Massage Therapist Programs in Fort Collins, Colorado

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Fort Collins, Colorado

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Fort Collins

Fort Collins, Colorado, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful scenery, active lifestyle, and thriving community. Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins offers an excellent quality of life with a blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is home to Colorado State University, which adds a youthful and dynamic energy to the area. For more information about Fort Collins, visit the official city website.

Massage therapists in Fort Collins enjoy a growing job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average salary for massage therapists in Colorado is approximately $47,180 per year.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Fort Collins, Colorado

If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Fort Collins, several local schools offer comprehensive massage therapy programs:

1. Healing Arts Institute
   • Location: Fort Collins, CO
   • Program Overview: The Healing Arts Institute offers a 600-hour massage therapy program that includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques. The program is designed to prepare students for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
   • Website: Healing Arts Institute
2. IBMC College
   • Location: Fort Collins, CO
   • Program Overview: IBMC College provides a 750-hour massage therapy diploma program. The curriculum covers Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and business practices. The program includes hands-on training in a student clinic.
   • Website: IBMC College
3. Front Range Community College
   • Location: Fort Collins, CO
   • Program Overview: Front Range Community College offers a 750-hour massage therapy certificate program. The program includes coursework in anatomy, kinesiology, and various massage modalities, along with practical experience.
   • Website: Front Range Community College

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Kinesiology
• Pathology
• Swedish Massage
• Deep Tissue Massage
• Sports Massage
• Ethics and Business Practices

Programs generally range from 500 to 750 hours and may offer specializations in areas such as prenatal massage, sports massage, or reflexology.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Fort Collins

Fort Collins offers various employment opportunities for massage therapists in spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities. Some notable employers include:

1. Spavia Day Spa
   • Location: Fort Collins, CO
   • Overview: Spavia Day Spa offers a range of massage and spa services. They frequently hire licensed massage therapists to join their team.
   • Website: Spavia Day Spa
2. The Spa at St. Julien
   • Location: Boulder, CO (approximately 45 minutes from Fort Collins)
   • Overview: The Spa at St. Julien is a luxury spa offering various massage therapies. They seek skilled massage therapists to provide exceptional service to their clients.
   • Website: The Spa at St. Julien
3. UCHealth
   • Location: Fort Collins, CO
   • Overview: UCHealth is a healthcare system that includes massage therapy as part of its integrative medicine services. They employ massage therapists to work in their wellness centers.
   • Website: UCHealth

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Colorado

To become a licensed massage therapist in Colorado, you must meet the following requirements:

• Licensure: Obtain a license from the Colorado Office of Massage Therapy Licensure.
• Education: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from an approved school.
• Examination: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
• Background Check: Complete a background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Local Requirements

• City of Fort Collins: No specific licensing or certification requirements for massage therapists. However, businesses may need to obtain a City of Fort Collins Business License.
• Larimer County: No specific licensing or certification requirements for massage therapists.

Certifications

• National Certification: While not required, obtaining certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) can enhance your career.
• Specialized Certifications: Additional certifications in modalities like prenatal or sports massage can be obtained through organizations such as the National Certification Council for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

Insurance and Liability

• Liability Insurance: It’s advisable to obtain liability insurance to protect yourself and your business.
• Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance to comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Continuing Education

• State Requirements: Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain your Colorado license.
• National Certification: Fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain NCBTMB certification.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With the right education and training, you can join a growing field and make a positive impact on people’s lives. Contact a local massage therapy school today to begin your path toward becoming a licensed massage therapist. Take the first step towards a new and exciting career!