New York State Flag

The State of New York Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 54,555 square miles of The Empire State, approximately 11,876 massage therapists work to help the more than 19 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 8.4 million people in New York City, 256,480 people in Buffalo, and 206,848 people in Rochester, massage therapists who work in New York can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in New York?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in New York, you must register with the New York State Board for Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $108. 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 1,000 hours from an approved massage therapy program.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The New York State Board for Massage Therapy provides a list of approved schools where future LMTs can complete their 1,000 required hours.

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

  • New York College of Health Professionals: One of the leading colleges of Holistic Health Care in the world, this college offers accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs in massage therapy. All programs are registered by the New York State Education Department and has been a leader in holistic health education for more than 30 years.
  • Pacific College of Oriental Medicine: At the forefront of educating students and working with lawmakers and medical professionals to “advance the standards of both the holistic medicine profession and the college’s curriculum,” this school has received awards for its acupuncture and oriental medicine curriculum and clinical training.

Other education options include Mildred Elley and Niagara County Community College.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in New York was $64,027 in 2021. This is on the higher side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Syracuse have the opportunity to earn a similar salary, with the average for this city at $52,459 annually.

“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” – Buddha.

Start your exciting journey towards a rewarding career in the growing massage therapy industry! By becoming a licensed massage therapist in New York, you will make a real difference in people’s lives. This friendly guide will help you every step of the way. You’ll find all you need to succeed in this profession. It covers the educational requirements and MBLEx exam prep. Let’s get started together!

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in New York, you must complete at least 1,000 hours of training at a state-approved school. This is required if you don’t already hold a license from another state. These programs offer thorough training that sets you up for a rewarding career in massage therapy.

The New York State Massage Therapy Exam is required for licensure. This exam includes important information on New York state laws, which are typically covered during your coursework at a board-approved massage therapy school, ensuring you’re well-prepared to pass the exam.

What is the New York State Massage Therapy Exam?

In New York, you are required to pass the New York State Massage Therapy Exam to obtain your license. This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in massage therapy, ensuring that you are prepared to practice safely and effectively in the state.

For those considering practicing in other states, you may need to take the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The MBLEx is the standard exam required for licensure in most states outside of New York.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you hold a massage therapy license from another state and are looking to practice in New York, you might be able to get licensed by endorsement! The New York State Education Department will check your credentials to see if they meet the state’s standards.

To be eligible, you need to have a current license in good standing, at least two years of practice experience, and be at least 21 years old. You’ll also need a high school diploma or G.E.D., be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and pass the New York State Massage Therapy Exam. Finally, you’ll need to provide proof of good moral character and complete a CPR course within the last three years.

Application Process for Licensure

After your education and passing the NY Massage Therapy Exam, apply for a license in New York. The process includes:

  • Submitting Proof of Education: Your massage therapy program must send proof to the New York State Education Department.
  • Examination Scores: Have your official test scores from the New York State Massage Therapy Exam sent to the New York State Board of Massage Therapy.
  • Application Form: Complete the application on the NY State Ed Dept’s Office of the Professions website.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required fees.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

New York State requires all massage therapy applicants to meet specific criteria. Unlike some other states, a background check is not a standard requirement. The process includes:

  • Verification of Good Moral Character: Applicants must show good moral character. This may involve questions about your legal and professional history.
  • CPR Certification: You must complete a CPR course within three years before applying for licensure.
  • Fees and Processing: Pay the fees.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your license, New York requires massage therapists to complete continuing education:

  • Hours Required: 36 hours of continuing education credits for each three-year renewal period.
  • Hands-On Instruction: Some of these hours must include hands-on instruction. The exact parts vary, so check the current regulations.
  • Flexible CE Hours: The remaining CE hours are earned through different, approved activities related to massage therapy.

New York Massage Insurance Requirements

Massage therapists in New York should get massage insurance. It is not legally required. But, it will protect their practice and provide financial security. This is a detailed look at why insurance matters. It covers the types of massage liability insurance in New York. It also includes resources for New York massage therapists.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance is a great way to safeguard your practice from various risks. Here are some friendly reasons to think about getting insurance:

  • Professional Liability: This helps cover your legal costs if a client ever claims malpractice or negligence. It’s important because it protects you from any issues related to client injuries or dissatisfaction with your services.
  • General Liability: This protects you from accidents that could happen at your business. For example, if a client slips and falls in your office, general liability insurance will help pay for medical bills and legal fees.
  • Identity Protection Coverage: This coverage helps protect your personal information from identity theft. It usually includes services like credit monitoring and dark web scans. It also offers recovery help if your info is compromised.
  • Personal and Advertising Injury Coverage: This helps shield you if someone accuses you of libel, slander, or false advertising.

By considering these types of coverage, you can focus more on providing excellent service to your clients with peace of mind!

Resources

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

  • New York Massage Liability Insurance: Learn about different types of liability insurance available to New York massage therapists.
  • Interstate Massage Compact: The Interstate Massage Compact is a multistate license option for massage therapists who work in more than one state. While it is not yet enacted in New York, therapists should stay informed on this for potential future licensure flexibility.
  • New York State Board for Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state website for any updates on regulations and state laws.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in New York, many 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. They provide relaxation and therapeutic services.
  • Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists may work alongside other healthcare professionals. They assist in patient recovery and rehabilitation.
  • Chiropractic Offices: Offering complementary care to chiropractic treatments.
  • 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.
  • Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: They work with athletes to prevent injuries and improve performance.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and place of employment. According to the latest data:

  • The median annual wage for massage therapists in the United States was $55,310 as of May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
  • In New York, the average salary for massage therapists is about $68,085. It varies by metropolitan area. For example, in New York City, the salary range typically falls between $60,943 and $78,210 (Salary.com).

Job Outlook

The future looks bright for massage therapists! We expect to see a strong demand for their skills, with employment projected to rise by 18% from 2022 to 2032. This means around 22,000 new job openings each year. People are becoming more aware of the wonderful health benefits of massage therapy, and many professionals will be retiring, creating even more opportunities. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this growing field! (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Alongside Newark and Jersey City, New York ranks second as the Metropolitan area with the highest employment level in Massage Therapists. Combined with a very healthy annual mean wage, New York continues to be a place of great potential for aspiring therapists, especially in Kingston with an annual mean wage closing on $83,000.

Job Search Tips

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

  • Networking: Connect with other professionals through industry events, local meetups, and online sites. Networking opens doors to job opportunities and provides valuable industry insights.
  • Local Associations and Groups: Join local massage therapy groups or associations specific to New York. These groups offer resources, networking, and job listings for the region.
  • Job Search Platforms: Use sites like Indeed and Glassdoor. Also, try Massage Envy and HealthcareJobsite. They list massage therapist jobs in New York.
  • Continuing Education: Attend workshops and courses approved by the New York State Education Department. They will teach you the latest massage therapy techniques and trends. Improving your skills makes you more appealing to potential employers.
  • Marketing: If you’re starting a private practice, focus on marketing. To attract clients in New York’s tough market, create a website, use social media, and partner with local businesses.

Ensure Your Peace of Mind with Liability Insurance

As a massage therapist, protecting yourself and your practice is crucial. Liability insurance is a must for everyone. It protects you. So, it’s vital for both seasoned pros and students 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 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 many member benefits, including industry news, resources, and networking opportunities that can propel your career forward.

Why Wait? Protect Your Practice Today! Liability insurance is a smart investment. 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.

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 buying insurance. You’re investing in your peace of mind and your career. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get insured now!