This independent government agency licenses practitioners and facilities. It also establishes standards for educational program curriculum and instructor qualifications for massage therapy schools.
The board specifies license renewal and continuing education requirements. Alleged violators of the panel’s code of ethics and standards of practice may face investigations and hearings, which sometimes lead to civil or criminal charges.
There are seven board members, whom the governor appoints. Five of them are licensed massage therapists who have practiced at least five of the previous seven years and have been Kentucky residents for one year. One or two of these professionals must own or direct a board-approved massage therapy training program. The other two members are “at large,” with no “direct or indirect interest in the profession.” Board terms are three years.
Minimum Education Requirements for Massage Therapy Programs in Kentucky
Prospective practitioners must hold high school diplomas or GEDs. They need to enroll in accredited postsecondary school programs that the state board recognizes. Officials require that programs include clinical experiences under the supervision of licensed professionals.
To earn board approval, a school must have a code assignment with the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). It is required to provide a program featuring 600 or more clock hours of instruction and training. This is to include:
- 125 hours of anatomy, physiology, or kinesiology courses
- 200 hours of classes concerning massage theory, technique, and practice (focusing on gliding strokes, kneading, direct pressure, deep friction, joint movement, superficial warming techniques, percussion, compression, vibration, jostling, shaking, and rocking)
- 200 hours covering issues involved in the business of massage
- 40 hours of pathology
- 35 hours of courses at a school’s discretion
Upon graduation, the next step is to apply to the state board for licensure.
Students must pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), administered by the NCBTMB.
The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions regarding client assessment, treatment plans, the benefits and physiological effects of techniques, pathology, contraindications, areas of caution, special populations, ethics, laws and regulations, guidelines for professional practice, kinesiology, and anatomy and physiology.
Pearson VUE operates testing centers in Louisville and Lexington.
The state board mandates that practitioners renew their licenses annually. Twenty-four hours of continuing education is required every two years. Courses may include ethics, business practices, science, and techniques related to massage therapy.