TUITION & FEES FOR 2010 CLASSES:

TUITION:                                                  $8680
Less Eligible Intro Scholarship           -   500
Less Eligible Pell Grant:                       - 3700
Less Eligible FSEOG Grant:                -   200
Less Eligible Tax Credit:                       - 2500
Net Potential Tuition Cost:              $1780

FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS AVAILABLE

PROGRAM SUPPLY FEE: $1295*
includes:

All Text Books, Student Binder and Educational Materials

Massage Table, Face Rest, Bolster and Carry Case
ABMP Membership with Student Liability Insurance
Linens (5 Sets of Massage Table Linens)
Massage Oil (1 Bottle)
CFMNH Clinic Shirt

We require all program supplies to be purchased by our school to attend our program. No portion of this fee will be excused or excluded for any reason. Program Supply Fee is due 14 days before class starts and is non-refundable.

If you do not qualify for Federal Financial Aid, you can still take advantage of generous pre-payment discounts of up to $1000.00, our Career Day Introduction to Massage Scholarship of $500.00 and the American Education Tax Credit of up to $2500.00, bringing your tuition costs down to as low as $4680.

We are the only massage school in Asheville authorized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Internal Revenue Service for students to be able to take the American Opportunity Tax Credit or provide Federal Financial Aid.

*Sales tax not included

Admission Requirements

Provide proof of age being 18 years or older
Provide proof of high school graduation or GED Certification
Complete a personal interview
Be academically capable (willing and able to participate in all course work)
Be mentally and emotionally prepared
Be physically prepared and free from communicable disease
Have clear, ethical intentions
Be able to demonstrate a clear plan for meeting financial agreements
Have no significant logistical issues (including transportation, time and energy availability)

Admissions Process

There are no application deadlines however; class sizes are limited and enrollment ends when classes are filled. Prospective students are encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible.

Submit your Admissions Application
Be interviewed by our Admissions Staff
Upon acceptance into our program, decide on payment method to guarantee your place in our program.

To guarantee your place in our program, we must have one of the following:

Payment in full and your signed Student Enrollment Agreement, OR
Confirmation of the completion of your Financial Aid Application and award notice and your signed Student Enrollment Agreement with the Financial Aid Addendum OR
$500 Payment Plan fee and your signed Student Enrollment Agreement with the Payment Plan Addendum AND
$1295 Program Supply Fee paid at least 14 days prior to the start of the program.

Space is limited, and classes fill on a first-come, first-served basis.

*NOTE TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: If you plan to attend our program directly after you graduate, you are welcome to start the application process early. Please submit your application to us without your High School Diploma and we will begin the enrollment process with you. Once you graduate from HS, you will need to submit a copy of your diploma to complete your Admissions Application and to begin our program.

NOTE: Before you can be begin our program, we must have the following documents:

A recent photograph of yourself
A photocopy of your high school diploma, GED certificate or college transcripts

These items can be mailed to: Center for Massage & Natural Health 530 Upper Flat Creek Rd. Weaverville, NC 28787 or dropped of in person at this address.

Click HERE to request a FREE full-color catalog or Click HERE to complete our online Admissions Application

Curriculum

Our 6-month, 600-hour Certification Program is designed to take you through an extraordinary, evolutionary process of learning. We begin with setting a solid foundation in Swedish Massage and in Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology.

We then take our students on a journey through introductions to other exciting bodywork modalities, allowing you to explore a wide range of approaches. It is our goal to provide you with hands-on experience in the most popular and sought-out modalities in the massage therapy industry so that you are best equipped to accept and maintain the broadest range of clients, as well as becoming some of the most desired professionals for potential employers.

We finish our program with a focus on education that will support you to successfully apply your new massage therapy & bodywork skills in a professional capacity: Business & Marketing, Professional Ethics for Bodyworkers, and North Carolina Laws & Rules (specific to this state but helpful anywhere). By Graduation, you will be prepared to enter the rewarding health care field of massage therapy and bodywork with confidence from the abundance of education and practical experience you will have received from attending our program.

Each course, including the sciences, assumes no prior knowledge and has no pre-requisite with the exception of our Supervised Clinical Practice segment, which requires successful completion of the previous course material. Our courses do, however, continually build on material covered in previous courses.

Our teacher/student ratio is 16:1 for hands-on bodywork instruction and 32:1 for lecture classes. Our maximum class size is 32, and our average is 18. NOTE: A clock hour is defined as a 60-minute block of time consisting of a minimum of 50 minutes of instruction (in the physical presence of a staff member) with appropriate breaks.

Course Description	Hours
MASSAGE THERAPY & BODYWORK: THEORY & PRACTICE We include in our massage therapy and bodywork courses the history, theory, and practical application of massage therapy techniques. We discuss the indications, contraindications, effects, and uses of individual modalities and techniques. You will learn how to collect information from a client, perform assessments, and, using clinical reasoning skills, create an effective treatment strategy. You will also learn how to document your findings, application of techniques, and client response. We cover proper draping practices, the use of appropriate equipment and supplies, standard precautions, proper body mechanics, and self-care techniques.	208 Hours Total
Swedish Massage Theory and Practice (Spa Massage Therapy): Swedish massage is the most popular and well-known massage modality in the United States and Europe. It includes long sweeping strokes, kneading, and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of muscles, combined with active and passive joint movements. While we teach Swedish massage, we set a foundation for exploring and practicing any bodywork modality, providing you with tools to either focus on Swedish as your technique of choice, or branch out into other approaches.	80
Neuromuscular Therapy Theory and Practice (Medical Massage Therapy): Neuromuscular Therapy (or NMT) is a strategic bodywork modality designed to relieve trigger points and chronic muscular pain syndromes. This modality strives to locate a client’s sources of pain and help free them from that pain, restoring balance to the body. Our course covers specific assessment methods, NMT theory, and therapeutic techniques.	28
Sports Massage Theory and Practice: Sports Massage uses techniques focused on improving athletic performance and preventing injury. We outline basic Sports Massage theory, techniques, and approaches, including steps and strokes for pre-event, post-event, maintenance, and injury treatment.	12
Pregnancy, Infant, and Geriatric Massage Theory and Practice: Providing therapeutic massage to clients in these special populations can be highly rewarding, especially because they are highly responsive to the simple offering of touch. We offer this course to introduce you to the unique benefits, challenges, and skills/strategies of working with a wide range of clients.	12
Hydrotherapy: Integrating Water into Massage Sessions: Water, in all its forms (solid, liquid, and vapor), has tremendous healing capabilities. This course demonstrates how various hot and cold hydrotherapy techniques (including hot and cold packs, immersion baths, and ice massage) can be integrated into a therapeutic massage practice. Then we visit a local pool to provide you with a fieldwork experience of the healing potential of water and aquatic therapies.	16
Spa Treatments and Aromatherapy: Integrating Applications into Massage Sessions: This course transforms our classroom into a mini-spa and aromatherapy laboratory. We begin with covering the use of essential oils in massage therapy, including applying custom-blended oils, diffusers, baths, and compresses. Then we introduce you to various spa treatments that can be performed in a small massage practice without specialty spa equipment, including body wraps, salt glows, and dry brush treatments. This tends to be one of our messiest and most invigorating courses.	16
Chair Massage Theory and Practice: Performing massage on a specialized, adjustable chair is an exciting alternative to full-body massage on a traditionaltable. Because potential clients can quickly and easily see and sample your services, chair massage is known for its effective marketing opportunities. Many practitioners also choose to regularly practice chair massage, enjoying its versatility, mobility, accessibility, and relative simplicity.	12
Shiatsu (Japanese Acupressure) Theory and Practice: This Japanese bodywork method is one of the oldest forms of natural healing. Focusing strategic pressure on acupressure points and meridians, Shiatsu aims to unblock energy and restore healthy balance. In this course, we show you this method to therapeutically apply the health/healing system we introduce in our Oriental Medical Theory course (see below).	12
Integrative Massage Theory and Practice: Our Integrative course guides students toward performing treatment sessions combining several modalities of massage and bodywork therapy. Professional demonstration and commentary are followed by students practicing the development of their individual treatment sessions while including many of the bodywork styles learned throughout the program. Our final class showcases demonstrations from a variety of specialty practitioners.	16
Clinic Orientation and Practice: This class comes right before you begin your Supervised Clinical Practice. We provide an orientation to the processes and procedures of our Student Clinic, including effective greeting and interview techniques, using intake forms, clearly documenting treatment sessions, and receiving and reviewing evaluations.	4
SCIENCE OF THE HUMAN BODY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE	184 Hours Total
The Musculoskeletal System: Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology for Massage Therapists (Includes 16 Pathology Hours): This course is a concentrated study of the human musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones, and joints). Since understanding the structure and function of this system is essential to safely and effectively performing many massage therapy techniques, we focus extra time and attention on sharing it with you. As we cover the muscles, bones, and joints in each section of the body, we detail common musculoskeletal disorders, and discuss indications and contraindications for massage therapy. Our instruction includes an introduction to medical terminology and the use of supportive health care research.	76
General Anatomy, Physiology/Pathology for Massage Therapists (Includes 24 Pathology Hours): This course is an in-depth overview of the structure and function of the human body, covering all major body systems except for musculoskeletal (see above), including the cardiovascular, integumentary, endocrine, lymphatic, immune, digestive, urinary, reproductive, respiratory, and nervous systems. As we cover each system, we detail common diseases and disorders, and discuss indications and contraindications for massage therapy. We include medical terminology, the physiological effects of stress and touch, as well as accessing and understanding supportive research.	92
Oriental Medical Theory: Ancient Eastern Philosophy and Medicine has helped in the healing process of the human body for thousands of years. Completely different from Western practices, this system focuses on the body’s energy meridians and acupressure points. Our course is an introduction to Eastern theory, the Five Element System, acupressure meridians and points, and treatment methods.	6
ALLIED HEALTH CARE MODALITIES Knowledge of other natural healing modalities helps to supplement a massage therapist’s awareness, knowledge base, and practice. We provide instruction in Energy Work and Reflexology, two modalities that North Carolina law does not consider to be bodywork, but we believe to be an important aspect of any massage therapist’s education. We also include introductions to holistic nutrition and herbology, guiding you (and, in turn, your clients) toward improved health and healing.	36 Hours Total
Energy Work Theory and Practice: We uncover the effect of energy work on the human body, showing the subtle but profound energy fields that surround us, demonstrating how to move energy with our clients, and explain the Chakra system.	12
Reflexology Theory and Practice: This course covers the maps of the hands and feet and their corresponding reflex points throughout the body, shares Reflexology techniques, and outlines how to administer a one-hour Reflexology session.	8
Diet & Nutrition: Here, we provide an overview of the importance of nutrition in an individual’s life and a variety of reasons and suggestions for the health-promoting, practical use of whole foods, vitamins, and supplements. You will walk away with greater insight into holistic nutrition and, perhaps, a dramatically different approach to food.	8
Herbology: We offer an introduction to the application of herbs for health and healing, offering knowledge and possibilities for utilizing herbs in your own life, discussing these options with your clients and community, and recognizing the opportunity to refer your clients to a qualified herbalist when appropriate.	8
Somatic Psychology: This segment of our program is dedicated to the mind/body relationship and dynamics of the client/therapist relationship. We begin with exploring massage therapy’s mental/emotional effects. Then, we move into demonstrating how to create a safe working environment for client and therapist, keep healthy boundaries, use effective communication and conflict resolution skills, and appropriately react to a client’s emotional response to bodywork. This course focuses on self-care principles and techniques.	20
PROFESSIONALISM	32 Hours Total
Business & Marketing: In this important course, we provide detailed information on how to start and maintain a successful massage therapy practice, whether you choose to work independently or for/with others. We highlight career planning, job-seeking skills, marketing strategies, and practice-building skills, preparing you to explore the many options that will await you upon graduation.	16
Professional Ethics for Bodyworkers: Understanding and practicing excellent professional ethics will increase the success and joy you can experience in your career. We will present and discuss a professional code of ethics and uncover helpful approaches to common ethical issues.	8
North Carolina Laws & Rules: Using a combination of careful detail-delivery, guidance, and fun, we inform you of the laws and rules relevant to North Carolina massage therapists and amply prepare you for North Carolina’s licensing process (including details on becoming a Nationally Certified Massage and Bodywork Therapist and the MBLEX exam).	8
PROGRAM ORIENTATION/EXAM REVIEW/FINAL EXAM	20 Hours Total
Orientation: On the first day of class, you and your new classmates will gather with our staff, to begin to know each other and to grow more prepared for the upcoming six months. We will introduce you to your study materials and cover the logistics, policies, and procedures for achieving success in our program and in this career.	4
Exam Review: In these classes, we review previously-taught material to prepare you for both our program’s Comprehensive Final Exam, the National Certification Exam and the MBLEX exam. We also encourage students to regularly review course material throughout the program, individually and in study groups.	12
Comprehensive Final Exam: This exam covers all aspects of our curriculum and comes at the end of the program. Throughout your time here, we will give you study tips, quizzes, tests, and reviews to prepare you for this opportunity to proudly demonstrate your comprehension and mastery.	4
SUPERVISED CLINICAL PRACTICE	100 Hours Total
Practicing on Real Clients at our Massage Therapy Center: Our program includes 12 additional full days that are spent at our Therapy Center, where students practice on real clients under the supervision of a qualified faculty member. There, you will be able to practice important skills like interview techniques, assessment, timing your treatments, and proper documentation, continually incorporating the new bodywork techniques you are learning in class. Students meet individually with our staff to discuss the treatment process and receive guidance and support. Students are required to complete a minimum of 60 client sessions prior to graduation. Professional Evaluations are also a component of your Clinical Practice. Students are required to give 3 complete massage therapy sessions to qualified massage therapy faculty members, for the purpose of evaluation and feedback. A written evaluation will be completed by the therapists and reviewed by the school as well as the student. The therapists will guide and support you in making subtle corrections in technique, fluidity and overall professionalism, as well as make suggestions for treatment plans for various desired outcomes. Pre-requisite for the Supervised Clinical Practice segment requires the completion of Swedish Massage Theory and Practice and Clinic Orientation and Practice.	100
TOTAL PROGRAM HOURS:	600

Job Placement & Alumni Services

At the Center for Massage & Natural Health, we offer LIFETIME benefits exclusively for our graduates, including Job Placement.

After our students graduate, they have the opportunity to look through employment opportunities all over the country. We currently have over 100 job postings on our exclusive Alumni Website from potential employers looking for massage therapists that have received the high-quality, COMTA Accredited training that you receive at CFMNH.

We also provide ongoing support through our Alumni Website to keep you updated on important announcements, an Alumni Directory, FREE printing services and much more. Here is a list of LIFE-LONG benefits our Alumni receive after they graduate:

Job Placement Employment Opportunities: listing of massage therapy job openings
News and Updates from your classmates, other graduates, and CFMNH staff
NCE and License Info to help you obtain/maintain national certification and licensure
Transcript and Other Requests Form to make your ordering process of important documents convenient
Alumni Reunion/Job Fair: an annual event to reunite alumni and staff, as well as create networking opportunities with employers
Alumni Directory to help you stay in touch with classmates and other graduates
Referral Appreciation Program to reward you for spreading the word about our school
FREE Business Cards and other free printed materials for your business, through our on-line printing partner

Why CFMNH?

The Center for Massage & Natural Health has been passionately invested in creating graduates who are prepared to flourish as professionals in this ever-growing field for over twelve years.

The new 2010 AMTA Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet has just been published. Click HERE to read why you should want to become a massage therapist.

Our massage school curriculum has been very carefully designed and refined over the many years we have been teaching to provide you with everything you need to become a professional in this ever-growing, multi-billion dollar industry.

From medical massage and spa practices, detailed and in-depth business practices, and full-on clinical experience at our Massage Therapy Center, once you complete our Massage & Bodywork Certification Program, you will have everything you need to begin your new career with professionalism and confidence.

You will find both our Administrative Staff and Instructors compassionately dedicated to creating an experience of excellence for each student. This consistent devotion to preparing and supporting graduates is among many of the core values making CFMNH a nationally recognized industry leader in massage therapy education.

In effort to support you in your research endeavors, we have developed a Comparison Chart. We understand how this choice influences your future success within this rewarding industry.

Printable PDF CHART

In the meantime, here are a few more important elements that set us apart from other schools:

* COMTA Accredited
* Accreditation Approved by U.S. Department of Education
* N. C. Board Approved
* Federal Financial Aid Available
* Education Tax Credits and Deductions
* Graduate in Only 6-Months
* High Pass Rates on National Certification Exams
* Located in the #1 Adventure Town (National Geographic)
* Loving and Caring Faculty & Staff
* In-House Payment Plans
* Includes Oakworks Massage Table Package
* Includes ABMP Membership & Insurance
* Student Housing Available
* LIFETIME Job Placement Services
* LIFETIME Graduate Services through our Alumni Website
* LIFETIME 20% Discount on Retail purchases
* LIFETIME Discounts on all Continuing Education
* LIFETIME Referral Appreciation Program Incentives
* Private 24-Acre Campus
* Beautiful Natural Setting with Stunning Views
* Classes Starting Every 3 Months
* Day and Evening Classes Available
* Real Student Massage Therapy Center
* New Expanded 7500 SF Education Center Facilities
* Swimming Pool & Tennis/Volleyball Court
* New Student Library w/ High-Speed Internet
* New Book & Supply Store
* Student Kitchenette
* ABMP Professional Membership and Insurance Upgrade Credit ($69)
* Complementary Practitioner Listing on www.NaturalHealthDirectories.com with your own logo and photos, all to help you promote your new practice for 1 full year. These complementary listings are exclusive to our graduates only!

We are fully N. C. State Board Approved, NCBTMB Approved, an AMTA School Member, a member of ABMP and VA Approved for qualifying students.

6-Month, 600-Hour Massage Classes begin every 3 months!

We are now accepting applications for the following 2010-2011 Massage School classes:

SUMMER—DAY CLASSES
June 1, 2010 - November 24, 2010
(Monday and Tuesday, 8AM-5PM and Wednesday, 8AM-Noon)

FALL—EVENING CLASSES
August 30, 2010 - February 26, 2011
(Monday through Friday, 5:30-9:30PM)

WINTER—DAY CLASSES
November 29, 2010 - May 28, 2011
(Monday and Tuesday, 8AM-5PM and Wednesday, 8AM-Noon)

SPRING—EVENING CLASSES
February 28, 2011- August 27, 2011
(Monday through Friday, 5:30-9:30PM)

Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss your opportunity to enroll in the class of your choice!

NCBTMB After graduation from CFMNH, there are two distinctively different Massage Therapy Exams, one of which you will need to pass in most states, depending on what your state's requirements are before you can apply for State Licensure.

The first and oldest one is through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. They offer several levels of exams. The majority of our graduates take and pass their National Certification Board Exam and we are pleased to boast a 94% pass rate for 2008. It is significant because the national average pass rate is only 69%. If any school you are considering boasts a higher pass rate on their exam, ask for proof. We are among the very top pass rates in the country, and are happy to prove that to you through documentation provided by the NCBTMB. You can access the NCBTMB directly at http://www.ncbtmb.org/certification.php

MBLEX Several states, including North Carolina are migrating towards using a newer test offered through the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. It is an easier exam from what we are being told by our graduates and colleges, and is being adopted as the requirement for more and more states across the country. Here is a link directly to the FSMTB website where you can obtain more detailed information and the most current updates. http://www.fsmtb.org/index.html

Please note that there are some states that require no exam whatsoever, and those who require their own State Board exam. Both of the above organizations provide information on what states require their respective exams in order to qualify for licensure in specific states. Currently, North Carolina allows either exam. These requirements change often, so please check with your state before enrolling in any school so that you are certain of the requirements for practicing in your state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first?
Am I too old or too young?
Is it hard to find a job?
Is it difficult to get approved for a Career Training Loan?
How hard is the program?
Are you accredited?
How long does it take to become certified?
Do I have to have a license to practice?
What is the difference between being certified and being licensed?
Do I have to become Nationally Certified?
What supplies will I need during the program?
Do I need to buy a massage table before I start school?
What do students wear to school? Is there a uniform or dress code?
What about Massage Therapy as a Profession?
Who is Today's Massage Therapist?
What are Education and Credentials Valued in the Massage Therapy Profession?
What are State Regulations of the Massage Profession like?
Who gets massage, and where and why do they go?
What about Massage and Healthcare?
What about Massage Therapy Research

What should I do first?

The first step in becoming a Massage & Bodywork Therapist is to apply to our school. An Admissions Application can be completed online or found in our catalog and mailed to us. To request your free catalog, please fill out our Information Request Form, and you will automatically be provided with a link to our download site. We will also mail you a hard-copy within 2 business days.

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.

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.

Is it hard to find a job?

At CFMNH, we offer lifetime job placement for our Graduates. Job placement is an extremely important part of any quality school and it is required by our accreditation board. In our exclusive CFMNH Alumni website, we have job postings for massage therapist employment opportunities all over the world, and they are always available to our graduates, for the remainder of their careers.

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.

How hard is the program?

This is a very comprehensive program, and it involves 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 is consistently in the mid to high 90's, where the national average for massage school graduates is consistently around 69%. 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.

Are you accredited?

Yes, absolutely. CFMNH is accredited by COMTA, an accreditation board that is fully approved by the United States Department of Education. COMTA specializes in accrediting only massage therapy schools and has the highest possible standards for accreditation. Having these credentials allows us to accept Federal Financial Aid for our students, including Stafford Loans and Pell Grants.

COMTA is approved by the United States Department of Education, and as such, you may qualify for significant tax credits and deductions.

CFMNH is also approved by the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy, and we are literally school #1. We were the first school to become approved by the Board in this state.

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 or MBLEX exam and obtain a NC State license.

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.

What is the difference between being certified and being licensed?

Our graduates are Certified by our school, then they can become Nationally Certified after they pass the National Certification Board Exam which is what we recommend. Alternatively, they can sit for the MBLEX exam. Either way, once they passion of these exams, then are able to apply for N.C. State Licensure. The National Certification Board and MBLEX tests for efficacy, while the NC Board regulates professionalism, laws and rules.

Do I have to become Nationally Certified?

Not in the state of North Carolina. But we highly recommend it to all of our students as it is a requirement for licensure in many other states. It is an important, and widely recognized credential to have earned.

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 our school. 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 in a drip-proof bottle. Biotone massage oils/lotions/creams are available for purchase through our Massage Therapy Supply Store. The overall cost for these supplies is generally $75-150, depending on the quality of linens you purchase.

Do I need to buy a massage table before school?

No. We give you one for free with your paid tuition. It is our gift to you for attending our school. It is an Oakworks Aurora massage table package in your choice of color, complete with matching adjustable face cradle, a bolster, plus a carry case.hese tables are guaranteed for LIFE, so you will never need to buy one for your practice. It is yours to take home as soon as your tuition is paid in full to use for practicing massage throughout school and then when you begin your new career! We also provide all the necessary equipment in the classroom and at our Therapy Center.

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, you will be required to wear a Center for Massage t-shirts(we will provide you with one for free), tan or Khaki colored pants and clean, comfortable, and professional white 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.

The following information is directly from the 2010 AMTA Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet:

What about Massage Therapy as a Profession?

• In 2005, massage therapy was projected to be a $6 to $11 billion a year industry.
• AMTA estimates that in 2009, massage therapy was a $16-20 billion industry.
• It is estimated that there are 280,000 to 320,000 massage therapists and massage school students in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Labor employment for massage therapists is expected to increase 20 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster than average for all occupations.
• Between July 2008 and July 2009, roughly 48 million adult Americans (22 percent) had a massage at least once.

Who are Today's Massage Therapists?

Today’s massage therapists are:

• Most likely to enter the massage therapy profession as a second career.
• Predominantly female (85 percent).
• In their late 40s, on average.
• Most likely to be members of a professional organization.
• Most likely to be sole practitioners.
• Working an average of 20 hours a week providing massage. (excluding time spent on other business tasks such as billing, bookkeeping, supplies, maintaining equipment, marketing, scheduling, etc.)
• Charging an average of $63 for one hour of massage.
• Earning an average wage of $45 an hour (including tips) for all massage related work.
• Seeing on average of 44 clients per month.
• Heavily dependent on repeat clients.
• Likely to provide massage therapy in a number of settings, including their own home, spa/salon, their own office, a healthcare setting, health club/athletic facility, or massage therapy only franchise or chain.
• Eighty-four percent (84 percent) of massage therapists provide Swedish massage, followed by 77 percent who provide deep
tissue massage, 49 percent trigger point, and 45 percent sports massage.

What is Massage Therapy Like As A Career?

Massage therapy can be a rewarding and flexible career:

• In 2009, the average annual income for a massage therapist (including tips) who provides approximately 16 hours of massage per week was $37,123, compared to incomes in 2006 of $28,170 for full-time healthcare support workers; $27,190 for full-time medical assistants and $23,290 for occupational therapist aides.
• While massage therapists work in a variety of work environments, sole practitioners or independent contractors account for the largest percentage of practicing therapists (96 percent). Thirty-eight percent work at least part of their time at a client’s home/business/corporate setting or their home, 25 percent in a healthcare setting, and 23 percent in a spa setting.
• Eighty-three (83) percent started practicing massage therapy as a second career.
• Sixty two percent of massage therapists say they would not want to work more hours of massage than they presently do.
• More than half of massage therapists (54 percent) also earn income working in another profession.
• Of those massage therapists who earn income working in another profession 26 percent practice other form of bodywork, while
22 percent work in healthcare and 21 percent work in education.

What are Education and Credentials Valued in the Massage Therapy Profession?

• There are more than 300 accredited massage schools and programs in the United States.
• Today there are 90,000 nationally certified massage therapists and bodyworkers. To become nationally certified, a massage therapist must demonstrate mastery of core skills and knowledge, pass an exam, uphold the standards of practice and code of ethics of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork and take part in continuing education.
• Ninety-two (92) percent of massage therapists strongly or somewhat agree there should be minimum education standards for
massage therapists.
• Massage therapists have an average of 624 hours of initial training.
• The vast majority of massage therapists (96 percent) have taken continuing education classes.
• Massage therapists take an average of 22 hours of continuing education per year.
• The most popular choices for continuing education are training for new modalities/techniques, advanced training for specific
modalities, and massage for specific populations (e.g. pregnant women, geriatrics and athletes).

What are State Regulations for the Massage Therapy Profession like?

They are growing.

• Currently, 43 states and the District of Columbia regulate massage therapists or provide voluntary state certification.
• In states that regulate massage therapy, massage therapists must meet the legal requirements to practice, which may include minimum hours of initial training and passing an exam.
• In states that do not regulate massage therapy, this task may fall to local municipalities.
• Most states that license massage therapists require a passing grade on the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBL Ex) or one of two exams provided by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork.

Who Gets Massage, and Where and Why Do They Go?

• According to the 2009 AMTA consumer survey, an average of 22 percent of adult Americans received at least one massage between July 2008 and July 2009, and an average of 34 percent of adult Americans received a massage in the previous five years.
• In July 2009, 40 percent of women and 29 percent of men reported having a massage in the past five years.
• Spas are where most people continue to receive massage, with 24 percent of those surveyed in July 2009 saying they had their
last massage at a spa.

While the use of massage is growing, the reasons people are turning to massage therapy are also expanding. More and more people recognize it as an important element in their overall health and wellness.

• Thirty-two (32) percent of adult Americans who had a massage between July 2008 and July 2009 received it for medical or health reasons.
• Nineteen (19) percent of adult Americans say they’ve used massage therapy at least one time for pain relief.
• Of the people who had at least one massage in the last five years, 31 percent reported they did so for health conditions such as
pain management, injury rehabilitation, migraine control, or overall wellness.
• Eighty-six (86) percent agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain.
• Eighty-five (85) percent agree that massage can be beneficial to health and wellness.

Consumers are increasingly seeking massage for stress reduction and relaxation.

• In July 2009, 32 percent of adult Americans said they had at least one massage in the last five years to reduce stress or relax—up from 22 percent reported in 2007.
• Forty-nine percent of consumers said they have considered a massage to manage stress in the last year, as compared to 38 percent in 2008.

What about Massage and Healthcare?

Healthcare providers are increasingly promoting the benefits of massage to their patients.

• In July 2009, over thirty-nine million American adults (18 percent) have discussed massage therapy with their doctors or health care providers, compared to 13 percent in 2008.
• Of those 18 percent, 35 percent of their health care providers strongly recommended massage therapy, compared to 27 percent in 2008. While physicians led the way in recommending massage (55 percent vs. 50 percent in 2008), chiropractors (48 percent vs. 47 percent in 2008) and physical therapists (42 percent vs. 40 percent in 2008) also recommended massage therapy when their patients discussed it with them.
• More than two-thirds of massage therapists (76 percent) indicate they receive referrals from health care professionals, averaging 1.5 referrals per month. This represents a significant increase from 2008, when 69 percent of massage therapists reported receiving health care referrals.
Massage therapy usage in hospitals is common.
• The number of hospitals offering complementary and alternative medicine grew from 7.7 percent in 1998 to 37.3 percent in 2007. Of those hospitals that offer CAM therapies, massage therapy was offered by 70.7 percent.
• Stress-related issues are major reasons why hospitals offer massage. 71.2 percent of hospitals that offer massage provide it for stress reduction for patients, and 69.1 percent of hospitals that offer massage provide it to staff to reduce stress.
• Among hospitals that offer massage, some other prevalent populations served and/or reasons for massage include:

1) Pain management (66 percent)
2) Massage for cancer patients (57 percent)
3) Pregnancy massage (55 percent)
4) Part of physical therapy (53 percent)
5) For mobility/movement training (45 percent)
6) Palliative care (41 percent)

Massage therapists and consumers are in favor of integration of massage into healthcare.

• More than half of adult Americans (59 percent) would like to see their insurance cover massage therapy.
• A great majority of adult Americans (92 percent in 2006 and 96 percent in 2009) agree that massage therapy should be considered part of the health care field.

What About Massage Therapy Research?

The therapeutic benefits of massage continue to be researched and studied. Recent research has shown the effectiveness of massage for the following conditions:

• Cancer-related fatigue.
• Low back pain.
• Osteoarthritis of the knee.
• Reducing post-operative pain.
• Boosting the body’s immune system functioning.
• Decreasing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Lowering blood pressure.
• Reducing headache frequency.
• Easing alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
• Decreasing pain in cancer patients.

The American Massage Therapy Association® (AMTA®) is the largest non-profit, professional association serving massage therapists, massage students and massage schools. The association is directed by volunteer leadership and fosters ongoing, direct member-involvement through its 51 chapters. AMTA works to advance the profession through ethics and standards, the promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists in all states, and public education on the benefits of massage.

The association also helps consumers and health care professionals locate professional massage therapists nationwide, through AMTA’s Find a Massage Therapist® national locator service. The free national locator service is available via AMTA’s website at www.FindaMassageTherapist.org or toll-free at 888-THE-AMTA [888-843-2682].

For a PDF of the entire 2010 AMTA Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet, please click HERE.

Professional Organizations