Approved Provider FAQs

Approved Provider Courses/Conferences

• What is acceptable and unacceptable Course Criteria?

  The acceptable and unacceptable course criteria can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
• How do I add a new conference or tradeshow?

  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.
• Will NCBTMB accept CPR for CE hours?

  No. First Aid and CPR courses do not represent advanced content and are not accepted for continuing education.
• What are NCBTMB’s guidelines for home study courses?

  Home Study course guidelines can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
• What are NCBTMB’s guidelines for Live Courses and/or Distance Learning?

  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.
• What is a CE hour?

  Continuing education hours (CEs): CEs are calculated based on the content presented in a course. Approved providers must provide documentation to support the 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 instruction 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 coursework 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. The instructional designer must provide documentation of the assignment of CE hours. Contact NCBTMB staff for additional information at ce@ncbtmb.org.
• Are courses that promote a product acceptable?

  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.
• How do I add a new course to my account?

  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.

Approved Provider General Information

• What is a NCBTMB Board Approved Continuing Education Provider?

  An 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.
• What are the AP Application and Course Submission Fees?

  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 $450 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.
• What is the NCBTMB Approved Provider Program?

  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.
• What is the purpose of Continuing Education?

  Continuing education is important to ensure that professionals stay current on developments in their field, continue to develop skills, and 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 healthcare and consumer communities that therapists maintain high professional standards and embrace continuous improvement.
• How do I renew my Approved Provider status?

  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.
• What are the types of Approved Provider?

  • Individual: An individual is defined as one instructor teaching courses. Instructors 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.
• What is the value of being a NCBTMB Approved Provider?

  • 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.
• How do I upgrade my AP from an individual to an organization?

  Please contact us at ce@ncbtmb.org
• How do I change my name as an individual AP?

  To change your name on your Individual AP account, please email the following information to info@ncbtmb.org.

  1. Current name
  2. How do 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.
• How do I change the name of my Approved Provider Organization?

  You will need to submit proof that you have legally changed the name of your business. Please submit to: ce@ncbtmb.org

How to Become an Approved Provider

• What are the requirements to become an Approved Provider?

  Once you master a particular modality or subject, the next progressive step is to become an 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.
• How do I apply 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.
• How do I create an account with NCBTMB

  Go to www.ncbtmb.org and click “Create Account” in the upper left.

Approved Provider Instructors

• What are the instructor requirements to become an Approved Provider?

  The Approved Provider Instructor Requirements can be found in the Approved Provider Handbook, downloadable in the Approved Provider Handbook & Tools section here.
• How do I add instructors to my AP account?

  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.

Approved Provider New York Sponsorship

• What does it mean that NCBTMB is an Approved New York Sponsor for continuing education?

  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.
• Where can I download the New York Agreement and Sponsorship form?

  You can download the New York Agreement and Sponsorship form in the handbook & tools section of this page.
• How do I apply for New York Sponsorship?

  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.
• How do I upload a roster for New York Sponsored courses?

  Please email rosters to nsponsor@ncbtmb.org.
• How do I get a certificate for a class taken with an NCBTMB New York sponsored Approved Provider?

  For New York certificate inquiries, click here.

Approved Provider Tips/Tools

• How do I upload a roster?

  • Log into your account at ncbtmb.org
  • Scroll to the Approved Provider information section, click the blue arrow in the “Course Provider” area.
  • Click “Import Roster” button in the course import roster area to access new course submission.
  • Complete template roster and save as a csv file
  • Click choose document button in upload area. Select saved csv file. Click Import.
  • Note: It is required to upload documents to this website during this process.  Click here for assistance if needed.
• What policies are Approved Providers required to have in place?

  Registration, Cancellation, and Refund Policies: All 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 policies: Facilities, where courses are held, must be clean and have 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
• Once I am an Approved Provider, can I offer classes in any state?

  No. Each state can set its own parameters for the continuing education of its licensed professionals. Each Approved Provider must check with state licensing boards to ensure they are in compliance.
• Which type of certificates should I give to participants once a course is completed?

  Certificates of Completion: A Certificate of Completion is given when participants attend a live course or broadcast of a live course. AP must verify the 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.
• What information do my certificates need to display?

  • Participant’s name
  • Course title exactly as it appears in the 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 titles 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.
• What are transcripts and what information should they display?

  • 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 least 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
• What are NCBTMB’s requirements for retaining student 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.
• Will my Approved Provider number transfer if I sell my company?

  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.
• Where can I find an example of certificates, transcripts, evaluations and, the Approved Provider logo and other AP documents?

  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.
• How can I access my NCBTMB AP Account?

  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.
• How do I request a Duplicate Certificate?

  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.
• What Standards do Approved Providers adhere to?

  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.
• How can I view or edit my AP Directory Listing?

  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.