The state of Virginia has passed a requirement that all individuals performing massage services must be licensed through the DHP Virginia Board of Nursing. During 2016, all currently Certified Massage Therapists (CMTs) became Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs). The new state ruling requires massage service providers to complete minimum educational requirements and pass a state and federal background check, as well as a licensing exam prior to receiving their license. Customers can now be assured that their massage professional is educated and knowledgeable about their work.

      Placing a licensure requirement on massage therapy holds the industry to higher standards. Massage therapy has numerous benefits that can help people deal with problems that range from stress and chronic pain to sports injuries. Because the massage industry is a contributor to the maintenance of one’s overall health, it is a natural progression that practitioners in this field be held to higher standards like other health professionals. Without the proper knowledge and training to practice massage therapy, a massage therapist could unknowingly injure their clients, which presents a great liability.

      Licensure elevates the profession of massage therapy as a respected, credible field occupied by individuals dedicated to health and healing. Those LMTs that have more to give can further raise their professionalism through national board certification. For a list of licensed therapists, visit DHP.VirginiaInteractive.org/lookup/index.

Carey Phillips, LMT, EEM-CP, BCTMB, is a licensed and board-certified massage therapist and owner of Well Into Life Massage & Bodywork. For more information, visit WellIntoLife.com. See ads, pages 20 and 37.