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The School of Holistic Massage and Reflexology has recently relocated to 3051 Oak Grove Road, Suite 104, Downers Grove IL 60515 (Metra and Pace bus service to our front door!) We are dedicated to teaching holistic massage and reflexology by utilizing a combination of natural massage techniques that allow the body to heal itself. Get certified in Massage Therapy or Reflexology at School of Holistic Massage and Reflexology.
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Prospective students who have been displaced from their job and/or want to make a career change, take certification courses together or consecutively. Many of our students are working adults who have been out of school for a while. Some students including Director Mike McAleese started with Reflexology, so that he could "earn while learning".
This course is 600 hours of intensive training. Our classes are integrated; which means we cover all the required instruction; anatomy and physiology, pathology, massage techniques, kinesiology, business ethics and bodywork throughout the program. There are no pre-requisite classes to complete beforehand.
This is a 40 hour certification course or 40 Hour Continued Education course for LMT's but you DO NOT need to be a massage therapist to take this course. Theory, hands-on practice of holistic reflexology techniques, assement skills and basic A&P are part of the curriculum. Upon completion of this course, you will receive a Certificate in Reflexology.
Intensive training dedicated to working with the athlete before, during and after training and competition. We will discuss theory and history, preventative, curative and emergency treatments. The classes are divided between theory and practical experience. May incluce guest speakers ranging from Sports Psycholgist, Chiropractor, Professional Athletic Trainer, Coach or visit from a competing athlete and their prospective on training. May include hands on training at a running or sporting event.
Reviews (14)
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Raquel Hernandez
Apr 25, 2022
Mike is a very knowledgeable teacher, very happy I came across this school. He is patient and makes sure you learn. Thank you for your professionalism and kindness.
Porshe Hoyt
Oct 31, 2020
First off, do not listen to all the negative reviews! For me, this is the best massage school in the Chicagoland area. I'm a 2018 massage therapist graduate and I loved every moment being in this school. I didn't know what to expect when I enrolled and started on 2017 and I am glad I picked this school. The owner and teacher Mike is compassionate and kind and Julie, our anatomy & physiology teacher is knowledgeable and made it easier for us to understand.

My clinical experiences were really good and fun. I miss going to this school! They will help you all throughout your school time even during board reviews and make sure you pass your license.
Center-Fit Kettelbell Club
Jun 26, 2020
LOTS of hands on. Guest speakers/Instructors work in the field and share valuable, practical knowledge. The anatomy portion actually made me a better personal trainer as it deepened my knowledge of how the body actually works! Definitely recommend!
Amanda Olejarz
Jun 25, 2020
2007 graduate. I highly recommend this school! The people that come from here are three best I've had in my 13 years as a therapist. Great hands on, great anatomy, the reflexology class was amazing too!
Michelle Curry
May 28, 2020
Just had a massage at the student clinic with Melissa. My massage was excellent - not just a general "relaxation" massage. She really focused on the therapeutic aspect of my massage. It was an awesome experience for a good price. I'll definitely be back.
Linda Flores
May 26, 2020
As a former student, I do not recommend this school. Please do not get fooled by the cheep price and the flexible schedule. There's hardly any hands on. They went to 1 hour phone class three times a week. I have made a complaint to the BBB and the Illinois Board of Higher Education. You are better off looking for a school that has teachers that want to teach.

You owe it to yourself to find a school that will not violate the the enrollment agreement of 600 credit hours in aprox 44 weeks. Also, I'm saving you from a business stand point, SOHMAR withheld money. I paid $7500 up front. I attended 5 weeks of classes, some of which were over the phone, and I only received $4900.
Joseph Willma
Jun 21, 2019
This is actually a worst massage school. I am super regretful to spending over $9660 at this school. I couldn't be able to doing massage to be honest. They didn't teaching us too much hands on. First I thought the price is little cheaper but it is worthless. I would ask them to refund my money back. Otherwise, I gonna go to talk to massage bord associated.
Jamie Melahn
Jun 06, 2019
The experience I have had at SOHMAR has been nothing short of perfect. The classmates, the instructors, the course layout and delivery all fit my needs perfectly. This is not a one size fits all kind of school. Tons of hands on learning and making connections to life outside of the classroom. I would highly reccomend checking this school out if your considering a massage therapy path.
Jennifer Bonilla
Nov 29, 2016
Want to learn massage or reflexology? I've done both and I can personally tell you that anyone can learn from the teachers at SOHMAR. They make it easy to understand and answer all your questions. Mike is truly a great guy who cares about those he comes in contact with.
Elizabeth G.
May 16, 2016
Thanks to Mike Mcaleese, Star and their team, I am now a Licensed Massage Therapist. They are able to cater to the adult learner! During my time at their school, they were always available to answer my questions, give me tips on how to study for tests (20 years post college) and they supported me through some challenging times (personally). They really work with the WHOLE person, which is so critical, especially when learning such a personal thing such as massage.

I would encourage anyone who is thinking of seeking this career to contact them and set up a meeting. They are not high pressure and they won't track you down for a decision. They give you the information you need to make the right decision for you.
Scott M.
Jun 21, 2015
Mike has skills! One odf the best therapists I have encountered. He knows anatomy very well, is always on time and completes his sessions with suggested exercises and other strength building/injury prevention training if so desired.
Emma P.
Apr 08, 2014
I have attended nail school, esthetics school and now massage school. I was really nervous when choosing a massage school, since I had not had great experiences with nail school or esthetics school. Two friends had attended SOHMAR and loved it so I decided to give them a try. SOHMAR was by far the best experience of all the schools I attended! I left school feeling prepared not only to take and pass the state exam (which I did) but also to work in a spa with confidence.

The teachers listened to my needs, gave me the tools I needed to build a great clientele, and taught in a way that no matter your learning style you got it! I have been out of school about a year now, and I am so thankful To SOHMAR for everything they did to help make me a great massage therapist.
L. F.
Oct 02, 2012
I've been getting massages from Mike for well over 5 years. He does an excellent job of getting to know you and what you're looking for in the massage. He really understands athletes, the demands they place on their body and the work they need done. He's also built a reputable and quality massage therapy program. At times, I've gotten a massage during a student clinic - for a lesser price but still the same quality approach. I can't say enough good things about Mike and his team.
Becky R.
Jun 24, 2010
Wonderful massages and wonderful school! If you are looking for a great massage come here. If you are looking at a career in Massage Therapy go here. I felt very confident after I finished school here going into the career of a Massage Therapist!