Massage Therapist Programs in Concord, North Carolina

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Concord, North Carolina

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Concord

Concord, North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, welcoming community, and proximity to Charlotte. As the home of the Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord Mills, the city offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquility. For those considering a career in massage therapy, Concord provides a supportive environment with a growing demand for wellness services.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for massage therapists in the U.S. was $46,910 in 2022, with a projected job growth rate of 21% from 2021 to 2031. This promising outlook makes Concord an excellent place to start your journey as a massage therapist.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Concord, North Carolina

If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Concord, several local schools offer comprehensive programs to help you achieve your goals. Here are three notable options:

1. Southeastern Institute – Charlotte Campus
   • Location: Charlotte, NC (approximately 20 miles from Concord)
   • Program: The Massage Therapy program at Southeastern Institute provides hands-on training and coursework in various massage techniques. The program is designed to prepare students for the MBLEx exam and licensure.
   • Website: Southeastern Institute – Massage Therapy
2. Central Piedmont Community College
   • Location: Charlotte, NC (approximately 20 miles from Concord)
   • Program: Central Piedmont offers a comprehensive Massage Therapy program that includes 500 hours of training, covering anatomy, physiology, and hands-on practice. The program prepares students for state licensure and the MBLEx exam.
   • Website: Central Piedmont Community College – Massage Therapy
3. Miller-Motte College – Raleigh Campus
   • Location: Raleigh, NC (approximately 130 miles from Concord)
   • Program: Miller-Motte College offers a Massage Therapy program that includes extensive hands-on training and coursework in various massage modalities. The program prepares students for the MBLEx exam and state licensure.
   • Website: Miller-Motte College – Massage Therapy

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Kinesiology
• Pathology
• Ethics and Professionalism
• Business Practices

Hands-on training is a crucial component, with students learning various massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage. Programs usually require a minimum of 500 hours of training and can be completed in 6-12 months, depending on the schedule and intensity of the program.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Concord

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

1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa – Concord
   • Location: Concord Mills
   • Description: Hand & Stone provides a range of massage and facial services. They frequently hire licensed massage therapists to join their team.
   • Website: Hand & Stone – Careers
2. Massage Envy – Concord
   • Location: Concord Parkway
   • Description: Massage Envy is a well-known chain offering massage and skincare services. They offer competitive pay and benefits for licensed massage therapists.
   • Website: Massage Envy – Careers
3. Cabarrus Health Alliance
   • Location: Kannapolis, NC (approximately 5 miles from Concord)
   • Description: Cabarrus Health Alliance provides a variety of health services, including massage therapy, and often seeks qualified therapists to join their team.
   • Website: Cabarrus Health Alliance – Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in North Carolina

To become a licensed massage therapist in Concord, NC, you must meet the requirements set by the state of North Carolina and the city of Concord. Here are the relevant requirements, certifications, and licensing needed:

State Requirements

North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
– Licensure: Obtain a license from the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
– Education: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of training from a board-approved massage therapy school. NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy – Education Requirements
– Examination: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). FSMTB – MBLEx
– Background Check: Complete a criminal background check through the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). NC SBI – Background Checks

City Requirements

City of Concord
– Business License: Obtain a business license from the City of Concord to operate a massage therapy business within the city limits. City of Concord – Business Licenses
– Zoning Approval: Ensure that the business location meets the City of Concord’s zoning regulations. City of Concord – Zoning

Certifications

National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)
– Board Certification: While not required, becoming board certified through the NCBTMB can demonstrate expertise and enhance professional credibility. NCBTMB – Board Certification

Insurance and Liability

Liability Insurance
– Professional Liability Insurance: Massage therapists should consider obtaining professional liability insurance to protect themselves against malpractice claims. American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) – Liability Insurance

Continuing Education

NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
– Continuing Education: Licensed massage therapists must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their licensure. NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy – Continuing Education

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Concord, North Carolina, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of local programs available and a supportive community, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards a successful career in massage therapy. Start your journey now and make a positive impact on the well-being of others.