Do Massage Therapists specialize in specific types of massage?

There are so many different types of massage therapy and bodywork. Most therapists learn a variety of techniques during their massage therapy training and customize each massage session based on their client’s needs and requests.

During your basic massage therapy courses in school, you will learn techniques from a style of massage known as Swedish Massage. This is usually your hands-on introduction to the work. This form of massage is for general relaxation and stress relief. You will learn how to apply five basic strokes, how to use good posture and body mechanics, and how to facilitate a smooth transition from one part of the body to another.

After your basic courses, most massage therapy programs teach more advanced techniques such as deep tissue, trigger point therapy, sports massage, reflexology, injury massage, etc. These courses are designed to introduce you to various forms and styles of bodywork.

After graduation, you can start exploring which styles of massage interests you the most. You can choose from hundreds of different advanced workshop and CEU options available.

Some therapists choose one form of massage therapy/bodywork to specialize in. Once learning this style, the therapist remains true to its philosophies, structure and protocols. Other therapists take a variety of advanced education and prefer to combine some techniques from each into their own creative work and flow.

Whichever bodywork path you choose after graduating from your professional massage therapy program, know that your touch will make a positive difference in many people’s lives throughout your career.