Massage Therapy Programs in Virginia
Whether you choose to work in a hospital, spa or pregnancy center, there are plenty of opportunities that await you as a massage therapist in Virginia. If you feel called to help clients achieve a greater sense of peace and relaxation in their lives, then enrolling in a massage therapy school in Virginia is an obvious next step. You can obtain your license in less than two years and still be on your way to earning an excellent salary. BeautySchools.com has done the tough part for you and gathered the Web’s most extensive list of massage therapy schools in Virginia for you to get in contact easily with.
Find Massage Therapy Programs in Virginia
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.
There are close to 30 massage therapy schools in Virginia for you to choose from. You will need to complete 500 hours of training at one of these schools in order to be eligible to apply for the massage therapy license required by the state. During your massage therapy training, you will focus on different massage techniques and modalities, physiology, hydrotherapy, general sciences, business ethics and Virginia health regulations.
Learn About Massage Therapy Licensing Requirements in Virginia
After you have completed your 500 hours of instruction at an approved massage therapy school in Virginia, you will need to prepare and successfully pass one of the nationally-administered massage therapy exams. Virginia does not require that you complete a state exam, so focusing on either the NCETM/TMB or the MBLEx will be your main priority. Once you have received a passing grade, you will need to seek licensure from the Virginia Board of Nursing before being allowed to practice in the state. There is a $140 initial license cost and a $70 renewal cost that you will be required to pay every two years.
Employment Outlook for Massage Therapists in Virginia
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average salary for massage therapists in Virginia is about $45,500 a year. This is higher than the national average salary, which is $40,350 a year. Massage therapy is a rapidly growing profession in Virginia with great opportunities for students. You may choose to work for top spas in Virginia including the Spa at Tysons Corner, Spa Minerale or the Amenity Day Spa. Another great option to consider, is opening up your own location. This is often done after working a few years in the field and developing a profitable client base.