Somatic Bodywork Therapist

    Medical Assistant & Health Sciences

    CIP Name: Licensed Massage Therapist|CIP Code: 51.3503
    SOC Codes: 25-1071, 31-9011

    Promote physical and emotional balance and well-being through the application of skilled touch principles and techniques.

    $82K
    Median Salary
    +16.35%
    Job Growth
    6 months
    Training
    26.1K
    Jobs/Year

    What Somatic Bodywork Therapists Do

    Promote physical and emotional balance and well-being through the application of skilled touch principles and techniques.

    Common Tasks

    Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

    • 1Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
    • 2Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
    • 3Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
    • 4Supervise laboratory sessions.
    • 5Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.

    What You'll Learn

    therapeutic massage and other hands-on touch methodsanatomy and physiologystructural/functional integration and various holistic health systems (Rolfing/Structural Integrationcolon hydrotherapyBreemaHellerworklymphatic drainageRosen Methodhydrotherapyothers)client counselingpractice managementapplicable regulations and professional standards

    Types of Somatic Bodywork Therapists

    Assistant ProfessorAssociate ProfessorClinical ProfessorInstructorLecturerOccupational Therapy ProfessorPharmacology ProfessorPhysical Therapy ProfessorProfessorPublic Health ProfessorBodywork TherapistCertified Massage Therapist (CMT)Clinical Massage TherapistIntegrated Deep Tissue Massage TherapistLicensed Massage Practitioner (LMP)Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)Massage TherapistRegistered Massage Therapist (RMT)Soft Tissue SpecialistTherapeutic Massage Technician

    Work Environment

    Locations

    • • Massage clinics
    • • Spas and resorts
    • • Chiropractic or physical therapy offices
    • • Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
    • • Private practice (self-employed)

    Schedule

    Schedules often vary and may include evenings, weekends, and appointments that fluctuate with client demand and seasonality.

    Physical Demands

    The work is physically demanding with long periods of standing, frequent bending/twisting, and repetitive hand and arm motions. Therapists need stamina and hand strength to deliver consistent pressure while avoiding overuse injuries.

    Salary & Job Outlook

    Median $81,785
    $42,520$97,448+
    Entry Level
    10th percentile
    $42,520
    Early Career
    25th percentile
    $59,633
    Median
    50th percentile
    $81,785
    Experienced
    75th percentile
    $126,629
    Top Earners
    90th percentile
    $97,448+

    National Employment: 457,600 jobs

    Top Paying States

    Why Demand May Grow

    Demand may rise as more people seek noninvasive options for pain management, stress reduction, and wellness services. Growth in older adult populations and broader acceptance of complementary therapies can also increase client volume.

    Skills You'll Need

    Knowledge of anatomy and physiologyManual dexterity and consistent pressure controlClient assessment and treatment planningCommunication and active listeningProfessional boundaries and ethicsPhysical stamina and body mechanicsSanitation and infection-control practicesTime management and basic practice management

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Directly helps clients manage pain and stress
    • Flexible scheduling and potential for self-employment
    • Variety of settings and specialties to choose from
    • Relatively quick path to entry compared with many healthcare roles
    • Work is hands-on and people-focused

    Cons

    • High risk of repetitive strain and fatigue
    • Income can be inconsistent, especially when building a client base
    • Evening/weekend hours are common
    • Requires strong boundaries and comfort with close physical contact
    • Licensing, continuing education, and liability considerations
    FAQ

    Common Questions About the Somatic Bodywork Therapist Trade

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