Thinking of going back into Massage

[pugswifey]

Hi there Everyone

I'm a newbie here, I hope to catch up on all the threads to get to know everyone and become part of this community. )

Here's the story. I qualified with ITEC in Anatomy and Physiology and Swedish Massage way back in 2001. I got my insurance, and landed a great part time job in a gym, renting a room and getting clientele every evening that I was there. I then moved counties, met my boyfriend and he wasn't happy about me going to people's homes to massage because of the safety aspect, so my massage therapy kind of died off, and I was so happily in love I didn't really think much of it.

Now, several years later I want to return to it, but I have no idea how easy it is to get work. Also, does anyone out there know what ITEC would have me do? I looked at their website and Swedish Massage isn't something they offer anymore, so I have no idea if my qualification is still valid...

I'm pregnant with my third child and our home would not be suitable to receive clients for massage, which would leave me with either going to people's homes or trying to find work in salons. Can anyone tell me whether they have found it relatively easy to find work in salons/health centres? Do they tend to employ the beauty therapists who have massage skills as an 'overall package'?

Would love ANYONE's input. Just basically trying to do as much research as possible before potentially paying for a new course etc.

Thank you,

Newflower

 

[oieauuxuimciehept]

I'm sure your qualification is still valid - as far as I know it doesn't expire after a number of years. I think ITEC now call it holistic massage instead of swedish. To boost your confidence it might be worthwhile to go on a refresher or top up course. Maybe do a course in advanced massage techniques? This will not only refresh your existing skills but also give you new ones.

I can't really comment on seeking employment as I started out as self-employed from the start. If you're thinking of doing mobile work don't be overly concerned about the safety aspect. I think it's somewhat overplayed. I've never had any problems. If you look in the business and marketing forum you'll find loads of threads regarding looking for work in clinics/gyms etc. and the pitfall and advantages.

Good luck!

 

[PeaceLoveCats]

Welcome to HP Newflower!

Maybe give ITEC/Embody a call just to make sure.

Holistic Massage is still based on the swedish routine/techniques. The idea is treating the person as whole not just the symptom - 'Holistic Approach' when carrying out consultations, and has now been included within the ITEC exam, but the massage is still the same. I wouldnt say that this would have much effect on your qualification still being valid.

As yogayoga mentioned it would be a good idea to go on a refresher course. It will definately boost your confidence and will help you get back on track.

I am also self employed and do home visits, and have never experienced any problems from the safety aspect. You may want to just visit ladies only at first, then they could recommend or refer their hubby's, brothers etc if you are happy.

Complementary Health Care Centres seem to be in damand for good massage therapists, so its always worth enquiring in and around your area. I also work self employed in health care centre a few days a week, and massage therapy seems to be the most popular due to many people suffering with there neck, back and shoulders.

Not sure about beauty salons and whether they require therapists to be employed as a package. But they are a busy, thriving concern, and there are always new salons popping up all over the place, so enquire here also, you never know, they may take you on doing massage only, i dont see why not.

I wish you every success

 

[Red1]

Hi Melanie and Jill

I think I will definitely do a refresher course as you have both suggested. In fact, I think obviously if I did go back to massage, it would be great to continually keep udating my skills and knowledge with other courses anyway. If anything, its been so long I need to work on things like draping etc anyway!

Will definitely call the health clinics now that you've told me they are in demand for a good massage therapist. I really hope that I have what they are looking for, that would be fab.

Just busy reading through the other posts on the massage forum and it has reminded me of what I passion I had for this, and how much I should get back into it. I was actually good at something for a change and I gave it up!!

Cheers
Newflower

 

[------ -]

If you're thinking of going into mobile work then I know that Return To Glory are always looking for therapists. I've no idea what they're like to work for but have heard that the rate they pay is good. You could always put up a new post asking to hear from other therapists who work for them.

This company is London based - you don't say where you are www. Bodytissue. Com.

In fact if you go onto google and type in massage recruitment you'll see loads of info.

You can also pick up lots of ideas watching videos online. Try massagenerd.com and videojug and youtube. Some are not great but some are very good. You'll see lots of techniques and draping ideas.