What do you know about Licensed Massage Therapist?

[Emily]

I am looking into a massage therapy school in my area. I don't know too much about the profession, and I am wondering if anyone is or knows something who is an LMT. How much do they get paid on average? (I know if will differ from state to state and city to city) What is the likelihood of me finishing the program and not getting a job in the field at all? What are the different areas or facilities will I be working in, such as spa or salon of some sort?

Thanks for your help.
How are tattoos viewed within the profession?

 

[MyThought]

Go to salary.com for salary information on almost any field.

After finishing school you will need to pass an examination for a state professional license before you can start working. Your school's placement director or career guidance office or whatever name the particular school uses can help you get that first job, whether that is in a spa, salon, chiropractor's office, or as part of a holistic or alternative healing practice. The program director at the school I attended makes a lot of phone calls to these kinds of employers on behalf of the students, and almost 100% find jobs.

When you are looking at massage therapy schools, ask what percent of students pass the licensing exam on the first try and what percent of new graduates find employment in the field within six months of graduation. Cross off your list schools with low numbers or that won't give you the information before enrollment.

Some potential employers, typically the more upscale salons and spas, won't hire someone with tattoos that show in their uniform - probably pants and short sleeve polo shirt. These are the better paying massage therapy positions.