Timing is everything and there is no better time than right now to join the massage industry. The recognized massage therapy profession is growing due to recommendations by doctors and health care providers.
The tricky part of deciding on a massage therapy career is choosing a massage school. The number of massage schools to choose from is seemingly endless, and it may be difficult to decide which massage school is the best fit. Here are a few factors to consider before choosing a massage school.
For starters, it is important to choose a massage school that is accredited. An accredited massage school is held to high standards and this only means good things for the students. COMTA (Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation) is one of the most recognized accrediting bodies in the industry.
Second, keep in mind that a shorter program may not always be the best in the long run. School is an investment for the future. Therapists who graduate from a massage school with the minimum required number of hours needed to become a licensed massage therapist are less likely to feel that their initial training prepared them adequately for a successful career. A typical massage school will offer a program that is eight to ten months in length.
Additionally, make sure to consider the program content. Does the curriculum of the massage school cover all the basics plus a little more of what is needed to complete a massage program successfully? More than that, does the massage program content prepare for work in the real world? Ask to see the curriculum of the massage school and ask if the curriculum meets state requirements.
Practice. Practice. Practice. Hands-on experience is beneficial for students in preparing them for the world of massage therapy. Take a closer look at a massage school that offers a student clinic to the general public and one that provides students with enough hours of practice to gain the experience and confidence that is needed to become a good massage therapist. This opportunity allows students to improve their skills by working with a variety of different clients.
Finally, upon successful completion of a massage therapy program, graduates should feel confident about taking the state licensing exam. Make sure that the massage school attended is reputable in preparing their students for this exam. It is extremely important that the school has a support system in place for their students that will lead them through the state licensing exam process.
The massage program that offers all of the above mentioned components is The School of Massage Therapy at SOLEX in Wheeling, IL.
