[PLTSGT]

I'm seriously thinking about going to MT school because I have been interested in nontraditional nursing specialty for a long time, and also the potential independent income. But my biggest roadblock in my head is being a male. Sure, being a male nurse is not a shocking idea in nursing nowadays but I don't know anyone who is a male nurse massage therapist.

Go ahead and throw your blunt thoughts at me!

Thanks!!

[RaElrA]

Hmmm...I had replied but it did not show up. I've been massage therapist for eight years, and have taught massage therapy. My experience is that it is more difficult for a male to get established, but when he does, he is in demand. Most do not stick it out. Good luck!

[Nemhain]

Men make excellent massage therapists. I know many more male massage therapists than I do male nurses.

Just remember (and this goes for everyone) keep it professional even if you're massaging a lady who could be in a Victoria's Secret Catalog. Most of the complaints I've heard about a few male M.T.'s is that they hit on their clients... that's no good.

[donerebecca3]

Honestly, it is very difficult for a man to be a successful massage therapist. I know personally since my husband and I graduated from MT school at the same time, got licensed. I have been practicing since '99. He had such a hard time and eventually quit it all together (within 1 1/2 yr.) Male MT's are either considered sexual predators looking to get a free "feel" or are assumed to be homosexuals. Many men will not get a massage from another man, and women fear that they will be sexually assaulted. From my own experience and also being educated about the business, I know that this is simply not true. You will have to fight many stereotypes - so good luck if you decide to pursue this. Use your determination to succeed.

[PLTSGT]

Thanks for everyone's honest replies. I think donerebecca3 gave unbiased perspective since she's a massage therapy and so is her husband. And since they graduated and got license at the same time, she gave a very credible POV.

[donerebecca3]

I also want to add that I fight stereotypes as well. Many people think that massage therapists are actually prostitutes. My husband has had male co-workers' eyes pop out of their heads when they find out what I do because they go to "massage therapists" that perform sexual favors. I would say it's hard all the way around if you are trying to establish yourself as a professional, medical, therapeutic massage therapist - whether your're male or female.

[PLTSGT]

Originally Posted by donerebecca3

I also want to add that I fight stereotypes as well. Many people think that massage therapists are actually prostitutes. My husband has had male co-workers' eyes pop out of their heads when they find out what I do because they go to "massage therapists" that perform sexual favors. I would say it's hard all the way around if you are trying to establish yourself as a professional, medical, therapeutic massage therapist - whether your're male or female.

Maybe you or he should identify you as a MEDICAL MT. But again, when people add up massage therapist and female folks already have that type of judgment.

[Nemhain]

Originally Posted by donerebecca3

I also want to add that I fight stereotypes as well. Many people think that massage therapists are actually prostitutes. My husband has had male co-workers' eyes pop out of their heads when they find out what I do because they go to "massage therapists" that perform sexual favors. I would say it's hard all the way around if you are trying to establish yourself as a professional, medical, therapeutic massage therapist - whether your're male or female.

Holy Cow! Good Lord donerebecca3! What part of the U.S. do you practice? The only time I've heard wispers of massage therapists being thought of as anything different than professionals was about 10 years ago when I was in Georgia. I guess it depends in what area a massage therapist lives. I've never had a problem in the areas I've been (New England, Southwest - Arizona, and the Northwest Oregon, Washington).

[Nemhain]

Originally Posted by PLTSGT

Thanks for everyone's honest replies. I think donerebecca3 gave unbiased perspective since she's a massage therapy and so is her husband. And since they graduated and got license at the same time, she gave a very credible POV.

I've been a massage therapist for 10 years and have lived in 7 different states. I'm also a Registered Nurse. My friend who's a guy and a MT works at a health club along with 3 other men and 2 women (all MTs) and the men get much more business than the females and other men do seek out massage from the male MTs. I've NEVER seen or heard of a male MT have a problem finding work. I guess it also depends on where in the country you live. Some areas are much more conservative than others. I can imagine the experience for a male MT could be much different in conservative areas like the deep south than in places where males have been massage therapists for more than 30 years (California and Washington and yes, I know a few who've been MTs for that long).

I think it's something you should do if you want to. If there's a will, there's a way.

[FLCRNA2B]

First, I have to say some of my best massages were from men. I would think that men probably would get more business working for a spa or gym vs. working independently. The male massage therapists I have seen worked in a fitness center that was also associated with a physical therapy place. I think it would be hardest in the beginning, but once you built up a clientele, word of mouth would hopefully make your business really grow. Good luck!

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