Wednesday, February 18, 2009

How to be a Licensed Massage Therapist (Philippine setting)

How to be a Licensed Massage Therapist in the PhilippinesUTH
By
Eunice
yunesa@yahoo.com

So what is the technical difference between someone who just practices massage and someone who is Licensed? bakit mo pa kailangang magka-license? meron ba nun? pati ba naman massage may lisensiya? These are just some of the questions that might be bugging you right now. I can only answer the basics- and yes, my professional advice is, if you really want to advance your career and be able to earn more, you need to have a license. But having a license is just the beginning.

Nearly a decade ago, I was at our oath taking held at the Department of Health in Sta. Cruz, Manila, at the time of this writing, the newly inducted 2011 LMT oath takers have been held at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel- a great leap in boosting the morale of new massage therapists. Thanks to people who paved the way for this to happen and that includes the Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy headed by the Chairperson, Dr. Kenneth Ronquillo and CEMT Secretariat - Ms. Josephine H. Hipolito Phd, both are great pillars in the massage industry with the collaboration of the Philippine Association of Licensed Massage Therapists headed by its President, Mr. Jevren Sibug and Vice-President Mr. Pedro Vasquez II (or Sir Pete as we fondly call him) both of whom are inspiring people in the field of massage therapy in the Philippines and the Continuing Massage Therapy Education Council (CMTEC), Massage Therapy Assessors, together with all the Training instructors nationwide, whom I dearly admire- indeed the massage profession has gone a long way. Last June 17, 2011, during their oath taking and induction, as a guest speaker, I cannot help but reminisce about the past and how the profession has evolved and helped me find my rainbow in the industry. Indeed massage therapy is a viable career as the year’s current theme states. Kudos to all of you who makes a difference in the world of massage therapy, hats off to all of you and God bless you in your endeavor to be an instrument in the progress of massage therapy profession in the Philippines.

Technically speaking, according to Section 9.1.1 of PD 856 (Chapter XIII) of the Republic of the Philippines, no person is authorized to practice massage therapy in the Philippines without a valid certificate of registration issued by the Committee of Examiners for Masseurs. Yun ay kung gusto mong maging practitioner (or magpratice ng massage as a profession sa Philippines) which means this is just the first step. Hindi dito nagtatapos. Kasi siyempre pag gusto mong maging spa therapist- iba rin yun and with different requirements and regulations. Massage therapy lang ang paguusapan muna natin dito. And before I proceed, when we say LMT or Licensed Massage Therapist we generally mean you are Licensed to perform Swedish Massage- dahil different massage types or modalities will have different regulations and criteria too.

In the recently concluded examination of June 2011, out of the 225 massage therapy examinees, only 100 people passed- a meager 44% of the batch.

Being a Licensed Massage Therapist means you are legally acknowledged by law to practice massage therapy as a profession. Not without, of course, some liability on your part. First, you have to consider if you are eligible to apply for Licensure in the Philippines.

As of the time of this writing (July 2011), the application requirements for licensure in massage therapy (based on Administrative Order 2010-0034) and IRR PD 856 are the following:

1. You have to be a Fiipino citizen (irregardless of gender and marital status. Still, no foreign national is allowed to take or apply for the Licensure examination)

2. No less than 21 years old and no more than 60 years old. In the recent years (since 2010), the Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapist allowed those who are below the age bracket (18-20 years old) and above the bracket (61 and above) as long as they have been professionally trained. Those who have passed the licensure but are still under-age (18-20 years old) can claim their license on their 21st birthday. Those who are 60 years old and are already in their senior years- can still apply as long as they are still able to practice and perform professional massage therapy. This is a great change from the restrictions in age before.

3. Certificate of good moral character issued by your Barangay.

4. With a medical certificate issued by a government physician (government
physician ha? hindi family physician or private practitioner). In Metro Manila, you can get this either at the Philippine General Hospital, your city health doctor or East Avenue Medical Hospital in Quezon city or the nearest government health clinic at your locality. This is different from a health certificate. You need a medical certificate NOT a health certificate.

5. With an NBI clearance or police clearance (sa city hall ito nakukuha or sa NBI central office in Taft Avenue, Manila or NBI kiosks in certain locality or NBI sub-office at Megamall if you will be renewing na lang)

6. With a certificate of training from any Department of Health accredited training institution certifying that you have received basic instructions in the following subjects/course:

Anatomy and Physiology General Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology General and Organ System Physiology
Pathology/Mircrobiology General Pathology and Microbiology
Massage Therapy I Introduction to Massage Therapy/ Fundamental Concepts
Massage Therapy II Massage Therapy Application
Massage Therapy III Practice of Massage Therapy

During our time, it was Anatomy and Physiology; Microbiology, Parasitology, Virology and Bacteriology; Ethics and Jurisprudence; Hygiene and Sanitation. If you want to know more, The Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide by yours truly, Eunice Estipona is available at all National Bookstores, Powerbooks and Fullybooked nationwide. It covers the most comprehensive list of training centers both here in the Philippines and abroad.

7. With a certificate that he/she has taken practical massage from any Department of Health Accredited Training provider for at least 60 hours (I think some training institutions starting way back in 2009, the 135 or 500 hours has been their benchmark na).

A lot of people are asking me how much is the tuition fees for these review and training institutions- prepare no less than 10,000 to 15,000 pesos for your review. Of course, you have to budget your food and transportation allowance- which is not included in this figure.

8. At least a high school graduate. Only true and authenticated copy of your diploma from high school or Transcript of Records from college or university you graduated from will be accepted.

9. ID Pictures (3 pieces of passport size photos taken within the last six months)

10. Minimal payment (no more than 500 pesos)

Pag nakumpleto mo na yung mga requirements mo: you have to submit and apply through your training institution not unlike before that we have to go directly to the Department of Health Office, Quiricada st. beside Jose Reyes hospital Santa Cruz, Manila and they will help you submit your complete requirements at least two weeks before the date of the examination. If you are located in the province you have to go to your nearest regional DOH office and inquire from there.

Upon completion of requirements and payment of fee/s, they will give you an examination pass with your seat number.

The Scope of the Massage Therapy Licensure Examination:
There will be a theoretical (written examination of 200 items) and those who passed with an average rating of 75% in all subjects and afterwards if you passed, you will be asked to take a practical exam to demonstrate the skills learned. Malalaman mo na pasado ka kasi i-po-post nila yung list of examinees na pumasa after a few days together with the schedule ng oral/practical exam. The theoretical examination is computer checked so it’s wise to have several sharpened pencils at hand so you do not have to sharpen your pencils and thus shorten the time you answer the exam. Do not crumple or dirty the paper.

After passing the theoretical examination, you need to take your oral/practical examination within one month after official advise, otherwise your theoretical examination will be considered cancelled. You need to pass both oral and practical examination with a general weighted average of 75% on each of these exams. Also, you have to pay the practical examination fee of Php 500.00 which will cover all the materials needed during the examination including the services of the individual posing as examination subjects/clients/dummies. Bring your own towels or pillows/bolster.

Since the December 2008 batch, the DOH already provided materials and the model so mas maganda dahil you do not have to bring tons of materials, eh dati yung iba may dala pang CD, cassette, banig, candles, atbp.

Tips during the oral or practical examination:
1. Do not be nervous and relax (alam ko nakaka tense ihi nga ako ng ihi eh before I had
my turn sa sobrang nerbiyos- but you will do just fine. Remember, ang brain cells natin mas less ang oxygen pag takot at stressed so inhale deeply at wag nerbiyosin para makasagot ng maigi)
2. Answer politely but straight to the point as much as possible
3. Know the subsequent steps (yung pagkaka sunod sunod na steps dapat you know it by
heart)
4. Be able to explain while you are working with your client (multi-tasking baga...)
5. Be able to know yung purpose ng techniques na ginagawa mo example, ano ba ang
purpose ng tapping?
6. Huwag kang mag massage lang ng mag-massage, be able to articulate or explain what
you are doing parang kunyari nag de-demo ka (this is a good exercise regarding your
oral abilities kasi sa mga job interviews ganyan din ang gagawin mo mag-de-demo ka especially if you are going abroad or applying for other certifications)
7. Be prepared for side questions (like, under the law, how many people can an LMT supervise?)
8. Dapat marunong kang mag take ng client history like asking about their blood pressure (at marunong ka dapat kumuha ng blood pressure and vital signs), ask also if they have allergies at may dala ka ring client intake form. Do not forget to fill-up the client intake form and ask questions relevant to your case.
9. Introduce yourself first before you start your massage. Example, “Good morning sir/ma’am, I am ______ and I will be your massage therapist for this morning/afternoon. You will have a session of Swedish massage and we will start with you lying on your belly/stomach.”
10. Know how to handle cases for clients such as those with scoliosis, pediatric, geriatric or pregnant clients- the accredited training institution will provide you with the necessary information and knowledge on this aspect.
12. After your time is up, generally in 30 minutes, assist your client in his/her position in sitting up, draping, after-care or after-massage questions and concerns of your client.

Those who passed these two exams will be taking an oath (at a scheduled date) and will be designated with an L.M.T. (Licensed Massage Therapist) after their name.

Every year (normally) June and December are the months that these exams are taking place.

For more information and other concerns: call me at +639184745685 or email me at yunesa@yahoo.com

To join our online community for massage therapists for FREE visit www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy

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The first informational blog regarding spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness with a focus on the Philippines. Eunice’s blog and updates are found in this link www.yunesa.blogspot.com

Some articles written by Eunice, which you can view, read, download and print for FREE. Just click on the links:

What term should really be used?
Client, Patient, Customer, At Iba Pa
Masseur, Massagist, Massage Therapist, At Iba Pa
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/03/client-patient-customer-at-iba-pa.html


Is the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry included in the Top Businesses to start in these times of global financial challenges? Find out in this article so you can adopt and perhaps change your business into profitable ones:
Top Businesses to Start in Uncertain Times/Sluggish Economy
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/top-businesses-to-start-in-uncertain.html

If you are an employer these are the things you should ask, or if you are a prospective applicant, job seeker or someone who interviews people, this article can help you answer and ask/probe questions:
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/suggested-interview-questions-and.html


Are you a smart boss, staff or employee? This article will give secrets on how to become a Smartest Spa, Massage Therapist/Practitioner.
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/smartest-spa-massage-therapist-ang.html


Do you want to know the right type of massage for you? Do you you want to know the common types of massage and how it is practiced? This article will give you the glimpse of massage therapies locally and abroad:
The Basics of Massage Therapy (Massage 101)
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/basics-of-massage-therapy-massage.html


Do you want to know how much capital you need to start your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what it is like being a spa owner? Do you want to be (really) prepared before you shell out money into putting up your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what steps you have to take before putting up your own business in this field?
How to Start, Begin or Open a Spa, Massage Clinic or Wellness Center
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/organizing-opening-starting-putting-up.html


Are you tired of putting up with sexually charged clients? Do you know how to handle sexual harassment in the spa and massage therapy setting? Then this article will definitely help you:
Preventing/ Avoiding Sexual Advances during a Spa or Massage
session50 ways of Handling Client Advances
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/preventing-or-avoiding-sexual-advances.html


Do you want to know about Hilot, Dagdagay and other indigenous therapies of the Philippines? If yes, then read on!
A Wee-bit of Philippine Indigenous Therapies with a Focus on Hilot
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/wee-bit-of-philippine-indigenous.html


Rules and Regulations on How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines through the help of the Department of Health, here is the new update:
How to Be a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-be-licensed-massage-therapist.html


Licensure, Accreditation, Certification and Assessment
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/licensure-certification-accreditation.html


On anti-aging and Physical Appearances
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/on-anti-aging-and-physical-appearances.html


How to renew a Massage Therapy License in the Philippines:
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/05/license-renewal-for-massage-therapy-in.html


If you want to be updated of spa, massage and wellness activities and events or be a part of a support group
What is Meetup all about?
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/06/everybodys-meetup-dito-po-sa-atin.html



The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.
1. You can order it online via www.Amazon.com at 34.95$
2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99
3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at www.yunesa.blogspot.com at $19.95
4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos
5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days

If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.

Also, CD's included in the kit for spa management, practice and operations available:

The Spa and Wellness Business- Understanding the Basics (PowerPoint format)
Seven Deadly Mistakes to Avoid as a Spa Owner and Practitioner in the Spa Wellness Business (PowerPoint format)
Spa, Massage and Facial Therapies 101 (The Basics) (PowerPoint format)
Business Worksheets for Spa and Massage Business in the Philippines (Excel and Word format/program includes all the financial worksheets you need in computing for your operational cost, etc.)

This article is written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book


If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from www.Amazon.com or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com


TERMS OF REPRINT

You can freely distribute a copy of this article provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this article. Thank you.

Helpful Link:
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============ ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
The content of this article is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice

For more information and other concerns: call me at +639184745685 or email yunesa@yahoo.com


To join our online community for massage therapists for FREE visit www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy


This article is written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy.



These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in "The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book", the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book is for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make "unbiased" information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. For more information, get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com


Employment of massage therapists is projected to increase 20% through 2016, meaning that the profession is being rapidly absorbed into mainstream American health care. You’ll find jobs with existing practitioners, chiropractics offices, spas, hotels, athletic organizations and clinics. Each state has its own set of licensing requirements. The median salary for massage therapists in 2007 was $40,330. (excerpt from Five Career Changes You can Actually Make by Gabby Hyman FindTheRightScool.com) taken at this link:
http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles%20five_career_changes_you_can_actually_make-525


These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in "The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book", the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book is for you.



This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make "unbiased" information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. For more information, get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com


The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Before You Plunge In
This Chapter will give you tips and insights on the industry, what you basically need to know before you enroll and investing your money into training programs, seminars or plunging into this career, it will also give you tips on how to get ahead, be happy and successful in this field, this chapter will open your eyes in the possibility of working and getting ahead without stepping on someone’s shoes. With test taking tips and strategies, even financial assessment. This will inspire you to look ahead and beyond the daily grind of working being able to assess yourself, your short and long-term goals and be proud you are adding value to the industry.


II. Career Options and Alternative Positions
Will cover the most common positions according to the responsibilities they perform: their general profile, the skills and personal traits required in order to fulfill the role, job qualifications with educational and academic requirements, job description, duties and responsibilities and what you should expect before you leap. A career in the wellness industry will include (BUT IS NOT
LIMITED TO) being a: reflexologist, spa concierge or spa receptionist, spa and massage trainer/ instructor, spa/massage consultant, spa manager, spa supervisor, massage therapist, massage attendant, spa therapist, facialist/facial therapist or aesthetician (with or without a), electrologist, spa operator/owner and other similar positions with a peek on the plight of massage/spa therapists and the problems facing them to-date and help in your career ladder. This chapter will discuss it all without being too dogmatic or technical.


III. Standards Of Practice, Resources, Laws, Rules and Regulations with Emphasis on the Philippines
Training standards and requirements for massage therapists in other countries vary greatly by state, country or locality. We will enlist government agencies that regulate the practice in the Philippines with Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Licensure Requirements and Details like: When and where should I apply? What is the scope of the exam? How, When and Where can I renew my License? Etc. With a Listing of Local Training Institutions, Establishments, Trainers, Associations offering seminars, workshops, etc. Other helpful resources in travel and tourism, locally authored books that would help you in your quest for knowledge in the industry including books on Hilot. With a glimpse on how other countries regulate their spa/massage professionals including: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Thailand, The United States (I have enlisted all 50 state regulations and laws), etc.


IV. Valuable Resources and Training Programs Abroad
This Chapter will be composed of six sections: The first section will cover topics and tips before enrolling, how to choose a school or a trainer, etc. The second section will cover how to maximize your school experience, how to get the most out of your training, study habits and tips for a student professional. The third section will cover recommended readings, foreign produced and authored publications, books and magazines. The fourth section will cover resources available online and through the Internet, including taking exams online, demonstration and techniques, online groups, etc. The fifth section is about schools, seminars, workshops, etc. abroad including but is not limited
to UK and US. Last but not the least, in the sixth section, I will provide resources and other organizations that might be of help.


V. Preparing to land a job in the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry
In order to make a fair consideration of career opportunities in this field, it is necessary to know the total spa, massage and wellness world where you are at. I will also be giving you resources where you can apply, post your resume experience and be visible to employers out there, where will you find job openings, questions to ask your employer, tips in preparing your resume/CV with sample cover letters and resumes. Challenges faced on the job and how to handle them, also a list of resources for job opportunities online and more!


VI. Work Abroad
In this Chapter, Modes of recruitment are discussed, with my personal list and collection of employment agencies where you can get in touch with these employment agencies for inquiries and manpower pooling. Their contact details like website, emails, address, contact person, etc. are enlisted. Positions range from massage therapists, spa therapists, fitness trainer, spa supervisors, spa managers, spa directors, beauty therapists and aestheticians, hair stylists and salon personnel.


VII. Insider’s Advice from Leaders in the Industry
Part of learning is learning from others, here are some insights taken from people in the industry. Their views differ depending on their location, the degree of their exposure to the industry and a host of other factors. This chapter exposes the many variables and experiences you might encounter. They will give tips or advice you want to give to those aspiring to succeed in this profession? What are the three most common problems or concerns you have encountered in the field and how did you handle it? What do you think are the most effective solution/s? etc. They will give you the real picture of what it is like working within the industry.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
EUNICE ESTIPONA, started as a freelance massage therapist way back in 2001 became a Licensed Massage Therapist in 2002 and since then worked her way up the career ladder of the spa, she became hooked to the intricacies of the spa industry which eventually led to her organizing the International Council for Complementary Medicine, Inc.. She is a Registered Medical Technologist, a Licensed Massage Therapist and an Emergency Medical Technician. She finished numerous trainings, seminars and workshops including spa management programme in Bangkok, Thailand and the Institute of Spa Management. She is a spa and wellness center consultant, teacher, lecturer, coach (even a cyber/online coach), referral facilitator, mentor and speaker specializing in Massage/Touch Therapy. She is a spa and indigenous healing aficionado, connoisseur and information consultant. She will tell you what you need to know and direct you to people who can be of help. Nearly half of her experience in the industry was spent on managerial, consulting and supervisory level. Through this exposure she has been able to gain strong insight into the wellness industry. Being a frequent spa-goer herself who has experienced being a practitioner and a client, she also has first hand-experience on what it is like wearing different hats.


She is a member of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) and one of the founding Board members of the Massage and Bodywork Association (MBAI) which is under the umbrella of the Department of Health, Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care. She is the first Philippine-based member of the American Massage Therapy Association (Evanston Illinois, USA) and a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association (Bristol, Tennessee USA) and many other organizations.



In 2004, when information was very limited, Eunice was the first Filipino to look into organizing the first Philippine online community group and started both the Philippine/Manila Massage Therapy Meet-up and the Manila Entrepreneur Meetup groups which currently have more than 500 members. Her first book is entitled "Spa and Massage Therapy Resource Guide and Career Book" an informative book on the spa industry world wide with a focus on the Philippines. Contact her if you want to get included in her publications and articles. An out-of the box thinker, her passion is in educating and developing a mind set geared towards a responsible and caring attitude of the spa personnel through her articles, lectures and speaking engagements. Her love for natural, uniquely-Filipino indigenous concepts of the spa is evident in her speaking engagements. She believes that "Filipinos have the natural ability to excel in "touch therapy" as exemplified by our culture and our traditional values through our ancestors’ practice of "HILOT" and other indigenous healing modalities". One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685.



TERMS OF REPRINT
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3 comments:

Guro Dan said...

Hi. I found your blog while searching for this same topic. Thank you for this and other very helpful posts.

I am interested in learning, being licensed and practicing therapeutic massage. Since it seems that Swedish massage is the only form officially recognized by the DOH for this process, I'm wondering where to get the best training locally.

US certified professional Swedish massage training with an online test costs $145. Will this certification do for the DOH requirement?

Also, can a licensed massage therapist also be licensed to teach/train in RP?

I'm sure you're very busy and I really appreciate your taking the time to answer.

All the best!

yunesa said...

Hello Dan,

Mabuhay! Thank you for your post and inquiry.

To answer your query on where to get the best training locally. I personally do not endorse any trainer or training center because there are certain aspects and criteria that you have to decide for yourself like for exapmple: is the institution accredited by government regulating bodies such as DOH, TESDA, DOT, etc.? How long is the duration of the training? Will they provide an internship or externship? How much do they charge for tuition rates? These are just a few of the questions that would help you in deciding which is which. In my book, the Spa, Massage Therapy and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide, there is a list of things that you need to check out before you enroll in a massage/spa therapy program. Anyway, my book lists training centers that you can choose from. It also lists their contact details so you can inquire from them directly. Just email me so I can give you a link to the summary of my book. It's available at all National Bookstores and Powerbooks nationwide.

Your other question: US certified professional Swedish massage training with an online test costs $145. Will this certification do for the DOH requirement?
It depends on the State or country that you will use your certificate for but currently only Philippine training providers can give you a certificate that will be eligible for a DOH licensure exam. My question is, why will you choose a training certificate ONLINE when we have a lot of good massage instructors that can really demonstrate to you and you get to practice what you learned. Isn't massage supposed to be done in person? Although online classes help, they are just a cream on the cake itself. I think its better if your foundation in massage would be BOTH theory and practice and when you are already an expert, you can choose the online classes. To add to your knowledge base.

Generally, there are a lot of career avenues after you pass the DOH exam. You can teach, train or go to a job that relates to massage itself to hone your skills and knowledge. I am discouraging people to teach RIGHT AFTER graduation because there are still a lot to learn that we need to impart to the students. It would really help in opening up their knowledge base if they work in a massage clinic, spa, or wellness center first before trying to teach or train someone. First, it adds to their credibility and second, it adds to their exposure and experience. It will also give them to opportunity to mingle and learn from other people in the field.

I hope this helped a little.

If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Peace be with you,

Eunice

Anonymous said...

I really liked the article, and the very cool blog