American Massage Therapy Association
Overview
The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting massage therapists and advancing the massage therapy profession. Since its founding in 1943, AMTA has grown to become the largest non-profit association for massage therapists in the United States. The association offers a variety of resources for its members, including continuing education opportunities, advocacy for fair licensing, and public education about the benefits of massage. Its headquarters is located in Evanston, Illinois.
Recent Developments
- November 2024: AMTA supported the 2nd Annual Black Massage Therapist Conference, reinforcing its commitment to diversity and education within the profession.
- October 2024: AMTA announced its strategic involvement in the Pain Collaborative's inaugural hybrid meeting, focusing on advancing a holistic approach to pain management.
- July 2024: The organization expressed relief as a federal court issued an injunction that postponed the implementation of the "150% Rule" which could have impacted the length of massage therapy programs eligible for federal funding.
- July 2024: The abrupt closure of MPower Career Training affected students in multiple states; AMTA is providing resources and support to those affected.
These efforts reflect AMTA's continuous dedication to professional development, education, and advocacy for massage therapists.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1943 |
| Headquarters | Evanston, Illinois, USA |
| Founders | Postgraduate class College of Swedish Massage |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Industry | Non-Profit Organization |
| Number of Employees | 51-200 |
Early History
The American Massage Therapy Association (originally the American Association of Masseurs and Masseuses) was established in 1943 by graduates of the College of Swedish Massage in Chicago. The founders aimed to promote massage therapy as a respected health care practice by setting professional standards and providing educational resources. Over the decades, AMTA has evolved through several name changes and expanded its focus to incorporate a wider range of therapeutic practices.
Company Profile and Achievements
AMTA is renowned for its advocacy in massage therapy, working to ensure consistent licensing standards across all U.S. states. Its commitment to public education is evident through campaigns that highlight the health benefits of massage. AMTA organizes various networking and professional development events, such as its National Convention, which is the largest gathering for massage therapy professionals.
- 1992: The establishment of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork marked a significant milestone in professional standardization.
- 2004: The initiation of the Massage Therapy Foundation, focusing on promoting therapeutic massage research.
- 2018: Celebrated its 75th anniversary, underscoring its longevity and continued influence in shaping the massage therapy industry.
Current Operations and Market Position
AMTA continues to be a pivotal force within the massage therapy profession, offering a variety of services to its members including liability insurance, access to research publications, and continuing education. The organization remains a staunch advocate for massage therapy in health care, emphasizing its role in physical and mental wellness.
AMTA holds a strong market position as the largest not-for-profit massage therapy association in the nation, known for its comprehensive approach to supporting its members and advancing the profession.
Conclusion
The American Massage Therapy Association plays a crucial role in advancing the massage therapy profession through advocacy, education, and setting ethical standards. With a history rich in promoting the value of massage therapy, AMTA has positioned itself as a trusted leader in the industry. Moving forward, the organization is poised to continue its influence by fostering professional growth, supporting research, and advocating for the recognition of massage therapy as a vital component of holistic health care.