Center for Massage FAQ

Center for Massage & Natural Health's
Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

What should I do first?

The first step in becoming a Massage & Bodywork Therapist is to apply to our school. An application can be filled out and submitted instantly. There is also one in our catalog. If you wish to have a catalog sent to you and also be able to download a complete copy of it, please fill out our Request Information Form. Fill out all the necessary information and mail it off to us. After we receive your completed application, we will make arrangements to either meet with you personally, or by telephone if you live out of town.

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Am I too old or too young?

Our classes range from 18 to 70 years of age. From young adults launching their careers right out of high school to retirees looking for a fulfilling hobby, each class is unique in age range, personality and gender balance. It is this diversity that makes each class such a uniquely wonderful experience.

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Is it hard to find a job?

Our graduates find tremendous success in their new careers. From working with medical professionals, to starting their own private practices, we consistently receive reports of healthy, fulfilling careers. We also offer LIFETIME job placement services to our graduates.

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Is it difficult to get approved for a Career Training Loan?

No. If you have good credit, it is easy. If your credit is less than stellar, a co-borrower with good credit will usually produce a loan application approval. We will handle the application process for you.

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How hard is the program?

This is a very comprehensive program, and it involves hard work and dedication. Our program is designed to include both lecture and bodywork classes each week in a very dynamic learning environment. Our science courses are fascinating and include multi-media presentations, while our bodywork courses include presentations, demonstrations, and lots of hands on practice. There are reading assignments to be completed outside the classroom, and fun and exciting projects to complete. As in-depth as our program is, our National Certification board exam pass rate was 100% last year, where the national average for massage school graduates was 73%. Our graduates clearly do exceedingly well.

To successfully complete this program, you will need to do a fair amount of studying outside of class. While all courses will require some outside reading, assignments, and review, you will probably find that the science courses (Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, and Kinesiology) will need the most preparation. Plan ahead – we strongly suggest that you reserve time in your life for studying. An average amount of study time is eight hours per week during the first half of the program (during anatomy courses) and two to three hours per week in the second.

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Are you accredited?

The Center for Massage & Natural Health is Accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA). COMTA is the only accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education focused exclusively on massage therapy and bodywork education. You can be assured that the education you receive from a COMTA accredited school provides quality on all levels. At CFMNH, we are dedicated to providing you with this level of excellence to assure you are most prepared for a successful career when you graduate.

The Center for massage is also APPROVED by the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. Graduates of our program are approved to apply for NC State Licensure and the National Certification Board Exam.

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How long does it take to become certified?

Our program is 6 months long. Upon graduation, it takes approximately 6 weeks to take the National Board exam and obtain a NC State license.

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Do I have to have a license to practice?

Yes, in the state of North Carolina. Please check with the states you are interested in practicing in to find out their individual educational requirements.

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What is the difference between being certified and being licensed?

Our graduates are Certified by our school, then become Nationally Certified after they pass the National Certification Board Exam, then are able to become state licensed. The National Certification Board tests for efficacy, while the NC Board regulates professionalism, laws and rules.

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Do I have to become Nationally Certified?

Yes, in the state of North Carolina. It is a requirement for licensure. It is an important, and widely recognized credential to have earned. Although the state of North Carolina does not require that it be renewed after licensure is granted, many states do require it, and we recommend that you keep your National Certification current by renewing it every 4 years. Additional testing is not required unless you let it expire.

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What supplies will I need during the program?

You will need four sets of linens (twin-size sheets and face cradle covers), which are available at discount stores for approximately $9/set. Face cradle covers can include a pillowcase, cut sheet, or any other soft material. A blanket is also important during massage sessions in case the recipient feels cold, and a queen-size pillow will be needed for use as a bolster. You will also need an ongoing supply of massage oils and creams for use in the classroom and clinic. These will cost approximately $15-20 over the six months. Biotone massage oils/lotions/creams are available for purchase through our Massage Therapy Supply Store.

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Do I need to buy a massage table before school?

No! One is included with your tuition! Additionally, you will have full use of our massage tables throughout the program, both in the classroom and in the student clinic.

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What do students wear to school? Is there a uniform or dress code?

We ask students to wear comfortable and clean clothes and shoes while they are in class and practicing in the student clinic. While practicing bodywork, you will want to be able to move freely, and blue jeans or tight clothing may restrict your range of motion. During student clinic practice, we will ask you to wear one of our Center for Massage t-shirts and clean, comfortable, and professional pants and shoes.

While practicing massage (both in the classroom and in your future professional practice), it is also important to avoid wearing revealing or sexually suggestive clothing. This makes sense in any professional setting, but especially with massage. Given the occasional misconceptions about the goals of our work (confusing therapeutic with sensual/sexual massage), it is crucial that we not give our clients any reason to question our professional intentions. Projecting a professional, therapeutic image is essential to maintaining respect and proper boundaries with your clients.

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