Massage Therapist Programs in Evansville, Indiana

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Evansville, Indiana

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Evansville

Evansville, Indiana, is a vibrant city located along the Ohio River, known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and friendly community. As the third-largest city in Indiana, Evansville offers a thriving job market for massage therapists, with numerous spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for massage therapists is expected to grow by 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average salary for massage therapists in Indiana is around $47,000 annually, making it a lucrative career choice.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Evansville, Indiana

If you’re considering becoming a massage therapist in Evansville, several local schools offer comprehensive massage therapy programs:

  1. Ivy Tech Community College – Evansville Campus
    • Program: Therapeutic Massage Program
    • Description: Ivy Tech offers a well-rounded program that includes both theoretical and practical training in massage therapy. Students complete courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
    • Location: Downtown Evansville
    • Link: Ivy Tech Therapeutic Massage Program
  2. Bodyworks Massage Institute
    • Program: Professional Massage Therapy Program
    • Description: This program provides extensive hands-on training and covers a range of massage modalities, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
    • Location: East Side of Evansville
    • Link: Bodyworks Massage Institute
  3. Vincennes University – Jasper Campus
    • Program: Massage Therapy Certificate Program
    • Description: Although located about 50 miles from Evansville, Vincennes University offers a robust program that prepares students for the MBLEx and state licensure.
    • Location: Jasper, IN
    • Link: Vincennes University Massage Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:

  • Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its systems.
  • Massage Techniques: Learning various massage styles such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
  • Ethics and Business: Professional ethics, business practices, and client communication.
  • Clinical Practice: Supervised practice sessions to gain real-world experience.

Programs usually take between 6 months to 1 year to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some schools offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Evansville

Evansville boasts several prominent spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists:

  1. Evviva Spa
    • Description: A luxurious spa offering a wide range of services, including therapeutic and relaxation massages.
    • Location: West Side of Evansville
    • Link: Evviva Spa
  2. Deaconess Health System
    • Description: A leading healthcare provider in the region, Deaconess offers integrative medicine services, including massage therapy.
    • Location: Midtown Evansville
    • Link: Deaconess Health System Careers
  3. Massage Envy – Evansville
    • Description: Part of a national chain, this location provides various massage and skincare services.
    • Location: East Side of Evansville
    • Link: Massage Envy Evansville

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Indiana

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

Indiana State License

  • License: Massage Therapist License
  • Issuing Authority: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) – www.in.gov/pla
  • Requirements:
    • Complete a minimum of 500 hours of training at an approved massage therapy school
    • Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)
    • Apply for licensure through the IPLA online portal
    • Pay the required licensure fee ($100)

City of Evansville

  • Business License: Massage Establishment License
  • Issuing Authority: City of Evansville – www.evansville.in.gov
  • Requirements:
    • Obtain a business license from the City of Evansville
    • Pay the required license fee ($50)
    • Provide proof of liability insurance

National Certification

  • Certification: Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB)
  • Issuing Authority: National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) – www.ncbtmb.org
  • Requirements:
    • Graduate from an NCBTMB-approved massage therapy program
    • Pass the Board Certification Exam in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCETMB)
    • Maintain certification through continuing education and adherence to the NCBTMB Code of Ethics

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Evansville, Indiana, is a rewarding journey. With a variety of local training programs and a growing job market, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion for massage therapy. Contact a school today and take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful career in massage therapy.