Crystal Mountain School of Therapeutic Massage
Curriculum
Foundations, Explorations and Integration

Therapeutic Massage
153 Hours
In this course students develop a sense of ‘presence’ while learning the fundamental strokes and
techniques of massage, including preparation, draping, universal precautions and self care.

Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, and Kinesiology
168 Hours
The systematic study of structure, function, and diseases of the human body emphasizing the
muscular and skeletal systems. Along with traditional methods of study, we use a variety of hands on techniques to enhance learning. Contraindications for massage are discussed.

Polarity Therapy
20 Hours
This class uses Ayurvedic and scientific concepts of energy, five-element theory, exercise and diet to
promote health. This gentle touch method is based on the work of Dr. Randolph Stone and restores a person’s vital energy.

Clinical Reasoning in Massage
20 Hours
Students learn techniques to treat the common injuries most often seen by massage therapists.

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) 20 Hours
This class emphasizes massage techniques that access both the nervous and the muscular systems. Acute and chronic pain patterns are discussed. Methods of treatment for neck, rotator cuff, and lower back dysfunctions are demonstrated and practiced.

Structural Bodywork Techniques
16 Hours
Students learn to see and therapeutically address structural imbalances that may exist in the body.
Emphasis is placed on pain patterns, restrictions of breath and balance.

Professional Ethics
44 Hours
Students learn communication skills, professional guidelines, and boundaries for massage therapists.

Reflexology
12 Hours
Students learn techniques for therapeutically touching points on the feet that correspond with areas
throughout the body.

Forearm Flow
16 Hours
A nurturing, integrative, fluid and intuitive bodywork style using the forearm as a tool to reduce
overuse of wrists and hands. Long and broad strokes cover the entire body. Benefits to the client
include increased circulation and deep relaxation.

Chair Massage
4 Hours
Students learn a 15 minute session of bodywork using a specially built massage chair that allows the client to remain fully clothed. This truly therapeutic technique is a great way to introduce people
who have no previous experience to the benefits of stress relief and relaxation that massage provides. Students learn about the features to look for when buying a chair.

Pregnancy Massage
8 Hours
Students learn special approaches and techniques for providing massage therapy for pregnant
women. Indications and contraindications for bodywork during pregnancy are discussed.

Hydrotherapy
8 Hours
This course teaches how, when, and why to use cold and heat treatments.

Business Skills
20 Hours
Students learn the fundamentals of establishing, marketing, and operating a successful massage
therapy practice. Information on State Licensure and National Certification is provided.

Postural Analysis
8 Hours
Students learn to recognize and address postural imbalances.

CPR/First Aid
8 Hours
Basic skills in CPR and First Aid.

Student Clinic Program
150 Hours
Massage therapy provided for the public in our on-site clinic. See the Student Clinic section for
more information.

Total Evening Licensure Program: 675 Hours

Total Day Licensure Program: 700 Hours

Includes additional hours in anatomy, physiology, and massage techniques.

Student Clinic
Crystal Mountain’s Student Clinic program is a wonderful way for students to develop both skill
and confidence in working with the public. In the clinic, students provide massage to members of the public in private treatment rooms. Students hone the business skills necessary for a successful
massage therapy practice while developing their massage therapy techniques.

Students may enter the clinical phase of their education once they have acquired the necessary
technical ability, interpersonal skills, and confidence in their work. Some students begin work in the
clinic as early as the 10th week of school. Other students may choose to wait until later into the
program before beginning.

Students may accrue up to 14 hours of their 150-hour student clinic program in areas outside our clinic. Options
for all students include working one-on-one with a faculty member, and/or providing massage
therapy at supervised community events. These events include health conferences, seminars, athletic events, fundraisers, and charity events.

*Crystal Mountain reserves the right to make changes to our curriculum to best serve our students

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