What Is a Licensed Massage Therapist?
Massage therapists hold a state license to practice massage in the United States and are typically known as LMTs. In contrast, the Canadian counterparts are registered massage therapists or RMTs.
A licensed massage therapist (LMT) is a professional who has completed a specific amount of training in massage therapy and has obtained a license to practice. The licensing requirements vary by location but often involve a set number of hours of training at an accredited school, a written examination, and sometimes a practical examination.
Massage therapists use various techniques to manipulate the body’s soft tissues, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, and skin. They may specialize in certain modalities, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, or prenatal massage.
Massage therapists work with people of all ages and all types of conditions. Some emphasize preventative massage to avoid injury and pain, while others focus on the relaxation benefits of massage.
The practice of massage therapy is regulated because it involves physical manipulation that can be harmful if done incorrectly. Therefore, licensure is used to ensure that massage therapists have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively.
Licensed massage therapists should abide by a professional code of ethics and maintain their skills and knowledge through continuing education. They must also follow local and national laws and regulations related to massage therapy and maintain a high standard of cleanliness and safety.
