To protect the health, safety and welfare of the public and to ensure standards of competency, it is necessary to require licensure of those engaged in the practice of massage therapy. After June 30, 1998, it shall be unlawful for any person not licensed under the provisions of this article to practice massage therapy in this state, or to use the initials LMT, C.M.T., or the words "licensed massage therapist," "masseur," or "masseuse," or any other words or titles which imply or represent that the person, corporation or association is engaging in the practice of massage therapy, or employ any person, not duly licensed, who is engaging in the practice of massage therapy or who is using such words or titles to imply or represent that he or she is engaging in the practice of massage therapy.