Massage Therapist Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Honolulu, Hawaii
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Honolulu
Honolulu, the vibrant capital city of Hawaii, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its stunning beaches, historic landmarks like Pearl Harbor, and the iconic Diamond Head, Honolulu is a prime location for a career in massage therapy. The city’s thriving tourism industry ensures a steady demand for skilled massage therapists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Hawaii is competitive, and the job growth rate is projected to be faster than the national average.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii
If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Honolulu, several local schools offer comprehensive massage therapy programs:
- Hawaii Massage Academy
- Location: Downtown Honolulu
- Program: The Hawaii Massage Academy offers a 570-hour program that meets the state requirements. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, and hands-on training.
- Website: Hawaii Massage Academy
- Remington College
- Location: Honolulu
- Program: Remington College provides a diploma in Massage Therapy, covering essential courses like Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and professional ethics.
- Website: Remington College
- Honolulu School of Massage
- Location: Ala Moana
- Program: This school offers a comprehensive program that includes both theoretical and practical training, preparing students for the MBLEx exam.
- Website: Honolulu School of Massage
Typical Program Curriculum
Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. You can expect to study subjects such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. Hands-on training is a crucial component, where you’ll learn various massage techniques like Swedish, deep tissue, and 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 like prenatal massage or reflexology.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Honolulu
Honolulu boasts numerous spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are a few notable ones:
- Mandara Spa at Hilton Hawaiian Village
- Location: Waikiki
- Description: A luxurious spa offering a range of services, including massage therapy. They frequently have openings for skilled massage therapists.
- Website: Mandara Spa
- The Kahala Hotel & Resort Spa
- Location: Kahala
- Description: Known for its serene environment and high-end services, this spa is a great place for massage therapists to work.
- Website: The Kahala Hotel & Resort Spa
- Honolulu Spa & Wellness
- Location: Kaka’ako
- Description: A wellness center offering various treatments, including massage therapy. They often seek qualified massage therapists to join their team.
- Website: Honolulu Spa & Wellness
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Hawaii
To become a licensed massage therapist in Honolulu, you must meet the requirements set by the state of Hawaii and the city and county of Honolulu:
State of Hawaii Requirements
– Licensure: Obtain a license from the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
– Education: Complete a minimum of 570 hours of massage therapy education from an accredited institution approved by the National Accrediting Commission for Massage Therapy and Bodywork (NACMB).
– Examination: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
– Background Check: Complete a criminal background check through the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center.
City and County of Honolulu Requirements
– Business License: Obtain a business license from the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting.
– Zoning Approval: Ensure compliance with the City and County of Honolulu’s zoning laws.
Certifications
– National Certification: While not required, obtaining national certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) can be beneficial for career advancement.
Other Requirements
– Liability Insurance: Maintain professional liability insurance.
– Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements to maintain your state license and national certification.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Honolulu is a rewarding journey. With the right education and training, you can join the ranks of skilled professionals in this thriving industry. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career. The path to becoming a licensed massage therapist in Honolulu is clear—start your journey now!