Massage therapists practicing their professions in Seattle must obtain a license through the Washington State Department of Health's Massage Therapy Program. Licensees are considered Licensed Massage Practitioners, however the use of Licensed Massage Therapists is unlawful under current legislation. Escorts and others expanding their careers and skills as massage practitioners must meet the following guidelines:
All applicants must be 18 years of age or older and be capable of providing proof of age.
Candidates must complete and submit an application and non-refundable application fee, along with appropriate documentation proving they meet other required qualifications.
Applicants must submit official transcripts from an approved massage therapy program that required at least 6 months of study. The curriculum of at least 500 hours must have included:
265 hours of theory and practice of massage
130 hours of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology (at least 40 hours must be in kinesiology)
55 hours of clinical and business practices, hygiene, record keeping, medical terminology, ethics, state/local laws and others
Certification in American Red Cross First Aid and American Heart Association CPR
4 hours each in:
HIV/AIDS
Etiology and epidemiology
Transmission and infection control
Testing and counseling
Clinical manifestation and treatment
Legal and technical issues
Psychosocial issues
Candidates must agree to undergo a complete criminal background check. Felonies including violence, sexual offenses and controlled substance abuse or possession may result in denial of licenses.
Licensees must renew their licenses every 2 years with at least 24 hours of continuing education credits.
Licensed massage practitioners may choose to work with other established massage businesses or open their own businesses. Home-based businesses, outcall services and massage parlors may all require different guidelines in order to obtain a Seattle business license. Any business engaged in business activities in Seattle requires a license, according to the City of Seattle. General requirements for a Seattle business license include:
Registration as a legal business with the Washington Secretary of State
Federal Tax Identification Number
Building/Occupancy Permits
Meeting codes/zoning requirements
Tax payments
The Seattle Office of Economic Development can help licensed massage practitioners sort through the guidelines that apply to their particular types of businesses. Over 500 small businesses are assisted through the department each year.
