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I believe the Academy is a very good school, and the best in San Antonio based on the output I've seen from a Technical (Hands-On) standpoint of any of the local schools. I believe all the schools are lacking on the realities of employment of business planning however. Roughly ~80% of licensed therapists are not able to 'make it' by the end of their first year; a huge disappointment after a considerable investment. Get a well-rounded opinion and inputs from businesses, therapists and schools. Schools are quite competitive and are naturally focused on building 'their business' as they are a for-profit institution as well.
As an employer -- I would suggest to any prospective student to become very aware of education/qualifications/quality of schooling as it relates to our profession at large. There are different types of schooling available -- with coursework that 'qualifies' as A or B level courses if one is interested in National Certification without taking additional courses. There are schools in Texas who offer this level of curriculum though none in San Antonio that I know of. You can become registered in Texas and practice without taking A or B level courses, and the Academy is one -- though they have a great technical instructors/curriculum for entry level therapists. The depth of education needed should be determined by your career plan, the type of work you wish to do and the setting that you want to work in. Traditional schooling will be adequate for Swedish Massage in most cases, but the majority (+80%) of clients we see expect more advanced skills; the public has become fairly knowledgeable in their expectations of massage, and a majority of clients these days are pretty experienced. What ever you choose -- plan to educate yourself for a lifetime to 'keep up' with the profession.
Review past issues of the Massage Therapy Journal (AMTA) and Massage & Bodywork for enlightenment about types of technical work and industry issues, you can also read Massage Today on line -- these are the most widely read in the massage industry specifically. If you'd like to work in a Spa/Salon catch up with Salon Today, Spa Management Journal, Renew or Dermascope -- these publications deal with Massage / Massage Therapist issues quite a lot. Few MTs are adequately prepared for the type of work done in spas -- at least to the business' needs and expectations of MTs. Very little of these issues are discussed in publications on the Massage side of the house publications. For example -- a Nail Technician or Esthetician has a 700 hour initial training requirement, MTs 300, quite a difference.
More than ever, it's important to have a really strong sense of what you plan to do with your profession, before heading off to school, to ensure you've made the right selection to accomplish your goals -- one size doesn't fit all.
Lastly, I'd encourage you to speak with others who currently practice in the area your planned area of interest. Get their recommendations and input -- they will have invaluable insight and suggestions. Schools are one source of information -- the reality of business life and succeeding in your profession is another. It takes years to build a successful practice of your own as well as regular clientele if you're working as an employee. While it's very rewarding -- it also takes much patience and for most people, a sizeable financial reserve to see your dreams come true, so plan well.
Best Wishes,
Jann Henry
-----Original Message-----
From: sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com [mailto:sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Brandon and Kathleen
Sent: Friday, October 28, 2005 11:12 AM
To: sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [sanantoniomassage] Hello Everyone
From: sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com [mailto:sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Brandon and Kathleen
Sent: Friday, October 28, 2005 11:12 AM
To: sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [sanantoniomassage] Hello Everyone
Hi, I just joined the group and wanted to introduce myself. My name
is Kathleen and my husband is Brandon we are both planning on
attending Massage Therapy School in January. Right now we are
planning on attending The Academy of Massage Therapy. I was wondering
if anyone knew anything about the school. Or if there is a better
school?
Thanks,
Kathleen
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