In Texas, the guidelines for becoming a licensed massage therapist are relatively standard and very similar to the regulations set forth by other states. Education, examination passage and good moral character are required to become a licensed massage therapist in Texas. The Texas Department of State Health Services oversees regulation of licensing procedures to ensure that only qualified individuals are granted permission to practice the art of massage therapy within the state lines. Texas escorts who wish to become massage therapists must meet these guidelines:
Applicants must complete a massage therapy program consisting of at least 500 hours from a school the board considers acceptable. Official transcripts are necessary for proof of one's education. Curriculum must involve:
200 hours of massage therapy technique, theory and practice. Furthermore, 125 hours of Swedish massage therapy techniques must be included.
50 hours of anatomy.
50 hours of kinesiology.
50 hour internship.
45 hours of massage therapy rules, business practices and professional ethics.
45 hours of pathology.
25 hours of physiology.
20 hours of hydrotherapy.
20 hours of health and hygiene, first aid and CPR.
Candidates must pass one of two examinations in order to become licensed:
Examination administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, or
Examination administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
Applicants must submit to a criminal background check by the department of public safety. If an applicant is found to be guilty of a misdemeanor of moral turpitude or any kind of felony within the past 5 years, he or she is considered automatically ineligible for licensing. Candidates who have been found guilty of, pleaded guilty to or pleaded nolo contendere to offenses involving prostitution or other sexually-related crimes are not eligible for licensure.
Candidates must submit a fully completed application form. Information necessary for the form includes a Social Security number, contact information, driver's license number, employment information and professional credential details. A non-refundable fee must be submitted at the time of application.
Licensees are required to complete at least 12 hours of continuing education credit every two years to renew their licenses.
