Introduction to Massage Therapy
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This is a 72 hour, standalone course integrating 4 segments of our licensing track program. The course is approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and is intended for those who are interested in massage therapy but do not wish to pursue a career as licensed massage therapists.
The course teaches the fundamentals of massage therapy, ethics, and plenty of hands-on practice. At the end of the class students will have a good understanding of massage therapy as a profession, and sufficient skills and knowledge to provide a basic therapeutic massage to friends and family. The class does not lead to employment or licensing, however, it can be used as gateway to our licensing track program. Students must complete the entire 625 hour program and meet the licensing requirement prior to practicing legally in states that require licensure. In the event that students elect to enter our Massage & Bodywork Diploma Program, the hours, academic progress records, and tuition will be applied to that program. Educational and Vocational Objective The objective of the Introduction to Massage Therapy program to provide students with a good understanding of massage therapy as a profession, and sufficient skills and knowledge to provide a basic therapeutic massage to friends and family. Course Content INTRO - Introduction to Key Concepts and Medical Terminology - 10 clock hours Introduction to key concepts surrounding massage therapy, professional development, and human sciences for bodywork. This class is a prerequisite for all other segments of the program. History and benefits of massage, career transitioning concepts, professional conduct, and medical terminology are discussed. Prerequisite: None. MBFND1 - Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage 1 – 48 clock hours In-depth study of the theory and hands-on techniques utilized in Western Therapeutic Massage. This class provides the foundation for the skills utilized throughout the program. Students will learn the science of massage, factors affecting quality of touch, communication and interviewing skills, treatment documentation, draping and positioning the client, use of lubricants and tools, proper body mechanics, client-therapist boundaries, benefits of and contraindications to massage, hydrotherapy, and massage techniques appropriate for a general, wellness massage treatment. By the end of the course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full-body relaxation massage. Prerequisite: INTRO. MBSP - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Specific Populations - 4 clock hours Seated Massage. Students will learn to apply massage techniques to a fully clothed, seated client. Development of an efficient and effective chair massage routine will be explored. Prerequisite: MBFND1 PDE - Ethics – 10 clock hours This class covers the nature of professional ethics, practitioner/client relationship, professionalism, scope of practice, client interaction, sexuality and human relationships, informed consent, and ethical dilemma resolution. Case studies related to professional ethics and the law. Topics include but are not limited to scope of practice, professional boundaries, professional standards, psychological concepts applicable to therapeutic relationships, client communications, and advertising claims. Prerequisite: INTRO. Note: A clock hour is defined as 50 minutes of instruction followed by a 10-minute break. Scheduling Options and Class Schedule The Introduction to Massage Therapy Program is offered two mornings or two evenings per week. The duration of the program is approximately 9 weeks, depending on holidays. Classes start every month. Each new group is limited to 14 students. Call 888-461-0114 to start your exciting journey or attend one of our information sessions. The exact class schedule is available as a supplement to this catalog and is modified from time to time in response to market demand. Tuition and Fees Enrollment takes place after a school tour after admissions criteria have been met. Tuition is presently $895 (classes starting after May 1, 2023 will be at $1,295) and is payable in three installments. In the event that students elect to enter our Massage & Bodywork Diploma Program, the paid Introduction To Massage tuition will be applied to that program. Tuition includes application/registration fee, cost of instruction, ABMP membership and student liability insurance, and lotions for classroom use. Admission Requirements The requirements for admission into the Introductory program are:
(*) In determining “good moral character”, we consider conviction of any crime, whether felony or misdemeanor, or any crime that is directly related to the practice of the profession. Note: admission into the introductory program does not automatically qualify one to enter the Diploma program; the two processes are distinct and separate from each other. Interested in Enrolling? Call our admissions line at 312-757-5059. |
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