Course overview and school policies

School Philosophy

Discover the SŌMA School of Therapeutic Massage, a comprehensive school located in the heart of Traverse City in beautiful Northern Michigan. Our program is designed to equip aspiring Massage Therapists with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the wellness industry. With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on experience and expert instruction, SŌMA provides students with the tools they need to succeed in various therapeutic massage modalities. Join us at SŌMA to begin your journey toward a rewarding career in Massage Therapy.

We are dedicated to nurturing diverse learning styles and developing leaders in the Massage and Bodywork field, continually advancing the standards of practice. Together we will explore the practice of touch, ethics, critical observation, and holistic healing, centered around a strong foundation of anatomical knowledge so we can continue to watch this work nurture and heal our communities.

Our vision and mission are to foster a safe, inclusive learning environment that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity, ensuring that ALL individuals—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, language, religion, age, socio-economic status—feel valued and respected. Our goal is to provide a space where all participants can explore safe touch practices and feel empowered in their own form.

Location

We are located in the beautiful town of Traverse City, MI at 1030 Hastings St Unit 107! The natural beauty of northern Michigan is the perfect setting to inspire you to get excited about a new career in the growing field of bodywork.

Enrollment 

Due to high demand, we suggest you submit your application as early as possible. We will not accept further students once a course is full. 

(10 students) 

Enrollment  Requirements

Applicants must provide proof of one of the following: A high school diploma, and/or GED , or proof you will be attaining one before graduating from this class. 

• Valid photo identification. 

• A completed Enrollment Agreement. Payment for all fees due. 

Therapeutic Massage Program Overview

Hrs: 625 in-class hours

Home study: 30 hours of practice massage

Daytime class: 9:30-2:00 (two per year)

Evening class: 5:00-9:00 (one per year)

Three graduating classes run per calendar year as follows:

Daytime classes: Tuesday-Friday 9:30-1:30 Start date January 2025 and September 2025

Evening classes: Monday-Thursday 5:00p-9:00pStart date May 2025

Our Massage and Bodywork Practitioner Diploma program will prepare you to be successful in the field of massage and bodywork by meeting the requirements to take the MBLEX state licensing exam. Students will learn Swedish relaxation, therapeutic, and advanced and specialized modalities. You will be taught how to assess your clients, create a treatment plan and how to use proper body mechanics for a customized, safe and effective treatment. Our business and marketing management classes are designed to foster creative thinking and equip you with the skills needed to achieve success and reach your desired goals in the field. The individual classes are a combination of hands-on learning and practice, lecture and media presentations with interactive communication and participation. Each course in the program is thoughtfully designed to build upon a strong foundation, enhancing your knowledge and skills as a bodyworker, providing you with the  confidence, tools, and knowledge to graduate our program and pass the MBLEX exam. ​​We are committed to offering structured, dynamic, and adaptable classes that cater to the diverse learning styles and needs of each student.

Course Catalog

Massage History and Theory

An introduction to the history of massage therapy, theory and the techniques used around the world. 

Hours: 5 

Prerequisite: none

Professional Ethics 

This class will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the ethics of touch, both personal and professional, and equip them with the tools to navigate common situational challenges that may arise in the massage industry.  

Hours: 15 

Prerequisite: none

Business practices

This class will explore the distinctions between various business settings, including spas, medical practices, and private practice. It will cover essential business practices such as opening a business, record keeping, income and expense management, and adhering to state and local regulations specific to massage therapy. By the end of the course, students will work towards developing and presenting a sample business plan for the setting of their choice.  

Hours: 15

Prerequisite: none

Anatomy and Physiology 1

This course provides a foundational understanding of the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the human body. It introduces the organization of the body at the chemical, cellular, and tissue levels, covering anatomical planes, terminology for identifying the body, and the major organ systems. Additionally, students will learn about all the bones and key bony landmarks throughout the body. 

Hours: 40 

Prerequisite: none

Anatomy and Physiology 2

This course offers a deeper exploration of the lymphatic, immune, digestive, urinary, respiratory, integumentary, and reproductive systems. It builds upon the knowledge gained in A&P 1, integrating all the information for a more comprehensive understanding of the human body. 

Hours: 40   

Prerequisite: A&P 1

Kinesiology 1

This class introduces  each of the muscles, bony landmarks, joint names, and origin, insertion and action of each muscle in the Head and Neck, Spine and Thorax,  Shoulder, Forearm and Hands, with an emphasis on how the muscles affect the joints through movement. 

Hours: 40

Prerequisite: None

Kinesiology 2

Kinesiology 2 furthers our studies of  each of the muscles, bony landmarks, joint names, and origin, insertion and action of each muscle in the Pelvis and Thigh, and Leg and Foot with an emphasis on how the muscles affect the joints through movement.

Hours: 40

Prerequisite: Kinesiology 1

Pathology and Musculo-skeletal Dysfunction

In this class, students will learn to identify conditions that are contraindications for massage therapy, as well as those that should be referred to other healthcare practitioners for diagnosis or treatment. The course will also cover common conditions and musculoskeletal injuries that bodyworkers are likely to encounter, along with safe and effective massage techniques for addressing these issues.

Hours: 50

Prerequisite: none

Introduction to Massage (basics movements & body mechanics)

This course will provide a general introduction to the various modalities used in massage therapy, while also guiding students to become comfortable with table setup, draping, and passive movement of the client’s body. Emphasis will be placed on developing proper body mechanics and techniques to protect the therapist’s own body.

Hours: 20

Prerequisite: none

Massage Assessment and Application

Building on their anatomical knowledge and the massage modalities learned, students will engage in supervised hands-on practice by trading sessions with each other during class. They will develop skills in conducting postural assessments, performing client intakes, and applying the most appropriate modalities to address each client’s specific needs, all under the guidance of our instructors.

Hours:  250 (daily practice throughout the program)

Prerequisite: none 

Swedish massage techniques and general relaxation

The principles of relaxation on a physical and emotional level are introduced in this class.  The students will learn Swedish massage techniques such as Effleurage, Petrissage, vibrations, Tapotement, frictions, and kneading. They will develop time management skills and learn how to tailor the session to meet expectations of the client. 

Hours:  20

Prerequisite: intro to basic massage

Trigger point and neuromuscular release 

In this course, students will learn the foundations of trigger point therapy, exploring the physiological causes of trigger points (TP), pain referral patterns, and how to identify active trigger points in clients. They will also develop the ability to palpate and effectively treat trigger points as therapists. Additionally, the course will cover Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), teaching students how to use reflexes to facilitate deeper stretches and improve the mobility of soft tissues.

Hours: 10 

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Deep tissue and Myofacial techniques

We will help students to understand the many misconceptions of  “deep tissue massage” by teaching safe, and effective massage practices, while working with the clients tissues not against them.  A deeper understanding of the connective tissues and how to release them will be learned with myofascial release techniques, and students will learn how to feel “how deep is deep enough”, while utilizing elbows, and guided breathwork in conversation with the client. 

Hours: 10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the lymphatic system, including the causes of lymph collection (edema) and the organization of lymphatic tissues as a "watershed" within the body. Through a hands-on approach, students will learn specialized massage techniques that highlight the intricacies of the lymphatic system and how it can be manually influenced to promote fluid movement.

Hours: 10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Prenatal Massage 

Pregnancy is a time of profound tissue transformation and change. In this course, you'll gain the skills and confidence to provide safe, nurturing bodywork for the birther. We'll dive into common pregnancy pain patterns and how to treat them, along with bolstering techniques to keep your client comfortable and safe on the table. Through hands-on practice and an in-depth exploration of prenatal physiology, you'll leave equipped to support your clients through every stage of their pregnancy journey.

Hours: 10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Nervous System Attunement and Energy Work

Here we will introduce the concept of energy, how energy moves, and how we, as therapists, can feel it. Students will be guided on how to ground themselves, interpret body tissue cues, and recognize the subtle signals from the nervous system that indicate how to proceed during a session. Additionally, they will learn to guide clients through breathwork practices and techniques, such as leg or arm shaking, humming, or tapping, to help relax the musculature and promote deeper release.

Hours:  10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Visceral Balancing

The viscera (internal organs of the abdomen) are surrounded by fascia and muscle that helps keep them protected and the body rigid. In this course, we will learn to palpate the abdominal cavity, release the diaphragm, and gently help the intestinal tract move waste.  The student will learn to differentiate between muscle, fascial and organ tissues and balance the core side to side, using gentle release techniques. 

Hours:  10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Special Needs and Chair massage (on-site and event)

In this course, students will learn how to provide massages to clients in a variety of settings and circumstances. This includes offering on-site chair massages and accommodating clients with special needs, such as those in wheelchairs, hospital beds, or requiring side-lying positions and specific bolstering techniques. The course emphasizes adapting massage techniques to ensure comfort and accessibility for all clients, regardless of their physical conditions.

Hours:  10

Prerequisite: Swedish massage and Pathology

Student Clinical Application

In the final eight weeks of the program, students will apply their accumulated knowledge and skills by working with the public in a student-run clinic, under the supervision of an instructor. They will receive real-time feedback and reviews from clients, along with guidance and suggestions from the instructor to help refine their techniques. Services will be offered to the general public for a fee, and while students may be required to assist in recruiting clients for the clinic, they will not be compensated for the services they provide.

Hours:  64

Prerequisite: All courses 

Class Structure, Grading and Graduation Requirements

At SŌMA, we believe that learning should be engaging, inspiring, and as stress-free as possible. We strive to create an open, honest, and communicative environment where we actively discuss each student's learning styles to tailor our approach to presenting information effectively. Weekly check-ins will allow for ongoing dialogue between instructors and students, ensuring that both what is working and what needs adjustment are addressed, keeping all students on track. Each day will be thoughtfully divided into a combination of lectures, incorporating both visual and audio elements, hands-on practice, and interactive activities. These activities will include using anatomy skeletons, building muscles with clay, and drawing exercises, all designed to cater to different learning styles and provide a thorough understanding of the material before progressing.

Written Testing

Scores are calculated using a percentage grading system (the number of correctly answered questions divided by the number of questions on the test). 75% or higher is required for passing.

Practical Testing

Graded on a 1-5 scale moving up or down in 1/4 point increments with 3 being a passing score. The examiner will ask questions and the student will answer to the best of his/ her ability. The student must be able to explain and/or perform to the satisfaction of the examiner. The student may be provided with a copy of the checklist to study for these exams upon request.

Graduation Requirements

• A degree, high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

• 90% attendance.

• Satisfactory participation in each of the classes.

• 75% or better on every class written test and final exam. Each student gets 3 chances on every test.

• 3.0 or better on every class practical and final exam. Each student has two chances for each practical.

• Successful completion and submission by the due date of all make up tests.

• Logged at least 30 hours of home study massage practice hours.

• Completion of all program requirements within 12 months of the starting date. 

• Completion of all clinical hours.

• All fees paid in full.

• Upon satisfactorily meeting all requirements the student will be granted a 625 hour Certificate, with the title, Massage and Bodywork Practitioner

Fees, Tuition and payments:

Application fee: $150 due at time of application (non-refundable)

Registration fee: $2000- due at time of registration

Tuition: $9000 

(this includes all books, resources and equipment costs)

*massage table for personal use not included ** at-cost massage table purchase will be available through our supplier if students want to purchase their own table. Massage table prices range anywhere from $85.00-$700 depending on the model. 

Total program cost: $11,00

625 hours/$11,000= $17.60/hr 

If tuition is paid in full 3 weeks prior to class start date, student will receive a $300 discount

*In-house payment plans available. At SŌMA, we never want cost of the program to deter you.  We will work on a case by case basis to help form a payment agreement that best suits your needs. 

Cancellation/Withdraw/Refund Policy

All students must pay the non-refundable application fee when submitting their application. Upon approval into the school, the student will pay the registration fee, sign the registration agreement, and create and sign a payment agreement if not paying in full. 

Registration fee and Tuition paid by the applicant shall be refunded if requested within 3 business days after signing a registration and payment agreement with the school.

After three business days there are no refunds.

All refunds shall be returned within 30 days. If the student is expelled at any time of the program due to not following school policies as outlined below, there will be no refunds.

School Policies

Dress code

Student attire should be casual/professional and allow for freedom to perform the work needed in class. Shorts may be worn during the warmer periods of the year. At SŌMA we trust you to know what is appropriate to wear in a school setting. Please be considerate of others in the class, and don't wear clothing with any offensive words, or sayings.

During student clinic (last 8 weeks of class) all students must wear all black professional clothing, long or short sleeves, long pants, with closed toed shoes.

Hair longer than shoulder length must be tied back while working on students and the public. 

Please, NO SCENTED DEODORANTS OR PERFUMES/COLOGNES are to be worn by the students. We are in a learning environment committed to the comfort of ALL students. 

Jewelry is to be kept to a minimum. The less you have to remove for practical application the better. No rings or bracelets can be worn during practical applications. Any necklaces should not be long enough to swing out and make contact with your client. 

Attendance

Students are required to maintain a projected 90% attendance record throughout the program. Failure to meet this requirement may result in dismissal from the program. Attendance is taken seriously because missing classes makes it difficult to keep up with the material. Students are responsible for signing in and out each day, and failure to do so will result in being marked absent for that section, forfeiting those scheduled hours.

If a student's attendance falls below the 90% threshold, the instructor reserves the right to assess the missed material and determine appropriate options for making up the time. Remedies may include attending additional classes on an alternate schedule. The student will have 60 days, or until the end of the course, to improve their projected attendance to at least 90%. If this requirement is not met within the allotted time, the student will be expelled from the program without a refund, and any outstanding tuition or fees will become due in full immediately.

Review and Testing dates are mandatory and require a 100% attendance 

Please be on time to class.  Any information covered will not be re-addressed for anyone who arrives late. Missed class time starts after the first 15 minutes. Tardiness will count toward your class time missed, so it's to your benefit to arrive on time.

Emergencies:

Students who are unable to attend a scheduled class or need to leave during a class due to an emergency or illness must notify the school owners of the missed class time. Excused absences will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. We understand that life can be unpredictable, and personal or family circumstances may arise. Our approach will always be one of understanding, taking into account each student's unique situation.

Requests for excused absences must be made in writing and given to the school owners at least 1 week in advance, and will be considered on an individual basis.

Leave of Absence:

Each program allows students 24 months from the first day of scheduled class time to complete the program IF leave from the program is requested and approved. In this situation the tuition will be forwarded to the next program the student re-enters. The request must be in writing and each circumstance will be considered on an individual basis. We will do our best to accommodate each student with their needs. Students granted a leave of absence, who are unable to complete classes within 24 months of the original enrollment, will need to re-enroll and will be subject to the current tuition fees at that time. The student may apply for Previous Education and/ or Training Credits for classes they passed.

Cell Phone Policy

In the classroom, cell phones must either be turned off or set to airplane mode and kept out of sight. If an emergency arises, students must notify the instructor and may then leave the classroom to make any necessary contact. Only the instructor will have their cell phone active for students calling in late or absent, as well as to manage any emergency situations.

Student Conduct:

We have Zero tolerance for discrimination. At SŌMA it is our vision and mission to create a safe learning environment for ALL bodies regardless of race, color, sex, language, religion, age, sexual orientation,  gender identity, or economic and social situation.  We aim to make this a space for ALL bodies to explore safe touch practices and to feel empowered in their form. 

In order to preserve the proper learning environment, we have the following conduct policies:

•  Students are expected to practice common courtesy and be respectful of fellow students’ boundaries.

• Students are required to practice proper hygiene.

• No eating during class time.

• Please bring your own hydration to class in a non-breakable container, with a lid.

•  Soliciting of fellow students or clinical volunteers for products or services is not allowed.

•  All cell phones must be turned off during class time.

• Students should refrain from drinking alcohol on class days and clinicals; any student whose clothing or breath has remnants of alcohol or drug usage will be asked to leave.

• Students shall not bring alcohol or illegal drugs to class or clinical settings. Students who bring alcohol or illegal drugs into the Institute shall be immediately and permanently dismissed.

• Students shall not bring weapons into the school. Students who bring weapons into the school shall be immediately and permanently dismissed.

• Cheating on tests or solicitation of answers from other students shall be grounds for immediate expulsion.

Except in cases involving weapons, drug offenses, or other extreme situations, a student will first receive a verbal warning for any inappropriate behavior. If the issue is not resolved, the student will then be issued a written warning outlining the offense, the required correction, and the consequences if the behavior is not corrected. If a student is dismissed for misconduct, all tuition will be forfeited.