So you've decided you want to become a massage therapist. Now you must choose a school. How do you decide?
Choosing a massage school to attend can be an educational process in itself. I interview all prospective students at Crystal Mountain and I have been fascinated by the way people decide. There are many similar reasons why people choose a particular school. The schedule of classes fits their lifestyle better, the cost is more affordable or they like the reputation of the school. But what about the other, less obvious reasons? After talking with many different people I have noticed several reasons that seem to influence them when choosing a school.
The 'Feel' of the School
When you walk into the school, how does it feel to you? Do you feel welcomed and comfortable? Is this a place where you can envision yourself being for at least four hours a day for a number of months? Do the current students seem happy here? Many students have told me that when they walked in the front door of Crystal Mountain they immediately felt comfortable and relaxed. They felt a sense of hominess that told them this was a place where they could be themselves and have fun while they were getting an education. Many students ask their intuition to give them a sign that this is the right place for them. I have heard many wonderful accounts of how the student started talking to a stranger at a picnic or a bookstore and that person turned out to be an alum of Crystal Mountain.
Curriculum
But the curriculum is the same at every school, right? Actually, only in the basic requirements. The New Mexico Massage Therapy Board requires a certain basic curriculum that all registered schools in New Mexico must follow. But once the school meets that basic curriculum it has a lot of leeway as to what classes to include. At Crystal Mountain the faculty have developed a model of the knowledge and skills we expect our graduates to have when they finish the program. To develop those skills, we have chosen to introduce students to specific massage modalities to inform them of the many different techniques that are available. Some students feel very drawn to particular, detailed manipulations of the muscles while others prefer to focus on energy work. By being exposed to different techniques students are able to pick and choose what feels right for them and create a totally individualized massage style. And they have the added benefit of knowing a variety of tools for an effective treatment plan with clients.
Personal Growth and Development
Many schools advertise that they facilitate the personal growth of the student. Well, what does that mean? Attending massage school can be a life transforming experience for many people. It is an opportunity to join a community of people dedicated to learning skills that can facilitate health and well being. Being in community is a vital part of the learning experience at Crystal Mountain. In the community of the classroom our students learn the listening and communication skills they will need to interact with clients. Faculty emphasize compassion and respect for each individual and the path they are on. Learning at Crystal Mountain doesn't just include muscles and bones - it includes being able to stand in your truth and honor others when they stand in theirs.
Spirituality Plus Practicality
While we do emphasize that massage can be a profound spiritual and emotional experience for clients as well as the therapist, we also realize that students are coming to our school to learn skills that will help them earn a living. So we focus on creating a professional environment in our clinic where students can practice the business skills that will help them start and maintain a private practice. Marketing techniques and business strategies are discussed as well as tax and licensing information. Students learn interviewing skills that will help them determine what the client wants and critical thinking skills that will help students deliver an effective treatment plan.
The outstanding success of our graduates is one of the best advertisements for Crystal Mountain. Our program teaches students to touch people with great skill and great compassion. We welcome you to join our community.
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