What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Massage therapists use their hands to manipulate muscles and soft tissues, specializing in various modalities like Swedish, reflexology, acupressure, and sports massage. Massage therapy can rehabilitate injuries, relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote general wellness. Techniques and training may differ between therapeutic and relaxation-focused massages.
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
Many massage therapists work part-time or are self employed, often dividing their time between multiple settings like hospitals, spas, offices, or clients’ homes. Due to physical demands, most work under 40 hours a week, with those working 15 to 30 hours often considering themselves full-time. Therapists may work evenings and weekends, depending on client schedules.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Annual median salary: $51,759
Entry-level salary: $38,084
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Searchable Wage Database: https://dol.ny.gov/occupational-wages-0
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Massage therapists are expected to grow statewide by 18% between 2022 and 2032, with slightly over 1,100 average annual openings.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Employment Projections: https://dol.ny.gov/employment-projections
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
Licensed massage therapists must complete an approved massage therapy program, which may include diploma, certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degrees. These programs cover anatomy, physiology, massage techniques and require at least 150 hours of clinical practice. Many also offer courses in business and ethics due to the self-employed nature of the profession.
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
Massage therapists in New York must be licensed by completing an approved training program and passing a state approved licensing exam.
For More Information:
New York State Education Department: https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/massage-therapy/license-requirements
Financial Support
Financial Support
Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.
Education Programs
Education Programs
| Institution | Degree | City/Town | Region | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Trocaire College | AAS | Buffalo | Western NY | Visit |
Trocaire College | Certificate | Buffalo | Western NY | Visit |
The Institute for Holistic Health | Certificate | Poughkeepsie | Hudson Valley | Visit |
Swedish Institute | AOS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
SUNY Morrisville | AAS | Morrisville | Central NY | Visit |
Queensborough Community College CUNY | AAS | Bayside | New York City | Visit |
Pacific College of Health and Science | AOS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
New York Institute of Massage | Certificate | Buffalo | Western NY | Visit |
Mildred Elley | Certificate | Albany | Capital Region | Visit |
Center for National Wellness School of Massage Therapy | Certificate | Albany | Capital Region | Visit |