McKinnon BTC

Business Details

50+ Years

experience

Your Trusted Massage Therapy School in Oakland, CA

Since 1973, McKinnon BTC has been a trusted leader in massage therapy education, offering comprehensive training programs tailored to both aspiring professionals and experienced practitioners seeking continuing education. Our approach blends technical expertise with compassionate, holistic learning, fostering a supportive environment where students develop skills in diverse modalities such as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, and Craniosacral Therapy. With over 50 years of experience, our team of practicing professionals provides personalized guidance, ensuring students gain the confidence and competence to excel in their careers. Our flexible scheduling options accommodate varying needs, allowing students to customize their education through morning, evening, weekend, or intensive formats.

We prioritize affordability through interest-free payment plans and competitive pricing, ensuring accessible education without compromising quality. Graduates of our programs consistently achieve high pass rates on licensing exams, reflecting the rigor and effectiveness of our curriculum. Our Oakland campus features a welcoming atmosphere with hands-on learning opportunities, including a community massage clinic where students and alumni refine their skills. Committed to fostering individuality and professional growth, McKinnon BTC remains dedicated to advancing the massage therapy field through innovative education and community engagement.

Services

Swedish Massage Deep Tissue Shiatsu Craniosacral Therapy Thai Massage Reiki Cupping Sports Massage Prenatal Massage Clinical Deep Tissue

Details

Year established: 1973

Highlights and features

50+ years of experience educating massage therapists in the Bay Area
Experienced instructors who are current practitioners in the field
Flexible scheduling options to fit any lifestyle or budget
Affordable tuition with 0% interest payment plans available
100% first-time pass rate for MBLEx in 2019 vs. national 71% average

Associations and certifications

Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)

What people say

50 years of experience Experienced instructors Flexible schedules High pass rates Supportive environment

Website

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Services

Swedish Massage

Our Swedish Massage training covers fundamental techniques including effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement. Students learn to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension through rhythmic, flowing movements. This foundational modality prepares graduates to provide therapeutic sessions tailored to individual client needs.

Deep Tissue

Deep Tissue training focuses on correcting postural imbalances and chronic pain through targeted pressure on deeper muscle layers. Students master techniques for releasing adhesions, improving mobility, and addressing specific conditions like sciatica and frozen shoulder. Clinical applications prepare graduates for medical massage settings.

Craniosacral Therapy

This advanced modality teaches gentle manipulation of the craniosacral system to alleviate headaches, TMJ disorders, and stress-related conditions. Students learn to detect and correct restrictions in cerebrospinal fluid flow, developing skills for treating trauma survivors and clients with neurological conditions.

Shiatsu

Our Shiatsu program combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern bodywork principles. Students learn to apply pressure along meridians to balance energy flow, relieve tension, and support organ function. Training includes both basic and advanced sequences for full-body treatments.

Massage Clinic

The Graduate Massage Clinic offers affordable treatments performed by certified therapists trained at McKinnon. Services include Swedish, deep tissue, and specialty massages using techniques from our comprehensive curriculum. Sessions provide practical experience for students while serving community wellness needs.

People

Sam Bolyard

Graduate Massage Therapist

Certified Massage Therapist specializing in Swedish, Acupressure, and Reiki. Completed 500-hour program at McKinnon in 2022. Focuses on creating relaxing sessions tailored to individual client needs using integrative techniques.

Uli Kraemer

Graduate Massage Therapist

CAMTC-certified therapist trained in Deep Tissue and Lymph Drainage. Graduated from McKinnon in 2021. Combines clinical techniques with calming approach to address muscular pain and promote overall wellness through personalized treatment plans.

Matt Chapman

Graduate Massage Therapist

Specializes in Orthopedic and Myofascial Release techniques. Uses therapeutic deep tissue work informed by movement theater experience. Focuses on improving mobility and range of motion through targeted, client-centered sessions while maintaining clear communication.

Questions

What massage therapy programs do you offer?

We offer 500-hour and 658-hour certification programs meeting California Massage Therapy Council requirements. Both include foundational and advanced courses across multiple modalities.

Are your programs accredited?

Our 658-hour program is endorsed by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), ensuring it meets national educational standards for massage therapy training.

What payment options are available?

We offer three payment options: pay in full with discount, pay-as-you-go with 5% off courses, or interest-free monthly payment plans for both certification programs.

Do you offer continuing education courses?

Yes, we provide over 2000 hours of continuing education options for licensed massage therapists, including specialty courses in Thai Massage, Cupping, and Craniosacral Therapy.

What is your clinic's cancellation policy?

We require 24-hour notice for cancellations. Payments can be rescheduled but are non-refundable. Late arrivals may not receive full session time, and repeated no-shows may result in service suspension.

What makes McKinnon different from other massage schools?

We combine technical excellence with holistic learning in a supportive environment. Our team-taught courses, flexible scheduling, and community clinic experience create unique educational opportunities since 1973.

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Reviews (5)

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Michael Leslie

Feb 07, 2022 Report

Proceed with caution. Not a good institution. Fake staff that lure you into a business and practice where they unethically take as much money from you as possible. Seek massage schooling elsewhere.

Noel Rivero

Mar 30, 2019 Report

This school is very special from the first class I took 3 years ago starting with Reiki. And I keep coming back for more. In its existence for more then 40 years in the Bay Area, this school has housed some of the finest teachers and graduates who grow to become masters in this art of massage. I am so grateful to be part of it! - Noel R.

Olivia Bennett

Jan 04, 2019 Report

I am so glad I found McKinnon! I started years ago with their Swedish Massage Foundations & never left!; Flexible classes & over 2000 hours of coursework to choose from! Customize your education & go at your own pace! Plus, the MK community is truly one of a kind, made up of the sweetest humans!

Joseph Meyer

Dec 03, 2018 Report

Super friendly staff, with a very peaceful atmosphere. I always leave fully relaxed and energized after my massage.

Inti Chan

Dec 23, 2015 Report

In 2011, I was referred to McKinnon by a friend whose associates received massage weekly from McKinnon students. I could not have been more pleased with the training I received from all the wonderful instructors over the next 2 years. Each one has his or her own unique awesome of way of delivering the messages you need to hear. I highly recommend getting your training here at McKinnon as I did and will continue to do!