How to Become a Massage Therapist in Oregon

The State of Oregon Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 98,381 square miles of the Beaver State, approximately 7,138 massage therapists work to help the more than 4.2 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 645,291 people in Portland, 168,302 people in Eugene, and 169,259 people in Salem, massage therapists who work in Oregon can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Oregon?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Oregon, you must register with the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists. The license fee is $240, and the renewal fee is $155 every two years. 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 625 hours from an approved massage therapy program and pass the Oregon Practical Exam and other Board written exams.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The Oregon Board of Massage Therapists approves the following schools where future LMTs can complete their 625 required hours.

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

• Ashland Institute of Massage: AIM offers a holistic approach to the education of body, mind, and heart. Students at AIM will learn that “who you are is as important as what you learn.” They hope that the educational experience at AIM goes beyond the curriculum.
• Sage School of Massage: Sage boasts to be a “small school” with a “high standards.” Blending both the art and science of holistic massage therapy, this school focuses on health and wellness by balancing reasoning skills and intuition. Students are prepared for massage therapy careers in clinical, spa, and travel settings.

Other education options include Oregon School of Massage and Everest Institute.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Oregon was $53,009 in 2021. This is on the higher side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Corvallis have the opportunity to earn a high salary as well, with the average for this city at $51,653 annually.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Oregon, you must complete a minimum of 625 hours of education from an accredited or Department of Education-approved school if you do not already have a license from another state. These programs provide comprehensive training that prepares you for a successful career in massage therapy, covering fundamental topics such as health sciences, business development, and massage theory.

There is also a mandatory Oregon Jurisprudence (law) exam that must be taken to receive your massage therapy license in Oregon. If you completed your educational training at a board-approved massage school, you may have completed this mandatory certification examination as part of your clinical practice curriculum.

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 massage therapy licensure in most states, including Oregon.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to practice in Oregon, the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists (OBMT) will review your transcripts to determine if your education and experience meet their licensing requirements. Your background must either meet or exceed Oregon’s standards for education-approved school training and coursework.

Additionally, you will be required to pass the Oregon Jurisprudence (law) exam to make sure you understand the state’s specific regulations and professional standards. Applicants who have been legally practicing for many years but do not meet the standard educational requirements may apply for a credentialing review to assess their qualifications.

Application Process for Licensure

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

• Submitting Proof of Education: Official transcripts from your therapeutic massage therapy program in a sealed envelope.
• National Exam Scores: Official test scores from an approved exam provider (MBLEx, National Certification Board, or CESI) are sent directly to the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists.
• Application Form: Complete the online application available through the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists website.
• Application Fees: After submitting your online registration request and fee, the website will redirect you to your application. Pay the required initial license fees for your Oregon massage license, including the application fee, fingerprint processing fee, and initial license payment based on your birth year.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Oregon requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a background check before licensure. This process includes:

• Fingerprinting: Applicants must complete electronic fingerprinting through Fieldprint, an approved vendor, using the designated code provided by the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists (OBMT).
• Background Check: The state conducts a thorough national criminal background check to verify the applicant’s eligibility for licensure.
• Fees and Processing: Applicants must pay a fingerprint processing fee to OBMT, along with an additional fee to Fieldprint for the fingerprinting service. Processing times may vary, so it’s important to complete this step early in the application process.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your license, Oregon requires massage therapists to complete continuing education to stay current in their field.

• Hours Required: A minimum of 25 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists (OBMT) and include required topics such as ethics, communication, and cultural competency.
• Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education when renewing your license before your birth month renewal deadline.

Oregon Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists in Oregon to protect their practice and ensure financial security. With Oregon’s strong wellness and holistic health culture, working without coverage can expose therapists to serious financial risks.

Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Oregon massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for massage therapists practicing in the state.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides necessary 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, 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 Oregon, 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.
• Oregon State Board of Massage Therapists: 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 Oregon, numerous career opportunities await you. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling wellness hubs of Portland, the serene retreats in Bend, or the coastal resorts along the Oregon Coast, the demand for skilled massage therapists continues to grow.

Here’s an overview of potential workplaces, salary expectations, and job search tips to help you start your career.

Workplaces

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

• Spas and Wellness Centers: Popular employers for massage therapists, offering relaxation and therapeutic services to clients seeking stress relief and holistic care. Cities like Portland and Ashland have a thriving wellness industry that values integrative health approaches.
• Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists collaborate with healthcare professionals to assist in patient recovery and pain management, particularly in rehabilitation programs.
• Chiropractic Offices: Providing complementary care to chiropractic treatments, helping clients improve mobility and manage chronic pain conditions.
• Private Practice: Many massage therapists in Oregon opt to run their own businesses, offering personalized services in home offices, mobile settings, or wellness collectives.
• Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: With Oregon’s active outdoor culture, massage therapists work with athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to enhance performance and prevent injuries, especially in areas like Eugene, known for its sports-focused community.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists depends 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 Oregon, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $76,600, with variations depending on the specific metropolitan area. For example, in the Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro area, the annual mean wage is approximately $77,070 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Job Outlook

The demand for massage therapists is projected to grow remarkably. 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

Job Search Tips

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

• Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field through industry events, local massage therapy associations, and online platforms. Attending events in wellness-focused communities such as Portland and Bend can provide valuable opportunities to meet potential employers and clients.
• Professional Associations: Join organizations like those listed on the Oregon Board of Massage Therapists website. These associations offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and job listings tailored to Oregon massage therapists.
• Job Search Platforms: Use job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized platforms for healthcare professionals to find openings in spas, clinics, and wellness centers across Oregon. Many wellness resorts in areas like Ashland and the Oregon Coast frequently post job opportunities online.
• Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and trends in massage therapy by attending workshops and courses. Oregon is known for its holistic and integrative approach to healthcare, and staying current with industry trends can make 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. Visit Massage Magazine Insurance Plus to learn more and secure your policy. Your future self will thank you!