Massage Therapy Schools in Illinois
Using massage therapy for medical, health or relaxation reasons has continued to grow rapidly over the last several years, and Illinois is no different. With over 30 schools associated with the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professional group, Illinois is an excellent choice for pursing your massage therapy training. BeautySchools.com has compiled the Web’s most extensive list to make it easy for you to get in contact with the top programs in your area.
Illinois requires that you successfully complete 500 credit hours before being eligible to practice in the state. Studying anatomy, physiology, pathology, message therapy practice and professional development courses will prepare you to work in all capacities as a message therapist. Because of the hours required, you should be able to complete your training and get started in your career in as little as 4 months.
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You must attend a school that is approved by your state to provide training in the discipline you want to practice. Check with the school and the state board to be sure that your program of study will prepare you for any applicable state licensure.
Learn About Licensing Requirements for Massage Therapists in Illinois
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations oversees licensure for massage therapists in the state. According to the Massage Licensing Act, you must be at least 18 years of age and pass a criminal background check in addition to the required 500 education hours. Your final step to get started in your new career is to pass a state competency exam as well as a national competency exam from either the FSMTB or the NCBTMB.
Employment Outlook for Massage Therapists in Illinois
According to the United States Department of Labor, there is a growing market for massage therapy practitioners. Massage therapist can expect an average annual wage of approximately $40,000. The versatility of massage therapy means that the therapist could earn more than that figure, depending on how they want to establish their practice.
There are currently many options for those who wish to practice massage therapy. This healing art is gaining wide acceptance with the established medical community due to its ability to relieve stress and ease pain. Many therapists choose to work in a clinical setting rather than establishing a private practice.
Massage therapists are often hired by beauty salons, spas, luxury cruise ships, fitness centers and even nursing homes. Pet massage therapy is also becoming popular as it has been shown to relieve pain from hip dysplasia and arthritis in older pets. Manufacturing corporations have hired massage therapists to reduce employee stress and prevent work injuries.
Other opportunities include chiropractic offices, naturopaths and hospice programs. Physical Therapy centers and chronic pain control centers also employ massage therapists. They use their services to help their patients achieve physical therapy goals and pain control. All of these areas are rewarding fields for the massage therapist and will provide satisfaction in knowing that he or she is providing pain and stress relief for others.