Massage Therapist Programs in Montgomery, Alabama
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Montgomery, Alabama
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Montgomery
Montgomery, Alabama, the capital city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers an excellent environment for aspiring massage therapists. With landmarks such as the Alabama State Capitol and the Rosa Parks Museum, Montgomery is a city that blends historical significance with modern amenities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Alabama is competitive, and the job growth rate is projected to be faster than average, making it a promising career choice.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Montgomery, Alabama
If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Montgomery, several local schools offer comprehensive programs to get you started:
- Montgomery School of Bodywork & Massage
- Located in the heart of Montgomery, this school offers a robust curriculum designed to meet Alabama’s licensure requirements. The program includes 650 hours of education, covering various massage techniques and bodywork modalities.
- Montgomery School of Bodywork & Massage Program
- Virginia College in Montgomery
- Situated in the East Montgomery neighborhood, Virginia College provides a massage therapy program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. The program focuses on preparing students for the MBLEx exam.
- Virginia College Massage Therapy Program
- Fortis College
- Located in the Westside district, Fortis College offers a comprehensive massage therapy program that includes anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques. The program is designed to prepare students for licensure and employment.
- Fortis College Massage Therapy Program
Typical Program Curriculum
Massage therapy programs generally include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. Expect to cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. Hands-on training will involve learning different massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage. Programs typically last between 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some schools also offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage or reflexology.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Montgomery
Montgomery boasts a variety of spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are a few notable employers:
- Montgomery Massage Therapy
- Located in the Cloverdale neighborhood, this wellness center offers a range of massage services and frequently hires licensed massage therapists.
- Montgomery Massage Therapy Employment
- Spa at Montgomery
- Situated in downtown Montgomery, this luxury spa provides various bodywork services and is always on the lookout for skilled massage therapists.
- Spa at Montgomery Careers
- Baptist Health
- With multiple locations across Montgomery, Baptist Health includes massage therapy as part of its holistic healthcare services. They offer employment opportunities for licensed massage therapists.
- Baptist Health Careers
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Alabama
To become a licensed massage therapist in Montgomery, AL, you must meet the requirements set by the state of Alabama and the city of Montgomery:
State Requirements
– Licensure: Obtain a license from the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy.
– Education: Complete a minimum of 650 hours of massage therapy education from an accredited institution.
– Exam: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
– Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check through the Alabama Bureau of Investigation (ABI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
City Requirements
– Business License: Obtain a business license from the City of Montgomery’s Revenue Department.
– Zoning Approval: Ensure your business location meets the city’s zoning regulations, which can be found on the City of Montgomery’s Planning Department website.
Certifications
– National Certification: While not required, obtaining national certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) can be beneficial for career advancement.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Montgomery, Alabama, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right education and licensure, you can join a growing field that offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career.