MCCCD Official Course Competencies:

WED204  2006 Spring – 2009 Summer II

Establishing a Massage Practice

1.

Investigate the options of massage employment. (I)

2.

Identify an environment that is appropriate for massage. (II)

3.

Identify and explain the variety of massage types and specific treatment modalities used in massage. (II)

4.

Select the equipment and supplies needed for massage. (II)

5.

Explain the characteristics of and the importance of records management practices for therapeutic massage. (III)

6.

Create an effective marketing plan for a massage practice. (IV)

7.

Describe the key provisions of federal and state laws, including licensure, that are applicable to a massage practice. (V, VI)

8.

Describe the process and importance of networking with massage practice colleagues. (VII)

9.

Identify major professional organizations in massage therapy. (VIII)

MCCCD Official Course Outline:

WED204  2006 Spring – 2009 Summer II

Establishing a Massage Practice

I. Business Planning

A. Goal setting

B. Employee vs. self-employed

1. Resort/spa

2. Medical massage

3. Sports massage

4. Special populations

5. Other

C. Types of businesses

1. Sole proprietorship

2. Partnership

3. Corporation

D. Start-up costs

E. Business location

F. Licenses and permits

G. Insurance

1. Medical

2. Liability

3. Business

II. Appropriate Massage Environment

A. Physical layout

1. Massage room setup

2. Massage table selection

3. Products and supplies selection

B. Office management

C. Modalities/Services

D. Fees

III. Records Management

A. Accounts

1. Checking

2. Petty cash

3. Business expenses

4. Accounts receivable and payable

5. Depreciation

B. Records

1. Bank statements and reconciliations

2. Income

3. Disbursement

4. Inventory

IV. Marketing

A. Target market

B. Market needs

C. Advertising

D. Public relations

E. Referrals

F. Client retention

G. Professional portfolio

1. Resume

2. Business cards

3. Promotional materials

4. Professional certifications

5. Continuing education

V. Business Law

A. Federal law

1. Social security

2. Unemployment compensation

3. Income tax

B. State law

1. Worker's compensation

2. Employment regulations

3. Licensing

4. Income tax

VI. State Licensure

A. Application procedures

B. National certification exam or equivalent

C. Continuing education requirements

VII. Networking

A. Purpose

B. Methods

VIII. Professional Organizations

A. State

B. National