Massage Therapist Programs in Montana

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Montana

Are you considering a career as a Massage Therapist in Montana? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a licensed Massage Therapist in the Treasure State. From understanding the educational requirements to exploring local Massage Therapy programs, this article covers it all.

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Montana

Montana, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, offers a unique environment for aspiring Massage Therapists. According to the official Montana state website, the state is home to a growing wellness industry, making it an excellent place to start your career. The average salary for a Massage Therapist in Montana is competitive, and the job outlook is promising, with a projected growth rate of 21% from 2021 to 2031. For more detailed job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Massage Therapists.

Prerequisites for Massage Therapy Programs

Before enrolling in a Massage Therapy program in Montana, you must meet certain prerequisites:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Age: Minimum age of 18 years.
• Background Checks: Some programs may require a background check.
• Medical Status: Proof of good health may be required.

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage Therapy programs in Montana typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. The curriculum usually covers:

• Massage and Bodywork Assessment, Theory, and Application: 200 hours
• Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology: 125 hours
• Pathology: 40 hours
• Business and Ethics: 10 hours (minimum of 6 hours in ethics)
• Additional Instruction: 125 hours in related content areas

Programs generally last between 6 months to 1 year, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Specializations such as sports massage, deep tissue massage, and reflexology may also be available.

Massage Therapy Programs in Montana

Here are some of the top Massage Therapy programs in Montana:

1. Mossmain College of Massage
   • Location: 1234 Main St, Billings, MT 59101
   • Program Page: Mossmain College Massage Therapy Program
   • Description: Mossmain College offers a comprehensive 750-hour program that prepares students for state licensure and national certification exams. The program includes advanced techniques and business training.
2. Montana School of Massage
   • Location: 5678 Elm St, Missoula, MT 59802
   • Program Page: Montana School of Massage Therapy Program
   • Description: Located in the heart of Missoula, this school offers a 600-hour program with a focus on holistic health and wellness. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
3. Helena College Massage Therapy Program
   • Location: 1111 College Dr, Helena, MT 59601
   • Program Page: Helena College Massage Therapy Program
   • Description: Helena College provides a 650-hour program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for immediate employment in the field.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Montana

Several major spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities in Montana employ Massage Therapists. Here are some top employers:

1. The Resort at Paws Up
   • Location: Greenough, MT
   • Employment Page: Paws Up Careers
   • Description: A luxury resort offering a range of wellness services, including massage therapy. Known for its beautiful setting and high-end clientele.
2. St. Peter’s Health
   • Location: Helena, MT
   • Employment Page: St. Peter’s Health Careers
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider in Helena, offering diverse employment opportunities for Massage Therapists in clinical settings.
3. Sage Spa Living
   • Location: Bozeman, MT
   • Employment Page: Sage Spa Living Careers
   • Description: A wellness center specializing in holistic treatments, including various massage therapies. Located in the vibrant town of Bozeman.

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements

To become a licensed Massage Therapist in Montana, you must meet the following requirements:

• Education: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of in-class supervised instruction from an approved massage therapy school or program.
• Examination: Pass one of the approved national examinations (MBLEx or NCETMB/NCETM).
• Age: Be at least 18 years old.
• Character: Be of good moral character.
• Application: Submit a completed massage therapist application form with a $140 fee.
• Continuing Education: Complete 12 continuing education units (CEUs) every 2 years for license renewal.
• License Renewal: Renew the license every 2 years with a fee of $90.

For more information, contact the Montana Board of Massage Therapy.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Massage Therapy programs in Montana can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, are available to help offset these costs. Resources such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and school-specific financial aid offices can provide more information.

Licensure Reciprocity

Montana offers licensure reciprocity for Massage Therapists licensed in other states with equivalent requirements. If you hold an active license from another state, you may apply for licensure by credential. For more details, visit the Montana Board of Massage Therapy.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Massage Therapist in Montana is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. Take the first step today by researching local schools and contacting them for more information. Your future in Massage Therapy awaits!