Massage therapy is a promising career with plenty of flexibility. Many massage therapists find they can work part-time and earn a decent living. Clients often enjoy receiving massages on the weekends and in the evenings after work, so frequently, massage therapists take advantage of part-time work that accommodates this schedule. Other massage therapists enjoy the benefits of full-time work along with the money that comes with the extra time devoted to their career.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that massage therapy is a growing career field and will continue to gain ground over the next eight years, with growth projected to be just over 20%. The statistics also indicate that the number of massage therapists working part-time is very high while unemployment for massage therapists is very low. These figures are promising for new graduates of massage therapy schools. Current students can look forward to graduating with a useful skill that can place them in a career with plenty of promise. This forecast is also helpful when considering that new students can expect to spend about two years building up their practice. Once a massage therapist has devoted the time to establishing a loyal clientele and improving their skills as a therapist, the job market will still look bright.

The types of jobs available as a massage therapist vary greatly. Some massage therapists work for themselves as independent contractors or self-employed business owners while others work as employees for a business. Careers in massage therapy are incredibly varied. Due to the popularity of massages as a form of relaxation and stress relief, many vacation and spa environments hire massage therapists. High-end hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation resorts often include massages as a part of the package for people staying with them, so they will hire massage therapists for this purpose. Similarly, cruise ships and health clubs or fitness programs will do the same. Many airports now have massages available to travelers to unwind between their flights. Luxury spas and day spa/salons also hire massage therapists for their clientele.

From a more clinical perspective, many massage therapists find employment in doctor’s or chiropractor’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. These positions are more about helping clients overcome illness or injury rather than as a preventative or for luxury’s sake. Also, massage therapists are often hired to work with sports teams or for sports medicine clinics. These jobs are usually prestigious, high-paying positions, as you would be working with professional athletes, but you lose the flexibility of some other positions and are frequently on call.

Yet another type of massage therapist position available is the therapist that goes on site. Many corporations have massage therapists come to the workplace to provide massages as a benefit to their employees. Other therapists have their own portable table or chair that they can take to private individuals’ homes to provide massages. There are also businesses that specialize in sending massage therapists to various sites and provide massages for clients under a variety of settings ranging from corporate events to weddings.

With so much flexibility and so many options available in the field of massage therapy, coupled with the potential for growth over the next few years, this is a great career to consider for your future. If you look forward to helping others and creating a job with personal satisfaction for yourself, then working as a massage therapist may be for you.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.
	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.