Business Details
27 Years
experience
Massage Therapy & Reflexology Training in IL
Established in 1999 and approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education since 2000, our school has trained over 300 graduates in holistic massage therapy and reflexology. Our integrated 600-hour program begins hands-on training day one, with no prerequisites, and includes anatomy, pathology, and business ethics. Led by director Michael McAleese, inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016, we combine small class sizes with flexible scheduling for working adults.With a 90% MbLex pass rate over three years, our graduates excel in private practice, spas, wellness centers, and sports medicine. We maintain partnerships with local businesses for real-world experience and offer payment plans to graduate debt-free.
Services
Massage Therapy
Reflexology
Sports Massage
Continuing Education
Diploma Programs
CE Certification
Student Clinic
Business Training
Sports Therapy
Anatomy Classes
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Our integrated program starts hands-on training on day one with no prerequisites.
- Director Michael McAleese was inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016.
- Flexible part-time schedules for working adults with morning, evening, and Saturday options.
- 90% MbLex pass rate over three years exceeds state licensure requirements.
- Payment plans allow students to graduate debt-free while maintaining employment.
Associations and certifications
- Illinois Board of Higher Education, Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools
What people say
OUTSTANDING instructors
Real-world experience
Small class sizes
Intuitive teaching
Tools to succeed
Services
Massage Therapy Diploma
Our 600-hour diploma program prepares students for Illinois massage licensure through intensive hands-on training. Students learn anatomy, pathology, and business ethics while gaining real-world experience through supervised clinics. Graduates achieve a 90% MbLex pass rate and enter careers in spas, wellness centers, or private practice.
Reflexology Certification
Level 1 and Level 2 courses teach holistic reflexology techniques for stress relief and wellness. Students receive NCBTMB-approved CE credits and learn advanced assessment skills including cancer care applications. Classes meet evenings for working professionals.
Sports Massage Certification
13-week certification covers preventative, curative, and emergency sports massage techniques for athletes. Students learn RockTape applications, advanced stretching, and athlete psychology. Requires current massage licensure or enrollment in our massage program.
Continuing Education
Approved NCBTMB courses maintain certification while expanding skills in ethics, sexual harassment prevention, and specialized modalities. Weekend classes accommodate practicing therapists seeking career advancement or specialization.
Student Massage Clinic
Supervised student sessions offer affordable $40/hour massages in private rooms. Available Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, these clinics provide real-world experience for senior students under licensed instructor supervision while serving community wellness needs.
People
Michael McAleese
Director/Instructor
Founder of SOHMAR since 1999, inducted into Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016. Practiced since 1994, combining private practice with teaching. Develops curriculum integrating sports massage and holistic healing techniques.
Steve Schreiner
Instructor
Licensed massage therapist and SOHMAR graduate teaching anatomy and kinesiology. Owner of Optimal Performance Massage Therapy, specializing in neurosomatic therapy for improved quality of life.
Star McAleese
Administrator
Co-founder with 35+ years in graphic design, managing school materials and website. Creator of Over the Rainbow US, a pet loss gift shop, blending creative arts with educational administration.
Questions
Does SOHMAR offer payment plans for massage certification?
Yes. Our monthly payment program allows students to pay as they learn, graduating debt-free while maintaining employment.
How does SOHMAR prepare students for Illinois licensure?
Our 600-hour program exceeds Illinois requirements with anatomy, pathology, and business ethics training. 90% MbLex pass rate over three years ensures licensure readiness.
Are evening classes available for working adults?
Yes. Choose day (10am-2pm), evening (6pm-10pm), or Saturday (9am-3pm) classes meeting 3-4 days weekly for flexibility.
Who teaches SOHMAR's courses?
Director Michael McAleese (Massage Hall of Fame 2016) and licensed professionals with business ownership experience teach practical skills and industry expertise.
Do you offer continuing education for licensed therapists?
Yes. NCBTMB-approved courses include sports massage, ethics, and reflexology. Weekend classes accommodate practicing professionals seeking skill enhancement.
What real-world experience opportunities exist?
Monthly student clinics, Chicago Marathon participation, and corporate chair massage events provide hands-on experience under licensed instructor supervision.
Reviews (6)
Raquel Hernandez
Apr 25, 2022
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Mike is a very knowledgeable teacher, very happy I came across this school. He is patient and makes sure you learn. Thank you for your professionalism and kindness.
Porshe Hoyt
Oct 31, 2020
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First off, do not listen to all the negative reviews! For me, this is the best massage school in the Chicagoland area. I'm a 2018 massage therapist graduate and I loved every moment being in this school. I didn't know what to expect when I enrolled and started on 2017 and I am glad I picked this school. The owner and teacher Mike is compassionate and kind and Julie, our anatomy & physiology teacher is knowledgeable and made it easier for us to understand. My clinical experiences were really good and fun. I miss going to this school! They will help you all throughout your school time even during board reviews and make sure you pass your license.
Center-Fit Kettelbell Club
Jun 26, 2020
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LOTS of hands on. Guest speakers/Instructors work in the field and share valuable, practical knowledge. The anatomy portion actually made me a better personal trainer as it deepened my knowledge of how the body actually works! Definitely recommend!
Amanda Olejarz
Jun 25, 2020
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2007 graduate. I highly recommend this school! The people that come from here are three best I've had in my 13 years as a therapist. Great hands on, great anatomy, the reflexology class was amazing too!
Michelle Curry
May 28, 2020
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Just had a massage at the student clinic with Melissa. My massage was excellent - not just a general "relaxation" massage. She really focused on the therapeutic aspect of my massage. It was an awesome experience for a good price. I'll definitely be back.
Linda Flores
May 26, 2020
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As a former student, I do not recommend this school. Please do not get fooled by the cheep price and the flexible schedule. There's hardly any hands on. They went to 1 hour phone class three times a week. I have made a complaint to the BBB and the Illinois Board of Higher Education. You are better off looking for a school that has teachers that want to teach. You owe it to yourself to find a school that will not violate the the enrollment agreement of 600 credit hours in aprox 44 weeks. Also, I'm saving you from a business stand point, SOHMAR withheld money. I paid $7500 up front. I attended 5 weeks of classes, some of which were over the phone, and I only received $4900.
