Massage Therapy Certification Programs

The Scherer Institute of Natural Healing offers a 700-hour massage therapy certification program. Our rich and distinctive lineage has allowed us to mature and evolve a creative, profound, and practical curriculum. Massage therapy certification courses offer comprehensive and expert training in massage and bodywork that include strong foundations in anatomy and pathophysiology. In addition to the core massage curriculum, we offer courses in energetic and natural healing modalities. Classes in business and ethics prepare students to succeed in the working world, and our student clinic practicum provides invaluable experience in the practical aspects of massage therapy. Within these approaches, we embrace paradigms that honor the whole person and value the inter-relatedness of the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of being. Our students emerge with the skills and professionalism to establish a successful career in the healing arts in a variety of venues.

The Institute offers massage therapy certification programs to fit a variety of schedules. Our full-time program is offered twice a year and is suited to those who wish to attend intensive classes during weekday hours. These students receive their diploma after 6 months of study. The evening and weekend part-time program offered each spring takes 11 months and is designed for people who work during the week. The part-time day program begins in the fall and ends by early summer.

All students may take electives in subjects they are specifically interested in to increase their diploma hours. Those wishing to receive a 1000-hour diploma may continue their education after the 700-hour basic certification program by attending the 300-hour Holistic Medical Massage: An Integrative Approach to Working With Pain.

Core Curriculum:
Healing Quality of Touch
Nurturing Therapeutic Massage
Connective Tissue Bodywork
Anatomy, Kinesiology, Physiology, and Pathophysiology
Introduction to Cranio-Sacral
Introduction to Polarity
Healing Presence and Intuition
Oriental Medicine Theory and Shiatsu
Biological Model of Trauma
Medical Massage
Intro to Oncology Massage
Hydrotherapy
Reflexology and Chair Massage
Self-Care, Communication Skills and Group Building
Business, Professional Development and Ethics
CPR and First Aid
Clinical Hands-on Practicum

Electives:
Herbal Medicine
Flower Essences
Aromatherapy
Naturopathic Principles and Techniques
Pregnancy Massage

View Course Schedule & Tuition Information

My experience after graduating from Dr. Scherer's Institute has been one of total amazement. While in attendance I knew I was receiving an incredibly well rounded and diverse massage training, but once I was out in the real world, it dawned on me the true scope of the gift of knowledge I acquired.

Jennie Mai Bonham, 1984 graduate, Cheyenne, WY

“As a medical student, I can say that I learned as much at Scherer about promoting health as I have in three years of medical school. The faculty and staff have created a respectful, happy, and healthy learning environment that will encourage you to create your own path in massage. You won't regret coming here. “[Adam took a break from his 4th year of medical school to come to Scherer.]

Adam Hunninghake, 2006 graduate, Chicago, IL