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“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn.

Discover a fulfilling and enjoyable career in the growing massage therapy industry by becoming a licensed massage therapist in Missouri! This friendly guide will help you understand each important step of the journey, tailored for Missouri. You’ll learn about the educational requirements and how to pass the MBLEx with confidence. With helpful information on state regulations and local details, this guide will prepare you for a rewarding and satisfying career here in the heart of the Midwest.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Missouri, you’ll need to complete a massage therapy program with at least 500 hours of education. This must be from a massage therapy certificate program approved by a national certification board. This education is required for massage therapy students to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career. This education can be achieved through:

  • An apprenticeship under a certified mentor, or
  • Supervised instruction at a recognized educational institution such as a Coordinating Board of Higher Education (CBHE) certified massage schools, a Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) approved vocational program, or an accredited school, college, university, or other institution of higher learning in the United States.

These programs are designed to be comprehensive and supportive. They provide you with the skills, practical experience, and knowledge you need to thrive in the massage therapy industry. The curriculum includes:

  • 300 clock hours focused on massage theory and practice techniques,
  • 100 clock hours of anatomy and physiology,
  • 50 clock hours on Missouri’s massage law, professional ethics, hygiene, and business practice.
  • 50 clock hours in ancillary therapies, which must include CPR and first aid.

Enrolling in a reputable massage school assures that students receive the practical experience and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in the massage therapy industry, preparing them for successful licensure and practice.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a national massage licensing examination administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. It is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge and understanding the concepts and practices in the field of massage therapy education.

The MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination) is a national massage and bodywork licensing examination administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The MBLEx is a helpful tool for evaluating the skills of new massage therapists. It makes sure that candidates have what they need to practice safely and effectively. In Missouri, passing the MBLEx is one way to meet the exam requirement for becoming a licensed massage therapist. This exam plays an important role in the licensing process. It helps confirm that all therapists are ready to meet professional standards and follow state regulations.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a license from another state and want to practice as a massage therapist in Missouri, contact the Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage. They will take a look at your transcripts to see if your experience matches their standards. Your qualifications should meet or even exceed the Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage its requirements, which is a great opportunity for you! Additionally, you will need to:

  • Submit a completed, notarized application along with the application fee,
  • Provide two sets of fingerprints for a criminal background check conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI),
  • Verify your out-of-state license. Include its issue and expiration dates. List any complaints, investigations, or disciplinary actions against it.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx, you must apply for one of the massage therapy licenses in Missouri.

  • Proof of Education: Provide an official final transcript or a document from your certified mentor. It must confirm your completion of 500 clock hours.
  • MBLEx Scores: Send official examination scores to the Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Application Form: Complete and submit the application, which is available on the Missouri Division of Professional Registration website.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application.
  • Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal check by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the FBI.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Missouri requires a background check for all massage therapy school applicants. This is to confirm their eligibility. This process includes:

  • Fingerprinting: You must visit an approved vendor to have your fingerprints taken.
  • Background Check: The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the FBI will check your fingerprints.
  • Fees and Processing: Pay the fees for fingerprinting and background checks. Allow time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

To keep your license in Missouri, massage therapists must complete these continuing education requirements:

  • Hours Required: Licensees must complete 12 hours of continuing education for massage therapy every two years.
  • Course Approval: All courses must relate to massage therapy. They may need to meet criteria set by the Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Renewal Process: With your renewal application, submit proof of completed CE. Keep your continuing education records for at least four years. The board may request them.
  • Late Completion: If continuing education credits are earned after the license expires, they may apply to the previous renewal cycle if the late fee is paid. These must be completed no later than thirty days from the license expiration date.

Missouri Massage Insurance Requirements

In Missouri, licensed massage therapists are required to carry liability insurance. The state stipulates minimum coverage levels for this insurance:

  • $25,000 per person for bodily injury.
  • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
  • $25,000 per accident for property damage.

Massage therapists in Missouri must have a $1 million general liability insurance policy. They must also maintain current general liability insurance and provide proof of coverage upon request. This insurance provides critical financial protection against unforeseen incidents during massage sessions.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides necessary protection against different risks associated with the profession. The main reasons to consider acquiring insurance include the following:

  • Professional Liability: It covers costs if a client sues you for malpractice or negligence. This is important as it protects you from claims related to injuries or dissatisfaction with your services.
  • General Liability: It covers accidents and injuries on your business premises. If a client slips and falls in your office, general liability insurance covers medical costs and legal fees.
  • Identity Protection Coverage: It protects against identity theft and threats to your personal data. It usually includes credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery services if your info is compromised.
  • Personal and Advertising Injury Coverage: This coverage protects you if you’re accused of libel, slander, or false ads.

Resources

For info on insurance for Missouri massage therapists, see these resources:

  • Missouri Massage Liability Insurance: Learn about different types of liability insurance available to Missouri massage therapists.
  • 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.
  • Missouri Board of Therapeutic Massage: Regularly visit the state website for any updates on regulations and state laws.
  • MBLEx Guide: This is a dependent educational platform for completing the MBLEx.

Employment and Career Opportunities in Missouri

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Missouri, a wide range of employment opportunities await you across the state. In cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and the Ozarks, here’s an overview of potential workplaces, salary expectations, and job search tips to help you start your career in therapeutic massage.

Workplaces

Massage therapists in Missouri can find employment in different settings:

  • Spas and Wellness Centers: They are common employers in tourist areas like Branson and Lake of the Ozarks. They offer relaxation and therapeutic services.
  • Clinics and Hospitals: In medical settings, massage therapists often work with other healthcare professionals to aid in patient recovery. This is especially true in major medical hubs like Columbia and Springfield.
  • Chiropractic Offices: These facilities offer care that complements chiropractic treatments. They are common in suburban and urban or areas like Jefferson city.
  • Private Practice: Many massage therapists run their own businesses. They provide services directly to clients, either in a home office or by traveling to clients’ locations. This option is popular in both rural and urban areas. It offers flexibility and independence.
  • Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: In cities with a strong sports culture, like St. Louis and Kansas City, a big focus is on working with athletes to prevent injuries and improve 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 Missouri, massage therapists average $63,418 a year, which is the national average. Salaries range from as low as $38,487 to as high as $104,498 per year, depending on different factors, including area and work setting. (Indeed.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 create about 22,000 new massage therapy jobs each year. This is due to a greater 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.
  • Professional Associations: Join the International Massage Association (IMA) to improve your skills and network globally. The IMA promotes growth and engagement. It supports global standards for massage therapists.
  • Job Search Platforms: Use job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized platforms for healthcare professionals to find job openings.
  • Continuing Education: Attend workshops and courses to learn the latest in massage therapy. It boosts your skills and makes you more appealing to 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 important. Liability insurance is a must. It protects you, whether you’re a pro or a student just starting out. 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 important 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 smart, proactive step. It will help secure a successful, worry-free career. Don’t leave your practice vulnerable—choose Massage Magazine Insurance Plus and enjoy unparalleled protection and benefits.

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