Massage Therapy as a Profession

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States Department of Labor, the employment of massage therapists is projected to increase by 20% from 2010 to 2020, at a speed faster than the average for all occupations. The American Massage Therapy Association ( AMTA) has also noted that the massage therapy field is growing rapidly as a result of the public's increasing interests in healthcare and promoting well-being and a higher quality of life.

Massage services are likely to gain more respect and recognition from the public as a way to treat pain and enhance wellness (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.).

There are several requirements for those who want to be professional massage therapisst. For example, a potential massage therapist should possess good communication skills, decision-making skills, empathy, physicial stamina, and physical strength and dexterity (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.).

In terms of education, a professional therapist is generally required to complete 500 hours or more of massage studies at accredited schools, which can vary depending on the regulation of each state and locality (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.).