After you’ve met all education requirements to be a massage therapist, the field is full of possibilities, from spa work to clinical practice. You can focus on multiple areas with crossovers, including:

• Sports massage for athletes and fitness enthusiasts

• Prenatal massage for expectant mothers

• Reflexology, deep tissue, and trigger point therapy for pain relief and healing

Whether you work within an established wellness center or clinic, luxury spas, resorts, or even cruise chips, you’ll find many options. One of the most appealing aspects of being a massage therapist is the career flexibility. You can use your skills in various paths, full-time or part-time, employed by a larger practice or even operating your own private practice, you can be a massage therapist on your own terms. With experience and care you can grow your clientele and income. 

Do You Need a College Degree to Be a Massage Therapist?

While many states require a bachelor’s degree, you do not need a degree to become a massage therapist. Initially, you do need a formal certification from an accredited massage program and state licensing. This makes entering the professional field more accessible for many compared to the four-year, or longer, degrees needed in other fields. 

With accredited programs ranging from 6-12 months on average, you can achieve the massage therapist education needed to get you earning a living without the upfront commitment and delay of traditional college. Then, as you progress through your career, you can supplement your skills with ongoing education for state licensing requirements, expand or specialize your area of expertise, and increase your earning potential even further.

Start Your Massage Therapy Career in New Mexico

Now that we’ve covered what training you need to be a massage therapist, you are ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling and flexible career. Take the next step by researching accredited massage therapy schools in your area, such as the New Mexico School of Massage, serving both Santa Fe and Albuquerque, to find a program that fits your goals. The study of massage therapy, licensing, and passion can lead you to a bright future as a licensed massage therapist.

Contact New Mexico School of Massage to step onto your new path in healing today!