How to Become a Massage Therapist in Mississippi

The State of Mississippi Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 48,434 square miles of the Magnolia State, approximately 723 massage therapists work to help the more than 2.9 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 166,383 people in Jackson, 67,793 people in West Gulfport, and 71,676 people in Gulfport, massage therapists who work in Mississippi can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Mississippi?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Mississippi, you must register with the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $250. 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 700 hours from an approved massage therapy program and proof that you have passed a national massage licensing examination.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy provides a list of approved schools where future LMTs can complete their 700 required hours.

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

• Antonelli College: Students at this school will gain hands-on experience learning therapeutic massage techniques. Some of these techniques include Swedish massage, sports massage, hydrotherapy, and more. Upon graduation, students are qualified for opportunities in clinics, private offices, fitness centers, spas, and more.
• Healing Touch Career College: With small classes offered during the day and at night, affordable costs and short-term programs, this school promises to “provide educational programs of high ethical and professional standards, provide experienced qualified faculty who enhance student achievement, and provide student and career services that contribute to the student success and future employment.”

Other education options include Blue Cliff College and Waldrip Center for Therapeutic Massage.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Mississippi was $46,303 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. However, massage therapists who work in Gulfport-Biloxi have the opportunity to earn a slightly higher salary, with the average for this city at $46,798 annually.

If you’ve ever dreamed of helping people feel their best while building a fulfilling career, becoming a licensed massage therapist in Mississippi could be your perfect path. From the soulful streets of Jackson to the coastal retreats of Biloxi, massage therapy is a growing industry that blends wellness, science, and hands-on skills.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of getting your massage therapy license in Mississippi. Whether you’re preparing for the MBLEx, meeting the state’s education requirements, or fulfilling the application process, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to succeed. By the end, you’ll be ready to bring relaxation and relief to clients in a state known for its warm hospitality and deep-rooted appreciation for holistic healing.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Mississippi, you must complete a minimum of 700 hours of supervised, in-class education from a state-approved massage school. This training provides the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in the field of therapeutic massage itself, covering anatomy, physiology, pathology, ethics, massage techniques, and different massage therapy principles.

In addition to completing your education, you must also take an approved course on communicable diseases, including HIV/AIDS information and prevention. Mississippi massage therapy schools typically include this training as part of the core courses in the curriculum, making sure that students are well-versed in health and safety protocols before entering the workforce. The Mississippi board requires massage therapy licensure applicants to pass the Mississippi State Law Exam (MSLE).

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a nationally recognized exam that assesses your understanding of fundamental massage therapy concepts, techniques, and professional standards. This standardized test confirms that entry-level massage therapists have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively.

In Mississippi, passing the MBLEx is one of the primary pathways to licensure. The exam is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, practicing massage therapy techniques, pathology, ethics, business practices, and client assessment.

Successful completion of the MBLEx brings you one step closer to obtaining your Mississippi massage therapy license and starting your career in this growing field.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to work in Mississippi, the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy (MSBMT) will review your transcripts and determine if your education and professional experience meet their requirements. Your background must either meet or exceed Mississippi’s licensing standards.

To qualify for reciprocity, you must have completed a minimum of 500 hours of supervised, in-class education and provide proof of at least three (3) years of work experience as a licensed massage therapist in a regulated state. You must also complete fingerprinting and a background check as part of Mississippi’s licensing process.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx (or another approved examination), you need to apply for licensure in Mississippi. The process includes:

• Submitting Proof of Education: Provide official documentation from your state-approved massage therapy program, verifying completion of at least 700 hours of supervised, in-class education.
• MBLEx Scores: Request that your official exam scores be sent directly to the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy (MSBMT) from the FSMTB or the approved testing organization.
• Application Form: Complete the MT.01 Application for Professional Licensure, which is available on the MSBMT website under the “Licensure” tab.
• Application Fees: Submit the required fees via money order or cashier’s check as listed on the application form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Mississippi requires all prospective massage therapists and therapy applicants to undergo a background check as part of the licensure process. This includes:

• Fingerprinting: All applicants must provide a full set of fingerprints at the examination site or through an approved vendor.
• Background Check: The Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy (MSBMT) conducts a thorough criminal history records check through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and the FBI to determine applicant eligibility.
• Fees and Processing: Applicants must pay the required background check and fingerprinting fees, which are included in the overall licensure application costs.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your massage therapy license in Mississippi, you must complete continuing education requirements:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 24 hours of continuing education (CEUs) every two years.
• Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy (MSBMT). Up to 12 hours per year may be completed online or through distance learning, while the remaining hours must be in a classroom setting.
• Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education along with your license renewal application. Additionally, Mississippi requires proof of CPR and First Aid certification, which counts as 3 of the required 24 hours.

Mississippi Massage Insurance Requirements

In Mississippi, professional liability insurance is a mandatory requirement for all licensed massage therapists. This insurance is necessary to protect both practitioners and their clients, assuring financial security and professional accountability. Before receiving licensure, applicants must provide proof of current liability insurance coverage. While the state does not specify minimum coverage amounts, it’s advisable to secure a policy that offers comprehensive protection. Here’s an overview of why insurance is important, the types of Mississippi massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for massage therapists practicing in Mississippi.

Importance of Insurance

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

• Professional Liability: Covers legal expenses 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 includes credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery services if your information is compromised.
• 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 Mississippi, consider the following resources:

• 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.
• Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state 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 Mississippi, 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 common employers for massage therapists, providing relaxation and therapeutic services.
• Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists may work alongside other healthcare professionals to assist in patient recovery and rehabilitation.
• Chiropractic Offices: Offering complementary care to chiropractic treatments.
• 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 professional 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 Mississippi, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $52,701, with variations depending on the specific metropolitan area. For example, in the Jackson area, the average annual salary is about $52,288. (salary.com)

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 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.

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!