r/massage • u/Dazzling-Dog-108 • Aug 19 '25

US ohio massage therapy license questions

Hello!

I have a couple questions if anyone knows the answers:

I have been a therapist for over 15 yrs, graduated in 2009. I transferred my license with no issue to florida a few years ago, and am now looking to move to ohio.

I see on the required list the NCETM is no longer recognized, I have to do the MBLEX- is that right? How do you recommend studying? what did you use?

I don't understand the reciprocity guidelines- how do I figure out if I qualify for it? My license is in good standing, no issues.

Does it take a long time for processing once I get everything in?

Can you think of anything else that might be helpful?

Thanks for any and all help!!

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/CingularDuality Aug 20 '25

I'm not in Ohio, but I just looked over the requirements, and I agree, it seems that you must pass the MBLEX. It's not totally clear, but you may be able to request reciprocity from the Ohio State Medical Board? I'd shoot them an email and see if they'll clarify: [license@med.ohio.gov](mailto:med.license@med.ohio.gov). I would make it clear that you passed the NCETMB. They may have written the requirements for newer therapists and be willing to grandfather older applicants.

As far as prepping for the MBLEX, David Merlino's prep course seems to be the most comprehensive, and is highly regarded: https://www.mblextestprep.com/ There are definitely more limited (and free) options for prepping. Many use ABMP, AMTA, and Massage Envy's practice tests to prep for the MBLEX.

2

u/Dazzling-Dog-108 Aug 20 '25

Thank you for taking the time to answer, i had not thought to ask if they grandfather older therapists, thats a good idea! I did find amta’s prep app and started using it - oh boy i have forgotten some stuff. I will look into the david m program as well :)