How to Become a Massage Therapist in Louisiana

The State of Louisiana Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 52,271 square miles of the Pelican State, approximately 2,328 massage therapists work to help the more than 4.6 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 390,845 people in New Orleans, 224,149 people in Baton Rouge, and 192,035 people in Shreveport, massage therapists who work in Louisiana can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Louisiana?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Louisiana, you must register with the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy. The application fee is $75. Once you are registered, you must receive licensure by the Board. If you do not register, you will be working illegally and can receive a fine.

In order to receive this license, you must complete a minimum of 500 hours from an approved massage therapy program and pass a national massage licensing examination within two years from the date the application is filled.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy approves massage therapy programs with the following: 325 hours of massage therapy techniques and clinical, 125 hours of anatomy and physiology, 50 hours of related coursework (business and ethics, first aid certification).

Below are two approved schools in Louisiana to help you get started on what you may be looking for in a massage therapy education.

• LA Institute of Massage Therapy: Operated by massage therapists since 1987, LIMT was one of the first massage schools to be licensed by the state of Louisiana, and the first to provide continuing education classes. The LIMT massage therapy program is licensed and/or approved by LA State Board of Regents, Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Louisiana State Board of Massage Therapy, and the Louisiana Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
• Medical Training College: At MTC, national and state tests fees, books and more are included in tuition. MTC is committed to providing students with “a solid education taught by a qualified, experienced, professional teaching staff.” Students will learn about techniques such as Swedish massage, sports massage, body wraps, reflexology, and more.

Other education options include Moore Career College and Blue Cliff College.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Louisiana was $50,987 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Baton Rouge have the opportunity to earn a similar salary, with the average for this city at $49,486 annually.

Unlock a Rewarding Career as a Licensed Massage Therapist in Louisiana

Embark on an exciting journey to becoming a licensed massage therapist in Louisiana—a state known for its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and deep-rooted appreciation for wellness and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to set up shop in the lively streets of New Orleans or offer therapeutic services in the serene bayous of Lafayette, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps to achieving your dream career. From educational requirements to passing the MBLEx, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in this fulfilling profession.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Louisiana, you must complete a minimum of 500 in-class hours from a board-approved therapeutic massage therapy program. This massage school training includes 325 hours dedicated to massage therapy techniques and clinical practicum-related modalities, 125 hours focused on anatomy and physiology, and 50 hours covering business practices, professional ethics, CPR/first aid, and related coursework. Budding students must graduate from massage school with passing grades and attendance of at least 90% of class hours in each subject matter offered.

If you’re planning to practice massage therapy in the state of Louisiana, choosing a state-approved massage therapy school is important to confirm you meet the board’s educational standards. Whether you’re learning in the bustling city of Baton Rouge or the more laid-back atmosphere of Lake Charles, these programs provide comprehensive training that prepares you to work with Louisiana’s diverse clientele, from festival-goers to hardworking oil industry professionals.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is the national examination required for licensure in Louisiana. Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the MBLEx assesses your knowledge and understanding of fundamental massage therapy concepts, ensuring you have the skills to practice safely and effectively.

To take the exam, you’ll need to complete the MBLEx Result Transfer Form to have your scores sent directly to the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy. Whether you’re preparing to take the exam for the first time or reapplying, the FSMTB website provides all the necessary details to get you started.

Applicants must provide proof of passing a National Exam and/or the MBLEx within two years before submitting their license application.

Passing the MBLEx is a necessary step in your journey toward licensure, allowing you to join the ranks of skilled massage therapists providing relief and relaxation across Louisiana, whether in a high-end spa in New Orleans or a wellness clinic in Shreveport.

Out-of-State License Transfer

Suppose you have a massage therapy license from another state department and want to work in Louisiana. In that case, the Board will review your transcripts to determine if your education meets or exceeds the requirements of Louisiana.

To qualify, your current license must have been active for at least one year, and you must have completed 500 in-class educational hours from a national certification board-approved program. This includes coursework in massage therapy techniques, anatomy and physiology, and professional ethics.

Additionally, all applicants must pass the MBLEx and provide a criminal background check covering the past five years. Louisiana residents may obtain this from the Louisiana State Police, while out-of-state applicants must provide records from their previous states of residence.

Once approved, you must register your professional license within 45 days to avoid reapplying.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx, you must apply for licensure in Louisiana. The process includes:

• Submitting Proof of Education: Provide official transcripts from your massage therapy program verifying completion of the required 500 in-class hours.
• MBLEx Scores: Request official test scores to be sent directly to the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy.
• Application Form: Complete the application, which is found on the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy website, and include a signed and notarized verifying affidavit. It should be noted that incomplete applications will be returned.
• Application Fees: Pay the required application fee via a cashier’s check or money order.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Louisiana requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a background check as part of the licensing process. This includes:

• Fingerprinting: Applicants must get their fingerprints taken through the Louisiana State Police or an FBI-approved fingerprinting channel.
• Background Check: A thorough background review is conducted to verify eligibility for licensure.
• Fees and Processing: Applicants are responsible for all associated fees and should allow sufficient time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your massage therapy license in Louisiana, continuing education is required:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 12 clock hours of continuing education must be completed annually.
• Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy and include an approved LCEU.
• Renewal Process: Proof of completed continuing education must be submitted during the renewal period with your license, renewal fee, and renewal application.

Louisiana Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists to protect their practice and ensure financial security. Whether you’re offering services in the vibrant city of New Orleans or the peaceful retreats of Cajun Country, insurance provides necessary protection against unexpected incidents. Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Louisiana massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for Louisiana massage therapists.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides important protection against risks associated with the profession. Key reasons to consider holding insurance include:

• Professional Liability: Covers legal expenses and damages if a client sues you for malpractice or negligence. This is necessary as it protects you from claims related to injuries or dissatisfaction with your services.
• General Liability: Protects against accidents and injuries on your business premises. For instance, general liability insurance covers medical costs and potential legal fees if a client slips and falls in your office.
• Identity Protection Coverage: Protects against identity theft and other threats that could put personal information at risk. Typically, it includes credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery services if your information is jeopardized.
• Personal and Advertising Injury Coverage: This coverage protects you if you’re accused of libel, slander, or false advertising.

Resources

For more detailed information on insurance requirements and recommendations for massage therapists in Louisiana, consider the following resources:

• Interstate Massage Compact: The Interstate Massage Compact, also known as IMpact, is a multistate license option for massage therapists who work in more than one state. Currently, only Nevada and Ohio have legislation enacted, but therapists should keep a sharp eye on this for licensure reasons.
• Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state board website for any updates on regulations and state laws.
• MBLEx Guide: Dependable, educational platform for completing the MBLEx.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Louisiana, a wide range of employment opportunities awaits you across the state. Whether you envision working in the bustling wellness scene of New Orleans or providing therapeutic services in Baton Rouge’s healthcare facilities, Louisiana offers a thriving market for massage therapy professionals.

Workplaces

Massage therapists in Louisiana can find employment in various settings, including:

• Spas and Wellness Centers: Popular employers offering relaxation and therapeutic services, like Swedish massage and body wraps, especially in tourist hotspots like New Orleans and Lafayette.
• Clinics and Hospitals: Work alongside healthcare professionals to assist in patient recovery and pain management, with opportunities in major medical hubs such as Baton Rouge.
• Chiropractic Offices: Provide complementary care to chiropractic treatments, focusing on pain relief and mobility improvement.
• Private Practice: Many therapists, after gaining practical experience, choose to start their businesses, offering services from home offices or through mobile massage services, catering to clients from New Orleans to Shreveport.
• Fitness Centers and sports facilities help athletes maintain peak performance and prevent injuries, particularly in cities known for their sports, such as Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

With Louisiana’s diverse population and strong demand for wellness services, massage therapists have numerous opportunities to build a rewarding career across the state.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists varies depending on location, experience, and workplace. According to recent data:

• The median annual wage for massage therapists in the United States was $55,310 as of May 2023 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• In Louisiana, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $47,180 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This figure will vary depending on the specific metropolitan area.

Job Outlook

The demand for massage therapists is projected to grow significantly. Employment of massage therapists is expected to increase by 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will result in approximately 22,000 new job openings each year, driven by increasing awareness of the health benefits of massage therapy and the need to replace retiring workers.

Job Search Tips

To successfully land a job as a massage therapist, consider the following strategies:

• Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field through industry events, local massage therapy associations, and online platforms.
• Job Search Platforms: Use job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized platforms for healthcare professionals to find job openings.
• Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and trends in massage therapy by attending workshops and courses. This not only increases your skills but also makes you more attractive to potential employers.
• Marketing: If you are starting a private practice, invest in marketing efforts such as creating a professional website, using social media, and establishing partnerships with local businesses to attract clients.

Ensure Your Peace of Mind with Liability Insurance

As a massage therapist, protecting yourself and your practice is crucial. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student starting your journey, liability insurance is an important safeguard. Massage Magazine Insurance Plus offers comprehensive policies that cater to your specific needs, providing unmatched peace of mind. Here’s why you should consider this vital coverage:

Exclusive Student Discounts: Students benefit from significant discounts on their insurance premiums, making it affordable to start protecting yourself right away. Don’t wait until you graduate—secure your future now.

Access to Continuing Education: Stay ahead in your field with access to a wide range of continuing education resources. Our policyholders enjoy exclusive benefits that help them keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.

Comprehensive Member Benefits: Join a community that offers more than just insurance. With Massage Magazine Insurance Plus, you gain access to numerous member benefits, including industry news, resources, and networking opportunities that can propel your career forward.

Why Wait? Protect Your Practice Today! Investing in liability insurance is a proactive step towards ensuring a successful and worry-free career. Don’t leave your practice vulnerable—choose Massage Magazine Insurance Plus and enjoy unparalleled protection and benefits.

Take Action Now! Visit Massage Magazine Insurance Plus to learn more and secure your policy. Your future self will thank you! By making this small investment today, you’re not just purchasing insurance; you’re investing in your peace of mind and professional longevity. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get insured now!