Wondering....massage therapist?

[Bri]

I want to become a massage therapist. BUT! I have heard horror stories. How many years of college do you have to do? Do you get a masters (lol). Do you make some cash? Is it worth it? What do you wear...jeans and a shirt? Scrubs? Nurse outfit? I have no idea!!! Please give me everything you know! Is it fun? Do you have to do those hot rocks or do you just massage people? Do you get tired? Do you have to do laser surgery? Please help! I really want to know! AND Do you stand on your feet all the time? Do you have anything to do with Computers? I love people and i LOVE LOVE LOVE talking Would you think I am good and sorry for all the questions haha

 

[ToothOfTheBull]

just think of all the nasty fat people you would have to touch, is it even possible to do an effective massage through all that lard? and consider all the back-ne acne, boils and crusts. Yeesh why would you want that?

 

[Signora Banker]

From a reputable site:

http://www.collegeboard.com/csearch/majors_careers/profiles/careers/101734.html

 

[kathy_is_a_nurse]

Don't expect to get rich off being a massage therapist, but it is an enjoyable profession for someone who likes people and feels rewarded when they see people get better as a direct result of their working with them. A therapist starting out usually finds it necessary to work in a spa/clinic environment at least until they have enough of a reputation to be able to go out on their own. You'll make more money on your own, but then you also have to cover your own overhead and advertising. There's a certain amount of safety in working in a spa/clinic too. The "horror" stories usually come from women working on their own.

What you wear depends on what kind of environment you are working in. Spas and clinics tend to have their therapist wear scrubs. If you're working on your own, casual clothes that allow you to move comfortably is fine... but you don't want to look TOO casual... need to have a professional appearance.

Another thing you should consider is the wear and tear of massage on your own body. If you are doing deep tissue and other massage techniques that involve real work on your part, there is a toll that your own body takes after awhile. My massage instructor once said that the "average" professional life expectancy of a therapist working full-time is 7 years before she starts to experiences the occupational effects like carpal tunnel, back aches, etc.

 

[Jay M]

nursing career is much better and attractive then a therapist and you can sit on a handsome salary package with alot of incentives/perks