- sensitivity and understanding
- excellent verbal communication skills
- active listening skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to work on your own
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
A typical session will include:
- checking the client's medical history, diet and lifestyle
- identifying the client's reasons for wanting massage therapy
- planning a course of treatment
- applying pressure to areas of the body
- giving advice to clients about their wellbeing
- referring clients to medical professionals
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work at a hospice, from home, at a GP practice, at a health spa, in an NHS or private hospital or in a therapy clinic.
With experience you could build up and maintain a reputation and client base, and set up your own business.
You could also train in other complementary therapies like aromatherapy, reiki or reflexology.