Massage Therapy

Employment opportunities
Massage therapists work in medical settings, nursing homes, rehab centers, and fitness facilities. They may work with sports medicine and with pain management. They may work as independents, from their own homes, in clients’ homes, or in the growing number of bodywork centers. This specialty supplements chiropractic and physical therapy nicely.

Job outlook
The consumer call for massage therapists has been increasing steadily in recent years. Most health care consumers are calling for insurance coverage; and many health-care providers recommend massage therapy for their patients. These developments show the growing recognition that massage therapy can be an important component of health and wellness. The field should experience faster than average growth in employment. The need for trained professionals in all health career fields continues to be great.  

Earning potential
Earnings for massage therapists vary depending on location and type of practice. A therapist may earn from $15 to $60 per hour. Due to the physical demands of the work, massage therapists seldom work more than 30 hours per week. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage nationwide for massage therapists was about $40,210 in 2005.

Career advancement
With further education, massage therapists can work in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or nursing. They can also become business owners and educators in health areas.

Career choices with your certificate:
• Massage therapist

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
• Instructor
• Manager
• Nurse
• Occupational therapist
• Occupational therapy assistant
• Physical therapist
• Physical therapy assistant
• Salesperson