1. Complete state-specific massage therapy training
Massage therapist training requirements vary by state. In Texas, the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR) requires candidates to adhere to all parts of the Texas Administrative Code Section 117.20, which says that individuals pursuing licensure in massage therapy are to complete 500 hours of department-approved coursework and clinical work from an accredited massage therapy school. If you're interested in opening your own private practice after receiving your license, you might benefit from completing courses in marketing and business management as well, which provide additional skills and technical knowledge.
Students typically take eight to nine months to complete the required massage therapy training, although specific timeframes can vary depending on course availability and enrollment status, such as full-time versus part-time. While 500 hours of coursework is the minimum requirement, you can complete up to 2,000 hours, which can prolong the licensure process.
2. Gain hands-on experience
In Texas, candidates for massage therapy licensure are to complete a 50-hour internship. The experience allows you to apply the skills and technical knowledge you developed during your coursework while learning more about client interactions. Besides the clinical work you complete during your studies, an internship is also an opportunity to learn directly from an established therapist. If you're pursuing private practice, they can provide you with guidance about the business-related elements of the profession.
3. Pass the Texas massage therapist licensing exam
To obtain a massage therapy license in Texas, the TDLR requires you to earn a score of 630 or higher on the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEX).or the State of Texas Exam Administered by TDLR (70% or higher). The licensing test covers a variety of topics, including:
Anatomy and physiology: The MBLEX tests students' understanding of human anatomy and physiology, including system functions, system structures and tissue and injury repair.
Kinesiology: The exam covers various aspects of kinesiology, including the characteristics and components of muscles, joint structures and functions and the concepts of muscle contractions and range of motion.
Pathologies and areas of caution: The MBLEX requires students to have an understanding of pathologies and areas of caution to ensure they keep themselves and their clients safe while providing effective pain relief.
Psychological effects of soft tissue manipulation: Besides its positive physical impacts, massage therapy can have a significant impact on clients' mental well-being by providing stress relief and relaxation.
The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) administers the exam and asks candidates to submit their exam results along with a licensure application that outlines their credentials, including their completion of at least 500 hours of coursework and clinical training from an accredited massage school.
4. Pursue optional certifications
To increase your earning potential and improve your application of specific massage techniques, you may want to pursue certifications. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) partners with medical institutions and other organizations to provide opportunities for certification. Aside from validating your skills and allowing you to focus on a specialization, these credentials demonstrate your commitment to your profession and interest in professional development.
