Business Details
34 Years
experience
Trusted Esthetics & Massage School in Richmond, VA
Founded in 1992, American Spirit Institute has established itself as one of Virginia's premier institutions for esthetics and massage education. Our dedicated educators employ proven teaching strategies to ensure students achieve success in their chosen fields. With a holistic philosophy integrating mind, body, and spirit, we provide comprehensive career training in an environment designed to foster relaxation and community. Located in Richmond, Virginia, our state-certified programs prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing wellness industry. We maintain rigorous standards through accreditation by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and licensing by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations.As a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals and an institution approved by the US Veterans Affairs, we serve diverse learners including GI Bill eligible students. Our facilities offer personalized instruction and practical experience to develop skilled professionals. With over 31 years of experience, we remain committed to creating positive change in both individual lives and the broader community. Our flexible scheduling options include school tours by appointment and structured office hours for student support. Through continuous program development and industry partnerships, we ensure our graduates enter the workforce with current, market-ready skills.
Services
Esthetics Training
Massage Therapy Programs
Career Training
Holistic Education
GI Bill Approved Programs
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- 31 years of experience training estheticians and massage therapists
- Dedicated educators with proven teaching methodologies
- Holistic philosophy integrating mind, body, and spirit
- State-certified and VA-licensed educational programs
- Approved training provider for US Veterans Affairs benefits
Associations and certifications
- State Council of Higher Education for Virginia
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations
Services
Esthetics Training
Our comprehensive esthetics programs provide hands-on training in skin care techniques, facial treatments, and beauty therapies. Students learn both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through structured coursework and real-world applications. The curriculum prepares graduates for state licensing exams and careers in spas, salons, or medical esthetics.
Massage Therapy Programs
State-approved massage therapy training covers anatomy, physiology, and various massage modalities. Students develop skills in therapeutic techniques, client assessment, and professional practice management. The program meets licensing requirements while emphasizing holistic wellness approaches for successful careers in health and wellness industries.
Career Training
We offer career-focused education programs that combine technical skills with business acumen. Courses include portfolio development, client communication, and practice management essentials. Graduates receive career placement assistance and preparation for industry certification exams in their chosen specialty areas.
Holistic Education
Our unique approach integrates technical skills with personal growth through mindfulness practices and wellness philosophies. Students learn stress reduction techniques, energy work, and holistic health principles. This comprehensive education creates well-rounded professionals prepared to address clients' physical and emotional needs.
GI Bill Approved Programs
Approved training programs for military veterans utilize VA education benefits for esthetics and massage therapy education. We provide dedicated support for benefit applications and transition assistance. Veterans receive specialized career counseling and access to industry networks for successful civilian career paths.
People
Richard Sells
Founder and President
Richard Sells established American Spirit Institute in 1992 with a vision for holistic wellness education. Holding multiple advanced degrees, he brings decades of experience in education and integrative medicine to lead our institution's strategic direction and academic programs.
Mia Samual
Instructor
Mia Samual teaches esthetics and massage therapy courses at our Richmond campus. With professional certifications in multiple modalities, she combines technical expertise with practical industry knowledge to prepare students for successful careers in the wellness field.
Questions
What esthetics programs do you offer?
We offer comprehensive esthetics training covering skin care, facial treatments, and beauty therapies that prepare students for state licensing exams and industry careers.
Are your programs state-certified?
Yes, we're accredited by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and licensed by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations.
Do you accept GI Bill benefits?
Yes, we're approved by the US Veterans Affairs to accept GI Bill benefits for our esthetics and massage therapy training programs.
What massage therapy training options exist?
Our state-approved massage programs teach anatomy, physiology, and multiple massage modalities to prepare graduates for careers in wellness and healthcare settings.
How long has the institute been operating?
American Spirit Institute has provided holistic education since 1992, with over 31 years of experience training estheticians and massage therapists.
What makes your approach unique?
We combine technical training with holistic wellness principles, integrating mind-body-spirit education to create well-rounded professionals prepared for diverse career paths.
Reviews (7)
Alexandra Lachapelle
May 23, 2022
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I fully enjoyed my time here at ASI! Badeha is an amazing instructor who truly cares about all her students and strives to go above and beyond teaching us more than what is in the curriculum. I felt more than ready when it was time for me to graduate. The only thing I regret was not coming here for my basic esthetic license too!
Aurora Giattino
May 22, 2022
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Terrible communication and office management. Countless calls and emails made with 0 responses, and then the one reply I did get she assured me she would get back to me with updated information and again dropped the ball. PLUS, they kepy my application deposit and didnt even acknowledge the receiving of it. I cant even imagine how the program is run with this as the first stop. I do not recommend.
Brittany Dexter
May 17, 2022
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I'm so happy I have been able to attend this school, I have made some great friends and have learned from the greatest teacher. Badeha has guided the way to becoming a knowledgeable esthetician and even introduced me to my first job as an esthetician, I couldn't have done it without her. I 100% recommend this school to others.
Dakota Sudberry
Apr 25, 2022
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I have heard some really great things about this school and really wanted to look into their esthetician program. However, I have left many voicemails and even dropped by one day to see if I could speak to someone in person and I have yet to hear back from anyone.
Jim Morgan
Dec 18, 2021
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Critical:Communication I have heard some good things and read good reviews, but I'll add to the growing list of "no response" to several calls and messages to get info about massage school in Richmond. I've tried over several months. The website is antiquated and outdated and lack real information about the program.
Talea T.
Sep 22, 2021
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I've been looking forward to enrolling with this specific institution because this school was recommended by one of the most successful esthetician's in Richmond, VA. Out of all the institutions that I consider I decided to apply to this one because it was heavily recommended. It took almost a year to hear anything because I was on the waiting list (3) for financial assistance. I was extremely surprised that they even still had my application.
I've emailed at least several times & the emails have went unanswered & also called on several occasions leaving voicemails. I understand with it being Covid-19 normal operations might have changed but it's extremely frustrating when you are looking to change your life & you aren't being responded to or even having your questions addressed. I think it will be in my best nature to try & take my business elsewhere, because it seems as though American Spirit Institute do not care about new applicants (from my experience).
I've emailed at least several times & the emails have went unanswered & also called on several occasions leaving voicemails. I understand with it being Covid-19 normal operations might have changed but it's extremely frustrating when you are looking to change your life & you aren't being responded to or even having your questions addressed. I think it will be in my best nature to try & take my business elsewhere, because it seems as though American Spirit Institute do not care about new applicants (from my experience).
KeAzha Smith
Aug 26, 2021
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I absolutely LOVE this school. I've learned so much throughout my time being here. Badeha is ABSOLUTELY the greatest instructor, very knowledgeable, and most importantly hands on. 10/10 I definitely recommend anyone looking to start a career in Esthetics to make American Spirit your top choice.
