Top 10 Massage Therapist Certifications

Certifications are important for massage therapists in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a level of expertise that employers find attractive. They also provide proof that the therapist has met certain educational and training requirements, which can be beneficial when competing for jobs. Additionally, certifications can help massage therapists differentiate themselves from other applicants by showcasing their specialized skills and knowledge. Finally, having certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement or additional education.

The purpose of this article is to review the benefits and value of some of the top certifications for Massage Therapists, and explain how they can help advance a massage therapist's career.

What are Massage Therapist Certifications?

Massage therapist certification is a professional designation that demonstrates a massage therapist has met the standards and qualifications set by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). The AMTA requires its members to complete at least 500 hours of education, pass a written exam and maintain continuing education requirements.

Certification can help massage therapists build credibility with their clients and employers. It also helps demonstrate that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality services. Additionally, many states require massage therapists to be certified in order to legally practice.

Having certification may also give massage therapists an edge when it comes to pursuing job opportunities or negotiating for higher wages. It demonstrates to potential employers that the therapist is committed to their craft, as well as knowledgeable about current industry trends and best practices. This can make them more attractive candidates for jobs in the field.

Beyond helping with career advancement, having certification can also benefit massage therapists financially. Many insurance companies require practitioners to be certified before they will cover services, meaning therapists who are certified may be able to charge more for their services than those who are not.

Overall, becoming certified as a massage therapist can provide numerous benefits both professionally and personally, such as increased credibility, job opportunities and financial rewards.

Pro Tip: When looking for a massage therapist certification, make sure to check the qualifications of the certifying body. Look for a reputable organization that is recognized and accredited by your state or country's governing body.

Related: What does a Massage Therapist do?

Top 10 Massage Therapist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Massage Therapists today.

1. National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1992 to promote high standards of ethical and professional practice in the massage therapy industry. It is the largest certifying body for massage therapists in the United States, with over 100,000 certified professionals.

The NCBTMB offers two levels of certification: Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) and Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB). The CMT certification requires 500 hours of education and passing an exam, while the BCTMB requires 1,000 hours of education and passing an exam. Both certifications require continuing education every two years to maintain certification.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the requirements for both levels of certification. To get certified, you must first complete your training from an accredited school or program. Once you have completed your training, you must then pass the NCBTMB exams. After passing the exams, you will receive your certificate from the NCBTMB.

The cost for certification varies depending on whether you are applying for CMT or BCTMB certification. For CMT certification, it costs $225 to apply and $175 for each exam; for BCTMB certification, it costs $325 to apply and $275 for each exam.

2. American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is a professional membership organization that provides resources and support to massage therapists and massage therapy students. AMTA was founded in 1943 and is the largest non-profit, professional association for massage therapists in the United States.

Membership in AMTA is open to all licensed massage therapists, as well as those enrolled in accredited massage therapy programs. Becoming an AMTA member typically takes just a few minutes. You can join online or by mail, and you will need to provide proof of your licensure or enrollment in an accredited program.

AMTA offers several different levels of membership, ranging from student memberships to professional memberships. Student memberships cost $50 per year, while professional memberships cost $155 per year. Professional members receive additional benefits such as access to continuing education resources, discounts on liability insurance and other products, and more.

3. Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB)

The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) is a non-profit organization that serves as the national voice for massage therapy regulation. It is dedicated to promoting public protection through the development, promotion, and enforcement of high standards in massage therapy licensure, certification, and regulation.

The FSMTB offers the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which is a standardized exam designed to assess entry-level competency of massage therapists. The MBLEx is used by most states and provinces to determine eligibility for licensure.

It typically takes four to six weeks from the time an application is submitted until results are received. To take the MBLEx, applicants must submit an application via the FSMTB website or mail it directly to the FSMTB office. Applicants must also provide proof of completion of a minimum 500-hour massage therapy program approved by their state or province.

The cost for taking the MBLEx varies depending on where you live; however, it typically costs around $195 USD.

4. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1982 to promote the highest standards of safe and effective practice in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. It is the only national certification agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and it serves as a leader in setting standards for the profession.

In order to become certified by NCCAOM, you must first complete an accredited program in acupuncture or Oriental medicine. Once you have completed your program, you can apply for certification through NCCAOM. The application process typically takes about four weeks to complete.

To get certified, applicants must pass both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, point location, treatment principles, diagnosis, pathology, and safety protocols. The practical exam tests your ability to perform various treatments on patients in a clinical setting.

The cost of certification varies depending on which exams you take and whether or not you are already licensed in your state. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$600 for both exams combined.

5. American Academy of Medical Massage (AAMM)

The American Academy of Medical Massage (AAMM) is a professional organization that provides certification and continuing education for massage therapists. The AAMM offers two levels of certification: Certified Medical Massage Practitioner (CMMP) and Certified Advanced Medical Massage Practitioner (CAMMP).

The CMMP certification requires applicants to have completed a minimum of 500 hours of medical massage training, including courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, and other related topics. The CAMMP certification requires applicants to have completed an additional 500 hours of advanced medical massage training.

To become certified by the AAMM, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their educational background and experience. They must also pass a written exam and practical exam. Once certified, practitioners are required to complete continuing education credits every two years in order to maintain their certification status.

The cost for the CMMP certification is $350 USD plus a $50 non-refundable application fee. The cost for the CAMMP certification is $400 USD plus a $50 non-refundable application fee. Both certifications require payment of an annual renewal fee of $100 USD.

6. National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists (NAMTPT)

The National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists (NAMTPT) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of myofascial trigger point therapy. It was founded in 2002 and is comprised of massage therapists, physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, physicians and other healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of myofascial trigger points.

The NAMTPT offers certification for practitioners who wish to demonstrate their expertise in this area. To be eligible for certification, applicants must have completed at least 500 hours of training in myofascial trigger point therapy and pass an examination administered by the NAMTPT. The exam consists of both a written and practical component that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, assessment techniques, treatment protocols and safety considerations.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the necessary training and become eligible for certification from the NAMTPT. Once you have met all requirements for certification you will need to submit an application along with appropriate fees. The cost for certification varies depending on your membership status with the NAMTPT; however it ranges from $150-$300 USD.

Once certified by the NAMTPT you will receive a certificate that can be displayed in your office or clinic as well as access to continuing education courses offered through the association. Additionally, you may be eligible for discounts on liability insurance premiums when you become certified by the NAMTPT.

7. International Association of Structural Integrators (IASI)

The International Association of Structural Integrators (IASI) is a professional membership organization that provides certification for professionals practicing Structural Integration, a form of bodywork developed by Dr. Ida Rolf in the 1940s. The IASI promotes the highest standards of practice and ethical behavior in the field of Structural Integration. Through its certification program, IASI ensures that practitioners have met rigorous educational and clinical requirements before they can be certified as an IASI-certified Structural Integrator.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must complete a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical work and pass both written and practical exams. Applicants must also attend an IASI-approved training program and demonstrate proficiency in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, palpation skills, and other related topics.

To become certified as an IASI-certified Structural Integrator, applicants must first fill out an application form and submit it to the IASI along with supporting documents such as transcripts from their training program and proof of clinical experience. Once all required documents are received and approved by the IASI, applicants will be invited to take the written examination followed by a practical exam at an approved testing center. Upon successful completion of both exams, applicants will receive their certification from the IASI.

The cost for becoming an IASI-certified Structural Integrator varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges between $1,000 - $2,500 USD including application fees, exam fees, training costs, etc.

8. American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT)

The American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT) is a certification program offered by the American Council on Exercise (ACE). It is designed to help personal trainers develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe, effective, and professional fitness instruction.

To become an ACE-CPT, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as exercise physiology, nutrition, anatomy and kinesiology. The exam also includes practical application questions related to designing and delivering safe and effective exercise programs.

The ACE-CPT exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Before taking the exam, individuals must complete an approved preparatory course or obtain at least two years of experience in the fitness industry.

Individuals can register for the ACE-CPT exam online or by mail. The cost of the exam varies depending on when it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $299 to $399 USD.

9. National Certification in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCTMB)

National Certification in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCTMB) is a voluntary certification program that recognizes professional massage and bodywork practitioners who have met the highest standards of practice. It is administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB).

To become certified, applicants must meet specific requirements including passing an exam, completing continuing education credits, and having a minimum number of hours of experience. The exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology, ethics, business practices and other related topics.

The process to get certified can take anywhere from two to six months depending on the individual's experience level. Applicants must first fill out an application form and submit it along with all supporting documents. Once the application is approved, applicants will be able to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within 6-8 weeks.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NCBTMB. For non-members, the cost is $295 while members pay $195. This fee includes the cost of taking the exam as well as any additional fees associated with submitting your application materials.

10. Certified Neuromuscular Therapist (CNMT)

A Certified Neuromuscular Therapist (CNMT) is a specialized type of massage therapist who has received advanced training in the treatment of neuromuscular and soft tissue dysfunction. CNMTs use a variety of techniques to help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and restore balance to the body. This includes manual therapy techniques such as trigger point release, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.

The certification process for becoming a CNMT typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the program. Certification requirements vary by state but generally include completion of an accredited neuromuscular therapy program with at least 500 hours of coursework and hands-on clinical experience. Additional requirements may include passing an exam or completing continuing education courses.

To become certified as a CNMT, you must complete an accredited neuromuscular therapy program and pass an exam administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). The cost of certification varies depending on the program but typically ranges from $500-$1,000.

Do You Really Need a Massage Therapist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. For some, a massage therapist certificate may be necessary in order to practice professionally and legally. However, for others, it may not be as important.

For those who want to work at a spa or massage therapy clinic, most employers will require certification. Professional organizations such as the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) offer certificates that demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skill in the field of massage therapy. This type of credential is often necessary for professional practice, as it shows that you have been trained in proper techniques and safety protocols.

Additionally, many states require massage therapists to obtain licensing or certification from an accredited program before they can practice professionally. This is done to ensure that practitioners are following best practices and providing quality care to their clients.

On the other hand, if you are giving massages for friends and family members, or even volunteering at a non-profit organization, then a certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, there is no need to obtain formal training or credentials since you won’t be practicing professionally.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a massage therapy certificate is necessary for your particular situation. If you plan on working professionally in the field of massage therapy then obtaining certification could be beneficial in terms of career advancement and job security. However, if your goal is simply to provide relaxation and comfort through massage then it might not be as important.

Related: Massage Therapist Resume Examples

FAQs About Massage Therapist Certifications

1. How do I become a certified massage therapist?

Answer: To become a certified massage therapist, you will need to complete an approved massage therapy training program and pass the necessary exams. Depending on your state or country, these requirements may vary.

2. What certifications are available for massage therapists?

Answer: There are several certifications available for massage therapists, including Certified Massage Therapist (CMT), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCTMB).

3. What is the difference between CMT and LMT certifications?

Answer: The CMT certification is an entry-level certification that demonstrates basic knowledge of massage therapy techniques and safety practices; whereas the LMT certification requires additional education and training beyond the CMT certification, as well as passing a written exam and/or practical examination.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my massage therapist certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your massage therapist certification. These CEUs must be completed every two years in order to keep your license active.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a massage therapist?

Answer: The cost of getting certified as a massage therapist depends on several factors such as the type of certification you are seeking, the length of the training program, and any additional fees associated with taking exams or completing continuing education courses. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2000 for your initial certification.