Massage therapy is one of the fastest-growing professions in the healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for massage therapists is expected to grow 21% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for other occupations. If you’ve ever considered a career as a massage therapist in Illinois, you’re in the right place. This blog will guide you step-by-step through the process of becoming a licensed massage therapist in Illinois.
Education Requirements
To become a licensed massage therapist in Illinois, you need to complete a formal education program. This means attending a school accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). The program should include at least 600 hours of instruction, covering both theory and hands-on practice.
Students will learn various techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue, and sports massage, alongside anatomy, physiology, and ethics. This education will provide the necessary foundation for both passing licensing exams and working with clients in a safe and effective manner.
Required Exams
Once you have completed your education, the next step is to pass a national certification exam. Illinois requires you to pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). This exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
Passing the MBLEx ensures you have the necessary skills to work as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) in Illinois. The exam is widely accepted and recognized in most states, making it a crucial step in your career journey.
Applying for a License
After passing the MBLEx, you can apply for your massage therapy license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). To complete your application, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
It’s important to note that Illinois requires applicants to undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. Make sure to gather all necessary paperwork and submit it in a timely manner to avoid any delays in receiving your license.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Massage therapy licenses in Illinois are valid for two years. To keep your license active, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle. These hours can be fulfilled through workshops, online courses, or other accredited programs. In addition, you will need to pay a renewal fee to maintain your licensure.
Keeping up with continuing education is important not only for your license but also to enhance your skills and stay current with new techniques and practices in the field.
Education Requirements
To become a licensed massage therapist in Illinois, you need to complete a formal education program. This means attending a school accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) or the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). The program should include at least 600 hours of instruction, covering both theory and hands-on practice.
Students will learn various techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue, and sports massage, alongside anatomy, physiology, and ethics. This education will provide the necessary foundation for both passing licensing exams and working with clients in a safe and effective manner.
Required Exams
Once you have completed your education, the next step is to pass a national certification exam. Illinois requires you to pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). This exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
Passing the MBLEx ensures you have the necessary skills to work as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) in Illinois. The exam is widely accepted and recognized in most states, making it a crucial step in your career journey.
Applying for a License
After passing the MBLEx, you can apply for your massage therapy license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). To complete your application, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
- Proof of education from an accredited massage therapy program
- Proof of passing the MBLEx
- A completed application form
- The appropriate licensing fee
It’s important to note that Illinois requires applicants to undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. Make sure to gather all necessary paperwork and submit it in a timely manner to avoid any delays in receiving your license.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Massage therapy licenses in Illinois are valid for two years. To keep your license active, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle. These hours can be fulfilled through workshops, online courses, or other accredited programs. In addition, you will need to pay a renewal fee to maintain your licensure.
Keeping up with continuing education is important not only for your license but also to enhance your skills and stay current with new techniques and practices in the field.
The New School for Massage: Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist in Illinois
Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Illinois is a straightforward process, provided you meet the education requirements, pass the licensing exam, and complete your application. By following these steps, you’re well on your way to starting a rewarding career in a rapidly growing field.
If you’re passionate about healing and helping others, massage therapy could be the perfect profession for you. The need for skilled and licensed massage therapists continues to grow, offering exciting opportunities to those ready to make a difference in people’s lives.
For more information on how to begin your journey as a Licensed Massage Therapist, visit The New School for Massage.
Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Illinois is a straightforward process, provided you meet the education requirements, pass the licensing exam, and complete your application. By following these steps, you’re well on your way to starting a rewarding career in a rapidly growing field.
If you’re passionate about healing and helping others, massage therapy could be the perfect profession for you. The need for skilled and licensed massage therapists continues to grow, offering exciting opportunities to those ready to make a difference in people’s lives.
For more information on how to begin your journey as a Licensed Massage Therapist, visit The New School for Massage.