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About Massage Therapy What Is Massage Therapy? Is Massage Therapy Right for Me? How Do I Choose?

Glossary Treatment Applications Types of Massage Therapy Credentials

How Do I Choose a Massage Therapist?

Massage therapists are trained in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, addressing soft tissue dysfunctions, stress-related conditions, and energy imbalances. Training also includes kinesiology, therapeutic evaluation, first aid, business, ethical, and legal education, and hands-on practice. When choosing a massage therapist, ask about her training, experience, and licenses or credentials.

There are currently 70 programs for massage therapy in the United States accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, COMTA ensures that massage therapy programs meet educational, legal, and ethical standards. One such accredited program is the American Massage Therapy Association, which represents about half of all certified massage therapists in the U.S. Massage therapists can become nationally certified by meeting specific standards of education, experience, and training, and passing a certification exam.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine also suggests informing your therapist of any medical conditions you have or have had; ask her if she has training or experience with these conditions. Also find out how many treatments you might need, the cost for each one, and whether they’re covered by insurance.