What is a registered massage therapist?

Massage therapy is a regulated health profession. Massage therapists have completed many hours of education at accredited schools and have extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology, assessment, bodywork techniques, and pathology to know when massage is or is not suitable.

A growing number of states and provinces now require licenses for massage therapists. Registered massage therapists must uphold specific standards of practice and codes of ethics in order to hold a valid license.

In order to become a licensed or registered massage therapist, most states and provinces require you to pass specific government board examinations, which consist of a written and a practical portion.

After passing the board exams and obtaining liability insurance, you will be entitled to carry a valid massage therapy licence. When you receive your licence, you will be given a registration number.

A registered massage therapist is covered under most health insurance plans. However, it's advisable to check your policy for current coverage, since many plans require people to get a referral from another health care provider first.