Masseuse vs. Massage Therapist: Which is the correct term?
The term "massage therapist" is generally preferred and considered more appropriate in professional settings. "Masseuse" historically referred to a female practitioner of massage but has fallen out of favor due to its association with the sex industry and its potential to be seen as disrespectful or demeaning. "Massage therapist" is a gender-neutral term that emphasizes the professional and therapeutic nature of the practice. It's used to describe individuals who are trained and licensed to perform massage therapy for health and wellness purposes.
The specific requirements for becoming a massage therapist can vary depending on the country or region, in Wisconsin, there are several qualifications:
Education: Massage therapists must complete a formal education program at a vocational school, community college, or specialized massage therapy institution. The program must be a minimum of 600 hours, typically range from 600 to over a thousand hours of coursework and hands-on training. Just like all health care programs, students must get a grade of 76% or higher to pass. Courses cover anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, ethics, and business practices.
Licensing: Wisconsin requires massage therapists to be licensed to practice legally. Requirements for licensure or certification include completing an approved education program, passing a standardized exam (such as the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination - MBLEx in the United States), and fulfilling other criteria set by regulatory bodies such as a background check.
Continuing Education: To maintain licensure, massage therapists are required to complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education courses or workshops every 2 years. These help them stay updated on the latest techniques, research, and regulations in the field. We offer in-house continuing education to our staff and open to other massage therapists, you can find more information HERE.
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