The kink stops here

From Social Security to massage therapy

By Karen Tina Harrison | Special to amNewYork

July 9, 2007

Lawrence May. (Photo by James Rothermel / July 8, 2007)

The Big Career Switch: From Social Security bureaucrat to massage therapist

Who Pulled It Off: Lawrence May, 55

What He Does: May is a licensed massage therapist who works at Clay Spa at 25 W. 14th St.

What He Used To Do: May worked for the Social Security Administration, helping Queens residents get their benefits.

Why He Switched: "It became too frustrating to work for a government agency whose funding was being strangled," he says. "Massage attracted me because I've been a dancer my whole life, and I know that people can maintain their physical vitality."

How He Did It: "I went part-time on my job and enrolled at the Swedish Institute. I studied Reiki, Swedish and shiatsu massage plus reflexology. I got licensed in '02, but I like to keep learning and taking classes."

What A Massage Therapist Does: "You can have your own practice or work at a place like Clay Spa," explains May. "Clay books my appointments. I have many regulars and sometimes go to their apartments. Sessions are usually an hour. Massage can ease a lot of complaints including stress, fatigue, pain, headaches, arthritis and sports injuries."

Who Does This Job Best: "A massage therapist needs physical strength and 'good hands' that can sense and get into the problem," May says. "All healing professions require more than technique. You need heart. And if you're self-employed, you need marketing and financial skills."

How's The Dough? "You can't overwork yourself; 25 hours a week is the limit. But there are plenty of jobs for good people. In-demand massage therapists can make 75K a year in salary and tips, with good benefits."

What About Perks? "The work can be very uplifting. I feel privileged to earn my living helping others heal," says May. "Massage therapists have flexible schedules and time to pursue other passions. I take dance classes and am very active in the Buddhist community."

What Else You Should Know: "No matter how much money massage clients do or don't have, they all have the same basic human need to be nurtured."

For More Information: www.insideclay.com, 212-206-9200