Massage Therapists Statistics from the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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In 1991, non-profit membership organizations in the massage, bodywork and somatic practice field held an unprecedented meeting to support their individual disciplines while also strengthening their value as a collective group. The Federation was formed to carry out this new vision of mutual support and cooperation.
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) was founded in 1992 to establish a certification program and uphold a national standard of excellence. Today, the independent, private, nonprofit organization has certified more than 88,000 massage therapists and body workers, who safely and competently serve millions of Americans each year.
The National Association of Nurse Massage Therapists is a member-driven nursing organization founded for the purpose of promoting the practice, education, research, and regulatory interests of its members. It is the official forum and organization for professional Nurse Massage Therapists. NANMT was incorporated in 1990, after evolving from the Georgia Association of Nurse Massage Therapists which was founded in 1987.
National Certification--Suspended as of December 31, 2012 for new applicants
For the past 20 years, National Certification was the highest credential available in the massage profession and has served as the cornerstone of a successful career. However, effective January 1, 2013, the National Certification was retired and the Board Certification credential replaced it as the highest credential available to the profession.
National Certification could only have been attained through December 31, 2012, (or may be maintained through December 31, 2016, for those who recertified by December 31, 2012).
Board Certification
A Higher Credential is Needed in the Industry
NCBTMB originally created a certification to support therapists in achieving excellence through licensure. Today, as we continue our mission to define and advance the highest standards in the massage therapy and bodywork profession, we are going beyond basic certification to allow you to demonstrate a much higher level of achievement. NCBTMB and other stakeholders in the profession recognize the massage industry is at an interesting crossroads. Many therapists are practicing under stringent standards similar to other health care providers. However, there also has been a deterioration of standards necessary to uphold quality programs. In addition, fraudulent and illegal activity, such as human trafficking also exists, undermining our efforts. We believe the best way to establish greater credibility for therapists is to raise standards.
Board Certification Creates a New Standard
On January 1, 2013, we launched a new credential, Board Certification. This new credential requires fulfilling additional qualifications, including more education, hands-on experience and a background check. Therapists achieving this credential will have the proper foundation to better serve their clients and demonstrate a commitment to raising the standards of the profession that have remained stagnant for the past 20 years. Achievement of Board Certification is the highest attainable credential level in the profession. As in other professions, Board Certification will be an additional differentiator for you as you advance through your career. NCBTMB will actively publicize this credential along with those who attain it.
Benefits of Board Certification
How to Achieve Board Certification
There are two ways to achieve the Board Certification credential.
Board Certification Requirements
If you are practicing in a license state:
If you are practicing in a state without state licensure:
Board Certification Costs
The cost to apply for Board Certification is $275
*If you did not graduate from an NCBTMB Assigned School, your school is now closed, or you completed international training, you may instead apply for Board Certification via Portfolio Review (an additional $75 fee).
Portfolio Review for Board Certification
For individuals who do not meet these eligibility requirements, there is an alternative known as Portfolio Review. This process allows applicants to demonstrate that they have the educational equivalent to the standard eligibility requirements. Please see page 5 in the Board Certification Handbook.
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