Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Massage Therapy School in Las Cruces, NM
At Massage Therapy Training Institute (MTTI), our mission is to empower aspiring massage therapists through comprehensive education in a variety of modalities. Founded in 1999 by Laun C. Smith and led by President Timothy Gay since 2007, we focus on both practical skills and theoretical knowledge to ensure our graduates excel in their careers. Our program emphasizes work-life balance, self-care, and professional development, preparing students to become workforce-ready healthcare professionals. With over two decades of experience, we have helped hundreds of students become licensed massage therapists who now work across the country and globally. Our curriculum includes more than 20 modalities, ensuring graduates stand out in diverse settings such as medical facilities, spas, resorts, and sports environments.MTTI maintains a 97% job placement rate and consistently ranks among the top massage schools nationally, thanks to our cross-trained instructors with 10 - 15 years of experience. We prioritize small class sizes to maintain educational quality, resulting in high pass rates on the MBLEX national exam. Our graduates receive a diploma that qualifies them for national and state licensing exams, and we offer support through payment plans and partnerships with organizations like the New Mexico Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. MTTI is committed to inclusivity, offering an accessible environment for all individuals, and we continuously strive to enhance the massage therapy profession through ethical practices and community engagement.
Services
Swedish Massage
Deep Tissue
Sports Massage
Pregnancy Massage
Lymphatic Drainage
Myofascial Release
Hot Stone Therapy
Reflexology
Chair Massage
Reiki Healing
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer 97% job placement with personalized career support.
- Our instructors have 1015 years of cross-trained experience.
- Curriculum includes 20+ modalities for diverse career opportunities.
- Affordable tuition with payment plans and DVR funding options.
- Small class sizes ensure high-quality education and MBLEX pass rates.
Services
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage promotes relaxation and stress relief through long, gliding strokes. Ideal for first-time clients, it improves circulation and eases muscle tension. Sessions include personalized adjustments for comfort and can be enhanced with aromatherapy or hydrotherapy add-ons.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage targets chronic muscle pain and knots using firm pressure. It addresses injuries and postural issues, focusing on deeper muscle layers. This service is recommended for individuals with persistent discomfort or specific problem areas.
Sports Massage
Sports massage enhances athletic performance and recovery through targeted techniques. It reduces injury risk, improves flexibility, and addresses sport-specific muscle groups. Designed for athletes or active individuals seeking injury prevention and faster healing.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage alleviates discomforts like back pain and swelling during pregnancy. It uses safe, gentle techniques to promote relaxation and improve sleep. Sessions are tailored to each trimesters needs and require approval from a healthcare provider.
Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic drainage reduces swelling and supports immune function through light, rhythmic movements. It benefits individuals with lymphedema, post-surgery recovery, or chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. This gentle therapy promotes detoxification and fluid balance.
People
Timothy Gay
President
Timothy Gay has led MTTI since 2007, emphasizing quality education and therapist well-being. With a background in massage therapy, he focuses on student success and industry advancement through innovative training programs.
Laun C. Smith
Founder
Laun C. Smith founded MTTI in 1999 to elevate massage therapy education. His vision established a foundation for rigorous training and professional growth, shaping the institutes commitment to excellence and community impact.
Questions
What career opportunities exist after graduating from MTTI?
MTTI graduates work in medical facilities, spas, resorts, and private practices nationwide. Our 97% job placement rate reflects strong employer relationships and comprehensive training in diverse modalities.
How long does the massage therapy program take?
Our program takes 6–9 months, with extensions available. Students complete 750 hours of instruction, including 120 hours of clinical practice in our student clinic.
Does MTTI offer financial assistance?
Yes, we offer payment plans and partnerships with DVR for tuition funding. Many students reduce costs through federal grants and vocational rehabilitation programs.
Are MTTI graduates prepared for licensing exams?
Yes, our curriculum prepares students for the MBLEX exam, with pass rates averaging 93–98%. Graduates meet requirements for state and national licensure.
What makes MTTI different from other massage schools?
MTTI offers small class sizes, cross-trained instructors with 10–15 years of experience, and a 20+ modality curriculum. We emphasize professional development, business skills, and self-care practices.
Can I get continuing education credits at MTTI?
Yes, we offer CEU courses Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Topics include specialty modalities, guest lectures, and CPR certification.
Reviews (6)
Molly R.
Jun 05, 2020
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Outstanding massage experience! I was able to book a 2-hour massage just a few days ahead of time. This was my first visit to MTTI, but I've had 100+ massages over many years and can say this was THE BEST! The therapist took time to understand my activity level and nagging injuries that I have from running and sports. Post-massage, my body feels better than it has in a long time. Planning to return here several more times before my Las Cruces visit ends. Fantastic massage therapy!
Jan Brown
Nov 11, 2019
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We had such a nice session on 9 Dec at MTTI that we are scheduled for another session the end of this month. We are really looking forward to it. The ladies we had were just great and we will be having these same ones for our second massage. Try out this place -- you won't be disappointed if you like a good massage. The folks at MTTI couldn't have been nicer. While in Las Cruces shopping, we stopped in to get information on their massages/schedules/etc.
They were so accommodating to us "drop ins", working to get us scheduled for our first massages with their students. We were fortunate to be able to work something out and now we look forward to having a massage in the very near future. Thank you for being so patient with the 3 of us while we worked out our "schedule conflicts". See you soon. l
They were so accommodating to us "drop ins", working to get us scheduled for our first massages with their students. We were fortunate to be able to work something out and now we look forward to having a massage in the very near future. Thank you for being so patient with the 3 of us while we worked out our "schedule conflicts". See you soon. l
Melissa Mckenzy Shaw
Apr 17, 2019
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This school has one of the best atmospheres for healing that I have ever encountered. Everyone is so friendly and loves their job. I have loved all the massages I have received from students. Everyone should try out MTTI, hard to beat the price
Ga
Apr 17, 2019
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Don't call for an appointment because no one will call you back! Their message says they check messages every quarter hour - it is more like once per week, if that. By the time they call you back, you will have made an appointment elsewhere. The price of their massages is very reasonable and most students are good. It is management that is lacking in how they are running their business since they moved to N. Main St. There is NO customer service.
T. J. Cohee
Feb 20, 2019
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Called them they did not pick up at first but called me back in less than a half hour was able to book massage for same day. Was a little hard to find at first had to use the picture on google maps street view due to their signs being inside high winds and all. The massage was good and only had a short wait when i arrived and some of the lowest prices in town too.
Kimberly Shaw
Nov 09, 2018
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I have experienced massage therapy all over this country and in parts of Europe. I have to say that Massage Training Institute is, without reservation, at the top of my list. The management is knowledeable, friendly and creates a health-concious atmosphere that is conducive to healing and relaxation. The staff are professional, caring and attentive. The students are dedicated and talented. The prices are amazing! Best bang for the buck I have ever experienced. Try them. You will never go anywhere else!