Massage Therapist Programs in Peoria, Arizona

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Peoria, Arizona

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Peoria

Peoria, Arizona, a vibrant city located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Known for its scenic parks, such as the Peoria Sports Complex and Lake Pleasant Regional Park, Peoria provides an ideal backdrop for a career in massage therapy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Arizona 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 Peoria, Arizona

If you’re considering becoming a massage therapist in Peoria, AZ, you’ll find several reputable schools offering comprehensive massage therapy programs. Here are three local options:

1. Arizona School of Integrative Studies (ASIS)
   • Location: Mesa, AZ (approximately 35 miles from Peoria)
   • Program: ASIS offers a 700-hour Massage Therapy Program that covers various modalities, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage. The program emphasizes hands-on training and holistic approaches.
   • Website: ASIS Massage Education
2. Cortiva Institute
   • Location: Scottsdale, AZ (approximately 30 miles from Peoria)
   • Program: Cortiva Institute provides a 750-hour Professional Massage Therapy Program. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, and a wide range of massage techniques.
   • Website: Cortiva Institute
3. Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA)
   • Location: Tempe, AZ (approximately 40 miles from Peoria)
   • Program: SWIHA offers a 750-hour Massage Therapy Program with specializations in medical massage, reflexology, and cranial unwinding. The program is designed to prepare students for both state and national certification exams.
   • Website: SWIHA

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. Students can expect to study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. Hands-on training is a crucial component, covering various massage techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage. Programs usually range from 500 to 750 hours and may offer specializations in areas like medical massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Peoria

Peoria boasts several spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are some notable employers:

1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
   • Location: Arrowhead Neighborhood
   • Description: Hand & Stone offers a range of massage services, including hot stone, deep tissue, and prenatal massage. They frequently have openings for licensed massage therapists.
   • Website: Hand & Stone Peoria
2. Elements Massage
   • Location: North Peoria
   • Description: Elements Massage focuses on customized therapeutic massages. They provide a supportive work environment with opportunities for continuing education.
   • Website: Elements Massage Peoria
3. Banner Health
   • Location: Various locations in Peoria
   • Description: Banner Health is a large healthcare provider that offers integrative health services, including massage therapy, within their wellness programs.
   • Website: Banner Health Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Arizona

To become a licensed massage therapist in Peoria, AZ, you must meet the requirements set by the state of Arizona and the city of Peoria. Here are the relevant requirements:

Education and Training

• Graduate from a state-approved massage therapy school with a minimum of 500 hours of training. Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy

Certification

• Obtain certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). NCBTMB

Licensure

• Obtain a massage therapy license from the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy (ASBMT). ASBMT
• Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). FSMTB
• Apply for licensure through the ASBMT online portal. ASBMT Online Portal

Background Check

• Undergo a state and federal background check through the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Arizona DPS

Insurance

• Maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate. ABMP Insurance

City of Peoria Requirements

• Obtain a business license from the City of Peoria. Peoria Business Licenses
• Comply with the City of Peoria’s zoning ordinances and business regulations. Peoria Zoning Ordinances

Continuing Education

• Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain licensure. ASBMT Continuing Education

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Peoria, Arizona, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on the well-being of your clients. Contact one of the local massage therapy schools today to begin your path toward becoming a licensed massage therapist. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in massage therapy and start making a difference in people’s lives.