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The State of Michigan Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 96,716 square miles of the Great Lake State, approximately 8,991 massage therapists work to help the more than 9.9 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 674,841 people in Detroit, 198,401 people in Grand Rapids, and 139,387 people in Warren, massage therapists who work in Michigan can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Michigan?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Michigan, you must register with the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $95. 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, if you enrolled in school before August 1, 2017, or at least 625 hours if you enroll in school on or after August 1, 2017. You must complete the hours through an approved massage therapy program and pass a national massage licensing examination.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The Michigan Board of Massage Therapy provides a list of approved schools where future LMTs can complete their 500 or 625 required hours.

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

  • Ann Arbor Institute of Massage Therapy: Dedicated to “advancing the art and science of massage therapy through excellence in education, personal and professional development, and community service in order to promote personal wellness and transform health care,” this school focuses on individualized treatment plans to help personal satisfaction in directly helping others.
  • Institute of Natural Therapies: Committed to provide therapeutic massage training programs designed to help students “become innovators and leaders in the therapeutic massage field,” this school has a 90 percent pass rate on the National exam.

Other education options include Baker College and Healing Hands Holistic Health Center School of Massage.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Michigan was $53,265 in 2021. This is on the slightly higher side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Holland-Grand Haven have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $59,533 annually.

“I take a massage each week. This isn’t an indulgence; it’s an investment in your full creative expression/productivity/passion and sustained good health.” Robin Sharma

Head out on a fulfilling career in the growing massage therapy industry by becoming a licensed massage therapist in Michigan. This detailed guide will lead you through every step, from meeting educational requirements to passing the MBLEx. Make sure you’re fully equipped for success in this rewarding profession.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Michigan, you must complete a minimum of 625 hours of education from a state-approved massage therapy program if you do not already hold a license from another state. These programs provide comprehensive training that equips you with a successful career in massage therapy.

Additionally, Michigan requires a background check, including fingerprinting, and you must pass the MBLEx exam. While Michigan does not mandate the course of a state-specific law, maintaining liability insurance is strongly recommended to protect your practice.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge and understanding of key concepts and practices in the field of massage therapy.

The MBLEx is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). It is designed to evaluate the competency of entry-level massage therapists and ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively. Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for licensure in most states, including Michigan.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to work in Michigan, the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy will review your transcripts to determine if your education and experience meet or exceed Michigan’s requirements. Michigan requires 625 hours of training, and your out-of-state education must meet this standard.

Additionally, you will need to pass the MBLEx exam if you haven’t already and complete a background check that includes fingerprinting. While Michigan does not require a state-specific Laws and Rules course for license transfer, you must comply with all of Michigan’s licensing regulations to practice legally.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx, you need to apply for licensure in Michigan. The process includes:

  • Submitting Proof of Education: Documentation from your massage therapy program.
  • MBLEx Scores: Official test scores sent to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
  • Application Form: Complete the application available on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Michigan requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a background check. This process includes:

  • Fingerprinting: Visit an approved vendor to get your fingerprints taken.
  • Background Check: The state conducts a thorough background check to assure applicant eligibility.
  • Fees and Processing: Pay the associated fees and allow time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

  • Hours Required: A minimum of 18 continuing education hours every three years.
  • Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and include at least one hour in pain and symptom management, as well as ethics.
  • Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education with your license renewal application, along with a renewal fee, and make sure all requirements are met before your license expires.

Michigan Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists to protect their practice and ensure financial security. Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Michigan massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for Michigan massage therapists.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides necessary protection against various risks associated with the profession. Key reasons to consider obtaining insurance include:

  • Professional Liability: Covers legal expenses and damages if a client sues you for malpractice or negligence. This is crucial as it protects you from claims related to injuries or dissatisfaction with your services.
  • General Liability: Protects against accidents and injuries that may occur on your business premises. For instance, if a client slips and falls in your office, general liability insurance covers medical costs and potential legal fees.
  • Identity Protection Coverage: Provides protection against identity theft and threat incidents that would 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 can help protect 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 Michigan, consider the following resources:

  • Michigan Massage State Requirements: This page provides specific information about insurance requirements and options in Michigan.
  • Interstate Massage Compact: The Interstate Massage Compact, or 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.
  • Michigan Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly check the official website for updates on regulations and state laws.
  • MBLEx Guide: This is a dependent educational platform for completing the MBLEx.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Michigan, numerous employment opportunities await you. Here’s an overview of potential workplaces, salary expectations, and job search tips to help you start your career.

Workplaces

Massage therapists can find employment in a variety of settings, including:

  • Spas and Wellness Centers: These are typical employers for massage therapists, offering relaxation and therapeutic services.
  • Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists may work with other healthcare professionals to help in patient recovery and rehabilitation.
  • Chiropractic Offices: Offering complementary care to chiropractic therapies.
  • Private Practice: Many massage therapists choose to run their own businesses, providing services directly to clients either in a home office or by traveling to clients’ locations.
  • Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: Working with athletes to prevent injuries and enhance performance.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists varies based on location, experience, and place of employment. 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 Michigan, the average salary for massage therapists tends to range between $47,000 and $58,000, depending on the region. For instance, larger metropolitan areas like Detroit may offer higher wages due to demand from Salary.com.

Job Outlook

The demand for massage therapists is projected to grow 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: Build connections with other professionals in Michigan’s massage therapy industry through industry events, local massage therapy groups, and online communities like LinkedIn. These networks are essential for job referrals, sharing insights, and staying connected with industry trends.
  • Professional Associations: Join organizations such as the Michigan Massage Therapy Association (MMTA). These groups provide networking opportunities, professional resources, continuing education courses, and job listings that can help boost your career.
  • Job Search Platforms: Leverage platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor and niche websites like Massage Jobs to find positions specifically for massage therapists in Michigan. These platforms provide localized job openings tailored to your skills and experience.
  • Continuing Education: Stay competitive in the job market by attending continuing education courses approved by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). These courses will help you keep up with new massage techniques, making you more attractive to employers and clients.
  • Marketing: For those starting a private practice, invest in marketing efforts such as developing a professional website, engaging with social media, and creating local partnerships to attract clients. Effective marketing is key to growing a successful massage therapy business in Michigan.

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 essential 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:

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.

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