If you did not get an email, the NCBTMB released a survey for massage professionals as they prepare to begin their “Nationally Certified Advanced Practitioner” credential. If you would like to answer a lot of questions, feel free to visit this site and take this rather boring survey visit here
I have not really investigated this newest credential offered by the NCTMB. No doubt most people can see they are struggling to differentiate themselves with the success of the newer entry level exam, the MBLEx. I searched the NCTMB site for some information. There will be an exam (yeah!). Other than that, the information was vague. No time for scheduled start or how much it will cost. I surely hope it costs less than the regular exam.
I know many of us want a way to say “Hey, I have been in the field longer and know more about this than this person over here”; choose me”. Who does not want their doctor, waitress, mechanic, computer technician, or massage therapist with more experience? I mean, even when I got gas today at Casey’s, my cashier had the number of years on her name tag. I was glad it was not her first day. But seriously, I know they said this will be a great way for the public and employers to identify advanced practitioners. However, how many of your clients even know what NCTMB or NCTM mean? How many are going to know what NCAP means? Chances are they will not. I am not convinced yet this credential will benefit the public or practitioners. It also talks about being able to get jobs in the medical community. I would think most employers would be sufficiently impressed with an experienced massage therapists years in the field. After all my years in the field, my number of continuing education hours, and my very established business, I think I am going to sit this exam out. Let me know what your thoughts. Are you thinking about adding this exam?
Ivy Hultquist LMT
Advanced Massage Techniques – Massage Continuing Education / Massage CEUS
after having read the requirements I realized that I will be around 50 years old by the time I meet the requirements for 3000 hours experience and 100 CEUs, I will sit the one out as well, and you are right, the clients dont know nor do they care about who or what NCBTMB is, they would be more impressed by a certificate in a specialized field such as myofascial release, or lymphatic drainage. Far as I am concerned specialization IS advanced certification
I totally agree with Ivy and Kristeen. I don’t feel this NCAP will make more of a difference to a therapists skills. (I have been a full time therapist for 11 years in NY and CT) I feel that the experience of being in the massage therapy field and taking continuing education courses, how many clients you see a year,what type of clients and modalities you do is more important. I have asked clients what they thought and practically every one agrees. I found a few who disagreed but they don’t get massage but have family members that do. I feel a competent licensed therapists work speaks for itself!