Massage Therapist Programs in Miami, Florida

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Miami, Florida

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Miami

Miami, Florida, known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and bustling neighborhoods like South Beach and Wynwood, is an excellent place to start a career as a massage therapist. The city offers a dynamic environment with a high demand for wellness services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Florida 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 Miami, Florida

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

1. Acupuncture and Massage College
   • Location: Kendall
   • Program: The Massage Therapy Program at Acupuncture and Massage College offers a 750-hour curriculum that includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques. The program is designed to prepare students for the Florida licensure exam.
   • Website: Acupuncture and Massage College
2. Cortiva Institute
   • Location: Coral Gables
   • Program: Cortiva Institute provides a comprehensive 750-hour Massage Therapy Program that covers essential topics such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage. The program includes hands-on training and prepares students for state licensure.
   • Website: Cortiva Institute
3. Florida Career College
   • Location: Hialeah
   • Program: The Massage Therapy Program at Florida Career College offers a 750-hour curriculum focusing on therapeutic massage techniques, anatomy, and business practices. The program aims to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in the field.
   • Website: Florida Career College

Typical Program Curriculum

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

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

Programs usually last between 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some schools also offer specializations in areas such as prenatal massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Miami

Miami boasts a variety of employment opportunities for massage therapists. Here are some prominent spas and wellness centers that often hire massage therapists:

1. The Standard Spa, Miami Beach
   • Location: Miami Beach
   • Description: Known for its luxurious amenities and holistic approach to wellness, The Standard Spa offers a range of services, including massage therapy. They frequently seek skilled therapists to join their team.
   • Website: The Standard Spa
2. Mandarin Oriental, Miami
   • Location: Brickell Key
   • Description: This five-star hotel features a world-class spa that provides various massage therapies. The Mandarin Oriental is an excellent place for therapists looking to work in a high-end environment.
   • Website: Mandarin Oriental, Miami
3. Exhale Miami
   • Location: Downtown Miami
   • Description: Exhale is a well-known wellness center offering yoga, fitness classes, and spa services, including massage therapy. They often have openings for qualified massage therapists.
   • Website: Exhale Miami

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Florida

To become a licensed massage therapist in Miami, FL, you must meet the requirements set by the state of Florida, as well as any additional requirements imposed by Miami-Dade County or the city of Miami.

State Requirements

Licensure
– Must hold a valid license issued by the Florida Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy
– Apply for licensure through the Florida Department of Health’s Online Licensing Portal

Education
– Graduate from a massage therapy program approved by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or the National Accrediting Commission for Massage Therapy and Bodywork (NACMB)
– Complete a minimum of 500 hours of training, including coursework in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and massage techniques

Certification
– While not required, certification is highly recommended
– Obtain certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB)

Continuing Education
– Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain licensure
– Courses must be approved by the Florida Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy

County and City Requirements

Miami-Dade County
– No additional licensure or certification requirements
– However, massage establishments must obtain a Miami-Dade County Business Tax Receipt

City of Miami
– No additional licensure or certification requirements
– However, massage establishments must obtain a City of Miami Business Tax Receipt

Other Requirements
– Liability Insurance: While not required, liability insurance is highly recommended to protect yourself and your business
– Background Screening: May be required by some employers or for certain business licenses

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Miami, Florida, can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of excellent training programs and numerous employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and start your path to becoming a licensed massage therapist. Your future in massage therapy awaits!