SOHMAR is an approved provider for continuing education by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), ensuring courses meet the highest standards for recertification.
Our comprehensive Massage Therapy program spans approximately 44 weeks, meeting 3 to 4 times per week. Classes cover all the required instruction; anatomy and physiology, pathology, massage techniques, kinesiology, business ethics and bodywork throughout the program.
All integrated into hands-on learning from day one.
Students also participate in weekly client clinics and a variety of other events which provide students with "real world" experience.
Upon completion of this course you will receive your Diploma in Massage Therapy and be prepared for Mblex testing, and licensing with the State of Illinois.
This course is 600 hours of intensive training. There are no pre-requisite classes to complete beforehand.
Our 13-week Sports Massage and Personal Trainer Certification course is designed specifically for those interested in mastering massage techniques for athletes. Held one evening per week, this intensive program provides 52 Continuing Education (CE) hours focused on the theory and practice of sports massage and personal training.
Throughout the course, students will gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in supporting athletes before, during, and after training and competition. Curriculum topics include the history and theory of sports massage, preventative care, curative treatments, and emergency protocols. Classes are balanced between comprehensive theoretical instruction and practical application to prepare you for real-world scenarios.
This certification is ideal for massage therapists, personal trainers, or students seeking specialized training in athletic massage therapy to enhance their skills and career opportunities.
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, making them suitable for career advancement or personal growth. Students can use these CEs as electives while they are in School.
Level 1 (40 CE Hours): A comprehensive introduction. Covers reflexology theory, basic anatomy and physiology, hands-on techniques, and assessments. Ideal for anyone seeking foundational skills and certification in holistic reflexology.
Level 2 (Advanced, 9 CE Hours): For certified reflexologists or massage therapists. Focuses on advanced assessment starting at the foot, working with clients with cancer, managing common ailments.
Level 3 (Advanced, 9 CE Hours): Specialized training in pain management and kinesiotaping with advanced reflexology protocols for acute and chronic pain.
Courses grant CE hours for both practical instruction and hands-on work. Some options are available online for flexible learning.
Our Continuing Education (CE) programs at SOHMAR are designed to support licensed massage therapists in maintaining and advancing their professional skills throughout their careers. We offer a variety of CE classes that can fit into your busy schedule.
These courses earn you CE credits and cover vital topics with presentations by guest speakers.
Our CE programs are ideal for licensed therapists seeking to fulfill state licensing requirements while gaining practical knowledge and networking with leaders in the field.
Flexible payment plans are available for both Massage and Reflexology courses. Prospective students can also schedule a call or contact us below to learn more about courses and payment options.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
