This agency regulates the practice of massage therapy, reflexology, and structural integration. It assesses the qualifications of prospective massage therapists, issues licenses, and enforces license-renewal and continuing education requirements.
Another duty is establishing criteria for massage therapy school curricula. The board approves educational institutions that comply, and posts a list of those that fall short. It also adopts standards for state certification of massage establishments.
The board investigates complaints, and disciplines practitioners who engage in illegal or unethical behavior. Massage therapists may face fines, license suspensions, or license revocations.
The governor appoints 10 board members. Among them are six licensed massage therapists, including three from Clark County and two from Washoe County. One member is a licensed reflexologist and another is licensed to practice structural integration. One person represents the public. The final member is a non-voting adviser from Clark County with experience as a Las Vegas police officer.
Minimum Education Requirements for Massage Therapy Programs in Nevada
To become a massage therapist in Nevada, the initial requirement is to be a high school graduate or GED holder. Health and science classes help prepare students for postsecondary education in the field.
It is necessary to enroll in an accredited school with a massage therapy program that the state board has approved. A curriculum must provide 550 or more clock hours of instruction and training. This is to include classes in anatomy and physiology, hygiene and first aid, law and ethics, and massage. There must be a minimum of 25 hours of practice on fellow students or staff members.
Some programs exceed state standards by offering additional courses in massage techniques, business skills, or other subjects. Earning an associate’s degree generally entails taking general education classes.
Graduates are not yet eligible to practice. They need to apply to the state board for licensure, which involves passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards accepts online applications to take the test at a center near a student’s home.
The board mandates that practitioners obtain license renewals every two years. The first time, they must receive 12 hours of continuing education. For subsequent renewals, the state requires 24 hours.