NY Massage Therapy License

What does on need to do to obtain a license in NY to practice massage therapy? You can find the answer here. You actually have to know a few things.

Course in anatomy, physiology, neurology, myology or kinesiology, pathology, hygiene, first aid, CPR, infection control procedures, the chemical ingredients of products that are used and their effects, as well as the theory, technique and practice of both oriental and western massage/bodywork therapy.

This is to be done in not less than 1000 hours of coursework. Yes, 1000 hours of coursework. Then you need to pass a State exam. A license gives you the authority to practice massage therapy at upwards of $50/hour to provide a service that can actually be physically helpful.

Now ask yourself, what does one need to do in NY state to practice Reiki? Nothing. (Don't know about Reiki? Then go here to learn more) You go to someplace like here and become "attuned" to practice reiki. Then, New York state pretty much allows you to hang out a shingle and offer your "reiki treatments" at upwards of $50 per session (probably more) for a service that does absolutely nothing.

What is wrong with this picture?

A few days ago I got to meet with a representative of the NY State Attorney General's office and I asked him the same questions. The NY State Attorney General's office claims to be concerned with consumer issues. They don't particulary care for consumers being ripped off. The AG representative promised me he would look into the matter. I've got his card so I won't let him forget.