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Olney Central College has been approved as a National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) Assigned School.
The designation ensures that after successfully completing state licensure, OCC massage therapy students can now seek NCBTMB board certification, the highest credentials available for those in the massage therapy profession.
鈥淭he NCBTMB board certification shows that you have reached the highest credential in your career and that you continue to pursue education, training and advanced skills in the profession,鈥 said OCC Massage Therapy Instructor Deb Burnett. 鈥淚t indicates that you have gone above and beyond the requirements for state licensing. This certification gives you the credentials you need for advanced assessment and critical thinking skills and highlights your determination and dedication to your career.鈥
Burnett emphasized that this certification is especially valuable for massage therapists choosing to work in hospitals and other healthcare settings, where advanced training and professional credentials can enhance both credibility and patient care.
鈥淚t is seen as a demonstration of excellence and an enhanced skill-level,鈥 she added.
Earning the NCBTMB Assigned School distinction also affirms the high-quality of OCC鈥檚 Massage Therapy Program as it meets or exceeds the rigorous standards of excellence established by the organization. This recognition reflects the program鈥檚 commitment to preparing students with the knowledge, skills and professional training needed to succeed in the field of therapeutic massage and bodywork. As both an instructor and graduate of the program, Burnett brings nearly 20 years鈥 experience to the classroom.
The additional credentialing comes as opportunities for massage therapists are expanding. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for massage therapists are projected to grow by 15 percent over the next decade, with an average of nearly 25,900 new openings each year. The American Massage Council anticipates the greatest need will be in the area of medical massage, with therapists treating diagnosed pain, injury and chronic musculoskeletal issues.
鈥淢assage therapy used to be considered more as a luxury treatment,鈥 Burnett said. 鈥淏ut people and the healthcare industry are realizing that the health benefits of massage therapy are substantial and using massage therapy along with other healthcare services makes a significant difference in your physical and mental health.鈥
Olney Central College鈥檚 Massage Therapy Program offers a one-year certificate with classes scheduled in the evenings to accommodate busy schedules. For more information, visit www.iecc.edu/occ/massage.