What is massage therapy?
Massage is a modality used by complementary health practitioners where they put pressure, manipulate tissues or put tension on a specific area of an individual's body where they are experiencing pain. The aim of this form of treatment can vary depending on the client's condition. Generally, massages are an effective means to bring relief, improve posture or reduce muscle tension. Massage therapists assist individuals who are going through physical issues such as:
- Arthritis
- Damaged tissues
- Muscle tension
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Tendonitis
- Sports injuries
- Neck and back pain
- Chronic pain
There are many different massage accreditation bodies in Geelong that are available for massage therapists who are looking to gain access to industry updates and career development opportunities:
- Association of Massage Therapists (AMT)
- Massage Association of Australia (MAA)
- Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
Should you complete a massage course?
Massage therapy is the perfect profession for anyone who understands the importance of massages in improving an individual's overall wellbeing. In Geelong, many employers who are looking to hire a massage therapist are looking for these qualities:
- Strong and clear communicator because you will have to go over the proposed massage treatment plans with clients.
- High attention to detail and critical thinking skills in order to determine where a client's pain points are and determine the best massage technique to address them.
- High levels of integrity and confidentiality since you will be required to handle a lot of sensitive medical and personal information.
- Physical and mental stamina as you will need to perform many massages throughout the day.
What are the course and study options for massage therapists in Geelong?
In Geelong, there are a variety of different study options available for people who wish to learn more about the work that massage therapists do or even enter the workforce as massage therapists. However, in order to enter the workforce, you must hold a Certificate IV in massage therapy. Additionally, many of these course providers offer both on-campus and online learning modes to accommodate your preferred learning style and other commitments.
This certification course will provide you with the important foundations required to excel as a massage therapist. Taught by industry professionals, you will learn more about different massage techniques, anatomy and physiology. Additionally, most Geelong massage schools offer a work experience program where you get to put into practice everything that you've learned.
There are many different massage course providers in the Geelong region that you can find at the top of the page. If you have any further questions about their payment schemes, accreditation or term dates all you have to do is get in touch with the school directly.
What happens after you complete your massage course in Geelong?
There are many different workplaces where you can work after completing your certificate. This includes massage clinics, health practitioners' offices, sports centres, luxury resorts, rehabilitation facilities and aged care facilities. You can also be self-employed by starting your own private practice. This would give you the freedom to decide your own hours and manage your business according to your standards. Natural Therapy Pages will also be available to assist you with obtaining new clients by allowing you to advertise your in-person massage consults or online massage services on the website.
Nonetheless, whether you decide to work for an employer or start your own business, you are required to abide by the statutory code that governs all massage therapists in the state of Victoria:
- Health Records Act 2001
- Health Complaints Act 2016
- Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
- Code of Conduct for General Health Services
- Working with Children Act 2005
Finally, your education does not finish after your initial qualification. Instead, it is highly encouraged that you pursue further education in order to improve your competencies as a massage therapist, allowing you to deal with a greater range of conditions. Some of the options available to massage therapists in Geelong include specialised certification courses, diplomas, advanced diplomas or undergraduate degrees.
