As a massage therapy student, you will gain expertise in massage techniques through extensive hands-on training under the supervision of your instructors. You'll get the necessary knowledge and techniques that can lead to a diploma, certificate or massage therapy degree. You will prepare for national certification as a massage therapist, and build skills that will open doors of opportunity to provide massage therapy care and treatment to future clients.

Sometimes, massage therapy training will expose the student to additional areas of natural healing, like acupuncture or chiropractics, for example. Keep your options open, because advanced studies such as these can also lead to exceptional and rewarding health care careers.

Virginia massage therapy schools (and elsewhere) have the responsibility to request evaluation for accreditation of their school or massage therapy programs by state and national organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. You will benefit greatly from choosing only accredited schools for your massage education. When it comes to passing certification examinations, gaining licensure, and finding a job after graduation, accredited Virginia massage therapy schools provide the better possibilities, while certificates and diplomas from non-accredited institution are not valued as highly.

The Virginia Board of Nursing has put forth a long list of regulations and certification requirements for massage therapists practicing in Virginia. City and county governments may have additional laws. You should check with all state and local governing bodies for laws that pertain to the practice of massage therapy before beginning your professional practice.

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