P. Sze 
Are you interested in hands-on experience in Asian therapy? Do you want to work in the field but have no idea how to become an acupressure therapist? As an aspiring technician, you first need to figure out how to become certified in acupressure.
To help you start your future career, we have compiled all the requirements you need to know about. This is a detailed guideline for anyone interested in working with this traditional Chinese treatment.
How to Become an Acupressure Therapist?
Like any massage therapy job, you will need the right training. In every country, there are education centers, training programs, and courses specifically tailored to Chinese practices.
In certain regions, like the UK, for example, there are schools designed to teach aspiring therapists the ancient technique of acupressure. Regardless of what kind of education you pick, you need a background in Chinese medicine or anything related to the treatment.
Getting a license should be a top priority. If you don’t have specific acupressure training, some countries allow an experienced practitioner in the field of healthcare with similar experience to working as an acupressure therapist. But, that highly depends on the entry requirements of the country you live in.
Here is a general overview of all the things you will need to get a job in this field.
- Certificate: Acupressure license or massage license similar to the related field
- Education: Undergraduate coursework (500h of studying), master’s programs in herbology (optional)
- Skills: Sensitivity, stability, coordination, self-awareness, and problem-solving
- Experience: Preferred
To give you a detailed analysis, we’ve decided to take a look at each of these requirements.
What Do I Have to Study To Become Certified in Acupressure?
Like any practice, you will have to attend school or courses to get proper knowledge. Gathering experience and information will be the stepping-stone for a career in acupressure. Acupressure school takes plenty of practice and training. In class, you will study subjects like:
- Clinical practice
- Hygiene
- Health
- Chinese practices and theories
- Physiology
- Anatomy
- Acupressure points
- Massage protocols
- Neuromuscular techniques
Each of these subjects will make a valuable addition to your studies. A typical program involves around 150-250h of study. In some cases, it is possible to take online courses.
If you don’t have an acupressure license, you can use a regular massage therapy license if it fits your state’s requirements. A regular massage license can be acquired after 500h of mixed practice and classroom studies.
What Skills Do I Need?
Every job has a set of skills it requires – acupressure is no exception. If you want to work in the field, you have to be prepared to take on the responsibility.
First, the occupation is not without its challenges. You will be working with people with different health issues, so you have to know the right technique for solving their problems.
For that, you will need excellent deduction skills, self-awareness, and stability. It’s also important to interact with different people. Therefore, your communication skills should be impeccable. Another key factor for an acupressure therapist is empathy. If you lack this skill, you can’t expect to get a sufficient client base.
Will I Be Able to Get a Job?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the United States, there is a high interest in massage therapists. By 2028, there could be a 22% increase in the number of jobs for anyone in the field, and the salary is expected to grow with it.
If you really want to try your luck as a massage therapist, this might be an excellent opportunity. Since you don’t have to worry about the market getting too overcrowded, it’s a great option to spread your wings.
Is There a Possibility for Career Progression?
Most massage acupressure therapists are self-employed, which means the career progression will mainly depend on your personal effort. Some therapists, however, work in hospitals or therapy clinics to get better job opportunities. But, if you want to progress in the field and get better options, it might be a good idea to get a master’s in herbology.
Master studies in needle techniques and herbology usually last from 3 to 4 years. As long as you focus on your studies and add more to your resume, you can get a career in teaching where your knowledge might be more highly valued.
When it comes to salary, it depends on the hours you’ve worked for. The figures vary depending on the education, type of treatment, and region. If you are treating over 30 patients every week, you should expect a hefty sum. But, if you are still building your client base, it will take time before you can earn a high income.
For an acupressure therapist, the most crucial factor for a successful career is reputation. Aside from education and license, you will need to establish a good reputation. Of course, this kind of success can’t be achieved overnight. So, take your time and grow your practice at your own pace.
Is Acupressure The Right Career For Me?
As an acupressure therapist, you will be expected to get adequate training in Chinese practices, physiology, and anatomy. You will need to have a thorough understanding of all of these concepts if you want to build a sturdy career. If you think you can handle it, it is best to start with school or courses as soon as possible. That way, you can get the certificates and start working quickly. But, if you have your doubts, particularly in anatomy or physiology, this job may not be to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Anyone who has an interest in acupressure can build a career as a therapist. But, you need the right education, training, and license. As long as you stay the course, you can start working in the field in no-time.
Related Reading:
- Top 5 Providers Of Gua Sha Training In The United States
- Top 5 Gua Sha Certification Programs In The US
