Complete Massage Therapy Training in Three Years

"This Massage Therapy program is a three year offering that takes the students from beginning stages of performing massage therapy," says Laurie Copeland, a faculty member at Centennial College's Massage Therapy Training. "It includes anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, neuroanatomy, neuropathology and leads right into sports injuries, orthopedic injuries. Because we are pretty much self-employed once we get our license, the employment rate is 100 per cent. Other than that, studies or follow-ups of our grads have shown that they have secured some form of employment."

While Laurie does an excellent job of providing an overview of the Message Therapy program, let's take a closer look at specific details. Those who are interested in applying, must have completed at least an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. They must also have finished the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent; Biology 11C, M or U, or 12C, M or U or equivalent and one of the following sciences: 11C, M or U, or 12 C, M or U Chemistry or Physics, or Exercise Science or equivalent. After receiving an offer of admission, students will receive a document to be completed by a doctor or a nurse who will confirm that the student meets the health requirements of legislated acts, ministry guidelines and agency policies.

Once they enter the Massage Therapy training, students will discover that the focus is on the assessment and hands-on treatment of the muscles, fascia and joints of the body to improve or maintain optimal physical health, function and mobility. As a result, students learn and implement a variety of techniques including: Swedish massage, facial and rhythmic techniques, trigger point therapy, remedial exercise, stretching techniques, wax baths, whirlpools and steam cabinets. In addition to courses such as Nutrition and Lifestyle Practices, Therapeutic Relationships, Fitness and Remedial Exercises, Issues & Research Literacy in Massage Therapy, students also obtain hands-on learning in an on-site Massage Therapy Clinic. In this clinic, students interact directly with clients who come with a wide range of complaints while having the guidance and support of an experienced Registered Massage Therapist faculty member.

Qualified graduates of the Massage Therapy training may write the registration examinations administered by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario to qualify for Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) designation. Upon graduation, students are prepared to: consult patients about their medical histories and any stress or pain-related problems to determine whether massage would be helpful; develop treatments that specify which types of massages are to be used, as there are many modules; assess clients' soft tissue condition, joint quality and function, muscle strength and range of motion; implement a variety of techniques including; maintain treatment records and consult with other health care professionals such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, physicians and psychologists in order to develop further treatment plans for the client.