Sarasota School of Massage Therapy - Bradenton-Sarasota, FL    

"Hands without the gift of knowledge are like feathers on the ground waiting for the gift of flight. Thank you for giving us wings!"     -SSMT Graduating Class, December 1999

Congratulations on finding this page! Many students travel from all over the country to study here, and only partly because we're 20 minutes from the beach. Mostly it's the inspired curriculum and passionate instructors that attract creative and intentional students here on their journey towards excellence.

How do people feel about working as a massage therapist once they graduate from SSMT?

If it's right for you, massage therapy is an incredibly rewarding path in life! Most graduates describe the SSMT experience as transformational, and after graduation SSMT maintains high placement rates. SSMT graduates are highly sought after by employers. We look forward to helping you discover if massage therapy, and SSMT, are a great match for you.

What type of training will I receive at SSMT?

At SSMT we offer you training designed to develop knowledge, skill, sensitivity, and mindfulness; towards this end we provide an atmosphere of support.

How long has SSMT been training exceptional massage therapists?

One of the first massage therapy schools in Florida, SSMT opened its doors 33 years ago. SSMT continues to be a leader in massage therapy education.

What type of experience does an SSMT instructor have?

SSMT instructors have extensive experience in bodywork, and many have been teaching at the school for 10 years or more, some for more than 20 years. The overwhelming rate of student satisfaction at SSMT is due in large part to the inspiration of the faculty.

Does SSMT offer other modalities to assure a breadth and depth to my education?

The curriculum includes many forms of bodywork and many classes also include movement and relaxation. Such disciplines as Yoga, Feldenkrais, Tai Chi Chuan and others expose the students to a range of movement practices intended to increase self-awareness. These experiences will not only help you to be a better massage therapist, they can also help you become a more present, confident and empowered person.

Do you have small or large classes at SSMT?

Classes at SSMT are kept small, and personal attention is abundant. The maximum class size is 20, and any class with 14 or more has teaching assistants for the Swedish massage and Neuromuscular therapy classes. These means there is always at least one instructor for every six practicing students.

How long is the program?

The 730-hour program can be completed in 7, 9, or 11 months. It is designed to provide you professional instruction in a supportive environment, with an emphasis on experiential learning.

Is there financial assistance?

Federal Financial Aid is available to those who qualify and the school offers need-based scholarships and interest-free payment plans. There are many avenues to help you cover the investment in your future.

Will SSMT offer me job placement assistance after I graduate?

Placement assistance is available after graduation and SSMT maintains exceedingly high licensure and placement rates.

What is our philosophy?

Massage, an intimate blend of art and science, is a work of service and communication and it is first and foremost experiential; it awakens within both client and therapist the deepest qualities of human experience. A profound, powerful learning, based on self-awareness, can occur during touch and movement therapies. We operate from the principle that our own self-awareness has a direct bearing on our sensitivity to our clients - as we pay attention to our own growth, and stretch into life, we encourage those around us to do the same.

It is also our intention to have fun! We have the most delicious potluck meals during our break times and holiday parties. We hold some classes on the beach. The bonds of friendship and connection that are formed here are difficult to describe and can only be experienced.

What is my next step?

If what you've read resonates with you, I invite you to simply request information so you can begin to explore your possibilities.

"First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do." - Epictetus

"You don't have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step." - Martin Luther King