NCBTMB Releases 2024-25 Job Task Analysis Report

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) has released its FY24/25 Job Task Analysis Report (JTA Report), offering an in-depth look at today’s massage therapists—their backgrounds, training, and the diverse skills they bring to their work. This report not only sheds light on the breadth of the profession but also serves as a valuable guide for those considering a career in massage therapy.

The Job Task Analysis Report is based on surveys and focus groups with subject matter experts. Information gained from this report is used as a foundation for revisions to the Board Certification Exam in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCETMB®). This exam is required to achieve Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB®), the highest credential within the profession.

AMTA is excited to share this important resource, which supports both established and emerging massage therapists. Below we’ve spotlighted some of the main takeaways from the JTA report, or you can explore the full analysis here.

Snapshot of the Massage Therapy Profession

The JTA Report offers a detailed view into where massage therapists work, their educational paths, and the scope of their professional experience. This insight is especially helpful for individuals evaluating whether massage therapy is the right career for them.

• 2% of massage therapists give 11-20 hours of massage a week, and 24.4% give 21-30 hours of massage.
  
  
• The majority of those surveyed attended a 500-700 hour entry-level massage therapy program.
  
  
• One-third of massage therapists reported holding a bachelor’s degree.
  
  
• Nearly 70% of massage therapists surveyed are self-employed.
  
  
• One-third of survey respondents work primarily in their own office.

Important Massage Skills and Knowledge

Survey responses also revealed the knowledge and techniques that massage therapists rely on most every day. These core competencies reflect the profession’s commitment to client-centered, evidence-informed care:

• 95% of respondents said it is important that they customize massage sessions based on client goals.
  
  
• The highest percentage of respondents (97%) agree that it is important they “Apply massage and bodywork techniques in a safe manner, monitoring responses and adapting techniques as needed.”
  
  
• 96% of respondents said that knowing indications and contraindications are important in their current position.

As these findings show, massage therapy is a dynamic and flexible career that empowers massage therapists to deliver personalized care while maintaining autonomy in their work. NCBTMB’s Job Task Analysis Report includes all of this information and more, so be sure to check it out for more valuable insights on the massage therapy profession.

See the full report here.

About NCBTMB

NCBTMB is a non-profit organization with the mission to elevate the massage therapy profession nationwide by establishing and advancing the highest credentials and standards of excellence. In addition to the BCTMB®, NCBTMB offers the Approved Provider Program, the country’s most-respected source for continuing education approval by state boards, government and regulatory agencies, and massage therapists. NCBTMB also offers the Massage Therapy Assessment for Certification (MTAC) and the Assigned Schools program.