Work it out
Looking for a career in healthcare to help others, but want flexibility in hours and working environment? Massage Therapy might be right for you. EHOVE Adult Career Center offers a training program that begins August 13, and enrollment closes soon. To register, call (419) 499-5280. More information is also available by clicking here.
Massage Therapy students in this adult education program learn therapeutic massage techniques and ethical responsibilities associated with a successful career. They are prepared for employability as a private practitioner or in a medical office, health spa, resort or sports venue.
“Our top goal is to prepare them to be safe, skilled, confident and knowledgeable therapists in any avenue they choose,” said Massage Therapy Program Coordinator Katie Fox. “They are not just ready to take their licensure exam, but are ready to go to work as soon as they are licensed.”
Students will be learning the ins and outs of the human body and how massage techniques affect the body. “Knowledge of the musculoskeletal system is extremely important for massage,” said Fox.
Training in business principles gives students the basic skills necessary to explore any career venue. Fox says the ethics portion of the class is another vital piece, saying students learn how to appropriately handle situations, communicate with clients, as well as the scope of practice and legal regulations for Ohio.
Students that have a passion for helping others and an interest in holistic healthcare would be a great fit for this program. “Massage therapy is a holistic type of medicine and students need to be able to work independently as well as with a group,” said Fox.
Massage therapy is a career that is physical in nature, so students need to be aware that they will be performing a lot of hands-on activities and involving how they position their body as well as their hands. Students gain real-world experience through community outreach and in-class clinics. This allows the students to educate the public the benefits of massage and gain confidence in their massage application skills.
Employment is going well for past graduates, some even have jobs lined up before they graduate. “People are seeking more holistic approaches to medicine and massage therapy is a growing field,” said Fox. “It is being viewed more as becoming a way to treat disorders or a type of preventative care as opposed to just a relaxation or ‘treat’ to one’s self.”
Tracy Leverknight graduated from EHOVE’S program in 2010, then started her own massage therapy business, Lakeside Massage Therapy in Vermilion.
“EHOVE is a great career school for any age,” said Leverknight. “They did a great job preparing all of us for the workforce. I would recommend this program to anyone. Their curriculum is great, and instructors will cover everything and well prepare you for the MBLEX exam.”
Massage Therapy Graduate Erica Hasselbach of Huron is employed by Lakeside Massage in Vermilion. “I think EHOVE’s program is very thorough and has original techniques to help the information stick with you,” said Hasselbach. “I found employment while I was still in school. EHOVE will help you get what you need as long as you put the effort in yourself to succeed.”
Students need to be driven to seek out employment at businesses or driven to market themselves if starting their own practice. The amount clients pay for a massage varies depending on the setting and the region where they receive the massage. “A common price range for massage is $40- $60 an hour,” said Fox. “A typical work week for a therapist is between 8-25 hours of massages depending on if it is part time or full time.”
Interested in a fun-filled holistic healthcare career? If you or someone you know would like to enroll for the next Massage Therapy Program, contact EHOVE Adult Career Center at (419) 499-4663 x 280. Enrollment closes soon.
