Learn Massage Therapy in Idaho - ID

By RSWiese, allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 7 2010

Massage Therapy has the unique distinction of fitting into several broad career paths, depending on which modality a therapist chooses to specialize.  When considering massage therapy training in Idaho, students should look at therapeutic or rehabilitative massage therapy.  It is becoming more accepted in the medical field, so these specialized massage therapists would work in conjunction with a medical practice or hospital. A personal service/pampering massage therapist, which may be more familiar, operates independently or rents space in other non-clinical settings (e.g., chiropractor’s office, spa or resort). 

Other massage therapy training in Idaho teaches modalities that are considered Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM), meaning the modality itself is recognized to have health benefits, but is not largely recognized by practitioners of Western medicine.

Continuing Education Requirements for Massage Therapists in Idaho

Professional Massage Therapists must stay abreast of new technologies and modalities through ongoing education. They are required to have 48 hours of continuing education every four years. In addition to the 48 hours of continuing education, NCBTMB Certificants are required to submit documentation verifying 200 hours of actual work experience within the four-year cycle. Six hours of courses on ethics, including two hours covering Standard V (Roles and Boundaries) must be taken from an NCBTMB Approved Provider.

There are many educational options to meet these requirements.  In general, they must be provided by a qualified instructor in an organized educational setting. Examples of qualifying courses include AMTA-sponsored workshops or classes, courses at accredited massage schools, regional workshops, or even individual instruction from a qualified instructor.

www.amtamassage.org

Miscellaneous

Idaho’s main industries include mining and agriculture, two fields that are physically demanding. Workers in these fields would benefit from the services of a qualified Massage Therapist.  In addition, tourism is the highest revenue producer in the state, a fact that bodes well for Massage Therapists who choose to serve in the hotel or recreation industries.