Why Should You Become a Registered Massage Therapist Now

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The importance of having a healthy lifestyle cannot be overemphasized now more than before. Stress, pain, and disease are some of the problems that are now being treated with non-surgical methods. Among these, it is convenient to note that massage therapy can have both instant and distant therapeutic effects.

Getting a registered massage therapist job provides a good chance to start a career in one of the rapidly growing professions. It is the best time to think about this occupation since it is promising and offers numerous types of jobs for newcomers.

Why Now is the Best Time to Start Your Journey

A woman provides a massage in a therapy room, highlighting the growing acceptance of massage as essential healthcare.

In recent years, mass therapy has been acknowledged as an important aspect of health care. A shift in the public perception: About 75 percent of adults believe massage should be considered a form of healthcare.

This is not only increasing the acceptance of massage therapy, but it is also bringing it into more and more integrated insurance-covered services. Significantly, this applies to those services that are attached to physical rehabilitation and chronic pain management.

Tip: Partnering with insurance providers or offering package deals for recurring clients can help create affordable options and build a consistent income stream. Learn more in our guide on becoming a Registered Massage Therapist.

Resilience of the Massage Therapy Market

The massage therapy market has shown resilience and adaptability, particularly in the post-pandemic era. As people place a higher value on self-care and mental well-being, the demand for stress relief services like massage therapy continues to grow.

The industry’s projected growth of 8.4% CAGR from 2024 to 2034 underscores the potential for new therapists entering the market. This period of growth presents a golden opportunity for aspiring RMTs to establish themselves.

Note: Stay updated with trends in wellness, such as mindfulness and stress management, to keep your services relevant and in demand.

Growing Demand for Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs)

A woman receiving facial treatment from a doctor, highlighting the growing demand for healthcare services.

The demand for registered massage therapists is on a significant upward trend, driven by the broader approval of massage therapy as an essential part of healthcare. The employment of massage therapists is expected to grow at a much higher rate than the average for all other occupations. 

As indicated by a study, employment is expected to rise 18% between 2023 and 2033. Such growth can be attributed to the enhancing demand for pain management as well as stress relief in a society that is becoming more conscious of the kind of food it takes than ever before.

The market for massage therapy is growing continuously, and the global market size is expected to be $65.23 billion in 2024 and that’s why it is a good time to start this business.

Tip: Focus on building a client base in underserved markets, such as rural areas, where access to holistic health services is limited. Explore more in our guide on the rising demand for Registered Massage Therapists in Canada.

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Impact of an Aging Population

Since the percentage of the aging population is a high figure, there is demand for treating chronic pain and restricted mobility. These health problems include the preservation of the flexibility of muscles and the controlling of diseases such as arthritis; it has also been established that in Canada alone, with an estimated 38,200 registered massage therapists, there is evidence that a significant number of those clients are elderly.

Population aging thus opens a steady demand base for any massage therapist interested in contracting services to elderly clients only.

Note: Consider taking additional training in geriatric massage to enhance your ability to serve this growing client base effectively.

Educational Pathways: How to Become an RMT

A woman stands before a group in a room, likely discussing massage therapy training and its essential components.

There are certain theoretical knowledge and practical skills that you become a registered massage therapist by completing a structured program. Courses in anatomy, physiology, and massage techniques are most often found in most programs.

Usually, these programs last 6 months to 2 years, even for deep study. Students must get hands-on registered massage therapist training as they practice and perfect their technique. A lot of states and provinces have specific rules on accreditation so the program you choose must comply with those.

Tip: Seek programs that include internships or practical placements, as real-world experience can provide a significant advantage in your healthcare career. Explore more in our guide on how a Massage Therapy Program can shape your career.

Licensing and Certification Requirements

Typically after completing a registered massage therapist course, the next step is to achieve a license. Some states and countries vary in requirements regarding licensing. Still, it sometimes includes passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).​

In Canada, registered massage therapists are required by most provinces to submit to a rigorous certification process, thus assuring a high standard of practice. How to renew licenses, and especially continue education, is very important; needing to get new permits regularly and keeping up with what new technologies and techniques are being used.

Note: Keep track of your state’s or province’s continuing education requirements to avoid lapses in your license.

Pharma Medical Science College of Canada: Your Path to Excellence in Massage Therapy

A woman in a spa robe enjoys a cup of coffee, embodying relaxation and self-care in a serene environment.

At Pharma Medical Science College of Canada, we are committed to providing top-tier education for aspiring registered massage therapists. Our registered massage therapist program will help the students to prepare them to be professionals who will fit into the current job market.

We combine hands-on registered massage therapist training with a robust curriculum that covers anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, and more. High-tech equipment and facilities and experienced instructors are our commitment to ensuring you obtain excellent education to enable you to achieve your dreams of becoming a health care provider.

Graduates of our program are in great demand owing to their understanding of theories that support their practice. Whether you aim to work in a clinical setting or open your practice, Pharma Medical Science College provides the support and training you need to succeed.

Celebrate the achievements of our massage therapy students who passed the 2023 CMTO exam with flying colors! Check out our guide on their success stories.

RMT Salary Insights: What You Need to Know About Earnings in Canada

The salary of a registered massage therapist in Canada can vary significantly based on location, experience, and demand. Here’s an overview of average to maximum salaries for RMTs in different Canadian cities:

  • Toronto, Ontario: Average salary is approximately $36,700 per year, with experienced RMTs earning up to $57,200 annually.
  • Vancouver, British Columbia: In this high-demand market, RMTs can earn between $43,600 and $81,000 per year.
  • Calgary, Alberta: The average salary here is around $32,900, with top earners making up to $63,600 annually.
  • Edmonton, Alberta: Similar to Calgary, salaries range from $32,900 to around $63,000.
  • Quebec City, Quebec: Registered massage therapists here earn between $32,400 to $49,200.
  • Halifax, Nova Scotia: Average earnings are about $33,200, with a potential to reach up to $56,000.

These figures demonstrate that earnings as a registered massage therapist can vary widely, with opportunities to increase income through specialization or additional training. For RMTs looking to maximize their earning potential, cities like Vancouver and Toronto offer the highest upper ranges. 

Additionally, those who are self-employed may have more flexibility to set their rates, which can further enhance their income potential.

Tip: To enhance the income of the business, it is necessary to diversify the type of services that can be provided to potential clients.

Self-Employment Opportunities

Many massage therapists choose self-employment out of the desire to build their clientele and their business in general and as a more flexible lifestyle. Approximately 86% of massage therapists in Canada are self-employed, compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.

Being your boss comes with benefits, like setting your rates, but it also requires a knack for business management and client retention. A successful self-employment strategy is here as well, and creating a relationship through participating in health and wellness events can also be crucial for a self-employed person.

Note: Invest in a user-friendly online booking system to make scheduling easier for clients and to streamline your practice.

Conclusion

Becoming a registered massage therapist is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. With the rising demand for massage therapy services, the rewarding nature of the work, and the flexibility it offers, now is the ideal time to embark on this path.

Whether you’re looking for a new career or seeking to enhance your skills in the health and wellness sector, the journey to becoming an RMT can be both professionally and personally fulfilling. Start your journey today, and take the first step toward a career where you can truly help others heal.

Are you thinking about becoming a registered massage therapist? Still, we encourage those interested to contact us for more information regarding the programs offered as well as how you can be assisted in the course of your career path.

Connect with Us for Details on the Massage Therapist Program

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