East West College of the Healing Arts

Business Details

50+ Years

experience

Your Trusted Massage Therapy School in Portland

East West College of the Healing Arts has been dedicated to educating massage therapists since 1972, combining the art and science of massage with a comprehensive curriculum. Our mission focuses on fostering student growth through a supportive environment that emphasizes ethical practices, effective communication, and business strategies. Accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), we maintain rigorous standards in curriculum, faculty, and operations to ensure students receive top-tier education.

Our graduates are equipped with technical expertise and critical thinking skills, preparing them for successful careers in private practice, clinical settings, or community outreach. With a 97% pass rate on the MBLEX exam, our program empowers students to enter a high-demand field while prioritizing healing touch and community well-being.

Services

Massage Therapy Program Continuing Education Workshops Student Massage Clinic Alumni Services Campus Store

Details

Year established: 1972

Highlights and features

We offer over 50 years of experience in massage therapy education.
Our students pass the MBLEX with a 97% pass rate.
We are accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA).
Our faculty includes experienced local and national massage therapy educators.
We provide hands-on training through a student clinic and continuing education workshops.

Associations and certifications

Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)

What people say

Incredible teachers High academic standards Immediate success Generous and wise instructors Personal transformation

Website

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Services

Massage Therapy Program

Our 800-hour COMTA-accredited program combines Eastern and Western massage techniques with anatomy, ethics, and business training. Students gain hands-on experience through a student clinic and graduate prepared for licensure exams and careers in therapeutic massage.

Continuing Education Workshops

We offer workshops for licensed massage therapists, including advanced techniques like Craniosacral Therapy and Pre- and Perinatal Massage Certification. Taught by local experts and national educators, these courses support ongoing professional growth and skill enhancement.

Student Massage Clinic

Our Portland clinic provides affordable massage services performed by supervised students. Sessions include intake interviews and 45-50 minutes of therapeutic massage, offering community members accessible care while students refine their clinical skills in a professional setting.

Alumni Services

We assist graduates with licensing, job placement, and private practice setup. Our Alumni Services Office offers resources for career transitions, volunteer opportunities, and networking to ensure long-term success in the massage therapy profession.

Campus Store

The Campus Store supplies textbooks, massage tables, oils, and tools for students and professionals. We offer required course materials, specialty items, and custom orders to support educational and practice needs for massage therapists at all career stages.

People

Lori Johnson

Dean of Admissions

Lori Johnson leads admissions at East West College, guiding prospective students through program options and enrollment. With a focus on personalized support, she ensures candidates understand the school's mission and educational philosophy.

Anne Nutwell

Alumni Services Coordinator

Anne Nutwell supports graduates through career transitions, job placement, and licensing assistance. Her role connects alumni with resources to build successful practices and maintain professional growth in the massage therapy field.

Sandee Coggins

CE Coordinator

Sandee Coggins manages continuing education programs, curating workshops for licensed therapists. She collaborates with educators to deliver advanced training in specialized techniques, ensuring practitioners stay current with industry standards and innovations.

Questions

What massage therapy programs does East West College offer?

We offer an 800-hour COMTA-accredited Massage Therapy Program, preparing students for licensure exams and careers in therapeutic massage through hands-on training and comprehensive coursework.

Is East West College accredited?

Yes, we are accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), ensuring our curriculum meets rigorous national standards for massage education.

Do you provide financial aid options?

Yes, we offer financial aid assistance through our Financial Aid Representative to help students explore funding options for their education.

Can I receive a massage at your student clinic?

Yes, our Portland clinic offers affordable massages performed by supervised students, including a 45-50 minute session with an intake interview for public clients.

What continuing education opportunities are available?

We provide workshops for licensed therapists, including advanced techniques like Craniosacral Therapy and Pre- and Perinatal Massage Certification, taught by local and national experts.

How does East West support alumni after graduation?

Our Alumni Services Office offers career guidance, job placement assistance, and resources for establishing private practices to ensure long-term professional success.

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Reviews (5)

Write a Review

Hillery Juul

Feb 17, 2022 Report

I take most of my continuing education classes here. I'm in Salem where there's 'Oregon school of massage' but in my experience East West classes have been far superior. They moved a few years ago from near Lloyd Center to downtown. I liked the old location a little better. It was a little easier to navigate and park. This new location has better facilities though. I'd also like it if you opened the store on weekend days that you have classes. Last, you should get a couple vending machines. There's not a lot of convenient food near the building.

Ms. Tammy

Jan 25, 2021 Report

The atmosphere allowed me to warm myself up with some breathing exercises in the lobby where Stephanie met me and brought me back to the healing room. We shared needed laughter. Wonderful student. I came here because I've had neck issues for as long as I can remember. Tightness, cramping, and nerve issues. My neck meat has less pencils now The muscles in my neck are more relaxed. Not to mention my chest cavity has been opened and I now can feel my tummy with air again. I will continue to come back to this school to heal and learn. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't be breathing as smoothly now. Thank you love!

Jessica Duncan

Nov 17, 2018 Report

The clinic is very warm and inviting. My therapist was a student though you wouldn't think it. He was very knowledgable, a great listener and gave me the exact treatment that I needed. I fell asleep! So relaxing and wonderful. This is a great affordable option for massage that I do at least once a month for maintenance. It's nice to try out different therapists each time, but you can pick your favorites for the length of the semester until they graduate.

Julie A.

May 24, 2018 Report

I went to the East West College based on reviews online and was pleased by the clean, attractive clinic and the extremely pleasant and friendly front office staff. I received an excellent student massage and am looking forward to going back in a couple of weeks. As with any school, your chances of getting a very good massage depends on the skills of the student. Being a"clinic" experience, don't expect a totally private atmosphere.

Fabric separates the spaces, so it's likely you'll hear some sounds from neighboring cubicles. It's generally quiet and possible to focus on your massage. The cost is very reasonable. Note: Be sure to get there early so you have time to fill out the intake forms and relax a bit before your student is ready for you. Parking is a challenge, so leave extra time for that. The website and appointment confirmation emails have good information.

Lilli Zeeberg

Jan 04, 2018 Report

I recently received a free student massage at East West college Massage clinic. The check in was easy and everyone was very professional. I received a wonderful relaxing massage from a warm and friendly student. She was professional and tuned in to my needs. Before I left she gave me advice about stretching. It was a positive experience.