Massage Therapy Employment

With the citizens of the United States under constant stress and tension, massage therapy employment is on the rise in a dramatic incline. Different massage therapy jobs exist and are typically divided into two categories: the location and setting, and type of massage therapy that is administered. Spa-holistic type jobs and therapeutic massage jobs are the two specialties. There are many places for massage therapists to practice including: private practice, private homes, elderly care facilities, chiropractic offices, health clubs, spas, hotels, resorts, vacation destinations, cruise ships, hospitals, physical therapy centers, schools, corporate offices, marathons, bicycle events, triathlons, and social events. New or existing therapists may find job offers in the job classified section in the local newspaper, by looking and contacting places of employment in the yellow pages, the Internet, and by word of mouth. Massage therapists may choose to be an independent contractor, employee, or sole proprietor. When the therapist is an independent contractor they either pay for the space through a rented lease every month or get paid directly from the owner only when massage services are rendered. Employees get a set hourly wage plus any tips collected during the treatments. A sole proprietor has the flexibility of creating his/her own hours, rates, and owning their own business. An independent contractor and sole proprietor have to file their own taxes with a 1040-ES form while employees have taxes taken directly out of their checks every pay period. There are pros and cons to all three scenarios and careful consideration of the therapist’s expectations needs to be met before choosing. Some overhead to consider is: rent/lease for the space or building, utilities, equipment such as massage tables and massage chairs, lotions and oils, sheets and head-rest covers, music, candles, music, lighting, and much more. One great thing about practicing massage therapy is the loyalty the therapist receives from his/her clients; it’s a very rewarding career because you’re helping people emotionally, psychologically, and physically.