Colorado Massage Education - Massage Education And Practice Regulations In Colorado

If you are planning to get an education in Colorado massage, it is very important that you understand all the state regulations. For some time, there were no state regulations on massage therapy, but within the past couple of years, more and more states are beginning to regulate this profession. In July of 2008, Colorado became one of the states to start regulating this profession, and it definitely won't be the last, with other states close behind when it comes to the regulation of massage therapy.

The Massage Therapy Practice Act, which was passed in Colorado, specifically defines what massage therapy is considered by law. Of course, not only does the law give a definition of what massage is all about, but it also sets up some requirements for those who are going to be legally practicing Colorado massage. Here is a look at some of the requirements you'll need to meet if you want an education and then a profession in massage therapy within this state. You can read more about the The Massage Therapy Practice Act by visiting http://www.dopl.utah.gov/laws/58-47b.pdf

Approved Program

In order to practice Colorado massage, one of the things you'll need to do is go through an approved program. You should get a diploma or degree from the program and it is required that the program totals to 500 or more hours of clinical work and course work. This program must be given at a massage school that has been approved as well.

Pass an Examination

Another thing you'll need to do in order to practice massage in Colorado is to make sure you pass one of the approved examinations. These examinations can include the National Certification Examination, The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination, or another examination that has been approved. If you cannot pass these exams, then you will not be able to practice massage therapy within the state legally.

Criminal History Check

In order to register with the state in massage therapy, you will also need to go through a criminal history background check. The state wants to know that you have a clean background before they allow you to go out and practice massage therapy. This is a very hands-on type of practice, so the state feels that this is necessary before you can be registered.

If you want to practice Colorado massage therapy, you will need to meet all of these requirements by law. The law actually says that you can't call yourself a massage practitioner, a registered massage therapist, a masseuse, a massage therapist, or an RMT or MT unless you have registered with the state. If this is the profession you want to get involved in, then it is very important that you take a good look at these Colorado requirements to ensure that you meet them and then work to get your state registration so you can legally practice. It will be well worth the time and effort you invest in your education in massage.