What is massage therapy?
Massage is the technique used by massage therapists to put pressure or manipulate the soft tissues and muscles of the body. The purpose of a massage is to address the individual's main complaint as well as reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, increase joint mobility and ensure a quicker injury recovery. Massage therapists assist people dealing with the following problems or conditions:
- Eating disorders
- Prenatal pregnancy conditions
- Body pains
- Whiplash
- Sporting injuries
- Headaches and migraines
- Repetitive strain injury
- Fibrositis
- Insomnia
- Muscular tension
- Arthritis
Massage therapists based in the Sunshine Coast have the opportunity to register with the following industry associations if they wish to keep up with the latest industry trends or gain access to the latest career development opportunities include:
- Association of Massage Therapists (AMT)
- Myotherapy Association Australia (MAA)
- Massage & Myotherapy Association (MMA)
- Massage Association of Australia (MAA)
Should you complete a massage course?
Do you aspire to have a career where you can positively contribute to the improvement of the health and wellbeing of your clients? If this matches your career goals then a career in massage therapy is perfect for you! Below are some of the qualities and characteristics that are expected from massage therapists:
- High levels of physical and mental stamina as you will need to see many clients throughout the day and be able to accurately perform a variety of massage techniques.
- Clear and articulate communication skills as you will have to explain how the massage session will be conducted.
- High attention to detail especially when monitoring clients' symptoms and determining the safest massage technique to use that will best alleviate their pain.
- High levels of confidentiality when handling clients' personal and medical information.
If you see an alignment between your career ambitions and interpersonal skills, continue reading to discover your study and professional opportunities in the Sunshine Coast region.
What are the course and study options for massage therapists in the Sunshine Coast?
In the Sunshine Coast, the minimum requirement of working as a massage therapist is that you complete a Certificate IV in Massage Therapy. Depending on your preferred learning pace and schedule, you have the option to complete this qualification on-campus, online or through a blended learning system.
During these courses, you will delve into neuromuscular techniques, body mechanisms, human anatomy, physiology and relaxation massage. You will also need to complete practical work experience where you get to put into practice everything that you've learnt in the classroom through working with real clients.
If you are ready to embark on your journey as a massage therapist, Natural Therapy Pages has made this process easier by providing a list of massage therapy courses available in the Sunshine Coast at the top of this page. Once you shortlist your favourite courses, you can contact the relevant course provider if you have any further questions regarding their delivery methods, course structure or tuition fees.
What happens after you complete your massage course in the Sunshine Coast?
There is an abundance of options to choose from when deciding where to work as a massage therapy graduate, which includes:
- Massage clinics
- Health practitioners' offices
- Sports centres
- Luxury resorts
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Aged care facilities
Additionally, it is important that you understand and follow the rule set out in the statutory codes governing health practitioners in the Queensland region:
- Health Ombudsman Act 2013
- National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers
- Child Protection Act 1999
If you are looking to have more freedom and greater control over your work, it is highly recommended that you consider starting your own private massage practice, offering massage therapy services. This option is best for massage therapists who have had many years of experience working in this industry and feel confident in their abilities and skillset as massage therapists. Natural Therapy Pages can help you especially in the early stages of establishing your business by letting you list your face-to-face massage services or online sessions. This will make it easier for you to find new clients.
Finally, it is highly encouraged that you branch out and pursue further education such as a specialised training course. This will help improve your skillset and employment opportunities.
