What does a Massage Therapist do?
Massage Therapists use their hands, fingers, forearms and elbows to manipulate and knead the muscles and soft tissues of their clients. Depending on the client’s needs, preferences and physical condition, a Massage Therapist will apply either light, medium or deep pressure during a session. They also offer various techniques and types of massages, including Swedish, hot stone, deep tissue or Shiatsu massages.
Massage Therapist skills and qualifications
A Massage Therapists role entails talking to clients and also applying therapeutic pressure to their muscles. A successful Massage Therapist will have various prerequisite skills/qualifications including:
- Excellent listening skills in order to gauge the needs and preferences of clients
- Good verbal and communication skills to effectively inform and advise clients
- A professional and welcoming attitude, putting the needs of the client first
- A neat appearance and excellent personal hygiene at all times, especially because of their close proximity to clients
- An empathetic and sensitive nature, so that they are able to put their clients at ease and provide them with a pleasant and relaxing experience
Massage Therapist experience requirements
The number of years of experience for Massage Therapists varies depending on the employer. Some employers only ask Massage Therapists to have at least six months of experience, while others require candidates to have at least one year of work experience.
Massage Therapist education and training requirements
Massage Therapists are usually required to have minimum education requirements such as a high school diploma or its equivalent basic General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). They may also be required to complete a massage therapy education program, which usually lasts six to twelve months. Some Massage Therapists complete a more advanced training course, such as the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC)-Level 6 Professional Diploma and the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC)- Level 3 RQF Diploma in a variety of massage styles, such as sports massage, pregnancy, post-natal massage, baby massage and aromatherapy massage.
Massage Therapist salary expectations
The average salary for a Massage Therapist is £18.85 per hour. However, the salary payable will vary depending on factors like location, level of experience and the type of work environment.
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