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In Kansas, massage therapy is not regulated by the state, so professionals don’t need a license to practice.
However, there are some standards and rules set at municipal levels and professionals can seek certifications that are recognized at a national level.
Additionally, there are organizations that help massage therapists stay informed of the trends and other legal aspects that may affect their practice.
Article Table of Contents
Local Regulations
The first thing to know if you consider this career in Kansas is that it’s not the size of the municipality or county that determines the need for a license.
Popular Programs
The next thing to remember is that the requirements will differ between the jurisdictions that ask for certification for this profession.
For instance, Overland Park set regulations that are almost identical to those of the states where having a license is a must.
This means that the future massage therapist must complete 500 hours of related education, that will include:
- anatomy and physiology
- hygiene
- kinesiology
- first aid
- pathology
- practical training
When the education is completed, the students must pass an exam, such as the MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination).
Meeting the National Standards
Education will increase the career options of massage therapists in Kansas.
Here are some aspects to consider:
- duration of the program
- approvals
- accreditation
- curriculum
Most states require a minimum of 500 hours of course work along with 100 or 150 hours of education covering anatomy, physiology, and/or kinesiology.
Additionally, a massage therapist wanting to join a Chapter would be required to complete an educational program of at least 500 hours first.
Not all schools are accredited or approved, and this could mean the time spent there would not be recognized.
Furthermore, these schools should also meet the national standards, or have specific codes attached, such as COMTA or AMTA.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Body & Soul Therapeutics Massage School | 353 North Hillside Wichita, KS 67214 |
| KCFitness Link | 541 D Central Ave Kansas City, KS 66101 |
| WellSpring | 947 New Hampshire- on 10th st. Lawrence, KS 66044 |
| WellSpring | 9140 Ward Parkway #100 Kansas City, MO 64114 |
Voluntary Certifications and National Exams
Professionals can choose to obtain many diplomas out of their own free will.
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (or NCBTMB) is one of the most wanted ones.
The process to obtain this certification is more strict, requiring at least 750 hours of education.
The candidates who attended programs lasting for 500 hours but were NCBTMB-approved, they can just continue their education to reach 750 hours.
Other requirements for this diploma are:
- CPR certification
- 250 hours of work experience
- Passing an exam
- Passing a background check
- Opposition to human trafficking
- Agree to follow the NCMTMB Code of Ethics
Those who want to obtain the Board Certification must meet extra criteria.
The NCBTMB website has more details regarding this transition.
Another certification is available from the American Medical Massage Therapy Association.
Professionals interested in earning the Level 1 NBCA Massage Therapy Certification Exam, must complete a training program of 600 hours.
300 hours of this training must cover:
- scientifically based massage therapy
- restorative and corrective applications
- orthopedic assessment
Another certification option comes from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine or NCCAOM.
For this diploma, individuals must attend a training program of 500 hours in the related or overlapping field of Asian bodywork.
There are some states that accept this exam as enough when seeking a license.
Extra Information
Massage therapists in Kansas can join the American Massage Therapy Association, Kansas Chapter, and other similar organizations.
AMTA updates its members on any changes to the laws and regulations related to this profession.
Members of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals enjoy liability insurance and are updated with the state-specific news.
One thing to remember is that these organizations do set standards for their members, and membership to any of them is a credential.
Salary depends on experience, and sometimes on credentials, and also varies from city to city.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Wichita | $49,309 |
| Overland Park | $50,113 |
| Kansas City | $50,266 |
| Olathe | $49,976 |
| Topeka | $47,870 |
| Lawrence | $48,642 |
| Shawnee | $50,113 |
| Lenexa | $50,113 |
| Manhattan | $47,358 |
| Salina | $48,797 |
Regional Salary in Kansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topeka, KS | 50 | $53,870 | $25.9 | $69,020 | $37,480 |
| Wichita, KS | 150 | $48,590 | $23.36 | $60,820 | $38,180 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Massage therapists in Kansas must renew their licences every 2 years.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Massage Therapist
Massage Therapy by State