Massage Therapy Schools in Pennsylvania

Students enrolled in massage therapy schools in Pennsylvania can study many specific types of massage therapy. Some schools offer Oriental styles and Asian styles of massage that can rejuvenate the clients' mind, body, and spirit and promote overall wellbeing; others teach Western styles of medical massage that focus primarily on rehabilitation. If you are researching massage schools, you will be wise to consider your particular interests and goals and seek a course that most closely matches your interests and goals.

There are Pennsylvania massage therapy schools that award diplomas, certificates, and degrees in massage therapy. Students will likely find courses in anatomy and physiology, and some will find psychology courses included in massage curriculums.

Certificates can be earned from Pennsylvania in areas of massage that include reflexology, aromatherapy, therapeutic touch, orthopedic massage therapy, deep muscle massage, sports massage, and more. Students will gain considerable experience in a clinical setting while under the supervision of professional instructors. Completion of a good massage therapy program will prepare graduates for independent practice or for an assortment of interesting employment opportunities.

The state of Pennsylvania currently has no regulations that govern specific practices of massage therapy, though cities and counties may. Massage school graduates should be aware that many states do have strict regulations and guidelines in place for both schools and practitioners. It is strongly advised that students seek out city and county laws and regulations that pertain to massage therapy before beginning or setting up a massage practice, no matter the region.

All massage therapy schools have the option of seeking accreditation from state and national organizations. Accreditation is gained from organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Potential students should contact administrators at their choice of massage schools to discuss accreditation of the school and the proposed massage education to be sure they are accredited. It is advisable to choose massage therapy schools that are accredited, as certificates from non-accredited institutions do not carry the same weight as certificates from accredited schools. The differences can be two-fold: in expertise of education and in greater opportunities for employment. Choose your education wisely.

A career in Natural Healing can be rewarding in many ways—spiritually as well as financially—and your studies may lead you to an expanded interest in other practices, such as Acupuncture or Chiropractics, among others.

By : Michael Bustamante