Careers in the Licensed Professions
Massage Therapist Print Profile 
Massage therapists apply a scientific system of activity to the muscular structure of the human body by means of stroking, kneading, tapping, and vibrating with the hands or instruments to improve muscle tone and circulation. These licensed professionals:
- evaluate patients/clients in terms of health and disease to identify what massage techniques should be used
- help enhance their patients’ well-being, reduce the physical and mental effects of stress and tension, prevent disease, and restore health
- may use a variety of massage techniques and methods in both Western and Eastern traditions
Education |
Receive a diploma or degree from a Department-registered massage therapy licensure program, or the substantial equivalent. Programs consist of at least 1,000 clocks hours of education, in specific subjects and supervised practice, and require at least 150 hours of direct practice on people. |
Examination |
New York State Massage Therapy Examination |
Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.
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Salary and Projected Growth
- Median salary: $39,860 in the U.S., $59,940 in NY
- Salary range: $29,86-$80,990
- Projected growth: faster than average, below average in NY
Salary and Projected Growth
- Private practice
- Hospitals, clinics, professional sites
- Nursing and rehabilitation sites
- Health spas and resorts
- Sports organizations
Your Interests and Abilities
- Sciences and healthcare
- Active listening skills
- Physical stamina
- Manual dexterity
Professional Skills
- Integrity
- Problem solving and judgement
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Dependability
- Patience/calmness
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a massage therapist about what they do and how they got started!
