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Transform Your Career with Holistic Massage & Reflexology Training

SOHMAR is approved by both the Illinois State Board of Higher Education (Private-Vocational Schools) and our CE course taught by Michael is approved by The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). All CE courses meet the standards set by the ISBE and NCBTMB

Change Your Career, Change Your Life

Start a rewarding career in holistic wellness with The School of Holistic Massage and Reflexology (SOHMAR). Located in Downers Grove, Illinois, our school offers expert-led training in natural massage techniques and reflexology designed to help the body heal itself.
Our programs are ideal for career changers, displaced workers, and those seeking comprehensive healing arts education. Small class sizes and hands-on instruction ensure a quality learning experience.
Learn More About Sohmar

See what our students are saying...

The G. profile picture
The G.
08:58 04 Nov 25
Fantastic opportunity to train for massage Theraphy certification at your own pace, three times per week . Classes are offered in the morning and evening and completion is determined by the accumulation of 700 hours of
Schooling which qualifies you for the Massage and Body Work Examination- MBLEX exam.The clinic part of the program starts after three months from start and is done in private rooms not with all students present in one room.One star off because not all students get to work with both instructors.
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Sergio L. profile picture
Sergio L.
23:04 27 Oct 25
There was a moment when I wasn’t sure what to say about this program. I didn’t want it to sound like I was just kissing anyone’s ass but the truth is, this program changed me. It made me more empathetic, more aware, and showed me that massage therapy reaches far beyond the physical.

In today’s world, the power of human touch is often overlooked. But this program reminded me that touch can heal in ways we don’t always see — in the mind, the heart, and the spirit.

It had its characters, like any program does, but through it all I found peers I respected and learned from, and instructors who cared just as much about helping the soul as they did the body. They taught me that sometimes healing comes from slowing down, listening, and simply feeling.

Since graduating, I’ve had people tell me my work has healed them in ways they didn’t think were possible. Sometimes that means relieving pain, other times it’s helping them breathe again to just let go. And even though I know I still have more to learn, I’m proud that what I do now comes from what I learned here.

This program taught me more than technique. It taught me humility, empathy, and presence. I’m grateful I finished it, because it didn’t just help me find a career it helped me find a purpose
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Mahrukh K. profile picture
Mahrukh K.
19:26 23 Aug 25
This school is exceptional because of Mike and Steve, who pour their hearts into making sure every student succeeds. They care deeply about their students — academically, professionally, and personally. They don’t just see us as learners, they see us as whole people, meeting us with compassion, encouragement, and respect no matter what life circumstances we’re navigating. The program is flexible enough to be doable as an adult, with both day and night options, yet academically extensive as a diploma program, which left me very well prepared for all examinations and for practical life as a therapist.

The syllabus is thoughtfully designed to give students the space to truly digest the material, while steadily building knowledge and skills in a way that feels manageable. Their emphasis on hands-on training, proper body mechanics, and a wealth of knowledge backed by real-life experience makes the learning both practical and powerful. At the same time, they work hard to cultivate a family-like atmosphere where students feel supported and motivated.

Don’t walk — RUN to sign up for this program!! It’s rigorous, it’s compassionate, and it will shape you not just as a massage therapist, but as a person.
danielle C. profile picture
danielle C.
16:54 09 Jul 25
Attending SOHMAR was a life-changing experience. The education I received was thorough and covered a wide range of massage therapy techniques that prepared me well for the MBLEx, which I’m proud to say I passed!

What stood out most was how well the program supported adult learners the instructors showed real patience, kindness, and understanding throughout. They truly respected that many of us were balancing school with jobs and families.

The hands-on training helped build real confidence, and I walked away not only with a massage therapy diploma but also with lifelong friends.

I’m incredibly grateful for my time here and would highly recommend SOHMAR to anyone serious about starting a career in massage therapy.
Kim C. profile picture
Kim C.
04:25 23 Jan 25
Instructors are skillful, knowledgeable and give detailed instructions including valuable experience helping clients with a wide array of issues and body mechanics that will allow you to have a long career as a massage therapist.
Kinga S. profile picture
Kinga S.
04:52 21 Jan 25
This is hands down the best massage school in Illinois! Mike, the owner, and Steve are not just excellent teachers—they make you feel like family. They genuinely care about their students and create such a positive atmosphere. The amount of knowledge you gain here is incredible, and it all happens without unnecessary pressure or stress. On top of that, you meet wonderful people and build lasting connections. I used to dread going to school, but now I can’t wait for class days! This place deserves 5 stars, but honestly, I’d rate it 10/10 if I could!
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Rachel N. profile picture
Rachel N.
20:20 05 Mar 24
I just got home from my weekly Reflexology class and wanted to be sure to review SOHMAR while it was fresh in my mind :) Mike is outstanding as a teacher and an overall human being - he shares so much wisdom with his students - beyond the mechanics of what he is teaching. He is compassionate and kind and his bad 'dad' jokes are hilarious :) I have always wanted to get licnesed as a massage therapist but due to time and finances, my Reflexology certification was a foot in the door for me. The price was right, and I love seeing my classmates every week who also teach from their own experiences. Plus - free massage every class? CMON!!! I cannot recommend SOHMAR enough. Amazing - 10 stars!
Cindy H. profile picture
Cindy H.
20:50 16 Aug 23
My success is all because I went to SOMAR! I am coming into my 20th year of being a successful massage therapist for a very busy hospital system in Wisconsin. I never would have found my dream career and been educated to be the Therapist I am today if it wasn't for Michael McAleese and his school. His testimony alone is he is still going strong today after the 20 years I had been a student when many massage schools folded with Covid 19. The classes are more one on one and hands on, I truly believe it made me a better therapist!
Maryna S. profile picture
Maryna S.
18:41 06 Jul 23
I had a great time at Sohmar! Mike, the owner and the main instructor, is very knowledgeable and passionate about massage therapy! He is very easy to talk to and he will help students with anything and everything.
If you are looking to become a massage therapist, SOHMAR is a great choice!
Shawn M. profile picture
Shawn M.
15:31 16 Jun 23
SOHMAR is an excellent school for learning the art of massage. The owner, Mike, is an extremely educated and thorough instructor who is clearly passionate about his career. He shows that in his excitement brought to every day. Mike also cares about his students and invests himself into everyone he comes across. If you are changing directions, looking for direction or just want to learn something new from a caring, compassionate and highly skilled therapist, SOHMAR is the place for you!
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Massage Therapy Diploma

Our comprehensive Massage Therapy program spans approximately 44 weeks, meeting 3 to 4 times per week. Classes cover anatomy, physiology, pathology, massage techniques, kinesiology, business ethics, and more. Hands-on learning...
2026
Massage Diploma Program
UPCOMING CLASSES:
Duration:
This course spans approximately 44 weeks, meeting 3 to 4 times per week.

Start dates: 
Jan 12th, Feb 16th, March 16th, April 6th, May 4th, June 8th.
Day Class Times: 
Monday & Thursday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm & Saturdays: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Evening Class Times: 
Monday & Thursday 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
& Saturdays: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm


See Massage Diploma Classes

Reflexology Certifications

Reflexology courses are offered for all experience levels and are open to anyone interested in holistic health. No massage license required.

Each course is approved for Continuing Education (CE) hours...
2026 Reflexology Certifications Levels 1, 2, & 3
UPCOMING CLASSES:
Reflexology Level 1 Duration:
10 Weeks. Class will meet once a week.

Start Date: February 17th
Day Class: Tuesday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

CE Hours: 40.
Reflexology Level 2 Duration:
3 weeks. Class will meet once a week.

Start Date: January 14
Evening Class: Wednesdays 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

CE Hours: 9.
Reflexology Level 3
Contact Sohmar to get started.
See All Reflexology Classes

CEs and Events

SOHMAR provides ongoing CE classes throughout the year to help licensed therapists maintain and enhance their skills. Weekend classes are available for convenience...
2026
UPCOMING 
CEs and Events
UPCOMING Classes:
Ethics for the Massage Therapist
Duration:
1 day (3 hours)

CE Hours: 3.

Contact Sohmar to get started.
Sexual Harassment in the work place
Duration:
1 day (3 hours)

CE Hours: 3.

Contact Sohmar to get started.
Upcoming CE Classes & Events
(CE hours amount may vary)
See Upcoming CEs and Events
Flexible Payment Options Available

We are here to help,
every day

Conveniently located at 3051 Oak Grove Road with easy Metra and Pace bus access. Start your journey toward a fulfilling career in massage therapy and reflexology today with SOHMAR.
Choosing SOHMAR for your education means that you will be taught by a documented leading expert in the field. Our other instructors are licensed professionals who have years of experience as successful business owners, with years of experience in the field of Massage Therapy, sports massage, reflexology and holistic health.
admission requirements

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Sorry no walk in appointments are available. Please call or schedule your one on one appointment!
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SUPPORTING BUSINESSES WITHIN THE MASSAGE THERAPY COMMUNITY

Your goal to succeed in the massage business matters to us! 
With over 30+ years in the business, Michael McAleese will work with you to determine how we can propel your business to the next level.
Business to Business Support:
Do you have therapists who are not getting requests to re-book appointments?
Are your therapist calling in sick due to injuries caused by poor body mechanics?
Do you have a front end employee who would make a great massage therapist?
How we can help:
  • Increase return appointments by working with your massage therapists one-on-one to fine tune their massage techniques.
  • Address your Massage Therapist injuries with new techniques and proper Body Mechanics
  • Sponsor your front end employees to enroll into our 9 month part-time program.
  • Provide CE classes
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