Search results for: near 37204

Search results for: near 37204

Account & Program Updates

  • To view your directory listing please click here
    • Select Assigned Schools
    • Enter in the search criteria to view your listing as it appears publicly
  • To edit your directory listing
    • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
    • Click “My Organizations” on the left hand side
    • Select the Organization you want to opt in/out of the directory to expand the menu
    • Select “Assigned School”
    • Click the pencil icon in the upper right
    • Enter in your company’s information and click save
Only the City, State, and Zip Code will appear along with a link to your website (if included).  We will not include your phone or email.
  • To opt in/out of the directory listings
    • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
    • Click “My Organizations” on the left hand side
    • Select the Organization you want to opt in/out of the directory to expand the menu
    • Select “Assigned School”
    • Click the “Directory Opt-Out” icon
    • Check the box in the “Public Directory Opt-Out” section to opt out or uncheck the box to opt back in and click save.
The previous owner must contact NCBTMB’s School Outreach department at schooloutreach@ncbtmb.org to inform us that the school has been sold. NCBTMB will close the current school code. The new owner must submit a new Assigned School Code Request Form. School Codes are non-transferable between owners.
You will need to submit proof that you have legally changed the name of your business. Please submit to: ce@ncbtmb.org

BCETMB Exam

NCBTMB partners with Prometric, a computer-based testing solution, to administer the BCETMB exam. Prometric has multiple testing centers in each state; most centers are open 5-6 days per week. Once you are eligible to schedule your exam, you will receive an email notification with instructions on how to search all available testing locations available (as well as the dates and times) to conveniently schedule your exam within your eligibility period. Within this email, you will be linked to Prometric’s system directly to schedule online, as well as provided with a phone number to contact them.
The Board Certification exam contains 140 questions and you will have 140 minutes to complete the exam. Content found on this exam embraces application of technique and is assessment based—simulating real-life scenarios you will more than likely encounter as a certified massage therapist. The Board Certification Exam is built around the below main categories:
  • Assessment (25%)
  • Applied Science, including Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology/Injury, and Pharmacology (25%)
  • Massage Modalities, Techniques, and Manual Forces (20%)
  • Professional Communication (15%)
  • Professionalism and Ethics (10%)
  • Laws and Business Practices (5%)
To download the full BCETMB breakdown, click here.
Yes! NCBTMB is proud to offer our exclusive Online Practice Exam, which contains Level 1 (entry-level) questions to better prepare you for any licensing exam, as well as Level 2 questions to better prepare you for the Board Certification (BCETMB) exam. The NCBTMB Online Practice Exam is the only study tool created by NCBTMB for the NCBTMB Board Certification exam. For more information on the Online Practice exam, click here. For a list of resources utilized to create the Board Certification Exam and the Board Certification Study Guide, click here
The Board Certification exam is graded in Scale Score Format. A Scale Score of 410 is required to pass the Board Certification Exam.
You can see your exam history by logging into your account on ncbtmb.org.
  • Click on “My Account” on the left side of your profile.
  • Click on “My Participation”
If you have an existing account and your exam history is not present, please complete the request to add this information. *Please note: If you have never been Board Certified you will not have an account unless you have already created one in this system. If you have not created an account in this new system, you will need to create an account at www.ncbtmb.orgIf you needed to create an account, your exam history will not be listed, however, there will be an option to complete a request to add your exam result to your account so a score report can be ordered.

Courses/Conferences

NCBTMB will accept continuing education hours from Approved Providers for advanced science courses if the course consists of  content that goes beyond the Massage Therapy Scope of Practice (as defined by each state/legislation), but aids in understanding  systems of the body or human behavior more in depth. Participation and continuing education hours awarded for completion of the above-mentioned course are intended for the advanced development and understanding in interdisciplinary practices. Massage therapists are always responsible for practicing within their professional Scope of Practice (as defined by each state/legislation),. Approved Providers teaching these courses shall include a statement that all attendees must check their their professional Scope of Practice (as defined by each state/legislation),prior to using information from the course. . To learn more, please click here to download the “Advanced science course forms” from the “Approved Provider Handbook & Tools” section.  

No.  First Aid and CPR courses do not represent advanced content and are not accepted for continuing education.

To add a new conference to your current Approved Provider account:
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click “Add Conference” button in the conference/tradeshow area.
  • Complete conference wizard and submit new conference.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. Review of conferences takes 6-8 weeks Costs are as follows:
  • 1-50 course titles – $50
  • 51-100 course titles – $100
  • 101-150 course titles – $150
Please also note that each course must be submitted, reviewed, and approved prior to offering NCBTMB continuing education hours.
Home Study course guidelines can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
Please note that all versions of existing courses are considered new courses.
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click “Add Course” button in the course area to access new course submission.
  • Complete course wizard and submit new course.
Review of courses takes 6-8 weeks.
Live courses are defined as synchronous learning experiences during which participants are in the presence of an instructor whether in the same or in a remote location. Distance Learning is defined as courses that are held in a distant location but there is direct communication during the course between the instructor and participants. Communication between the instructor and participants may be by phone, interactive webinar or website. All of the criteria for live courses is replicated in webinars. If a webinar is recorded and offered as a home study a test must be created to and adherence to home study criteria must be followed. Further information can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
Continuing education hours (CEs): CEs are calculated  based on the content presented in a course. Approved providers must provide documentation to support assignment of CE hours when courses are submitted for approval. All CEs must be clearly documented for participants prior to purchasing a course. CEs awarded must be in whole or half hour increments only. Face to face course:
  • CEs for face-to-face education experiences should match the number of hours of instructions based on a 50-minute hour.
  • CEs are not awarded for breaks lasting more than 20 minutes.
Home study courses: Below are minimal criteria used for assigning CEs to home study courses:* 12,000 words read equals 1 CE
  • One hour of video or audio equals 1 CE
  • Providers may document additional CEs for course work beyond the word count (i.e. reflective assignments, additional reading).
  • No additional CEs may be given beyond those approved unless the course is re-submitted for approval
Approved Providers may also work with an instructional designer to determine CE hours. Instructional designer must provide documentation of assignment of CE hours. Contact NCBTMB staff for additional information at ce@ncbtmb.org.
Courses designed to only promote a product or commodity that must be purchased by the participant or for resale to the public are not acceptable. If an Approved Provider has a product or commodity for sale, they can share the information with the class before or after class time.  Product promotion time may not be required or calculated as part of CEs for the course. If participants are required to use a specific device during a course, it must be supplied by the Approved Provider for the duration of the course. NCBTMB does not endorse any products or services and the use of the trademarked NCBTMB logo in such a manner as to imply this is strictly prohibited.
The acceptable and unacceptable course criteria can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.

General AP Information

To change your name on your Individual AP account, please email the following information to info@ncbtmb.org.
  1. Current name
  2. How you wish your name to appear on your account.
  3. Legal documentation showing the name change such as:
    1. Page of divorce decree stating the granting of the name change
    2. Marriage certificate
    3. Other official court documentation.
NCBTMB will not accept naturalization certificates, social security cards, driver’s license or any other form of identification as legal documentation of a name change.
Please contact us at ce@ncbtmb.org
  • Individual: An individual is defined as one instructor teaching courses. Instructor can have teaching assistants in the classroom and administrative help. Only the individual named as the Approved Provider may teach the course.
  • Organization: An organization is defined as two or more instructors that work under one entity. An organization must have a primary contact person listed to oversee all aspects of the Approved Provider account. Instructors teaching under organization status accounts must be approved by NCBTMB prior to teaching and issuing CEs.
  • Conference/Tradeshow: An organization holding a conference with four or more instructors must complete the Conference/Tradeshow portion of the Interim Course Submission form to submit their conference for approval.
A NCBTMB Board Approved Continuing Education Provider, commonly referred to simply as an Approved Provider, is a continuing education instructor who has exhibited quality instruction of the highest standards throughout the massage therapy and bodywork profession. Instructors must meet rigorous standards to be NCBTMB Approved Providers. Instructor qualifications and course content are carefully reviewed to ensure the highest quality of education from all Approved Providers. NCBTMB Approved Providers can say they represent the highest quality of continuing instruction in the massage therapy profession.
You will need to submit proof that you have legally changed the name of your business. Please submit to: ce@ncbtmb.org
All Approved Providers are valid for a three-year period. When your three-year period is nearing its end, you will need to complete the Approved Provider Renewal.
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click blue arrow in the manage application area to access Renewal checklist.
  • Complete and submit renewal.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. Review of renewals takes 2-4 weeks For any additional questions email ce@ncbtmb.org.
All Approved Providers are valid for three years from the date NCBTMB approves your application. Costs for first-time applicants, as well as renewal applicants, are the same:
  • $225 for individuals
  • $450 for organizations or conference/tradeshow providers
  • $35 per new class submitted* (one-time fee)
  • $50 for conference or tradeshow submissions (up to the first 50 classes)
    • $50 per each additional 1-50 courses
  • Additional $50 per renewal charge associated with Approved Providers that want to be sponsored by NCBTMB to teach New York LMTs**
*Please note that each course must be submitted, reviewed, and approved prior to offering NCBTMB continuing education hours. Additionally, instructors teaching under Organization status accounts must first be submitted to and approved by NCBTMB prior to teaching and issuing CEs. ** NY will only accept CEs from a CE Provider that NY approves or that is sponsored by an entity that has been approved by the NY Board. NCBTMB is a New York approved Sponsor and will pass this sponsorship to its Approved Providers.
Over a decade ago, NCBTMB established its Approved Provider (AP) program to serve as a key component of Board Certification. The principal intent of the AP program is to ensure that certificants have access to reliable, credible, high-quality continuing education throughout their careers. By obtaining continuing education (CE), a practitioner demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning and excellence
  • Approved Providers are featured on the NCBMTB website as part of the course directory. Thousands of massage therapists a year consult the directory to find continuing education including Board Certificants, who are required to receive 24 hours of education every 2 years.
  • NCBTMB Approved Provider status is included in the requirements of several states for continuing education for licensees.
Continuing education is important to ensure that professionals stay current on developments in their field, continue to develop skills and to support lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Most licensed and certified professions require continuing education to maintain credentials.  Continuing education requirements for massage therapists assure the health care and consumer communities that therapists maintain high professional standards and embrace continuous improvement.

General AS Information

NCBTMB does not accredit schools—there are several accreditation agencies that are responsible for the accreditation of schools. An NCBTMB Assigned School Code means that the school has passed NCBTMB’s review process and that students graduating from the school will be eligible to sit for NCBTMB’s Board Certification exam.
A NCBTMB Assigned School is an institution researched and approved by NCBTMB, proving the school is legitimate, operating legally and meets our minimum curriculum requirements of 500 hours of education. NCBTMB Assigned Schools are awarded an Assigned School Code once programs are approved. This code is required for graduates of a school’s massage therapy program(s) to sit for the Board Certification Examination.
An Assigned School Code is a number assigned to a school by NCBTMB. To obtain an assigned school code, the primary contact person for the school must apply. A student or school’s use of this code enables efficient processing of student applications by NCBTMB. A code that has been assigned to a school indicates that the school’s program meets NCBTMB’s requirements, and consequently, that its graduate’s meet NCBTMB’s eligibility requirements relating to educational background.
Students graduating from a school without a NCBTMB Assigned School Code must go through the Portfolio Review process to become eligible to sit for the Board Certification Exam. If you wish to apply to become a NCBTMB Assigned School, create an account on www.ncbtmb.org and submit an Assigned School Application.
Once awarded an Assigned School Code, the renewal requirements differ based on if your institution is Accredited or Non-Accredited:
  • Accredited schools must renew their Assigned School status every five years. There is no cost to renew.
  • Non-Accredited schools must renew their Assigned School status every two years. There is no cost to renew.
To renew your school code:
  • Sign into your existing account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Assigned School information section, click the blue arrow in the Assigned School area.
  • Click blue arrow in the manage application area to access the renewal checklist.
  • Complete and submit renewal.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. Review of renewals takes 4-6 weeks
The fastest way to submit transcripts for your students would be emailing them to transcripts@ncbtmb.org. You may also send them by mail to: NCBTMB 1333 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Ste 200 Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Students graduating from NCBTMB Assigned School Codes have access to a streamlined application process for Board Certification as the school is previously reviewed. Students graduating from a school without an NCBTMB Assigned School Code may be able to complete the NCBTMB Portfolio Review Process. To find out if you or your students may be eligible, call us at 1-800-296-0664 or email us at info@ncbtmb.org. We’ll help you figure out if there is an alternative route to Board Certification for you.
There is no cost to become an NCBTMB Assigned School. It’s FREE!
To request a Duplicate Certificate, you must first login to your NCBTMB account at ncbtmb.org. Once logged in:
  • Click “My Cart” on the left hand side of your profile
  • Click “Store”
  • Click “Duplicate Certificate Request”  (this option will only appear if you are active and not expired)
  • Complete information and submit payment.
To put it simply, we created the NCBTMB Assigned School program to better protect legitimate massage therapy programs, students, educators, and practitioners nationwide. Too often in the past, there were instances of falsification, illegitimacy, and illegal activity associated with massage therapy. We’re changing that. Most importantly, we require a valid NCBTMB Assigned School Code from any student or licensed practitioner who sits for the Board Certification exam. If you have additional questions, please email schooloutreach@ncbtmb.org.

General BC Information

The principals behind creating the requirements for Board Certification are to ensure that Certificants meet NCBTMB’s goal of elevating the profession by recognizing and encouraging excellence in schools, continuing education, therapist competency and high standards. Certification is an advanced credential; as such, the following describes NCBTMB’s rationale for creation of each requirement. Graduation from an NCBTMB Assigned School – NCBTMB reviews all of its schools to ensure they are operating legally within their state.  Additionally, curriculum, instructor qualifications, license to operate, programmatic information and all other information that ensures the program meets NCBTMB requirements are reviewed to guarantee candidates who graduate from these programs have received a complete and proper massage therapy education prior to applying for Board Certification. Passing Score on the Board Certification Exam – The exam is a comprehensive tool that tests advanced knowledge in areas of assessment, applied science, massage modalities, professional communication, professionalism and ethics, and laws and business practices.  Scenarios that could occur in a clinical practice are presented to test candidates’ critical thinking skills. The exam is based on advanced knowledge, so candidates who pass the exam would be able to work at the highest levels within the profession, such as with other health care professionals in a health care facility. Pass a Criminal Background Check – NCBTMB’s Board Certification is the highest voluntary credential in the massage therapy profession. To ensure Board Certificants are held to the highest standards, NCBTMB performs a criminal background check on its certificants during the initial application process and with each renewal. NCBTMB does not deny certification due to minor, non-violent offenses. Verification of Current Massage Therapy State License (If Applicable) – State licensure is the minimal requirement to practice legally in most states. All Board Certificants must already meet entry-level requirements and have begun practicing prior to becoming Board Certified if their state requires licensure. Note that a handful of states currently do not license massage therapy statewide. Agree to Uphold NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics – NCBTMB expects its certificants to uphold its Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics at all times. The Standards of Practice describe the professionalism, legal and ethical behavior, confidentiality, business practices, roles and boundaries, and prevention of sexual misconduct and inappropriate touch a Board Certified massage therapist must demonstrate while working with the public. The Code of Ethics describes NCBTMB’s expectations of Certificants’ behavior to act in a manner that justifies public trust and confidence, enhances the reputation of the profession, and safeguards the interests of individual clients.
As a Board Certified Massage Therapist, your benefits may include:
  • Recognition by third parties and other professions, such as health care
  • Increased credibility and professional reputation among peers and the public
  • Commitment to lifelong learning through continuing education to advance your skills
  • Demonstrated higher level of knowledge and skill with the credentials to back it up
  • Increased opportunities for career advancement
  • Potential for increased earnings with access to higher-level positions
As an added benefit, NCBTMB performs a criminal background check on each of its therapists when they apply and again each time they recertify—reassuring employers and the public they are working with a reputable and trusted massage therapist. As a member of NCBTMB, your benefits include:
  • 30+ College Credits to earn your BAS or AAS Degree
  • Free Website
  • Discounts on products through our Affiliate Program
  • And much more!

Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB) represents the highest attainable credential within the massage therapy and bodywork profession. Board Certification is an advanced credential separate from entry-level massage therapy state licensure.

As Board Certification is voluntary, its achievement represents the highest level of commitment to clients and to the advancement of the massage therapy and bodywork profession. Board Certificants must meet higher standards of education, possess a higher level of critical thinking skills, and pass a rigorous exam. The exam requires candidates to apply assessment skills, orthopedic knowledge, applied science skills (such as pathology, pharmacology, and more), and more to real-life scenarios in an effort to develop treatment plans that achieve positive results.

In addition, all Board Certificants must undergo a routine criminal background check upon initial application and renewal (every two years) as a means of ensuring employers and the public that they are working with a trusted and reputable professional.
Board Certification was created to tier the massage therapy profession, just as you often see in other allied health and medical professions. In 2012, NCBTMB recognized that many massage therapy professionals did not truly know the difference between entry-level licensure and certification. To rectify this problem, NCBTMB had to do two things: 1) Create a Board Certification exam, and 2) Raise its minimal requirements. These changes enable massage therapists to work towards higher certification than just entry-level licensure, as well as mirrors other allied health and medical professions—bringing credibility and validity to our profession.
Licensure is a mandatory, entry level credential required by most states. If you are licensed, it does not necessarily mean you are certified. Board Certification is the highest voluntary credential in the profession today. Achieving Board Certification shows a higher level of commitment to the profession by meeting greater educational and work experience requirements.

General MTAC Information

You may be interested in taking MTAC to gauge your readiness for Board Certification, or simply to know which areas you may be weaker in. That way, you can customize your study time or material to help yourself become more proficient in areas of weakness and increase your chances of a successful attempt on the Board Certification Exam. It also will aide your mental preparation for the Board Certification Exam, as MTAC is similar in content. Even if you do not choose to pursue or apply for Board Certification, such personalized results may encourage you to seek Continuing Education or other learning opportunities to become more proficient in weaker areas.
“MTAC” stands for Massage Therapy Assessment for Certification. The purpose of the MTAC is to provide a personalized assessment of an individual’s strengths and weaknesses in preparation for the Board Certification Exam. Upon completion of the MTAC, an individual is provided with a total percentage score, as well as a percentage score per category. Such a personalized breakdown empowers the individual to determine which areas to improve upon prior to attempting the Board Certification Exam. The assessment also reflects how well the individual has digested and maintained key information learned in core curriculum.
If you choose to pursue Board Certification, your MTAC Background Check will be valid for two years from the date your MTAC Application is approved. If you apply for Board Certification within that two-year timeframe, you will not be required to complete another background check and will avoid that additional fee at the time of application. If you do not pursue Board Certification within the two-year timeframe, you are still welcome to apply at any time, however, you will be required to pay an additional $25 background check fee and complete a background check at the time of application.
Whether you are a new graduate or a seasoned therapist, the MTAC is a valuable tool should you plan to pursue Board Certification or simply want to know where you are with your knowledge and skill set. As the purpose of the MTAC is to provide you with an assessment of your personalized strengths and weaknesses in preparation for the Board Certification Exam, this tool will allow you to see which areas to study/improve upon prior to attempting the Board Certification Exam. The MTAC provides you with a total percentage score, as well as a percentage score per category. Such a personalized breakdown empowers you to determine which areas to improve upon prior to attempting the Board Certification Exam. The assessment also reflects how well you have digested and maintained key information learned in core curriculum. The MTAC is composed of 120 multiple-choice questions and is graded in raw score format. The tool assesses various areas reflective of both the Board Certification Exam and core curriculum, including: Massage Modalities, Techniques and Manual Forces, Applied Science (Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology/Injury, and Pharmacology), Professional Communication, Professionalism and Ethics, Laws and Business Practices, Self Care, and Assessment.
No. MTAC is entirely voluntary (unless part of your school’s curriculum) and simply an assessment created to help candidates identify areas of strength and weakness. If you change you mind about Board Certification or wish to utilize your MTAC results in some other beneficial way, it is completely up to you. Your results are yours to use as you wish.
The MTAC is composed of 120 multiple-choice questions and is graded in raw score format. The tool assesses various areas reflective of both the Board Certification Exam and core curriculum, including: Massage Modalities, Techniques and Manual Forces, Applied Science (Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology/Injury, and Pharmacology), Professional Communication, Professionalism and Ethics, Laws and Business Practices, Self Care, and Assessment. For a full breakdown of the MTAC, click here.
Your background check is valid for two years, should you pursue Board Certification within that timeframe. You will not be required to pay the $25 Background Check Fee upon completing your Initial Board Certification Application as long as you apply/pursue the credential within the two-year timeframe.

How to apply for the MTAC

Once you have logged into your account you can click on the “MTAC Application” link on the left hand side of your dashboard.  If you do not have an account with NCBTMB yet, you will need to register and create a new account. If you are already logged into your account apply here. To register and create a new account click here. To log in to an existing account click here.
The cost of the MTAC is $135, which includes the assessment and a background check (performed by NCBTMB). The background check is valid for two years, should you pursue Board Certification within that timeframe.
Eligibility requirements for the MTAC are as follows:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older; AND
  • Pass a criminal background check (performed by NCBTMB)*
  • And one of the following:
    • Proof of current enrollment or graduation from an NCBTMB Assigned School; OR
    • Proof of current enrollment or graduation from a minimum 500-hour entry level massage therapy program in the US, Canada or US Territories.
*The background check is valid for two-years, should you wish to pursue Board Certification within that timeframe.
The MTAC is available to eligible candidates at all Prometric nationwide testing centers. Detailed information will be provided upon review and approval of your MTAC application. The MTAC is available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin.
The cost of the MTAC is $135, which includes the assessment and a background check. The background check is valid for two years, should an individual pursue Board Certification within that timeframe. As passing a criminal background check is required for Board Certification, completing it along with your MTAC is another means of proving your eligibility to achieve the advanced credential (BCTMB) should you decide to pursue it within the two-year timeframe.

How to become an Approved Provider

To apply to become an NCBTMB Approved Provider, follow the steps listed below:
  • Review the Approved Provider Handbook on the NCBTMB website here prior to applying. After reviewing, reach out to ce@ncbtmb.org if you have questions.
  • Create an account or sign into your existing account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll down to Credentialing Options and Select Apply Now in the Approved Provider area
  • Click sole provider or organization (only organization accounts can have multiple instructors)
  • Complete application wizard and submit.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. Review of applications takes 6-8 weeks.
Once you master a particular modality or subject, the next progressive step is to become a NCBTMB Approved CE Provider. You must have full knowledge of the course you wish to teach, as well as the necessary documentation created before teaching the course, including:
  • Proof of meeting the NCBTMB AP Instructor Qualifications
  • Course title and number of CEs (your title must be clear)
  • Course description
  • Learning objectives & outcomes
  • Course outline
Before submitting an application to NCBTMB for approval, you must have taught the course at least one time within the last year to a group of five or more participants. You must provide the participants with an evaluation requesting feedback on the course, instruction, and material. You may retrieve an evaluation form in the Approved Provider Handbook and Tools section on the webpage  here. Once the AP and course have been approved, Certificate of Achievement (home study courses or courses which require a passing score on an exam upon completion) or a Certificate of Completion (live courses which simply require full participation) may be retroactively given to participants who have completed the course in the past year (365 days) from the date of approval. Course Description: Your course description should offer an idea of what subject matter is being shared, and how that information is presented while describing a little idea about the environment.  For instance, it should indicate what percentage of the class is lecture based, and what percentage is practice with hands-on.  This should provide an image of what will be taught, the purpose for this course, the projected benefits for learning this subject matter, and how you intend to teach this course. Sample Course Outline: Day 1 – Shoulder Girdle Work = 8 Hours 8:00 – 8:20 Meet and greet, introduction to course and what to expect, students receive class materials 8:20 – 10:00 One-on-one bodywork: Rotator Cuff Muscles, Rhomboids, Trapezius, Levator Scapula, Erector Spinae Group 10:00 – 10:20 Break 10:20 – 12:00 Students switch table time and Group 2 and repeat the techniques taught before break 12:00 – 1:00 Lunch break 1:00 – 2:40 One-on-bodywork: Latissimus Dorsi, Pectorals, Biceps, Deltoid, Triceps, SCM, Splenius Capitis, Suboccipitals 2:40 – 3:00 Break 3:00 – 4:40 Students switch table time and Group 2 practices the techniques taught before break. 4:40 – 5:00 Verbal review of course content, question & answer session. Day 2 – Pelvic Girdle Work =8 Hours 8:00 – 8:20 Meet and greet, introduction to course and what to expect, students receive class materials 8:20 – 10:00 One-on-one bodywork: Iliopsoas, Quadriceps, Iliotibial Tract, Gluteals, Piriformis 10:00 – 10:20 Break 10:20 – 12:00 Students switch table time and repeat the techniques taught before break 12:00 – 1:00 Lunch break 1:00 – 2:40 One-on-bodywork: Hamstrings, Quadratus Lumborum, Adductors, Erector Spinae Group 2:40 – 3:00 Break 3:00 – 4:40 Students switch table time and repeat the techniques taught before break 4:40 – 4:50 Final review, question & answer session. 4:50 – 5:00 Students fill out evaluation forms Learning Objectives and Outcomes:  One (1) Objective should be achieved per one (1) hour of course with one (1) to a few Outcomes for the course. Learning Objectives should be specific, measurable, and achievable take-a-ways or proofs of learning that each participant will be able to expect to gain.  These are not items participants will learn about, but rather things they can do as a result of having learned something new.  Think in terms of action related demonstrations of knowledge. Basically, each learning objective just needs to be something each participant can; list, explain, describe, state, perform, compare, name, define, recognize, identify, choose, implement, assess, evaluate, or demonstrate within the subject matter of the class.  Most times, an hour of discussion or practice could lead to several pieces of information being absorbed, however, we just need one. Learning Objectives and Outcomes Example:  If the first hour of class included discussion about what Lymphatic Shiatsu for Degenerative Disease is, how it is performed, and how it may help benefit people with those conditions, then: It would make sense that each person could:
  • Name a few degenerative diseases which could benefit from Lymphatic Shiatsu
  • List structures of the lymphatic system
  • Explain how Shiatsu applications or pressure is applied
  • Name a few conditions which are contra-indicated for Lymphatic Shiatsu
  • Explain how this application benefits people with degenerative diseases
This would yield 5 learning objectives. Learning Outcomes should be a broader more general accomplishment or take-a-way each participant can do as a result of mastering each of the smaller, more specific learned tasks.  This would look like the following. Each participant will be able to;
  • Demonstrate how to position a person for a lymphatic shiatsu massage
  • Perform a lymphatic shiatsu massage
Please Note: As an Approved CE Provider, each course must be submitted, reviewed, and approved prior to offering NCBTMB continuing education hours.
Go to www.ncbtmb.org and click “Create Account” in the upper left.
Important information for first-time applicants:
  • The Approved Provider Application fee to both apply and renew is $225 (Individuals) and $450 (Organizations and Conference/Tradeshow Providers) for a three-year period.
  • Each separate course submission for an Individual or Organization Approved Provider is $35.
    • Multiple courses that contain information about the same modality and level of understanding, working with different areas of the body are considered the same course.
    • Courses that are taught for different amounts of CEs due to teaching for different venues are considered one course.
    • Tip: Submit the longest version of a class that will be broken into segments to avoid being charged for different courses.
  • The application is equipped to list a primary course and the different courses that may be segmented out of the primary course.
  • Organizations that hold a conference or tradeshow with four or more instructors must submit $100 for the review of the conference or tradeshow.
  • All organizations that only hold conferences or tradeshows will submit $100 for the review of the instructors and courses being taught for the conference/tradeshow.
  • Instructors teaching under Organization status accounts must first be submitted to and approved by NCBTMB prior to teaching and issuing CEs.
Important information regarding new course submissions:
  • Each separate course submission for an Individual or Organization AP is $35.
    • Each course must be submitted, reviewed, and approved prior to offering NCBTMB continuing education hours.
  • There will be an additional $50 per three-year renewal charge associated with Approved Providers that want to be sponsored by NCBTMB to teach New York LMTs.
    • NY will only accept CEs from a CE Provider that NY approves or that is sponsored by an entity that has been approved by the NY Board. NCBTMB is a New York approved Sponsor and will pass this sponsorship to its Approved Providers.
Questions? Contact us at ce@ncbtmb.org or call 1-800-296-0664.

How to become an Assigned School

To become an NCBTMB Assigned School and receive an Assigned School Code, you must meet our minimum 500-hour curriculum requirements in Western based massage therapy education. Non-Accredited Schools: All 500 hours of core curriculum must be live, in class with an instructor present. NCBTMB no longer accepts online learning in core curriculum for Non-Accredited programs. Accredited Schools: NCBTMB will accept a portion of classes via Learning Management System (LMS). Click here for more information. Our 500-hour curriculum requirements:
  • 125 hours of instruction in the body’s systems and anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
  • 200 hours of in-class, supervised hands-on instruction in massage and bodywork assessment, theory and application instruction
  • 40 hours of pathology
  • 10 hours of business and ethics instruction (a minimum of 6 hours in ethics)
  • 125 hours of instruction in an area or related field that theoretically completes your massage program of study
In recognition of the lengthy accreditation process undertaken by Accredited schools, Accredited and Non-Accredited schools are asked to submit different materials. Please Note: All education submitted on the Assigned School Application must meet NCBTMB’s acceptable course content guidelines. In addition, all course content and curriculum must be acceptable within the state the school is located. Applications will be rejected if they list information that NCBTMB does not accept no matter the length of the program.
  • Review the Assigned School Requirements on the NCBTMB website here prior to applying. After reviewing, reach out to ce@ncbtmb.org if you have questions.
  • Create an account or sign into your existing account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll down to Organizational Credential Pathways and Select Apply Now in the Assigned School area
  • Click either accredited or non-accredited depending on your school’s status.
  • Complete application wizard and submit.
  • Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed.
Review of applications takes 6-8 weeks. There is no fee to become an Assigned School. Be sure you meet all required Assigned School curriculum and qualifications.
Go to www.ncbtmb.org and click “Create Account” in the upper left.
Along with meeting our minimum 500-hour curriculum requirements, Accredited schools must also submit the following materials:
  • Completed contact information,
  • Copy of your accreditation approval with expiration date,
  • Copy of a signed, sample transcript for all massage therapy programs your school offers, and
  • A breakdown of the curriculum hours.*
*Note: NCBTMB will accept online curriculum for Accredited schools. Click here for more information. Once the above materials are received, your Assigned School application will be complete. NCBTMB will notify you with your Assigned School Code upon review. It is extremely important to update information with NCBTMB at all times. This is not only to protect students who attend your school, but also to protect the school from people who may try to falsify your documents.
For more information, call us at 1-800-296-0664 M-F, 8am-4:30pm CT, and ask to speak with a school specialist. You may also email us directly at schooloutreach@ncbtmb.org.
The acceptable and unacceptable core curriculum criteria can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
Along with meeting our minimum 500-hour curriculum requirements, Non-Accredited schools must also submit the following materials:
  • Completed contact information and the 20 questions requested in the application,
  • Proof of required business license,
  • Proof of business ownership,
  • Proof of approval to operate an educational institution.
  • List of instructors and their resumes and qualifications,
  • Licenses and credentials of massage therapists (within states that require licensure),
  • Your school’s attendance policy,
  • Your school’s program descriptions with course catalog,
  • Syllabi outlines for each course,
  • Copy of a signed, sample transcript for all massage therapy programs your school offers, and
  • Breakdown of curriculum hours.*
*Note: All 500 hours of core curriculum must be live, in class with an instructor present. NCBTMB no longer accepts online learning in core curriculum for Non-Accredited programs. Once the above materials are received, your Assigned School application will be complete. NCBTMB will notify you with your Assigned School Code upon review. Please update information with NCBTMB at all times. This is not only to protect students who attend your school, but also to protect the school from people who may try to falsify your documents. NCBTMB reserves the right to deny or revoke a school from a voluntary Assigned School Code if the school misrepresents its students, education, or any documentation submitted to NCBTMB.

How to become Board Certified

Yes! NCBTMB’s Portfolio Review process allows applicants like you to demonstrate you have the educational equivalent to the standard eligibility requirements. Click here to consult the Portfolio Review section in the Candidate Handbook for BCETMB. To begin, please login or register at the top of the NCBTMB website or contact us at info@ncbtmb.org.
All Assigned Schools who meet NCBTMB’s requirements have a code they can provide to their students, otherwise known as an Assigned School Code. If you practice in a state without state licensure, you will need your Assigned School Code in order to register and sit for the Board Certification exam.  If you do not know this code, please contact your school’s administration.
You must successfully pass the NCBTMB Board Certification Exam, as well as meet the requirements, to become Board Certified. Also, it’s important to check with your state, or any state you wish to practice in, to verify the appropriate state requirements.
NCBTMB will only accept transcripts with transfer credits from NCBTMB Assigned Schools. Credits listed from schools that are not currently approved by NCBTMB, or have been denied or revoked, will not be accepted by NCBTMB for any of its tests or programs. When accepting transfer credits, the school must ensure that all courses being transferred are completely covered in the courses that are excused by the school. Transferring hours of education without verifying content will not be accepted. A student may attempt to transfer credits from a school that is not approved by NCBTMB; however, when applying for Board Certification, the candidate will have to submit the Portfolio Review Application. NCBTMB will review all education taken.
Go to www.ncbtmb.org and click “Create Account” in the upper left.
Apply for Board Certification entirely online with these simple steps:
  • Create an account at ncbtmb.org
  • In the “Certification” section on your home page, click the “Apply Now” button in the section for the “Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB)”
  • You will then be taken through the application wizard.
  • For more information, click here for the candidate handbook and application checklist.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. That’s it! Contact us at info@ncbtmb.org or by calling 1-800-296-0664 with any questions.
To become Board Certified, you must meet or exceed the following requirements: If you are practicing in a license state:
  • Verification of current massage therapy state license
  • Passing score on the Board Certification Exam
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Agree to uphold NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
If you are practicing in a state without state licensure:
  • Graduation from a NCBTMB Assigned School*
  • Passing score on the Board Certification Exam
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Agree to uphold NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
The cost to apply for Board Certification is $275 *If you did not graduate from a NCBTMB Assigned School, your school is now closed, or you completed international training, you may instead apply for Board Certification via Portfolio Review.  Please access the Board Certification Handbook here. **If submitting a transcript with transfer credits, the original transcript where credits were transferred from must be submitted as well.
The cost to become Board Certified is $275.

How to renew my Board Certification

  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • In the “My Credentials” section on your home page, click the “Report CE” button on the right side.
  • Under the CE progress bars, click on the appropriate CE type you wish to report.
    • Report Approved Provider Course – courses taken through an NCBTMB Approved Provider
    • Report Credit from Accredited College – advanced courses taken through an Accredited College or University
*Please note: you will need to upload documentation of your CE certificate for AP courses or transcript and syllabus for Accredited College/University courses.  Click here for assistance if needed
For renewal requirements, click here.
With the introduction of Board Certification in 2013, NCBTMB revised its renewal cycle to every 2 years due, in large part, to feedback from Certificants and continuous research. As research leads the way to change within the massage therapy and bodywork profession, the Board felt two years was an appropriate timeframe to ensure Certificants remain up-to-date on the latest techniques, sciences, and advances in the profession. Such a change also meant a more cost-effective price point for Certificants, as well as a more realistic, attainable number of required CEs.
When submitting CE courses toward your Board Renewal, keep in mind the following:
  • All courses must be completed within your eligible two-year Renewal period
  • CE cannot be used multiple times within or across renewal periods and cannot be carried over.  (If you renew late, your CE must be dated after your late renewal approval date)
  • All courses must be through an NCBTMB Approved Provider or accredited college or university
  • The course itself must be approved by NCBTMB (the AP being approved is not enough; check with your AP to ensure the course is also approved)
  • You have the correct AP Number and/or Name to enter on your Application
If you are unsure of your eligible two-year Renewal period, or have any questions on a course, contact us.
For renewal requirements, click here.
You can renew your Board Certification entirely online with these simple steps:
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • In the “My Credentials” section on your home page, click the “Certification Details” button on the right side.
  • You will be on your checklist of requirements, at the end of the checklist, click the “Continue” button to go through the steps of your application.
Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed. Fees:
  • Renewal Application Fee: $140
It costs $140 to renew your Board Certification every two years.
NCBTMB Board Certified Massage Therapists are required to seek out and participate in additional continuing education courses to further advance practitioner skills and competencies, strengthen business skills, enhance modality knowledge and professional ethics, and develop a greater depth of advanced knowledge in order to demonstrate higher standards and skills than entry-level, state licensed massage therapists. It has come to the attention of NCBTMB that several Board Certificants are currently taking more advanced courses. Advanced courses and modalities are important to our profession to further elevate practitioners’ knowledge in science, business, and other realms—but may not necessarily be practiced legally without a trained professional present. NCBTMB stands firm that all massage therapists—certified or not—may NOT practice beyond their legal Scope of Practice (as defined by each state/legislation). It is important to note, however, that NCBTMB does encourage massage therapists to further educate themselves in other professions to better understand how to communicate and collaborate with other medical professionals to provide the best possible care for clients. Any massage therapist who wishes to practice other modalities outside of the Massage Therapy Scope of Practice (as defined by each state/legislation) must first attend and successfully graduate from that program. To learn more about what NCBTMB will accept regarding advanced science courses, please click here.
Board Certification is the highest voluntary credential to ensure all of us, as a profession, live up to the same mission. Certification is well known and accepted throughout different medical professions—massage therapy is no different. In fact, Board Certification is now a requirement to work in many health care settings, as well as some high-end spas, across the country. As a Board Certified massage therapist, you prove to other medical professionals (and the public!) that you have obtained higher credentials and are more than just an entry-level massage therapist. Credentials matter. You matter! To renew your Board Certification, please login to the NCBTMB website using your username and password. If you do not remember your username and password, please email info@ncbtmb.org.
NCBTMB reviews all approved CE provider courses. This helps to ensure that the CE courses MTs take will be within NCBTMB’s acceptable content.  Additionally, CE providers must supply their educational and practical background as well as their teaching experience.  It is also necessary for each instructor to hold a practice pilot course for at least 5 individuals, or had prior formal teaching experience.  These processes will also help to procure a highly qualified educator and overall better educational experience. A large percentage of states have NCBTMB written in their CE rules for renewal of licenses.  Massage Therapists like to move around between states, and each state has different educational hourly requirements. So, the NCBTMB approved CE courses may also be applied towards those hourly requirements, if your foundational education needs to be bolstered to obtain licensure in another state. Since many states do require the CE courses to be NCBTMB approved, many MTs rely on the NCBTMB website course listings to find their Approved CE Provider courses. It also ensures that any course you complete with an NCBTMB AP will be accepted towards your Board Certification Renewal. Lastly, all NCBTMB Approved CE Providers agree to uphold the NCBTMB Approved CE Provider Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.   When spending your time, money, and energy to invest in your professional development, it is wise to make that investment with someone who is also committed to go through, and maintain the processes which establish their credibility as a professional educator.

Instructors

This is for Organizations only.
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click “Add Instructor” button in the instructor area.
  • Complete required information and submit.
All instructors teaching NCBTMB approved courses for an organization must be submitted.  There are no fees to add additional instructors to your AP Organization account.
The Approved Provider Instructor Requirements can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.

My Account

Please contact us at info@ncbtmb.org and let us know details of the issue or call us at 1-800-296-0664 M-F, 8am-4:30pm CT.
To change your name on your Individual AP account, please email the following information to info@ncbtmb.org.
  1. Current name
  2. How you wish your name to appear on your account.
  3. Legal documentation showing the name change such as:
    1. Page of divorce decree stating the granting of the name change
    2. Marriage certificate
    3. Other official court documentation.
NCBTMB will not accept naturalization certificates, social security cards, driver’s license or any other form of identification as legal documentation of a name change.
  • There are several ways you can obtain documents to upload some include:
    • Using your scanner and saving to your computer
    • Taking a picture with your mobile device (you can email the document to yourself to save to your computer)
    • Downloading and saving from a website or attachment in an email
  • We recommend saving the document to your desktop for easiest access during the upload process.
  • When you get to a section of the application that requires a document upload, click where it says “Choose File”
  • A box will come up on your computer screen and will show all of your computer’s locations, choose your desktop (or the location where your file is saved), and double click on the file you want to upload.
  • The name of the file will now appear next to the “Choose File” button.
  • Repeat as necessary if multiple documents need to be uploaded.
  • Go to ncbtmb.org and click login
  • Click the forgot password link and enter in your email that was on your previous NCBTMB account.
  • If you have an account in our system, you will receive an email
  • If you do not have an account you will need to create a new account.
Please be aware that the link to reset your password is only good for 15 minutes and then will expire and you will have to repeat the process. If you are unsure of the email address associated to your account, email info@ncbtmb.org or contact us at 1-800-296-0664 M-F, 8am-4:30pm CT.
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org*
  • Click on “My Account” on the left side of your profile.
  • Click on “My Participation”
  • Click the “Request Score Report” button on the scores you wish to have sent.
  • Complete the request and payment.
*Please note: if you have never been Board Certified you will not have an account unless you have already created one in this system. If you have not created an account in this new system, you will need to create an account at www.ncbtmb.orgIf you needed to create an account, there will be an option to complete a request to add your exam result to your account so a report can be ordered. The fee per Score Report is $25.  Please note that not all states will accept the score report if not sent directly from NCBTMB.
You will need to submit proof that you have legally changed the name of your business. Please submit to: ce@ncbtmb.org
All applications will expire within 30 days if left Pending. Incomplete applications (not yet submitted) expire within 30 days when using the “Save & Continue Later” option. You will have the option to “Save & Continue Later” on most NCBTMB Forms. This function allows you to email yourself with a link to continue your application. You must be logged in to your NCBTMB account when accessing this link in the future. Once an application has expired, applicants will have to complete a new application and add all required documentation to the new application. Expired applications are non-refundable.
Go to www.ncbtmb.org and click “Create Account” in the upper left.
To change your name on your NCBTMB account, please email the following information to info@ncbtmb.org.
  1. Current name
  2. How you wish your name to appear on your account.
  3. Legal documentation showing the name change such as:
    1. Page of divorce decree stating the granting of the name change
    2. Marriage certificate
    3. Other official court documentation.
NCBTMB will not accept naturalization certificates, social security cards, driver’s license or any other form of identification as legal documentation of a name change.
NCBTMB offers a Directory on its website for locating Approved Providers and their courses.  This service allows certificants the opportunity to locate Approved Providers and their courses.  

NCBTMB Policies

Click here to review NCBTMB’s refund policy.  
Click here for information about filing a complaint about a therapist, approved provider, or assigned school.
Click here to review NCBTMB’s Privacy Policy.
Click here to review NCBTMB’s Criminal Conviction Policy

New York Sponsorship

The New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions, has instituted requirements for continuing education (CE) and CE instructors. New York will only recognize CE from sponsors or instructors who are sponsored by an approved entity. NCBTMB is pleased to be an approved sponsor for continuing education in New York. If you wish to be sponsored by NCBTMB and are not a current Approved Continuing Education Provider, please click “Register” at the top of this page to create an account. Complete the “Approved Provider Initial Application” and the “NY Sponsorship Application”. If you are a current NCBTMB Approved Provider, please login to your account and complete the “NY Sponsorship Application”. If you do not yet have a username and password, please email info@ncbtmb.org. For any additional questions, please call 1-800-296-0664 or email ce@ncbtmb.org.
You can download the New York Agreement and Sponsorship form in the handbook & tools section of this page.
The New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions, has specific requirements for continuing education (CE) and CE instructors. New York will only recognize CE from sponsors or instructors who are sponsored by an approved entity. You can submit your application to become a New York sponsored instructor when you become an NCBTMB Approved Provider. You must be a current Approved Provider to become sponsored to teach continuing education for New York licensed massage therapists.  You may submit an application with your Initial Approved Provider application.
  • Please note: only current Approved Providers can apply for NY sponsorship.
  • Review the New York sponsorship agreement on the NCBTMB website here prior to applying. After reviewing, reach out to ce@ncbtmb.org if you have questions.
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click apply for NY Sponsorship at the top right of the screen.
  • Complete application and submit.
  • Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed.
Questions? Email ce@ncbtmb.org or call 1-800-296-0664 M-F, 8am-4:30pm CT and ask to speak with an AP Specialist.

Online Practice Exam

Several affordable pricing options are available:
  • $29.97 for one-month subscription
  • $49.97 for three-month subscription
  • $79.97 for six-month subscription
To purchase the Online Practice Exam, click here. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
Please purchase the Online Practice Exam by visiting our partner, TestRun, and registering at the following link: https://testrun.com/NCBTMB. If you are first-time user, please click the “Register” button and follow the appropriate instructions. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
Once you complete your subscription purchase, you are given direct access to login.  You will also receive an email with subscription/login information. You can access the Online Practice Exam at https://testrun.com/NCBTMB. The Online Practice Exam is available 24/7, 365 days a year—so you can practice on your own time and at your own pace. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
Yes. Please visit https://testrun.com/NCBTMB and click “Register.” Follow the appropriate instructions to purchase your desired subscription. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
Purchasing the Online Practice Exam is only one, voluntary step towards best preparing yourself for your entry level licensing exam or Board Certification exam. Here’s a few tips on how you can make the most of your study time with the Online Practice Exam:
  • Keep books near you. Look up terms you don’t understand rather than skipping over them.
  • Don’t just memorize questions and answers—truly work on understanding the concepts so you can apply your new knowledge to other relevant exam questions.
  • Don’t skip over words or terminology you don’t know. Look them up.
Most importantly: There are no tools that guarantee that you will pass any test. This tool will show you similar questions and answers that will be on entry level licensure exams and the Board Certification exam. Understanding the terminology on the tests and how the exam questions are written will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to pass a test. As stated above, you must understand every word and digest the material.
Custom designed by massage therapy educators to provide students, teachers and administrators an innovative one-stop exam prep resource, the Online Practice Exam is a voluntary study tool created by NCBTMB. Better yet, the Online Practice Exam contains Level 1 questions that will help you to prepare for any entry-level licensing examination. Level 2 questions will best prepare you for the Board Certification (BCETMB) exam. Click here to purchase the Online Practice Exam. Please note: Use of this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
In short, it all depends on your learning style. From the day you sign up to take the NCBTMB Board Certification exam, you have three months to take the exam. That may be the perfect opportunity to purchase a three-month subscription. Ask yourself what will be best for you and make your decision based on that. There is no right or wrong time to purchase the Online Practice Exam. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary product. Use of this product does not guarantee a passing exam score.
Need help? Contact our Customer Service Team at 1-800-296-0664 or email us at info@ncbtmb.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
NCBTMB’s Online Practice Exam was custom designed by a dedicated group of massage therapy educators to assist students, teachers, and administrators in preparation for Board Certification, as well as entry level licensing exams. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
The Online Practice Exam is a voluntary study tool to help you prepare for your both entry-level state licensure exam, as well as the Board Certification exam. The Online Practice Exam was designed with students, teachers, and current practitioners in mind. Depending on your use of the Online Practice Exam, you may experience various benefits. A few benefits of NCBTMB’s Online Practice Exam:
  • Over 2,600 practice exam questions custom designed by expert leaders throughout the massage and bodywork profession.
  • Realistic exam questions from each of the relevant exam categories.
  • Detailed, personalized reports to help you analyze your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Peace of mind and a feeling of preparedness when sitting for a licensure or NCBTMB’s Board Certification exam.
Student Benefits:
  • Gain affordable access to thousands of entry-level questions that will prepare you for any entry-level licensure examination, as well as the BCETMB.
  • Save on costs with discounted rates when your school purchases subscriptions in bulk.
  • Practice with questions that are similar to those on the actual examinations.
  • Compare scores of your last three practice exams to see how you have improved.
Instructor Benefits:
  • Get customizable testing and automated scoring.
  • Receive valuable real-time assessments of student performance.
  • See improvement on overall student performance.
  • Deep discounted savings when your school purchases subscriptions in bulk.
Please note: Use of this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
The Online Practice Exam consists of over 2,600 practice exam questions designed by expert massage therapy educators throughout the profession. Additionally, the Online Practice Exam contains specific and realistic exam questions from each of the relevant exam categories you need to know for any entry-level licensing exam, as well as for the Board Certification exam. Please note: The OPE is a voluntary tool. Using this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
NCBTMB’s Online Practice Exam is a voluntary study tool for the Board Certification Exam with over 2,000 practice exams. Please note: Use of this tool does not guarantee a passing exam score.
While NCBTMB’s Online Practice Exam is a voluntary tool meant to help prepare you for the exam, use of this product does not guarantee a passing exam score. Additionally, it is far more important to understand the meaning behind the questions and answers—simply memorizing answers will not provide an adequate exam score or deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Tips/Tools for APs

Only the City, State, and Zip Code will appear along with a link to your website (if included).  We will not include your phone or email.
  • To view your directory listing please click here
    • Select Approved CE Providers
    • Enter in the search criteria to view your listing as it appears publicly.
  • To edit your directory listing
    • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
    • Click “My Organizations” on the left hand side
    • Select the Organization you want to update to expand the menu
    • Select “Approved Provider”
    • Click the pencil icon in the upper right
    • Enter in your company’s information and click save
  • To opt in/out of the directory listings
    • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
    • Click “My Organizations” on the left hand side
    • Select the Organization you want to opt in/out of the directory to expand the menu
    • Select “Approved Provider”
    • Click the “Directory Opt-Out” icon
    • Check the box in the “Public Directory Opt-Out” section to opt out or uncheck the box to opt back in
    • Click save.
Registration, Cancellation, and Refund PoliciesAll Approved Providers are required to have written policies regarding the registration, cancellation, and refund of courses. The policy should  be accessible, easy to understand  and include:
  • How participants register
  • Deadlines for registration
  • Payment and fee information
  • Cancellation policy
  • Refund policy
Course Material policy: When additional course material is required to teach a course in the form of handouts or books that are written by other authors, the material must be properly cited and books must be purchased for each student attending the course. It is the responsibility of the Approved Provider to follow all copyright laws. Educational facility policiesFacilities where courses are held must be clean andhave access to bathrooms. In addition, classrooms for each course must have sufficient space for all attendees, class materials (i.e. massage tables) and other equipment. Maintaining Records:  NCBTMB requires that all certificates, class rosters and student attendance records be kept for six (6) years Records must be kept in a secure environment, whether electronic or paper copy. The Approved Provider must be able to supply any person who has taken a course with additional certificates or transcripts within six (6) years of completing the course. Promotional Policy: All promotional materials must include the following information:
  • Clearly identify which course offering(s) will be accepted by NCBTMB as continuing education
  • Date(s), time(s) and location(s) of course offering(s)
  • Cost of the course offering(s)
  • The number of CE hours for course offering(s)
  • Prerequisites (if applicable)
  • Name of the person teaching the course(s)
    • If the Approved Provider is an organization, the name of the organization and the instructor that will be teaching the course must be listed
No. Approved Providers must contact NCBTMB at ce@ncbtmb.org or by calling 1-800-296-0664 to inform us that the Approved Provider organization has been sold.    
You can access your NCBTMB account details at any time by logging in to your NCBTMB Account at ncbtmb.org The email address on file with NCBTMB is your username.
NCBTMB’s AP logo can be found by logging into your account and going to the “Tools” quick link on the left hand side of your profile. To utilize NCBTMB’s certificate or transcript templates, please contact ce@ncbtmb.org to request the link to download. Evaluations and other helpful documents can be downloaded on the Requirements and Resources page by clicking here.  
No. Each state can set its own parameters for the continuing education of their licensed professionals. Each Approved Provider must check with state licensing boards to ensure they are in compliance.
The Approved Provider Standards of Practice, Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
Certificates of Completion: A Certificate of Completion is given when participants attend a live course or broadcast of a live course. AP must verify full attendance of all participants prior to issuing certificates.  Certificates may not be given for partial credit. Certificates of Achievement: A Certificate of Achievement is given for home study and asynchronous distance learning courses for which participants are required to  pass a test (written or practical) at the end of a course.
  • Participant’s name
  • Course title exactly as it appears int he NCBTMB directory*
  • Course completion date
  • Course type (Live, Home Study or Webinar)
    • Recorded webinars are considered home study courses
  • The Provider’s address or email address
  • NCBTMB Approved Provider number
  • Number of Continuing Education hours for which course is approved.  Certificates with hours that differ from those approved will be rejected by NCBTMB and by state boards.*
    • Must be listed as CEs, not CEUs
  • The Approved Provider’s Name as listed on the AP account.
  • Signature of the Approved Provider
*NCBTMB can only accept certificates with course title as approved and corresponding CE hours as approved.  This is a requirement of both NCBTMB’s accreditation with NCCA and our agreements with several state boards to serve as a resource for their audit processes.
  • Participant transcripts must be made available for all participants upon request. Transcripts are a cumulative record of all courses taken by a specific participant. Transcripts should display at lease six (6) years of course information.  For schools, the administration and maintenance of continuing education participant transcripts and other education records are stored separately from the transcripts/educational records of core curriculum students.
  • All participant records are confidential and can only be reproduced by written permission of the participant. All transcript or record requests by participants must be handled in a timely manner.
  • Sign-in sheets do not satisfy the requirements for a participant’s transcripts or records.
If you have questions, email ce@ncbtmb.org  
To request a Duplicate Certificate, you must first login to your NCBTMB account at ncbtmb.org. Once logged in:
  • Click “My Cart” on the left hand side of your profile
  • Click “Store”
  • Click “Duplicate Certificate Request”  (this option will only appear if you are active and not expired)
  • Complete information and submit payment.
NCBTMB requires that all certificates, class rosters and student attendance records be kept for six (6) years Records must be kept in a secure environment, whether electronic or paper copy. The Approved Provider must be able to supply any person who has taken a course with additional certificates or transcripts within six (6) years of completing the course.

Tools for Board Certification

Only the City, State, and Zip Code will appear along with a link to your website (if included).  We will not include your phone or email. You will need to Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • To view your directory listing please click here
    • Select Approved Board Certified Therapists
    • Enter in the search criteria to view your listing as it appears publicly.
  • To edit the website on your directory listing:
    • Click “My Account” on the left side
    • Click “My Contact Info”
    • Review the different sections of your contact information and click “Edit” on the existing information or click “Add..” to add additional information.
    • The information flagged as primary will be the information that appears in the directory.
  • To edit the modalities that you practice and to help consumers find you based on their needs:
    • Click “Edit Profile” in the upper right across from your name
    • Check the “Provided Therapy Categories” that you offer to clients.
    • Click save.
  • To opt in/out of the directory listing:
    • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
    • Click “Edit Profile” in the upper right
    • Check the box in the “Public Directory Opt-Out” section to opt out or uncheck the box to opt back
    • Click save
While NCBTMB actively promotes Board Certification and those who attain it, we strongly encourage you to speak directly with your clients about the definition and the importance of Board Certification. Not only will it help to strengthen the relationships you have with your clients, but also confirms to your clients that they are receiving the safest, most advanced, and ethical care available. Together, the more we educate the general public about the value of Board Certification, the further we will together elevate the entire massage therapy and bodywork profession. Credentials matter. Let’s give them some meaning.
NCBTMB is proud to partner with Siena Heights University to award college credits with proof of current Board Certification. This educational institution has assessed the Board Certification credential and agreed to award 30 or more college credits towards the respective degrees offered at their premier institution.

EARN YOUR BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE IN MASSAGE THERAPY

Exclusively for Board Certificants, Siena Heights University in Adrian, MI awards 30+ college credits toward the 120 total credits required to achieve this degree. Courses available on campus and online. BAS Degree candidates ordinarily have 60 credits before beginning with Siena Heights. Learn more about this degree program.
Yes. Our Candidate Handbook contains all the information you need to know about NCBTMB, certification, the Board Certification exam, costs, how to register for your exam, how to retrieve exam score information, and much more. Click here for the most recent version of the Candidate Handbook.
Per the NCBTMB Standards of Practice (which all BCTMBs agree to uphold upon application and renewal), it states as follows: Standard III(d): Securely retain client files for a minimum period of four (4) years from the termination of the therapeutic relationship; and Standard III(e): Dispose of client files in a secure manner.
  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org*
  • Click on “My Account” on the left side of your profile.
  • Click on “My Participation”
  • Click the “Request Score Report” button on the scores you wish to have sent.
  • Complete the request and payment.
*Please note: if you have never been Board Certified you will not have an account unless you have already created one in this system. If you have not created an account in this new system, you will need to create an account at www.ncbtmb.orgIf you needed to create an account, there will be an option to complete a request to add your exam result to your account so a report can be ordered. The fee per Score Report is $25.  Please note that not all states will accept the score report if not sent directly from NCBTMB.
Once you are Board Certified, please use the credential BCTMB after your name on all business cards, websites, social media accounts, etc. It is important to know that if your certification expires, you are no longer eligible to use the BCTMB credential (Board Certification renewal is every 2 years, for renewal requirements, click here.)
To request a Duplicate Certificate, you must first login to your NCBTMB account at ncbtmb.org. Once logged in:
  • Click “My Cart” on the left hand side of your profile
  • Click “Store”
  • Click “Duplicate Certificate Request”  (this option will only appear if you are active and not expired)
  • Complete information and submit payment.