In the holistic world of health and wellness, the profession of massage therapy emerges as a beacon of opportunity, offering both a pathway to personal fulfillment and a lucrative career.
For those contemplating a career pivot or embarking on their initial professional journey, the New Age Spa Institute shines as a center of excellence in Des Plaines IL, providing top-tier education in the art and science of massage therapy.
A Profession Poised for Growth
With the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlighting a significant anticipated growth in the massage therapy field, the profession stands out for its rapidly increasing demand across a variety of settings, from luxurious spas to healthcare institutions including chiropractic and physical therapy centers. Positioned at the forefront of this expanding industry for over 10 years, the New Age Spa Institute offers a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career is massage therapy.
A Financially Rewarding Path That Helps People
In Illinois, the career of massage therapy is not only fulfilling but also financially rewarding, with a median annual salary of $65,337, equivalent to approximately $31 per hour. Of course, this doesn’t include tips! Many clinically trained massage therapists find that chiropractic and physical rebab offices begin their professional pay at $50 plus an hour. This salary scale surpasses many positions within the healthcare support spectrum, offering a promising financial future to dedicated therapists. As professionals progress in their careers, they specialize in specific modalities or acquire advanced certifications in advanced continuing education like Kobido, buccal, lymphatic drainage, prenatal therapeutic massage, and craniosacral therapy. Clinical Massage Therapists’ earning potential can increase significantly with these highly specialized skills, underscoring the profession’s capacity for financial growth and stability.
Be A Massage Therapist In Less Than A Year
One of the most compelling aspects of pursuing massage therapy is the accessible educational pathway it offers. The New Age Spa Institute’s esteemed program, requiring above IL standard hours of training, is designed to fast-track students into the profession. Our groups are very small with individual instructor attention versus many other schools place 25+ students in a classroom. This blend of theoretical learning and practical experience is structured to be completed in a concise timeframe less than a year, enabling students to swiftly transition into the workforce and start earning an income shortly after commencing their studies.
A Versatile Career with Nationwide Opportunities
The universality of massage therapy as a needed service across the United States ensures that qualified therapists can find employment opportunities nationwide. This geographic flexibility is particularly advantageous in today’s mobile society, offering career resilience and the freedom to explore new living and working environments.
What Are My First Steps?
Starting a career in massage therapy in Illinois begins with the essential step of completing a state-approved educational program that meets the minimum requirement of 500 hours set by the Illinois Massage Licensing Board. This comprehensive education encompasses both classroom learning and hands-on practice, covering crucial subjects such as anatomy, physiology, ethics, and specific massage techniques. This foundational training prepares aspiring therapists for the diverse needs of their future clients and ensures a solid grounding in the principles of therapeutic massage.
Upon completing the educational requirements, the next pivotal step is passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the national MBLEx assesses the candidate’s mastery of fundamental practices and theoretical knowledge essential for a career in massage therapy, including assessment and treatment planning, kinesiology, and pathology. Success in the national MBLEx is a prerequisite for obtaining a massage therapy license in Illinois, which involves applying through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and fulfilling any additional state-specific requirements, such as a background check.
The Only National, Entry-Level Licensing Exam for Massage Therapists
At present, the sole national licensing examination utilized by states for evaluating licensure candidates is the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). This exam is conducted by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. Typically, students are eligible to sit for the MBLEx after finishing an accredited program in massage therapy education and training. The outcomes of the MBLEx, in conjunction with other components of a student’s application, are then employed by state massage therapy boards to decide whether to grant licensure to an individual.
Why choose New Age Spa Institute?
The New Age Spa Institute distinguishes itself through several key features:
- Rigorous Curriculum: Drawing on authoritative texts like “MOSBY’S ESSENTIAL SCIENCES FOR THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE: ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, BIOMECHANICS, AND PATHOLOGY” by Sandy Fritz and Luke Fritz, the institute provides an exhaustive educational experience. The program covers the history, theory, and practice of massage therapy, equipping students with a deep understanding of the field.
- Focused Specializations: Beyond foundational courses, the institute offers specialized training in critical areas such as kinesiology, pathology, and business skills, preparing graduates for a competitive edge in the job market.
- Hands-On Clinical Experience: Emphasizing practical skills, the program includes clinical experiences where students apply their learning in real-world scenarios, fostering confidence and competence.
- Accredited Education: The institute’s credentials, including approvals and accreditations from respected educational and professional bodies like the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), affirm its commitment to educational excellence and adherence to high standards.
- Valued Memberships: The New Age Spa Institute is a school member in good standing of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP). School members of ABMP meet specific eligibility requirements based on the curriculum offered and compliance with state and local regulations. ABMP school members are required to maintain the highest standards of educational and professional conduct and strictly adhere to the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals Code of Ethics. The New Age Spa Institute Massage Therapy School meets and exceeds the high standards of excellence put forth by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork and is recognized and awarded the esteemed designation of an NCBTMB Assigned School. Choose Board Certified.
Clinical Massage Therapy at New Age Spa Institute
Pursuing a career in massage therapy at the New Age Spa Institute represents a strategic choice towards personal growth and professional success. With its comprehensive curriculum, practical training focus, and robust support for student development, our master educator team launches the very best professionals and the next generation of massage therapists into a career that promises not only financial rewards but also the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of others.
For those ready to take the first step towards this rewarding career, we encourage an informed decision by exploring other massage schools in Illinois like the Soma Institute, the New School for Massage Bodywork and Healing, and many more massage programs near Chicagoland.
You will find the New Age Spa Institute conveniently located for easy access near the Illinois expressways and Metra. Schedule a school tour today to learn more. This health and wellness profession awaits your exploration. Dive into an educational journey where passion for wellness transforms into a fulfilling profession.
Click here to schedule your tour or request more information about Massage Therapy or any one of our top-tier training programs (esthetics, clinical aesthetics, master clinical aesthetics, professional makeup artistry, nail technology, CIDESCO).
Is CE Required for Massage Therapists?
Yes, in Illinois, massage therapists are required to complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) every 2 years. Embarking on a career in massage therapy doesn’t end with education and licensure; it also involves a commitment to ongoing professional development and specialization. Licensed therapists are encouraged to further their expertise through advanced certifications, workshops, and staying abreast of the latest techniques and research in the field. The New Age Spa Institute is an accredited CE sponsor, and offers a wide variety of CE course listings. This continuous learning process not only enhances a therapist’s skill set but also enriches their professional journey, making a career in massage therapy both fulfilling and dynamic, with endless opportunities to impact the well-being of others positively.
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