Massage therapy - Kennebec Valley Community College

Massage therapy from Kennebec Valley Community College is a Campus Certificate Massage Therapy degree that prepares you for a Healthcare career. DESCRIPTION Massage therapy is the scientific or skillful manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic or remedial purposes, specifically for improving muscle tone, circulation, promoting health, and physical well-being. Massage therapists employ techniques that affect the soft tissues of the body including skin, muscle, fascia, and tendons keeping them healthy and enhancing recovery from injury. Massage induces relaxation response, reducing stress related disease. Students will study anatomy, physiology, myology, and pathology as they relate to the massage therapy client. Students will complete performance competencies for various forms of massage and manual therapies. Upon completion of the program, graduates will have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to offer therapeutic massage as an adjunct to health care practices and wellness lifestyles. The program is structured to be completed in two semesters with an emphasis on supervised practice of various hands-on techniques. PROGRAM MISSION The mission of the Massage Therapy Program is to prepare graduates with skills to perform as entry-level massage therapists. Because of the nature of the profession, the curriculum integrates professional and ethical behavior as an essential component of massage therapy work. Since many massage therapists work independently, an introduction to sound business practices will be taught and practiced within the program. EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES Upon successful completion of the Massage Therapy Program, the graduate is expected to: 1. Become licensed as a massage therapist. 2. Demonstrate professional behaviors that allow them to function ethically and responsibly by showing tolerance and respect for diversity of culture, age, and gender. 3. Demonstrate effective communication skills with clients. 4. Participate in activities that foster professional growth as life-long learners. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Career opportunities are numerous. Massage therapists may work independently in private practice. Other employment opportunities include chiropractor offices, wellness and fitness centers, sports medicine clinics and outpatient rehabilitation clinics. Increasingly, massage therapists are working in nursing homes and hospice programs. The health industry is using massage therapy more often as a supplement to conventional medical techniques for disorders such as muscle problems, some diseases, and stress-related health problems. Employment opportunities for massage therapists are expected to increase faster than average. View more details on Kennebec Valley Community College . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Massage Therapy courses.