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Massage Therapist

Career Facts

What does a massage therapist Assistant do?

What is the average salary range for a massage therapist?

What type of training is required to become a massage therapist?


What does a massage therapist do?

Therapeutic massage involves the use of manual soft tissue mobilization to promote health and wellness. Recent scientific studies done by the Touch Research Institute in Miami have documented the many positive physical, mental and emotional effects of massage.

Individuals who are licensed massage therapists may work in a variety of settings including their home, hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, sports facilities, spas or home health agencies. Massage therapists work in the day and evening hours. They may also work weekends or weekdays.

What is the average salary range for a massage therapist?

Salaries for massage therapists vary depending on practice setting. Massage therapists are usually self-employed and charge $50 to $65 per hour. Experienced massage therapists can generate an annual income of up to $40,000 or more, depending on scheduled work hours. Most massage therapists will see approximately four to six clients per day. A massage therapist working for a private employer, such as a spa, can expect to earn between $9 and $32 per hour, along with other benefits. This is an easy way to get started, while working to build up a clientele. For other companies, individuals work on a commission that is negotiated before employment.

What type of training is required to become a massage therapist?

Massage therapists are required to complete at least 500 hours of classroom instruction to apply for licensure. The individual who successfully completes these courses at CCRI receives an Associate in Applied Science (A. A. S.) degree and is eligible to take the licensure examination for massage therapists in Rhode Island. State licensure requirements may vary state to state.