The massage therapy industry just hit a major milestone. For the first time ever, the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) has given its endorsement to cannabis-related education for Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs). And the person leading the charge? Julie Bevel, the founder of Spa Pro, who has become the first educator in the U.S. to offer these groundbreaking courses.
A First in the Industry
Until recently, cannabis-related education for LMTs wasn’t even on the table. Submissions for such courses were routinely denied, leaving therapists without proper guidance on how to incorporate CBD massage into their practice. But as demand surged and public perception shifted, the NCBTMB took notice.
Now, Bevel’s Spa Pro is offering two certified courses:
- Endocannabinoid System (2 Continuing Education credits)
- CBD Massage (6 Continuing Education credits)
These courses aren’t just about theory—they provide real, applicable knowledge that therapists can use in their daily work. This shift in certification standards could reshape how cannabis-based therapies are viewed in the wellness industry.
What This Means for Licensed Massage Therapists
For LMTs, this approval is more than just another certification—it’s a door to new opportunities. Clients are actively seeking out CBD-infused treatments, and now therapists can back up their services with proper education and credentials.
One of the key benefits of these courses is understanding the endocannabinoid system, the body’s natural network that interacts with cannabis compounds. With this knowledge, therapists can provide targeted relief for clients dealing with pain, inflammation, and stress.
Additionally, there’s a business angle here. The wellness industry is evolving, and offering CBD massage isn’t just trendy—it’s becoming a legitimate competitive advantage. Therapists who complete these courses will be among the first in the country to offer NCBTMB-endorsed cannabis-based treatments.
Julie Bevel on Breaking New Ground
Julie Bevel isn’t just another educator—she’s a pioneer. Speaking on this achievement, she highlighted what it means for the industry:
“Receiving NCBTMB endorsement for our Endocannabinoid System science class and CBD Massage curriculum is a significant achievement, not just for Spa Pro, but for the industry as a whole. The NCBTMB credentialing process has been incredibly detailed and rigorous, so to be the first in the nation to offer endorsed cannabis education content is a true honor. It reflects the growing demand from clients and for professional education in this area, and we’re proud to lead the charge in shaping how cannabis and massage is integrated in wellness for the future.”
That’s a strong statement about the industry’s future. It’s clear that cannabis-based therapies are here to stay, and education is catching up with demand.
The Future of CBD Massage Education
Now that NCBTMB has set a precedent, more schools and providers may start offering similar courses. This could open up discussions on further standardizing cannabis education in wellness professions.
But for now, Julie Bevel and Spa Pro hold the distinction of being the first to bring NCBTMB-endorsed cannabis education to the massage therapy world. For LMTs looking to expand their skill set, this is an opportunity that’s worth exploring.
David Johnson is a respected writer known for his expertise in crafting compelling articles about cannabis. With a passion for exploring the intersection of cannabis, health, and wellness, he sheds light on the therapeutic properties and potential uses of this versatile plant. David’s in-depth analysis and thought-provoking commentary offer readers a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation, consumption methods, and industry trends.
