Become a Licensed Massage Therapist.

Thinking of a fulfilling career in holistic health? Our 600-hour Therapeutic Massage Program offers you the comprehensive training and hands-on experience needed to start your journey as a licensed massage therapist in Ebensburg, PA.

Why Laurel Highlands Theraputic Academy?

At Laurel Highlands Therapeutic Academy, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for aspiring massage therapists. Our program is designed with your success in mind, offering a blend of flexible scheduling, personalized instruction, and industry-recognized credentials. We're independently owned and operated in Ebensburg, PA. Discover the unique features that set us apart and make LHTA the preferred choice for pursuing a career as a licensed massage therapist.

Tuition at Laurel Highlands Therapeutic Academy is $10,000 for the entire 600-hour massage therapy program. This cost is significantly more affordable compared to other programs in the area. Philadelphia has programs near $14,000. With our competitive pricing, we provide a high-quality education that prepares you thoroughly for your career without the financial burden associated with many other schools.

Our Therapeutic Massage Program is designed to fit your lifestyle with flexible training schedules, including day, evening, and FLEX options. Whether you prefer to study during the day, in the evening, or need a more adaptable schedule, we have a program to accommodate your needs. This flexibility allows you to balance your education with work or personal commitments, making it easier to pursue your passion for massage therapy on your own terms.

LHTA is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools. As a member of the

Cambria County Chamber of Commerce
American Massage Therapy Association
Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals

we uphold high standards in massage therapy education, ensuring you receive quality training from a reputable institution.

Located in Ebensburg, PA, Laurel Highlands Therapeutic Academy is one of the few massage therapy schools in Western Pennsylvania. Our academy is conveniently situated about 60 miles from both Pittsburgh and State College, making it accessible for students from across the region. Our 5,000-square-foot facility offers a welcoming environment with four private massage rooms, a fully equipped classroom, an office, and a reception area. With ample parking available, you'll enjoy a hassle-free experience as you pursue your education.

At Laurel Highlands Therapeutic Academy, we limit enrollment to just 8 to 14 students per class. This small class size ensures that each student receives personalized attention and one-on-one time with our experienced instructors. This intimate learning environment fosters a deeper understanding of massage therapy techniques and allows for more individualized guidance, helping you gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in your career.

Flexible

All in One Program

Laurel Highlands Therapeutic Academy offers an all-in-one 600-hour Therapeutic Massage Program with flexible training schedules, including day, evening, and FLEX options. Designed to prepare you for a professional career in massage therapy, our program features small class sizes for personalized attention and instruction from qualified instructors. The curriculum covers Swedish massage techniques, hands-on practice, and includes a 150-hour internship. With class sizes ranging from eight to fourteen students, you’ll receive comprehensive training and individualized support throughout your educational journey.

Full Time

Our full-time program is designed for those who want to immerse themselves in their studies and complete the 600-hour program as efficiently as possible. With a structured schedule and dedicated instructors, students can finish the program in just 4 months. This option is perfect for those who can commit to a comprehensive daily schedule and want to enter the workforce quickly.

Part Time

The part-time program offers a balanced approach for students who need to juggle other responsibilities alongside their education. Students can maintain a steady pace toward completing the program while managing work, family, or other commitments. Most students can complete it between 12 to 18 months. This option provides flexibility while ensuring that students receive the full educational experience.

FLEX Program

Our Flex Program is tailored for students who need maximum flexibility. Understanding that life can be busy, this option allows students to provide their availability on a monthly basis. The school then works around these schedules to meet the 600-hour educational requirements. Whether you can attend two days a week or need to vary your schedule each month, the flex program allows you to work at your own pace.

The Statistics

Your Potential Future

As a licensed massage therapist, you can look forward to a rewarding and growing career. Here are some key facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to consider:

PA Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary for a massage therapist in Pennsylvania is approximately $58,039, with a typical range between $51,953 and $66,675

National Average Annual Salary

Across the United States, the average annual salary for a massage therapist is around $58,156, with the majority earning between $52,057 and $66,809.

Employment Rate and Growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Possible Job Opportunities

Massage therapists can work in a variety of settings, including spas, clinics, fitness centers, and private practices, offering a range of opportunities to suit different preferences and career goals.

LHTA Course Curriculum

At LHTA, our comprehensive program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in massage therapy. Through a blend of theoretical and hands-on learning, students explore a variety of massage techniques, understand essential health sciences, and develop the professional skills necessary for a successful career. Each course is carefully structured to provide a thorough education, preparing students to meet the demands of the industry with confidence. Upon completing our LMT course and passing the final exam, you'll become a licensed massage therapist!

Massage Theory and Principles

156 Hours

This course covers the essential skills and knowledge needed to become a massage therapist. Students will learn about functional anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, ethics, communication, documentation, hygiene, safety, and business concepts.

Swedish Massage

100 Hours

Students will learn the fundamentals of Swedish Massage, including body mechanics, pressure, transition, and flow. The course includes hands-on practice to master the techniques of Integrative Massage.

Integrative Techniques

12 Hours

This course focuses on traditional orthopedic assessment protocols. Students will learn to identify signs, causes, symptoms, and treatments for various conditions and injuries, along with scientific evaluation methods.

Spa Services

56 Hours

An advanced course covering techniques required for spa settings, including Hot and Cold Stone Therapy, Chair Massage, Warm Wax Therapy, Spa Body Wraps, Salt Glow Treatments, and Foot Services. It also covers client contraindications and dry room setup.

CPR/First Aid

4 Hours

Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed for basic injury care and CPR certification from the American Red Cross upon passing the final exam.

Pathology

56 Hours

This course introduces students to diseases, focusing on the recognition of common signs and symptoms and understanding how the body interacts with disease.

Pharmacology

56 Hours

Learn about various medications clients may be prescribed, how to use reference materials, understand drug effects on the body, and the implications for massage therapy.

Ethics II

10 Hours

Addresses ethical dilemmas in touch therapy. Reflexive exercises help students confront personal and professional issues they may encounter in practice.

Clinical Internship

150 Hours

Apply classroom skills by practicing massage on clients and refining communication and documentation.

Student FAQs

Here you will find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about one's first Halosauna session.

We enroll 8-14 students per session. Since students complete the program at different times, the number of active students can vary from week to week or month to month.

Classes are offered Monday through Friday with Saturday being a clinic only day. Morning and Evening classes are offered Monday -Friday based on the students flexible schedule and needs.

The Massage Therapy Program is 600 hours, with flexible completion times based on individual progress. Full-time students can finish the program in as little as 5 to 7 months, attending 6 hours a day, 5 days a week. Part-time students may take 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on their schedule and pace.

Classes begin in January for the part-time program and September for the full-time program. Our program is tailored to adult learners, allowing students to work at their own speed, with a mix of one-on-one instruction and group learning. This ensures you can progress at a pace that suits your educational needs and work ethic.

To enroll in the program, applicants must first submit an application for admission. Afterward, you’ll schedule an interview with the director. Please bring identification (ID and Social Security card) and proof of high school graduation (diploma, GED, or TABE test results). Once you meet the required criteria, you’ll complete a registration form and pay the course fee. Attendance at orientation is mandatory, and students must complete the Massage Therapy course before enrolling in the Massage Therapy Clinic.

The total cost for the program is $10,000.

Financial aid is not available for LHTA as it is a private school. Students may be eligible for financial assistance from the following sources: Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and Department of Public Welfare (DPW). Students are encouraged to contact the agencies involved regarding eligibility criteria and availability of funds.

Credits may be transferred from another accredited institution, however credits may not be transferred from LHTA to another institution.

Students who graduate from the massage therapy program at LHTA will be eligible to take the MBLEX exam. Once taken and passed the test you may apply for your Massage Therapy License in the appropriate state you desire to work in.

After graduating, there's a possibility of working at LHTA, depending on available positions. If there are openings, we welcome some graduates to join our team. Additionally, with many businesses eager to hire massage therapists, LHTA is committed to assisting each graduate in finding a suitable job placement

Upon completion of the program and having acquired the necessary state licensure, students will be able to work in hospitals, clinics, chiropractor and doctor offices, wellness centers, fitness centers, salons, athletic programs, corporate wellness programs, as well as establish their own private practices.

If moving out of the state of PA, you may still hold a license. Contact the massage therapy board of the state you wish to be licensed in. You may also be licensed in more than one state.