Business Details
39 Years
experience
Professional Massage Therapy Training Program Since 1987
Founded in 1987, the La Institute Of Massage has dedicated over 35 years to providing quality education in massage therapy. Established by practicing massage therapists, our institution remains committed to advancing the profession through comprehensive training rooted in both scientific knowledge and practical skill development. Our curriculum, approved by the Louisiana State Board of Massage Therapy, has consistently produced graduates with the highest pass rates on national licensing exams. We maintain affiliations with key industry organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association while delivering a 510-hour program that prepares students for state licensure and national certification. Our faculty consists of experienced professionals who rotate through teaching assignments to ensure diverse perspectives on techniques ranging from Swedish massage to clinical applications.Through continuous curriculum improvements and hands-on learning opportunities in our student clinic, we emphasize proper body mechanics, client assessment, and ethical practice standards. Our facility operates as a living classroom where aspiring therapists develop critical thinking skills necessary for serving diverse populations. Graduates leave with both technical proficiency in over 100 pathologies and business acumen required for successful practice. While we originated from Susan Salvo's pioneering work in Gulf Coast massage education, our modern approach integrates current textbooks and field experiences to maintain relevance in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Services
510-hour massage program
Student massage clinic
Pathology studies
Clinical practice training
Business skills development
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1987 as Louisiana's first licensed massage school
- Curriculum meets Louisiana and Texas licensing requirements
- Highest documented pass rates on national licensing exams
- Program developed by award-winning educator Susan Salvo
- Students practice in public clinic under professional supervision
Associations and certifications
- LA State Board of Regents
- Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards
- National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
- Louisiana State Board of Massage Therapy
Services
Massage Therapy Program
Our 510-hour training program develops skilled massage therapists through integrated coursework and clinical practice. Students master Swedish techniques, pathology adaptations, and client assessment protocols while learning business operations fundamentals. Graduates receive documentation qualifying for Louisiana state licensure and national certification, with curriculum approved by multiple state boards including Texas. Our program maintains 100% exam pass rates through hands-on instruction from practicing professionals.
Student Massage Clinic
The public may receive supervised 50-minute therapeutic massages at our student clinic for $40 per session. Each appointment includes professional draping, hypoallergenic lubricants, and universal hygiene standards. Supervising instructors observe sessions to ensure proper technique while students practice various modalities. This affordable option provides practical experience for students while offering community members accessible massage therapy in private treatment areas.
Pathology Studies
Our pathology curriculum covers over 100 medical conditions affecting all body systems, teaching students appropriate massage adaptations. Through lectures and case studies, students learn contraindications, precautions, and referral protocols for clients with chronic illnesses. Current textbook instruction includes pharmacology basics and special considerations for mental health, diabetes, and cancer patients. This comprehensive approach develops therapists capable of handling complex health scenarios.
Clinical Practice Training
Students gain hands-on experience through structured internships in our public clinic, practicing techniques on diverse clientele under instructor supervision. Training includes client interviews, treatment planning, and documentation procedures while emphasizing proper body mechanics and draping standards. The program teaches adaptive massage for special populations including pregnant women, athletes, and geriatric patients, ensuring graduates have practical skills for real-world practice.
Business Skills Development
Business coursework prepares graduates for independent practice through accounting basics, marketing strategies, and client communication training. Students learn licensing requirements, zoning regulations, and networking opportunities while developing professional interviewing techniques. The program covers ethical standards, HIPAA compliance, and practice management essentials to ensure both clinical and operational success for new massage therapy businesses.
People
Susan Salvo
Founder
Award-winning educator Susan Salvo founded the institute in 1987 following her pioneering work in Gulf Coast massage education. She authored industry-standard textbooks including Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice and Mosby's Guide to Pathology for Massage Therapists.
Questions
How long is the massage therapy program?
Our comprehensive training program requires 510 hours of instruction, typically completed across multiple sessions starting each March and September.
What credentials will I receive upon completion?
Graduates receive a certificate qualifying for Louisiana state licensure and National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork examinations.
Are financing options available?
Yes, we offer payment plans including full payment discounts and installment options for both weekday and weekend class schedules.
Do you accept transfer credits from other massage schools?
Transfer requests undergo evaluation for equivalency with our curriculum. Official transcripts and course descriptions must demonstrate comparable subject matter for consideration.
What are the admission requirements?
Applicants must be at least 17 years old with high school diploma or GED. Complete the application process includes submitting the $50 non-refundable fee and scheduling a private tour.
Can I receive massage therapy while studying here?
Yes, our public clinic offers $40 student-led sessions following professional hygiene standards. Supervised appointments include proper draping and adaptive treatment for various health conditions.
Reviews (1)
Patricia Martien
Apr 15, 2015
Report
I received the best experience @ LIMT. Susan Salvo and her staff were excellent, professional. I'm ready to visit again soon.