Massage Therapy Career Outlook: Is There Job Demand?

Question
Hello,

I am currently enrolled in an MT program. I never second guessed my decision until recently. I have been see all kinds of ads and have been seeing more and more massage buisnesses. Im a little afraid that I won't be able to get a job. Do you know if the Massage therapy field is in demand or is that just what the schools say to get you to go? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Thanks for your question, Jason.

I have two approaches to answer it.  First, it probably depends alot on where you live and what distances you are willing to travel to do your massage work and under what environment.  Second, as a male entering the massage industry, you need to be aware of the extreme patience and perseverance you will need to have after finishing your course(s) before you start and continue to receive work on a regular basis.  I highly recommend that once you are out of school, you seek a position at a commercial Spa, Hotel/Resort with a spa facility, or the like, to supplement any ideas of starting your own business right away.

Using myself as an example, I have had my own private practice in one form or another for 19+ yrs, but have also relied on working outside of it for my primary income because it came easier to me than expecting clientele to find me in the yellow pages and trust my credentials.

Lastly, from what you have written, I am guessing you did not do a whole lot of research into the area of Massage Therapy before enrolling in the MT program.  The field is currently in its infancy in our present society and only now starting to "bloom".  

Hope that answers your questions.
Michael, LMT