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advice?

Hi! I am new to this group.....I graduated from massage school back in 1999, became certified in 2000, but have since let everything lapse. I want to resume being a massage therapist and understand now in PA , massage is regulated. That's a good thing I believe.Am I also understanding correctly that there is a "grandfather clause" for anyone who completed 500 hrs. of training...and at one point was Nat'ly certified? Is this correct? That would mean all I need to do is retake the Nat'l Cert exam and get licensed right?

Any advice and input is greatly appreciated.

Thank you, Constance Michaels :)

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Desiree Zeller, LMT, BCTMB on October 26, 2011 at 7:59am

The regulation is very confusing. I am NCTMB certified and I still had to jump through hoops it seems. I would call and clarify with them directly. As of right now, however, you do not need a license. They have not set a deadline yet.

Permalink Reply by Brenda on November 12, 2011 at 9:57pm

I just want to let everyone know that the deadline has been set and ALL massage therapists in the state of Pa must be licensed. If you are applying via the "grandfathering" You must apply now the application needs to be completed before the end of the year. Just wanted to let everyone know, and the info comes from the Pa state licensure board.

Permalink Reply by Kelly Boyles, LMT on December 7, 2011 at 8:49pm

Hi, Constance. ABMP has links to the PA board to tell you exactly what the qualifications are for you to gain licensure.

If I am correct, you need to prove a certain number of years of working as an MT through tax documents to be grandfathered. Plus I don't know if your test is recent enough. You will need proof of insurance, plus a background check (if you've never been arrested, it comes back almost immediately). Your school will have to send your transcript directly. ABMP can guide you to all the correct info (please don't rely on me!).

My partner and I were licensed over the summer. A lot of tedious filing of details, plus the $$. but we're happy to be done w/ it. Good luck!! KB