Massage Therapist Programs in Hollywood, Florida

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Hollywood, Florida

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Hollywood

Hollywood, Florida, located in Broward County, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and thriving wellness community. With landmarks such as the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk and the Anne Kolb Nature Center, Hollywood offers a serene environment perfect for a career in massage therapy. The average salary for a massage therapist in Florida is approximately $47,180 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 21% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Hollywood, Florida

If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Hollywood, Florida, there are several reputable schools offering comprehensive massage therapy programs:

  1. Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers
    • Location: Hollywood, FL
    • Program: Massage Therapy Program
    • Description: The Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers offers a robust massage therapy program that includes both theoretical and practical training. The curriculum covers various massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, and business practices.
    • Program Page
  2. Cortiva Institute
    • Location: Pompano Beach, FL (Approximately 15 miles from Hollywood)
    • Program: Massage Therapy Diploma Program
    • Description: Cortiva Institute provides a comprehensive massage therapy program that focuses on hands-on training and prepares students for the MBLEx exam. The program includes courses in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage.
    • Program Page
  3. Florida College of Natural Health
    • Location: Pembroke Pines, FL (Approximately 10 miles from Hollywood)
    • Program: Massage Therapy Program
    • Description: This program offers a blend of classroom instruction and practical experience. Students learn various massage modalities, including reflexology, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy.
    • Program Page

Typical Program Curriculum

A typical massage therapy program in Hollywood, Florida, includes a mix of theoretical courses and hands-on training. Students can expect to cover topics such as:

  • Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body’s structure and function.
  • Massage Techniques: Learning various techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
  • Pathology: Studying diseases and conditions that affect the body.
  • Business Practices: Gaining knowledge on how to run a successful massage therapy practice.
  • Ethics and Professionalism: Understanding the ethical considerations and professional behavior expected in the field.

Programs typically last between 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Specializations may include sports massage, prenatal massage, or medical massage.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Hollywood

Hollywood, Florida, offers numerous employment opportunities for massage therapists. Some of the major spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities include:

  1. The Diplomat Beach Resort
    • Location: Hollywood Beach
    • Description: A luxury resort offering a range of spa services, including massage therapy. They frequently seek skilled massage therapists to join their team.
    • Employment Opportunities
  2. Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
    • Location: Hollywood Beach
    • Description: This resort features a full-service spa that provides various massage therapies. They offer employment opportunities for licensed massage therapists.
    • Employment Opportunities
  3. Memorial Regional Hospital
    • Location: Hollywood, FL
    • Description: A leading healthcare facility that offers integrative medicine services, including massage therapy. They employ massage therapists to work in their wellness programs.
    • Employment Opportunities

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Florida

To practice as a massage therapist in Hollywood, FL, you must meet both state and local requirements:

State Requirements
Florida Board of Massage Therapy: The Florida Department of Health’s Board of Massage Therapy regulates the practice of massage therapy in the state.
Licensure: Obtain a massage therapy license from the Florida Board of Massage Therapy.
Education: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from a board-approved school.
Examination: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) certification exam.
Background Screening: Undergo a background screening through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Local Requirements
City of Hollywood: Obtain a business tax receipt to operate a massage therapy business within the city limits.
Broward County: Obtain a county business tax receipt to operate a massage therapy business within the county.

Certifications
NCBTMB Certification: While not required, obtaining NCBTMB certification can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Licensing
Florida Massage Therapy License: Apply for a massage therapy license through the Florida Department of Health’s Online Services Portal.
Business Tax Receipt: Apply for a business tax receipt through the City of Hollywood’s Business Tax Receipt Application or Broward County’s Business Tax Receipt Application.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Hollywood, Florida, is a rewarding journey that offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. With the right education and licensure, you can join the thriving wellness community in Hollywood. Contact a local massage therapy school today to start your path towards becoming a licensed massage therapist. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in massage therapy!