Massage Therapist Programs in Dayton, Ohio
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Dayton, Ohio
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Dayton
Dayton, Ohio, known as the “Gem City,” offers a vibrant community and a rich history, making it an excellent place to pursue a career as a massage therapist. With landmarks like the National Museum of the United States Air Force and the beautiful Five Rivers MetroParks, Dayton provides a supportive environment for wellness professionals. 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 Ohio is around $47,000 annually, making it a lucrative career choice.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton offers several reputable schools where you can complete your massage therapy training. Here are three local options:
- Dayton School of Medical Massage
- Located in the heart of downtown Dayton, the Dayton School of Medical Massage offers a comprehensive program that covers anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques. The program includes 750 hours of training, meeting Ohio’s licensure requirements.
- Miami-Jacobs Career College
- Situated in the Kettering neighborhood, Miami-Jacobs Career College provides a robust massage therapy program. The curriculum includes hands-on training and prepares students for the MBLEx exam.
- Sinclair Community College
- Located in the downtown area, Sinclair Community College offers a massage therapy program that combines classroom instruction with practical experience. The program is designed to meet state licensure requirements and offers flexible scheduling options.
Typical Program Curriculum
A typical massage therapy program in Dayton includes courses in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. Students also receive hands-on training in various massage techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage. Programs usually last between 9 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some programs offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Dayton
Dayton has a variety of employment opportunities for massage therapists. Here are some major spas and wellness centers in the area:
- Square One Salon and Spa
- Located in the Oregon District, Square One Salon and Spa offers a range of services, including massage therapy. They frequently have openings for licensed massage therapists.
- The Woodhouse Day Spa
- Situated in the Beavercreek neighborhood, The Woodhouse Day Spa provides luxurious spa services and employs skilled massage therapists.
- Kettering Health Network
- With multiple locations across Dayton, Kettering Health Network offers medical massage therapy services within their healthcare facilities, providing opportunities for those interested in a clinical setting.
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Ohio
To become a licensed massage therapist in Dayton, OH, you’ll need to meet both state and local requirements:
State Requirements
– Ohio License: Obtain a license from the Ohio State Medical Board.
– Complete a minimum of 750 hours of training from an approved massage therapy school.
– Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
– Apply for licensure through the Ohio State Medical Board.
– Certification: While not required, certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) is highly recommended.
Local Requirements
– Dayton City License: No separate license is required, but you may need a Business License if you plan to operate a massage therapy business.
– Montgomery County Requirements: No specific requirements, but compliance with local health department regulations may be necessary.
Other Requirements
– Liability Insurance: Highly recommended to protect yourself and your business.
– Continuing Education: The Ohio State Medical Board requires 25 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain licensure.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Dayton, Ohio, is a rewarding journey. With a variety of local training programs and a growing demand for skilled professionals, now is the perfect time to start. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in massage therapy.