Massage Therapist Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Des Moines, Iowa

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Des Moines

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, offers a vibrant community and a growing job market for aspiring massage therapists. Known for its beautiful parks, such as Gray’s Lake and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Des Moines provides a serene backdrop for a career in massage therapy. The average salary for a massage therapist in Iowa is competitive, and the job outlook is promising with a projected growth rate of 21% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

If you’re looking to start your journey as a massage therapist in Des Moines, here are some local schools offering massage therapy programs:

1. Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School
   • Location: Windsor Heights, a suburb of Des Moines
   • Program: Offers a comprehensive 750-hour massage therapy program that includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
   • Website: Body Wisdom Massage Therapy School
2. Carlson College of Massage Therapy
   • Location: Anamosa, approximately 120 miles from Des Moines
   • Program: Provides a 1,000-hour program focusing on both Western and Eastern massage modalities.
   • Website: Carlson College of Massage Therapy
3. La’ James International College
   • Location: Johnston, a suburb of Des Moines
   • Program: Offers a 600-hour massage therapy program with an emphasis on hands-on training and client interaction.
   • Website: La’ James International College

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. Students can expect to cover subjects such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its systems.
• Massage Techniques: Learning various techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
• Pathology: Studying diseases and conditions that may affect massage therapy.
• Business and Ethics: Preparing for the business side of massage therapy, including ethics and client management.

Programs usually range from 500 to 1,000 hours and may offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines offers numerous employment opportunities for licensed massage therapists. Here are some major spas and wellness centers in the area:

1. East Village Spa
   • Location: East Village
   • Description: A well-known spa offering a variety of massage services and wellness treatments.
   • Website: East Village Spa
2. Massage Heights
   • Location: West Des Moines
   • Description: A popular chain offering therapeutic massage and facial services.
   • Website: Massage Heights
3. Des Moines University Clinic
   • Location: Downtown Des Moines
   • Description: Provides integrative medicine services, including massage therapy, within a healthcare setting.
   • Website: Des Moines University Clinic

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Iowa

To become a licensed massage therapist in Des Moines, IA, you must meet the following state and local requirements:

State Requirements
– Licensure: Massage therapists in Iowa must be licensed by the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy.
– 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: Undergo a criminal background check through the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
– Insurance: Maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1 million per occurrence.

Local Requirements
– City of Des Moines: No specific licensing or certification requirements for massage therapists in Des Moines. However, massage establishments must obtain a Business License from the City of Des Moines.
– Polk County: No specific licensing or certification requirements for massage therapists in Polk County.

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 and professional development.

Other Requirements
– Continuing Education: Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain licensure.
– Age Requirement: Be at least 18 years old to apply for licensure.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Des Moines, Iowa, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of local schools offering comprehensive programs and a promising job market, now is the perfect time to start your education. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career. Your future as a licensed massage therapist awaits!