Massage Therapist Programs in Portland, Oregon
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Portland, Oregon
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Portland
Portland, Oregon, known for its vibrant culture, lush greenery, and thriving wellness community, is an excellent place to start a career as a massage therapist. The city is home to numerous spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities, making it a hub for bodywork professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Oregon is competitive, and the job growth is projected to be faster than average over the next decade.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Portland, Oregon
If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Portland, several reputable schools offer comprehensive massage therapy programs:
- East West College of the Healing Arts
- Location: Northwest District
- Program: East West College offers a 800-hour Massage Therapy program that covers a wide range of techniques, including Swedish massage, deep tissue, and sports massage. The program also includes hands-on clinical experience.
- Website: East West College of the Healing Arts
- Oregon School of Massage
- Location: Tigard (a suburb of Portland)
- Program: This school provides a 640-hour Massage Therapy program with specializations in Western and Eastern bodywork techniques. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, and business practices.
- Website: Oregon School of Massage
- University of Western States
- Location: Northeast Portland
- Program: The University of Western States offers a Massage Therapy program that integrates clinical practice with a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology. The program is designed to prepare students for the MBLEx exam.
- Website: University of Western States
Typical Program Curriculum
Massage therapy programs in Portland generally include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. Students can expect to study:
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body is crucial for effective massage therapy.
- Massage Techniques: Training in various techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
- Pathology: Learning about common conditions and how to address them through massage.
- Business Practices: Courses on how to run a successful massage therapy practice.
- Hands-on Clinical Experience: Practical training in a supervised setting.
Programs typically range from 500 to 800 hours and can be completed in 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Portland
Portland offers a variety of employment opportunities for massage therapists. Here are some notable employers:
- The Dragontree Spa
- Location: Northwest Portland
- Description: A renowned wellness center offering a range of spa services, including massage therapy.
- Website: The Dragontree Spa
- Knot Springs
- Location: Central Eastside
- Description: A social wellness club that provides massage therapy, hydrotherapy, and fitness classes.
- Website: Knot Springs
- Providence Health & Services
- Location: Multiple locations in Portland
- Description: A major healthcare provider that employs massage therapists in their rehabilitation and wellness centers.
- Website: Providence Health & Services
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Oregon
To practice as a massage therapist in Portland, Oregon, you must meet the following requirements:
- Education and Training: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from a state-approved school. Learn more
- Certification: Obtain certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) by passing the MBLEx exam. Learn more
- Licensure: Apply for a massage therapy license through the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists (OBMT). Learn more
- Background Checks: Pass a criminal background check conducted by the OBMT. Learn more
- Continuing Education: Complete 25 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain your license. Learn more
Licensure Reciprocity
Oregon does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states, but the OBMT may consider out-of-state applicants who meet similar educational and certification requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Portland, Oregon, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of excellent training programs and a thriving job market, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion for bodywork. Contact a local massage school today to take the first step towards your new career!