"Wake Tech gave me all the skills I needed to become a licensed massage therapist."
Emily Hester
Massage Therapy, Class of 2016
A leaking underground water pipe on Southern Wake Campus has been repaired and water service restored. So, the campus will operate on a normal schedule on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
The Massage Therapy program prepares students to provide manual manipulation, pressure, friction and kneading of the body to maintain wellness or treat aches and pains.
Coursework includes human anatomy and physiology, pathology, client evaluation, therapeutic massage, pain relief, stress management, ethical/legal issues and business practices. Employment opportunities may be found in massage therapy clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, medical offices, nursing homes, spas, health and sports clubs and private practice.
The classwork and practical hands-on training in the 660-contact-hour program are designed to prepare students to sit for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). Hands-on training is conducted through practice on other Massage Therapy students and at a student clinic open to the public for therapeutic massage appointments.
Passing the MBLEx is necessary to apply to the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy (NCBMBT) for a license as a massage therapist. The NCBMBT regulates the practice in the state to ensure minimum standards of competency and to protect public health, safety and welfare.
Enrollment requirements:
For more information, or to be notified when information sessions are scheduled, email Program Director Nancy Harrell at [email protected].
Don't have enough money to pay for a course? Wake Tech's Propel program offers scholarships that cover the cost of registration and fees.
NOTE: The Propel Scholarship Application is currently closed and will reopen October 1.
Describe the purpose of therapeutic massage
Discuss the therapeutic role of the massage therapist
Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session
Prepare and maintain a therapeutic environment for a professional massage
Utilize proper techniques of asepsis, universal precautions, physical preparate and body mechanics that ensure the physical well-being of the massage therapist and client
Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in the practice of bodywork modalities
Apply legal and ethical standards of practice to documentation of therapeutic massage
Implement strategies that promote effective communication with a massage client
Describe the legal and ethical standards that are required for massage therapists and that regulate the practice of massage therapy
Introduction to Massage Therapy
Law
Ethics
Psychological Concepts
80
No
North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
This course introduces basic concepts of the role of a massage therapist. Emphasis is placed on beginning theory, as well as legal and ethical considerations of the profession.
Upon completion of the course, you will be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills. Through classwork and practical hands-on experience, you will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.
No
N/A
Textbooks, massage table, linens, massage lotion and scrubs
N/A
95% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or better
N/A
Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements: have a high school diploma or equivalent, are 18 years of age or older, are of good moral character as determined by the board and demonstrate satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language.
Massage therapist
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in Wake County and the surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3021C3-Massage Therapy Part 1
.
Describe the purpose of therapeutic massage
Discuss the therapeutic role of the massage therapist
Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session
Illustrate knowledge of related anatomy and physiology to the application of massage therapy
Differentiate related pathologies to the practice of therapeutic massage, including recognizing contraindications
Summarize musculoskeletal information for use in massage therapy treatments
Evaluate pathologies for therapeutic massage indications, contraindication and treatment protocols
Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in the practice of body work modalities
Properly utilize standard equipment and supplies for a basic Swedish massage
Prepare and maintain a therapeutic environment for a professional massage
Utilize proper techniques of asepsis, universal precautions, physical preparate and body mechanics that ensure the physical well-being of the massage therapist and client
Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session
Construct a basic chair massage sequence
Organize a basic one-hour Swedish massage using appropriate techniques, including appropriate draping
Organize client intake information to select appropriate techniques for massage therapy
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Pathology
Swedish Massage
Chair Massage
255
No
North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
This course introduces concepts basic to the role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on human anatomy and physiology, pathology and techniques of bodywork, as well as skill in therapeutic touch.
Upon completion of the course, you should be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills. Through classwork and practical hands-on experience, you will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.
No
N/A
Textbooks, massage table, linens, massage lotion and scrubs
N/A
95% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or better
N/A
Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements: have a high school diploma or equivalent, are 18 years of age or older, are of good moral character as determined by the Board and demonstrate satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language
Massage therapist
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in Wake County and the surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3021D3-Massage Therapy Part 2
.
Describe the purpose of therapeutic massage
Discuss the therapeutic role of the massage therapist
Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session
Illustrate knowledge of related anatomy and physiology to the application of massage therapy
Differentiate related pathologies to the practice of therapeutic massage, including recognizing contraindications
Summarize musculoskeletal information for use in massage therapy treatments
Evaluate pathologies for therapeutic massage indications, contraindication and treatment protocols
Perform various assessments on clients to determine the most effective application of massage techniques
Summarize the origin, insertion, action and location of muscles
Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in the practice of bodywork modalities
Describe the physiological effects of neuromuscular therapies
Demonstrate the techniques of deep-tissue therapy
Implement strategies that promote effective communication with a massage client
Kinesiology
Client Assessment
Deep Tissues and Trigger-point Massage
180
No
North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
This course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist. Emphasis is placed on the musculoskeletal system of the human body, as well as performing client assessment and therapeutic massage techniques.
Upon completion, you should be able to perform entry-level therapeutic massage on various populations. Through classwork and practical hands-on experience, students will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.
No
Massage Therapy Part 1 and Part 2
Textbooks, student clinic uniform and access to massage prep software
N/A
95% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or better
N/A
Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements: have a high school diploma or equivalent, are 18 years of age or older, are of good moral character as determined by the Board and demonstrate satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language
Massage therapist
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in the Wake County and surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3021E3-Massage Therapy Part 3
.
Describe the purpose of therapeutic massage
Discuss the therapeutic role of the massage therapist
Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session
Illustrate knowledge of related anatomy and physiology to the application of massage therapy
Implement strategies that promote effective communication with a massage client
Integrate theories of health, wellness and relaxation as they relate to the practice of therapeutic massage
Apply the basic concepts of business management to create a modified business plan, including choosing a business entity, marketing, budgeting and workplace policies
Recognize the special needs of clients who have suffered trauma through accidents or illness
Demonstrate the integration of Swedish massage and sports massage theory and practice to various populations
Demonstrate the techniques of prenatal massage
Describe the techniques of active and passive assisted engagement techniques and apply them
Distinguish theory and practice of complementary healthcare and bodywork practices such as hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, energetic techniques and reflexology
Evaluate intake information on a variety of massage clients and recommend treatment plans
Evaluate pathologies for therapeutic massage indications, contraindications and treatment protocols
Design appropriate treatment based on results from assessment techniques
Formulate treatment plans from health history and assessment information for a variety of individuals with unique needs
Under the supervision of an instructor, perform intake, treatment planning and massage therapy treatments on clients in the student clinic
Sports Massage
Hydrotherapy
Energy-based Modalities and Reflexology
Prenatal Massage
Business Practices
Student Clinic
145
No
North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
This course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist. Emphasis is placed on selected therapeutic approaches with a variety of populations throughout the lifespan, as well as effective business practices for a massage therapy establishment.
Upon completion, you should be able to perform entry-level therapeutic massage on various populations. Through classwork and practical hands-on experience, you will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.
No
Massage Therapy Parts 1, 2 and 3
Textbooks, student clinic uniform and access to massage prep software
N/A
95% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or better
N/A
Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements: have a high school diploma or equivalent, are 18 years of age or older, are of good moral character as determined by the Board and demonstrate satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language
Massage therapist
Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in Wake County and the surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3021F3-Massage Therapy Part 4
.
Recognize the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship
Identify dual relationships and their implications on the therapeutic relationship
Define somatic and understand the mind-body connection
Define stress and recognize the psychological and physical implications on massage therapy clients
The Therapeutic Relationship and Boundaries
Professional Communication
The Mind-Body Connection
25
No
N.C. Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
The N.C. Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy requires 25 hours in Psychological Concepts to become a licensed therapist.
No
N/A
N/A
N/A
95% attendance
Overall grade must be a 70% or higher to successfully complete this course.
N/A
This course is designed to meet the needs of massage therapists who have successfully completed their massage therapy training but are missing the required Psychological Concepts hours required for licensure by the N.C. Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.
Massage therapist
The demand for licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapists in Wake and surrounding counties is high and will continue to be so. Currently, more than 75 positions are listed on job boards.
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3022A3-Massage Therapy Psychological Concepts
.
Describe the legal and ethical standards that are required for massage therapists and that regulate the practice of massage therapy in North Carolina
Define and discuss the key ethical principles of professional massage therapist
Apply legal and ethical standards to the practice of massage therapy
Identify the steps to making ethical decisions
Outline sexual misconduct and how to minimize risk and terminate a massage therapy session
Implement strategies that promote professional communication with a massage therapy client
Recognize the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship
Identify dual relationships and their implications on the therapeutic relationship
Law: Overview of the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy, the North Carolina Practice Act for Massage and Bodywork Therapy and the rules and regulations of the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
Ethics: Professionalism for the massage therapist, key ethical principles for the massage therapist, massage therapy Code of Ethics, the therapeutic relationship and its key principles, cultural competency, ethical dilemmas and ethical decision-making
6
No
The North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy requires 24 hours of continuing education from licensed therapists to maintain their licensure. Three of those hours must be in ethics.
The North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy requires 24 hours of continuing education from licensed therapists to maintain their licensure. Three of those hours must be in ethics.
No
Successfully completed massage therapy training
N/A
N/A
95% attendance
70% or better
N/A
This course was designed to meet the needs of licensed massage therapists or massage therapy establishment owners who want to earn continuing education hours for their licensure or want to review the legal and ethical aspects of massage therapy in North Carolina.
Massage Therapist
N/A
Massage therapist
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MTH-3022B3-Massage Therapy Law and Ethics Review for Therapists
.
Define the "fixer" mindset and describe how it can show up in massage therapy practice
Identify ethical risks associated with a fixing orientation, including boundary crossings, overpromising outcomes and client dependency
Describe the role of scope of practice, informed consent and professional boundaries in ethical decision-making
Recognize power dynamics within the therapeutic relationship, especially when working with clients with developmental trauma
Apply trauma-informed principles to support client autonomy, choice and self-agency during sessions
Demonstrate strategies for shifting from a "fixing" approach to a facilitative, client-centered model of care
Utilize somatic awareness to track personal reactions, countertransference and practitioner impulses during sessions
Practice communication skills that reinforce ethical clarity, including setting expectations and discussing outcomes with clients
Identify signs of practitioner burnout related to over-responsibility and develop strategies for sustainability
Apply ethical reasoning to real-world case scenarios to support sound, professional judgment
Welcome and Introductions
Framing the Question: The "Fixer" Mindset
Ethical Foundations in Massage Therapy
Power Dynamics and Developmental Trauma
From Fixing to Listening and Facilitating: A Somatic and Ethical Shift
Boundaries, Communication and Informed Consent
Practitioner Awareness and Burnout Prevention
Ethical Decision-Making in Practice
Integration and Closing
3
Yes
None
None
No
Massage and Bodywork Therapy license
PowerPoint slides from instructor
N/A
90% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or higher
N/A
Licensed massage therapists
N/A
N/A
Massage therapist
| Details | Section | Date(s) | Location | Price | Seats | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 334956 | 10/08/26 - 10/08/26 | Western Wake Campus | 82.00 | 20 | Register |
If you would like to be notified when additional sections become available, please use Wake Tech’s Notify Me service for MTH-3022D3-Ethics: Are We Here to Fix Our Clients? .
Name the difference between trauma-aware, trauma-sensitive and trauma-informed care
Define trauma and distinguish between acute, chronic and developmental trauma as they relate to bodywork practice
Describe the role of the nervous system in stress, regulation and dysregulation, including basic polyvagal-informed concepts
Identify common signs of client dysregulation (physiological, emotional and behavioral) during a session
Explain the principles of trauma-sensitive care, including safety, choice, pacing and client autonomy.
Demonstrate the use of clear, ongoing informed consent before and during sessions
Recognize and maintain appropriate professional boundaries within a trauma-sensitive framework
Describe how power dynamics can influence the therapeutic relationship and impact client experience
Apply basic somatic awareness skills to track personal responses, impulses and potential countertransference
Demonstrate simple grounding and resourcing techniques appropriate for use within scope of practice
Differentiate between trauma-sensitive bodywork and trauma-processing or psychotherapy
Apply ethical decision-making skills to case scenarios involving trauma-sensitive considerations
Identify strategies for practitioner self-regulation and burnout prevention when working with trauma-impacted clients
Foundations – Understanding Trauma and the Nervous System (6 hours): Understanding Trauma in Bodywork Practice, The Nervous System and Regulation (two parts), Principles of Trauma-Sensitive Bodywork, and Integration and Reflection
Application – Ethics, Skills, and Therapeutic Relationship (6 hours): Informed Consent, Boundaries and Scope of Practice; Power Dynamics and the Therapeutic Relationship; Somatic Awareness for the Practitioner; Practical Skills: Supporting Regulation in Session; Ethical Considerations and Decision-Making; Practitioner Sustainability and Burnout Prevention; and Integration, Reflection and Closing
12
Yes
None
None
No
Massage and Bodywork Therapy License
PowerPoint presentations from instructor
N/A
90% attendance
Overall grade of 70% or higher
N/A
Licensed massage therapists
N/A
N/A
Massage therapist
| Details | Section | Date(s) | Location | Price | Seats | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 335240 | 10/09/26 - 10/10/26 | Western Wake Campus | 82.00 | 18 | Register |
If you would like to be notified when additional sections become available, please use Wake Tech’s Notify Me service for MTH-3022C3-Trauma-Sensitive Bodywork: Foundations of Safe and Ethical Practice .
The program is offered at the Western Wake Campus, at 3434 Kildaire Farm Road in Cary.
Wake Tech academic programs (degree and non-degree) that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to North Carolina or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside North Carolina once you have completed your academic program at Wake Tech, please refer to the Professional Licensure section of the college's distance education authorization page for additional information.
"Wake Tech gave me all the skills I needed to become a licensed massage therapist."
Emily Hester
Massage Therapy, Class of 2016
