How to Become a Massage Therapist in New Hampshire

The State of New Hampshire Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 9,350 square miles of the The Granite State, approximately 1,746 massage therapists work to help the more than 1.3 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 112,109 people in Manchester, 88,815 people in Nashua, and 43,244 people in Concord, massage therapists who work in New Hampshire can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in New Hampshire?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in New Hampshire, you must register with the New Hampshire Advisory Board of Massage Therapists. The registration fee is $110. 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 750 hours from an approved massage therapy program and be certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

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

• New Hampshire Institute for Therapeutic Arts: Serving students for more than 30 years, NHITA trains individuals to be prepared to work in a private practice, group practice, spas, health clubs, hospitals and more. Accredited by the COMTA, graduates of this school had a total pass rate of 100 percent on the National Exam, with the national average at 71 percent.
• North Eastern Institute of Whole Health: Students at NEIWH have the opportunity to learn with flexibility, scheduling their classes to fit their needs. Students can join the program at any time to receive training that is concentrated on the true profession of massage therapy. These graduates have a 99 percent pass rate for the NCBTMB exam.

Other education options include Vital Kneads Institute for Massage Therapy and Seacoast Career Schools.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in New Hampshire was $54,021 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Rochester-Dover have the opportunity to earn a higher salary as well, with the average for this city at $54,500 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

If you’re looking to start a fulfilling career in massage therapy, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to holistic wellness centers in Portsmouth, luxury spas near the White Mountains, or therapeutic massage practices in Manchester, becoming a licensed massage therapist in the Granite State allows you to combine passion with purpose.

To legally practice in New Hampshire, you must meet specific licensing requirements set by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, including educational requirements, hands-on training at an accredited massage therapy school, passing the Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), getting CPR and First Aid certifications, and applying for your massage therapy license.

Whether you’re a career-changer, a recent high school graduate, or someone passionate about health and human services, this guide will help you follow the steps to becoming a massage therapist in New Hampshire.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in New Hampshire, you must complete at least 750 hours of education from a massage therapy school that meets the educational requirements set by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. This massage therapy program provides the essential training needed for a successful career in therapeutic massage and bodywork.

Your coursework will include hands-on practice in massage techniques, massage theory, Swedish massage, human services, and other foundational subjects. A well-rounded massage therapy certificate program assures that massage therapy students are fully prepared for the Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) and meet the state massage therapy boards’ licensing requirements.

In addition to completing your massage therapy program, you must also maintain current Adult CPR and First Aid certifications. These skills are important for making sure client safety and meeting the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services regulations.

Prospective massage therapists who complete a massage therapy certificate from an accredited program, such as those offered at River Valley Community College or other approved institutions will be well-equipped to meet the state’s professional licensure and certification requirements.

What is the MBLEx?

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

The MBLEx is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is designed to assess the competency of entry-level massage therapists. This bodywork licensing examination, MBLEx, makes sure that therapists have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice therapeutic massage safely and effectively. Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for professional licensure and certification in most states, including New Hampshire.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to practice in New Hampshire, the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification will review your transcripts to determine if your background meets state licensing requirements. Your education must either meet or exceed New Hampshire massage therapy standards.

If your training is between 500 and 749 hours, you must provide proof of hands-on practice working as a licensed massage therapist for one year for every 50 hours below the 750-hour requirement. Additionally, you must have passed the Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) and hold current Adult CPR and First Aid certifications.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your massage therapy education and passing the Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), you must apply for licensure in New Hampshire. The process includes:

• Submitting Proof of Education: Provide documentation from your massage therapy school verifying successful completion of a 750-hour massage therapy program.
• MBLEx Scores: Arrange for official test scores to be sent to the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.
• Application Form: Complete the licensure application, available on the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website.
• Application Fees: Pay the required $110 application fee, as listed on the application form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

New Hampshire requires all massage therapy applicants to complete a criminal background check as part of the licensure process. This includes:

• Fingerprinting: Applicants must visit an approved vendor to have their fingerprints taken and submitted.
• Background Check: The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification conducts a thorough background check to verify applicant eligibility.
• Fees and Processing: Applicants must pay the required fees and allow time for processing and review before a massage therapy license can be issued.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain a massage therapy license in New Hampshire, licensed massage therapists must complete continuing education:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 12 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Approved Courses: Courses must be sponsored by a professional association, a post-secondary institution, or an instructor approved by the National Certification Board or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards.
• Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education along with your license renewal application to the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.

New Hampshire Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, obtaining professional liability insurance is highly recommended for licensed massage therapists in New Hampshire. Insurance helps protect your practice, clients, and financial well-being. Here’s a look at why massage therapy insurance is essential, the types of New Hampshire massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for massage therapists in the state.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides essential protection against different 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 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 New Hampshire, 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.
• New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification: 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 New Hampshire, 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 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 New Hampshire, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $60,086, with variations depending on experience and location. For instance, in the West Central-Southwest nonmetropolitan area, the median annual salary is $62,400. These figures indicate that New Hampshire offers competitive compensation for professionals in the massage therapy field (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.
• Professional Associations: Join organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). These professional licensure and certification associations provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, continuing education courses, and job listings for licensed massage therapists in New Hampshire.
• 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.

Have Peace of Mind with Liability Insurance

As a massage therapist, protecting yourself and your practice is necessary. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student starting your journey, liability insurance is an indispensable 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 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 industry-exclusive discounts 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.