How to become a certified massage therapist in South Carolina, SC

To become a certified massage therapist in South Carolina, there are several steps that need to be followed. Firstly, an individual must complete a massage therapy program that is approved by the South Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. This program should consist of at least 500 hours of instruction, including both classroom and hands-on training. Once the program is completed, the individual must pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or an equivalent exam approved by the Board.

After passing the exam, the individual must submit an application for licensure to the Board, along with the required fee and supporting documentation. This documentation includes proof of completion of the approved massage therapy program, proof of passing the MBLEx or equivalent exam, and any other required documents such as background checks or proof of liability insurance.

Once the application is approved, the individual will receive their massage therapy license from the Board. It is important to note that massage therapists in South Carolina must renew their license every two years and complete continuing education requirements to maintain their license. These requirements include completing at least 12 hours of continuing education courses every two years, with at least six of those hours being in ethics and/or communication.