Massage Therapist Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Chesapeake, Virginia

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Chesapeake

Chesapeake, Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and welcoming community. Located in the heart of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Chesapeake offers a blend of urban and suburban living with easy access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. For more information about the city, visit the official Chesapeake website.

The demand for massage therapists in Chesapeake is growing, with an increasing number of spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities seeking skilled professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Virginia is competitive, and the job growth rate is expected to be faster than average, making it a promising career choice.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

If you’re considering a career in massage therapy, Chesapeake offers several excellent training programs:

1. Advanced Fuller School of Massage Therapy
   • Location: Greenbrier West
   • Description: The Advanced Fuller School of Massage Therapy offers a comprehensive program that covers various massage techniques, anatomy, and physiology. The program is designed to meet the state requirements for licensure.
   • Program Page: Advanced Fuller School of Massage Therapy
2. Chesapeake School of Therapeutic Massage
   • Location: Great Bridge
   • Description: This school provides a well-rounded curriculum that includes hands-on training and theoretical coursework. Students gain practical experience through supervised clinical practice.
   • Program Page: Chesapeake School of Therapeutic Massage
3. Centura College
   • Location: South Norfolk
   • Description: Centura College offers a massage therapy program that prepares students for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The program includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage modalities.
   • Program Page: Centura College Massage Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

A typical massage therapy program in Chesapeake includes a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its functions.
• Kinesiology: Study of body movement.
• Pathology: Learning about diseases and conditions that affect the body.
• Massage Techniques: Training in various massage modalities such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
• Ethics and Business Practices: Preparing for professional conduct and managing a massage therapy practice.

Programs usually range from 500 to 750 hours of training and can be completed in 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some programs may offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage, reflexology, or aromatherapy.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake

Chesapeake is home to numerous spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are a few notable options:

1. Greenbrier Spa
   • Location: Greenbrier East
   • Description: A luxury spa offering a range of services including massage therapy, facials, and body treatments.
   • Employment Page: Greenbrier Spa Careers
2. Chesapeake Regional Healthcare
   • Location: Western Branch
   • Description: A comprehensive healthcare facility that includes wellness services such as massage therapy for patients and staff.
   • Employment Page: Chesapeake Regional Healthcare Careers
3. Elements Massage
   • Location: Edinburgh
   • Description: A popular massage therapy chain offering various massage services. They frequently hire licensed massage therapists.
   • Employment Page: Elements Massage Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Virginia

To become a licensed massage therapist in Chesapeake, VA, you must meet the requirements set by the state of Virginia and the city of Chesapeake:

• Education and Training: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from a state-approved school. The program must include coursework in subjects like anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology, as well as training in various massage techniques. For more information, visit the Virginia Board of Nursing.
• Certification: Obtain certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). Certification is not mandatory but is highly recommended. Learn more at NCBTMB.
• Licensure: Obtain a massage therapy license from the Virginia Board of Nursing and pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). Apply for licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing online portal.
• Local Requirements: The city of Chesapeake does not have specific requirements for massage therapists, but you may need to obtain a business license or permit to operate a massage therapy practice. Check the City of Chesapeake Business Licenses page for more details.
• Continuing Education: Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain licensure. Continuing education courses must be approved by the NCBTMB or the FSMTB.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of excellent training programs and a growing job market, now is the perfect time to start your education. Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward a successful career in massage therapy. Your future as a skilled and compassionate massage therapist awaits!