RN in training to become CMT/LMT

[scorpio24]

Hi all! I am a RN who has been out of clinical practice for quite a while now. I suffered from burnout and felt that nursing was not what I thought it would be. I wanted to spend my days caring for patients with my head, hands, and heart. However, it became obvious very quickly that so much of my day was filled with pill popping and paperwork that there was very little time left over for what I consider to be TRUE nursing care. That is when I began looking into other career options that would allow me to still work with my hands and people so I have chosen Massage Therapy. I would like to use this certification along with my RN to find a career that will allow me to focus more on health and wellness. When I try to search for information about being a RN LMT, the resources are scarce and while there is a National Association of Nurse Massage Therapists, they are currently not active and not accepting memberships. I am wondering if there are other RN, LMT's out there and if so, could you tell me more about your career and how you have combined the two? What are some of the most common positions available? Also, I am currently in VA but can and will be willing to move elsewhere once I pass my MBLEX.

[ORnewbie8]

Hi Scorpio 24. I have been a LMT for seven years now and this past May graduated with my BSN. As a LMT, I was very fortunate to receive certification as an oncology/hospital MT at a prominent local hospital in Michigan. I have recently moved from Michigan to Indiana and one things seems consistent: maternal nursing, L&D, ante/post-partem...embraces holistic nurses and incorporates complemetary therapies when appropriate. The beauty, in my opinion, of holistic nursing is that because it focuses on the mind, body, and spirit connection, it can be generally, yet safely, utilized.

One great resource you didn't mention is the American Holistic Nurse Association (AHNA). This website contains great information about the specialty and in how to obtain your certification as a holistic nurse. RN/LMTs are everywhere from hospices to wellness clinics to infusion centers to the VA. I had my psych rotation at the VA and I was blessed to utilize my holistic background with PTSD vets especially during times of patient teaching. I hope my post offers some insight and I wish you much success on your journey.

The American Holistic Nurses Association - the voice of holistic nursing is that website :)