As a graduate of LWIT's Massage Therapy program, you'll have immediate access to numerous employment opportunities in a variety of areas, including:
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In addition, many licensed massaged therapists start their own business practice.
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Types of work |
Massage therapy is often described as both a science and an art. You use knowledge about the body's anatomy to guide the use of different massage techniques. Many studies show that massage has several benefits. These include lowering blood pressure, reducing pain, and boosting the immune system. It can also help recovery times after giving birth or injury. It even has been shown to help premature babies gain weight faster! Massage therapists usually apply oils, powders, or lotions to the skin before massaging the body. Some use hydrotherapy (water, ice, or steam) as part of the massage. They may also use herbal wraps and oil compresses. There are several different types of massage. Most massage therapists blend techniques from Swedish massage with other styles. Swedish, sports massage, deep tissue, and trigger point are the most common techniques. Other common styles of massage include acupressure, reflexology, and Shiatsu. On-site massage, polarity, hot-stone, and muscle energy are also popular techniques. Massage therapists often specialize in one or more techniques. Massage therapists make appointments, greet their clients, and take brief medical histories. They keep records and books, advertise, and wash linens. They also clean and disinfect equipment and work areas. Some massage therapists travel to their clients and use portable massage tables. Massage therapists may work with doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, or physical therapists to help people deal with injuries, stress, and chronic pain. Some massage therapists sell health and massage-related products. Many massage therapists specialize by the type of client. For example, some massage therapists may work with infants and pregnant women. Others may work with athletes and dancers. A growing specialty field is massage of the elderly. Some even specialize in giving massage to horses or other animals as part of veterinary treatment. For example, they may give sports massage to racehorses to help them relax and perform better. |
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Currently Employed in this Field* |
According to estimates by the Washington State Department of Employment Security, there were 4,768 massage therapists employed in Washington in 2004. It is projected that by 2009 there will be 5,595 and by 2014 there will be 6,201. According to licensing information from the State of Washington at the time this occupation was updated, there are about 11,761 massage therapists licensed and reporting a Washington address. Nationally, about 96,700 massage therapists work in this small occupation. Major employers:
About 64 percent of massage therapists are self-employed. |
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Future jobs* |
Between 2009 and 2014, this occupation is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations in Washington. Employment is projected to increase 10.8% during this period. It is estimated that there will be 121 openings annually due to new positions and 99 openings annually from workers leaving this occupation. Massage therapist openings may be sensitive to economic conditions. A temporary decline in job opportunities may occur when the economy is down and people cut back on personal services such as massage. Job growth can be affected by supply and demand. If the number of therapists in a geographic area increases, but the population and demand for services stays the same, then there is more competition for existing jobs. Demand for massage therapists should continue to grow due to increasing public awareness of physical fitness and the holistic approach to health care, and the recognition of massage by other health practitioners. Massage therapists who are trained in several different types of massage and bodywork, may increase their chances of being hired or attracting clients if self-employed. Nationally, the number of jobs for massage therapists is expected to grow faster than average through the year 2014. Many factors will affect job growth for massage therapists. More people are becoming interested in massage as a way to relieve stress and promote health. As disposable incomes grow, many people will seek out massages for personal benefit. There will also be growth in full-service spa salons. These salons offer services such as beauty wraps, pedicures, and massages in addition to traditional hair and makeup services. Many employees will be needed to offer a range of services. The medical benefits of massage are becoming more widely known. As a result, more naturopaths, acupuncturists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and physicians will refer their patients to massage therapists. However, this will depend somewhat on if massage therapy is covered by health insurance plans. In addition, an aging population will increase the number of people with conditions that can benefit from massage therapy. Competition for clients is strong, especially for new therapists. Many massage therapists build their client base gradually over several years. When satisfied clients recommend them to friends and family, the client base grows. Massage therapists who actively market their services fare best. |
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Salary examples* |
In Washington, the average entry level wage for massage therapists is $17.57 per hour ($3,045 per month). Half of all massage therapists earn between $22.80 and $36.23 per hour ($3,952 and $6,279 per month). |
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What jobs are available now? |
Search these job databases for Seattle-area jobs: |
* Information from Washington Occupational Information System (WOIS), 2010
