This government agency regulates the practice of massage therapy in New Hampshire. It is part of the state Division of Health Professions.
The board establishes education, training, and examination requirements for practitioners. It approves schools that meet criteria concerning curricula, and ensures that a prospective massage therapist has graduated from one of those institutions. The board issues licenses, and determines whether a person with a license from another state is eligible to practice in New Hampshire.
The board enforces license renewal and continuing education requirements, and reviews CE classes.
Another duty is to investigate complaints of illegal or unethical behavior. Practitioners who are found guilty face disciplinary action that can include the suspension or revocation of their licenses.
All three of the appointed board members are licensed New Hampshire massage therapists with at least five consecutive years of experience. They serve no more than two straight three-year terms.
Minimum Education Requirements for Massage Therapy Programs in New Hampshire
To become a massage therapist in New Hampshire, a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite. Students who take extra health and science classes in high school may enhance their chances of acceptance at schools with competitive admission policies.
Prospective practitioners need to enroll in accredited MT schools that offer programs the state board has approved. A curriculum must provide at least 750 clock hours of instruction and training. This is to include:
- 375 hours of classes and hands-on experience regarding massage therapy history, theory, techniques, and indications and contraindications
- 150 hours of anatomy and physiology courses
- 50 hours of education in business and health-service management, including ethics
- 50 hours of hygiene and sanitation instruction, which cover blood-borne pathogens and teach CPR
- 125 “practical hours” in clinical settings
Some programs feature more than 750 hours. They may teach a wider range of massage modalities, include additional business-related coursework, or give students more practical experience.
Upon graduation, the next requirement is to apply for licensure. The board, which assesses an application fee of about $110, mandates an acceptable score on the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards charges about $200 to take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Another license qualification is to hold a certificate in adult CPR and first aid.
Practitioners must periodically renew their licenses, paying the same fee as that for the initial license. Each time, 12 hours of continuing education from a board-approved provider are required.