Massage Therapist Programs in Orange, California
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Orange, California
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Orange
Orange, California, located in the heart of Orange County, is a vibrant city known for its historic Old Towne District, beautiful parks, and close proximity to attractions like Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. With a growing population and a thriving wellness industry, Orange is an ideal place to start a career as a massage therapist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for massage therapists is projected to grow by 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average salary for massage therapists in California is approximately $47,180 per year.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Orange, California
If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Orange, CA, you’ll need to complete a massage therapy program from a reputable school. Here are three local schools offering massage therapy programs:
- American Career College – Anaheim
- Location: Anaheim, CA (approximately 5 miles from Orange)
- Program: Massage Therapy Program
- Description: American Career College offers a comprehensive massage therapy program that includes hands-on training and coursework in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
- Link: American Career College Massage Therapy Program
- Healing Hands School of Holistic Health
- Location: Santa Ana, CA (approximately 8 miles from Orange)
- Program: Massage Therapy Program
- Description: Healing Hands School of Holistic Health provides a holistic approach to massage therapy education, with courses in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and other modalities.
- Link: Healing Hands School of Holistic Health
- Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi)
- Location: Reseda, CA (approximately 50 miles from Orange)
- Program: Massage Therapy Program
- Description: SOCHi offers a well-rounded massage therapy program that covers a wide range of techniques and prepares students for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
- Link: Southern California Health Institute
Typical Program Curriculum
Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of theoretical coursework and hands-on training. Students can expect to study subjects such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Kinesiology
- Pathology
- Ethics and Business Practices
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Sports Massage
- Reflexology
Programs generally range from 500 to 1,000 hours of training, depending on the school’s requirements and the state’s licensure requirements. Many programs also offer specializations or concentrations in areas like prenatal massage, geriatric massage, or medical massage.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Orange
Once you complete your training, there are numerous employment opportunities for massage therapists in Orange, CA. Here are some major spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists:
- Burke Williams Day Spa
- Location: Orange, CA
- Description: A luxury day spa offering a variety of massage and bodywork services. Burke Williams is known for its upscale environment and comprehensive employee benefits.
- Link: Burke Williams Day Spa Careers
- Massage Envy
- Location: Orange, CA
- Description: A well-known chain of massage therapy clinics offering a range of services including therapeutic massage, facials, and more.
- Link: Massage Envy Careers
- St. Joseph Hospital
- Location: Orange, CA
- Description: A major healthcare facility that offers integrative medicine services, including massage therapy, as part of its patient care programs.
- Link: St. Joseph Hospital Careers
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in California
To become a licensed massage therapist in Orange, CA, you must meet the requirements at both the state and local levels. Here are the relevant certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State Requirements
- California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) Certification: The CAMTC is a state-certified organization that certifies massage therapists in California. To become certified, you must:
- Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from a CAMTC-approved school
- Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)
- Apply for certification through the CAMTC website (www.camtc.org)
- California Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 4600-4621: This section outlines the laws and regulations governing massage therapy in California.
Local Requirements
- City of Orange Business License: You must obtain a business license from the City of Orange to practice massage therapy within the city limits. You can find more information on the City of Orange’s website (www.cityoforange.org).
- Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) Permit: You may need to obtain a permit from the OCHCA to operate a massage therapy business in Orange County. You can find more information on the OCHCA website (www.ochealthinfo.com).
Other Requirements
- Liability Insurance: While not required by law, it is highly recommended that you obtain liability insurance to protect yourself and your business in case of accidents or injuries.
- Continuing Education: The CAMTC requires certified massage therapists to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their certification.
Get Started Today
Becoming a massage therapist in Orange, California, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and development. With a variety of local schools offering comprehensive training programs and a thriving job market, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact a school today through their program pages and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in massage therapy. Your future as a massage therapist awaits!