Massage Therapist Programs in Texas

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Texas

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Massage Therapist in Texas? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of earning your Massage Therapy certification in the Lone Star State. We’ll cover the steps you need to take, the best local Massage Therapy programs, and what you can expect from this fulfilling profession.

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Texas

Texas, known for its diverse culture and booming economy, is an excellent place to start your career as a Massage Therapist. With a growing demand for wellness services, Texas offers numerous opportunities for Massage Therapists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook 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 Texas is around $45,000 per year, making it a lucrative career choice.

Prerequisites for Massage Therapy Programs

Before enrolling in a Massage Therapy program in Texas, you must meet certain prerequisites:
– Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
– Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
– Background Check: A background check involving fingerprinting for a national criminal history check is mandatory.
– Health Status: Some programs may require proof of immunizations or a health check-up.

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage Therapy programs in Texas are designed to provide a comprehensive education that includes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. A typical curriculum includes:
– Massage Therapy Techniques: 200 hours, with at least 125 hours of Swedish massage techniques.
– Anatomy: 50 hours.
– Physiology: 25 hours.
– Kinesiology: 50 hours.
– Pathology: 40 hours.
– Hydrotherapy: 20 hours.
– Laws and Ethics: 45 hours covering massage therapy laws, business practices, and professional ethics.
– Health and Hygiene: 20 hours including first aid, universal precautions, and CPR.
– Internship: 50 hours of practical experience.

Programs usually take 6-12 months to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.

Massage Therapy Programs in Texas

Here are some top Massage Therapy schools in Texas:

1. Texas School of Massage
   • Location: 2606 FM 1960 Rd E, Houston, TX 77073
   • Program: Offers a comprehensive 500-hour program that meets TDLR requirements.
   • Cost: Approximately $7,000.
   • Website: Texas School of Massage
2. Lamar State College Orange
   • Location: 410 Front St, Orange, TX 77630
   • Program: Offers a 500-hour Massage Therapy program with a focus on hands-on training.
   • Cost: Approximately $5,000.
   • Website: Lamar State College Orange
3. Austin Community College
   • Location: 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
   • Program: Offers a 500-hour program with specializations in various massage techniques.
   • Cost: Approximately $6,500.
   • Website: Austin Community College

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Texas

Texas offers a variety of employment opportunities for Massage Therapists. Here are some major employers:

1. Hiatus Spa + Retreat
   • Locations: Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston.
   • Specialties: Known for their award-winning spa services.
   • Employment Page: Hiatus Spa + Retreat Careers
2. Massage Envy
   • Locations: Multiple locations across Texas.
   • Specialties: Offers a wide range of massage and skincare services.
   • Employment Page: Massage Envy Careers
3. The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
   • Location: 111 N Post Oak Ln, Houston, TX 77024
   • Specialties: Luxury spa services in a prestigious setting.
   • Employment Page: The Houstonian Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements

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

Education and Training Requirements

• Completion of Training: 500 hours of instruction from a TDLR-licensed school.
  • 200 hours of massage therapy techniques, with at least 125 hours of Swedish massage techniques.
  • 50 hours of anatomy.
  • 25 hours of physiology.
  • 50 hours of kinesiology.
  • 40 hours of pathology.
  • 20 hours of hydrotherapy.
  • 45 hours of massage therapy laws and rules, business practices, and professional ethics.
  • 20 hours of health and hygiene, first aid, universal precautions, and CPR.
  • 50 hours of internship.

Examination Requirements

• Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx): Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB).
• Texas Massage Therapist Jurisprudence Exam: Covers laws and rules specific to Texas.
• Texas State Massage Therapist Exam: An alternative to the MBLEx, includes law and rules topics specific to Texas.

Application and Licensing Process

• Application Fee: $100.
• Application Submission: Submit the application form along with official certified original transcripts.
• Fingerprinting: Required for a national criminal history check.

Additional Requirements

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Criminal History Evaluation: If applicable, provide a completed Criminal History Questionnaire.

For more information, visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Massage Therapy programs in Texas ranges from $5,000 to $7,000. Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Resources for financial aid include:
– Federal Student Aid
– Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
– Massage Therapy Foundation Scholarships

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re a licensed Massage Therapist moving to Texas from another state, you may be eligible for licensure reciprocity. Texas requires:
– Proof of current licensure in another state.
– Verification of completed education and training.
– Passing the Texas Massage Therapist Jurisprudence Exam.

For more details, visit the TDLR Reciprocity Page.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Massage Therapist in Texas is a fulfilling and lucrative choice. With the right education and training, you can join the growing field of wellness professionals. Contact a local school today to start your journey toward becoming a licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Take the first step towards a rewarding career that helps others feel their best!