Massage Therapists vs Beauty Therapists, what's what?

Question

I am a highly qualified therapist with certification in neuromuscular therapies, in the united states. my man is an aussie...so now we're here and i'm having trouble finding out what's what. so, question one. what the heck difference is there between a beauty therapist, massage therapist and remedial therapist. i've been told i'm an advanced remedial massage therapist. but i'm still confused about the other, because i've been told i can do that as well. what is it? and, if anyone knows, what associations and insurances and licensing do i need to have. i've been told, nothing, then told just insurance, and other things, and it has to be SOMETHING that i can do, i want to have all possible. please help.

Answer 1

Welcome to Oz!  I don't know where you are, but assuming Sydney!

Some places where you can get good information are:

- Nature Care College who run all the courses (very reputable) and could advise you of what your qualifications mean here.

- Try calling TAFE and speak to a lecturer from beauty or massage area. They are govt-run colleges that run courses with official Certificates and Diplomas.  www.tafensw.edu.au

A beautician usually has done a variety of training in skin care and make-up.  Often they have also done courses in massage.  When I want a massage, I don't generally go to a beautician, I want the 'real deal' from someone who specailises in this area. I feel that beauticians often only know superficially about massage and can't feel what is wrong in the muscles.

A massage therapist is someone who has trained in massage and I would assume has one or more qualifications.  I would be happy to see a massage therapist as an expert.

If you start your own massage business you would probably want liability insurance. Check out the info in the govt small business page below and speak to them if necessary.

If you go to work for someone else they will carry the insurance through their business.