A day at the spa is typically a luxury that men and women allow themselves for many reasons. The health benefits of spa treatments are many and it is not uncommon for those who are seeking to maintain their wellness, receive a prenatal massage, or partake in a health-boosting treatment when illness strikes to spend a day or two receiving a comprehensive spa treatment experience. In addition to massage therapy, a spa therapist must also know aromatherapy, nutrition, common spa treatments such as wraps, scrubs, masks and hydrotherapy, and other natural healing techniques.

To break into the field of spa therapy, it is important to start with an education from a massage therapy school or something similar like a Shiatsu program. After your education, you may find it helpful, if not necessary in some states, to receive national certification. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork administers national exams that lead to certification. Once you have your education and certification in place, begin looking for a job at a spa. Start at a small spa if you have to. Many larger spas will want you to have some experience working in a spa environment prior to their hiring you.

Job prospects for a spa therapist are excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, massage therapy careers are enjoying faster-than-average growth that is likely to continue through 2016. Also, with the rising popularity of spas and spa treatments, a spa therapist should have no problem finding employment. With some experience and perhaps some spa management courses, a spa therapist could work towards managing or even owning a spa.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	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.
	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.