The Difference Between Certified and Registered Massage Therapy in Alberta

Massage therapy is a popular form of healthcare in Alberta, with many people seeking out massage therapists for their health and wellness needs.  Many more are even looking to pursue massage therapy as a career! Something confusing that prospective students may come across is the difference between a certified massage therapist (CMT) and a registered massage therapist (RMT).  We can help with that! This blog will go over the key differences between the two and the training required for both.

Certified Massage Therapist

In Canada, the minimum training requirements for becoming a certified massage therapist can vary by province.  In Alberta,there are several options for training in massage therapy, including attending a vocational school or college, completing a massage therapy certificate program, or attending a flexible program offered by the Alberta College of Massage Therapy.  The steps included to complete this program are as follows:

1. You must complete at least 2,200 hours of training before you can register with the Massage Therapist Association of Alberta.
   
   
2. Once you have completed your training, you can then apply for membership with the Massage Therapist Association of Alberta (MTAA).  As part of this application process, you'll need to provide proof of completion of your training and meet all education requirements.

Additionally, massage therapists may be required to be licensed under local bylaws or provide an annual police security clearance.

Registered Massage Therapist

A registered massage therapist (RMT) is someone who has completed an approved program of study in massage therapy AND has passed the registration exam administered by the Certified Registered Massage Therapist Association (CRMTA).To become a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Canada the following steps are required:

1. A minimum of 2,200 hours of training is necessary.  This includes a combination of classroom instruction, supervised clinical practicums, and continuing education.
   
   
2. In addition to the training hours, candidates must also pass the national registration exam, which assesses their knowledge and competency in the field of massage therapy.
   
   
3. An RMT must also complete a minimum number of hours of continuing education every year to maintain its registration status.

Once an RMT has completed their training, they can register with the Alberta Association of Massage Therapists and Holistic Practitioners (AAMT) to become a licensed massage therapist.  In addition to the required training, some municipalities may require massage therapists to be licensed under local bylaws or to provide an annual police security clearance.

How Do They Compare?

The main difference between a regular massage therapist and an RMT lies in the level of training they have received:

1. RMTs have more extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology as well as clinical skills that allow them to provide specific treatments for their clients.A CMT focuses on a wide range of prevention techniques to address the reasons you are experiencing aches and pains instead of focusing on a specific spot.
   
   
2. In Alberta, RMTs are held to higher standards than CMTs.  They must adhere to a code of ethics that includes maintaining confidentiality with clients and adhering to professional boundaries.  They must also be insured for liability purposes and keep up-to-date records on all treatments provided.
   
   
3. Both CMTs and RMTs may be required by some municipalities to be licensed under local bylaws or to provide an annual police security clearance.

Whether you choose to be an RMT or a CMT depends on your time, availability, and dedication.  Both of these careers provide excellent care! If you want to be more specialized in a specific treatment for a condition, an RMT is the best choice.  If you are looking to provide all-over relief from daily emotional and physical stress, becoming a CMT might be ideal.

Massage Technique Training Courses For Massage Therapists

At Muscle Release Massage Therapy, we provide treatment for patients and certified peer-reviewed Hot Stone Technique Courses for RMTs and CMTs in Alberta.  Our course outcomes will increase your efficiency and effectiveness in your treatments and use the Hot Stones as a tool to reduce stress on your hands and increase the outcomes of your massage.  This program is available for credits with NHPC, CMMOTA, and MTAA so sign-up is encouraged.  Read more about this course here or contact us for more information.