Testimonials

Educating Hands has been open for almost 30 years, and during that time countless students have passed through our doors. We pride ourselves in having touched their lives in some way, and have been incredibly touched in turn by their dedication, passion, and love for massage therapy. Here are a few testimonials of their experiences in our class room. We would love to share them with you here so that you may here from the students themselves as to what kind of education we provide.

One of the most valuable things I learned at Educating Hands was to listen the wisdom of the body. There are so many layers of experience which are inscribed upon us, and the body tells that story. When we are able to step into the space of listening to the body's request for attention and respect, we honor the entire history of that whole person, and everything that brought her to the table. In so doing, we open channels for the body to evolve and grow in her wisdom. We create a sacred space where the intention is clear- to connect, to heal, and to love another person- uncomplicated and true. - Debra Benjamin, Garnet Class of 2011
My experience at Educating hands has been a truly life changing experience. What my training at Educating Hands has done for me, besides giving me the BEST massage training anyone can ever have, was open me to many wonderful experiences I won't soon forget. It has also given me a new way to look at life and especially how I look at the body, how we treat ourselves and most importantly, how we treat others. There is an entirely different world out there to experience – one that is different than many of us have ever seen. Educating Hands has given me a peek at that new world and my experience here has made me eager to continue that journey. The instructors are not only very caring and knowledgeable about massage, but they are well trained to assist you to learn about who YOU are and how you can open your mind to new experiences and new opportunities. I would highly recommend this school to anyone! - Crawford Wilson, Class of 2007
"I was a massage therapist in Pittsburgh for 4 years before I moved to Florida. I came to Educating Hands because I needed a diploma from a local accredited school to get my Florida license. There is no way I could have expected the remarkable quality of instruction and people who, in just 6 months, totally redefined my work and my life. It’s difficult to make someone who hasn’t taken the program understand how rare and profound the experiences are that go on here every day. Step inside the doors though, and you can feel it in the air. Really great massage therapy enhances the human connection between the therapist and client to make the treatments more effective and meaningful (this really hits home the first time a client has tears in their eyes while they’re thanking you for their massage). The teachers at Educating Hands guide you to a place where you’re ready to make that connection and teach you how to integrate it into your work. The breadth and depth of the sciences and massage curricula are impressive, but it’s the people that really make this school special." - Audrey Garber, L.M.T., Garnet Class of 2011
In 1995 I was burning out from an intensive career as an Interior Architect and Designer. Fortunately, a unique series of events guided me to Educating Hands. After graduating and going into private practice, I became the Admissions Director and an Instructor for EH as well. The knowledge, wisdom, and profound shifts in my life from my experiences at EH gave me the confidence to co-create an Associate of Science degree program in Massage Therapy where I live now in Northern California. I have also written educational articles about massage for local publications. California has no state certification yet regarding massage, with requirements varying from city to city. In my area local students may take a one week course and become “Certified Massage Therapists.” In contrast, my EH background opened many doors for me. (For example, upon arriving in CA, I was immediately hired by Kenwood Inn and Spa, one of the top three resort spas in the U.S.) Today I am blissfully in private practice full time. New clients often say, “I realize now I have never had a professional massage before. That was by far the best massage I have ever received. Thank you.” Thank YOU, Educating Hands, for being the catalyst for change, incredible knowledge, and ongoing joy in my life. - Kathy Ozzard Chism, L.M.T., Class of 1996
A client today at the spa 'dress rehearsal' told me she has had a bunch of massages in the last few months (journalist getting to sample spas around the world) and that I was the only one who listened to what she said she needed. Thank you Educating Hands for the amazing education I received. The more I am out in the world practicing massage, the more I realize just how priceless my training was. - Robyn Morris, L.M.T., Coral Class of 2009
Although I was certain this was where I needed to study the art of bodywork, I did not realize how right I was in choosing Educating Hands until graduation and thereafter. The only thing more important than building my career with different types of massage modalities is the foundation which I am building it on. It doesn't get anymore solid than what I learned here and being able to practice therapy with such confidence is a gift. In addition, the school's student service and support system is by far the most caring and attentive one I have ever come across. At an interpersonal level, I was taught the importance of integrity in this field and in life as well. I have been a therapist for a year now and I often resource from them in my professional endeavors. It's very valuable for me to be the alumni of a school who still welcomes my visits and calls with open arms and ears. -Yazmin Valdes, LMT, Pearl Class of 09'
I love my work, I feel so blessed and proud to be able to do something I enjoy so much as a career! In reflection, I have decided to write what I love most about being a massage therapist. Enjoy! The Body As A Vehicle Yes, I love the physical body. Not just what's on the outside but the systems inside of it too. I'm amazed by every function within us and how perfectly we have been engineered. How a heartbeat maintains blood pumping through our veins, or how hips sway as we walk. I am in awe of every contour, shape, color, or curve I see. Bodies are works of art that should be celebrated :) The Invisible Body If I was given a scalpel and made an incision on the abdomen, I will be able to see a lot of things that fill the inside of a body; lungs, heart, liver. These are things I can hold in my hands. Being a holistic massage therapist...I know there is more that my eyes can't see like the emotional, mental or spiritual. Each body has its own individual energy. And while I might not be able to hold this spirit, I can feel it. I can feel pain, sadness, joy, and positivity. I can connect to this person on a level that he/she may not even be aware of. I LOVE that I can touch someone without having to lay a hand on the client. There is no greater feeling than knowing you are helping someone. Whether a client has an achy shoulder or a nervous vibe, I am able to help change them for the better. I have seen attitudes go from 0 to 100 whether it be due to physical pain or something on a deeper level. And if I can help relieve a client's pain....I am giving them a better quality of life, and that makes my heart beat just a bit stronger :) - Krystal Diaz, Topaz Class of 2008
There are two sayings at Educating Hands that say it all – “At Educating Hands all things are possible” and “It takes a tribe”. There’s a certain magic that happens when like-minded people come together with dreams and intentions that allows for the flow of conscious manifestation to take place. Much has been created by having relentless trust and faith that things will work out one way or another at this amazing heart and student centered school. And for 29 years it has! With very little budgeting for advertising, Educating Hands has run its business mainly through word of mouth. That in itself says a lot. Word of mouth is powerful and only works when the business is offering the ‘real thing’ and when it touches people’s lives in a very positive and enriching way. The staff and faculty at this school work with such assion that you would think they are working for a cause. In a way, it is a cause because they all have an incredible hope and belief in contributing to making this a kinder, gentler, and wiser world. With every life that passes through this school there is an opportunity to plant the seed of what Educating Hands offers to its students – To prepare them to be intuitive, sensitive, and conscious healers that have evolved in their own personal growth and understanding of self and can therefore offer this richness in their treatments. Students leave here with more than an education. – Grace Moreno
When I enrolled to Educating Hands I had expected a boring school, with some teachers simply doing their job in teaching anatomy or kinesiology and others giving you the hands on practice. However, i had the pleasant surprise to discover my teachers were truly there to support all of us students on taking a new path in life, the one of bodywork. All teachers were there for most of the day, available for teaching, tutoring or any kind of moral support. Even more, they didn’t only give instructions, but motivate us to discover our inner talents and play with them. I loved the fact that my teachers did not simply teach me a routine, but encouraged me to follow my senses and listen to the body I had on the table. Educating Hands is a myrific school, a truly warm environment, very cozy and welcoming. I left this environment withthe regret of not being able to stay there even longer and with the feeling that i went through a school of life, and not just a school of massage. I would highly recommend this school to anyone interested in mastering the bodywork and I really hope it will win a makeover. – Raluca Grigore
Our school had warm, lively, intelligent instructors and an atmosphere of “you can succeed.” The classes were interactive and presented in a way that made even the difficult subjects pleasurable. Also, their doors continue to be open and welcoming to all almuni. While I was a licensed massage therapist, I often bought my supplies at the Educating Hands book store and loved the opportunity to visit with my instructors. – Jacquelyn Flint
Educated me–a person that not only knew NOTHING about bodywork, but also had NO REAL INTEREST–and took me step by step through the TOUCHABILITIES curriculum to make me stand out amongst all other therapists worldwide. – Michele Weissman
Educating hands is a unique and life changing place. The faculty is supportive and open to all the students, creating an environment that is focused on strengthening and discovering who you are and what you’re here for -Making each challenge fun and easy to learn. The human body is not only taught in its scientific form, but revealed to be a mind-boggling gift at this school. Educating Hands opens doors for many people who attend and should be recognized for the goodness it continuously spreads. – Sophie Wong
I Graudated over ten years ago. I felt all intructors were amazing. They helped me grow and mature not only into a great therapist, But a complete human being! Thanks educating hands!! I still use all the skills learned in daily life. ESPECIALLY, respect to the human body as a whole. – Christi Stalcup
My school had a different teacher for each modality, which has impacted my opinions about those modalities by allowing me the opportunity to fully experience those modalities to the fullest. I have heard stories from other massage therapists from other schools where they have only 1 teacher who teaches all the modalities and I am shocked to hear why other schools don’t see the benefit in finding teachers who specialize in a coremodality, because all Educating Hands graduates can all agree that the only way to become impacted by a particular modality is to have the full experience by a passionate teacher who lives and breathes that modality to the core. – Eric McGuigan
We had amazing teachers who really great communicators. No one in the class was ever left behind we learned collectively. They really wanted everyone to have a well rounded education. From hydrotherapy to shaitsu to reiki. We learned at least 8 modalities. I graduTed 15 yrs ago and many of my teachers are still there. A great place to learn and grow towards a healing path. – Kia Condorousis
The teachers, instructors and faculty addressed personal growth and not just passed through the mandatory curriculum. The program covered thoroughly the scientific aspects as well as the spiritual sides of massage practice. All in all, at the end of the program I almost felt sad to be parting with the school (which isn’t completely true since I am returning there for continuing education. – Atara Marko
Educating Hands School of Massage has not only provided practical skills and education, they have also gifted me with the perfect environment in which I have been encouraged to be free to combine soul, art and science in the expression of my work. The instructors’ knowledge, experience and varied teaching methods have allowed me to understand even the most challenging subjects. Their observations and feedback have prompted me to think and feel, to trust, to be creative in action and thought. They have stirred that something inside which drive me to want to learn more, express more, dream more, do more, be more – to grow. – Monica Resillez
Educating Hands has top-notch instructors with varied backgrounds. At the time it was overwhelming, but having traveled around and practicing for almost 10 years now, I really appreciate the intense exposure to so many modalities during my 11 months of education. So many schools teach a routine and send the students on their way. When I left Educating Hands, I felt confident enough in my training to tailor massage treatments to individual clients, not simply perform a routine massage. Educating Hands caused me to question what I was doing, how I could do it better, and what other classes or information was out there that could help me be a better therapist. – Lamonica
Educating Hands was the best experience of my life! I not only learned how to give an amazing massage, I learned a lot about myself. They challenged us in so many ways scholastically and spiritually. The staff there are incredible and have a plethora of knowledge in the massage world. I wish there structure was standard for all massage school! If I had to do it all over again I would! – Ariella Pitchon
Educating Hands School of Massage does so much more than teach theory and technique. One of the primary goals of the school is to encourage and foster self-discovery. While at times uncomfortable and unnverving, the outcome and rewards are incredible. I have grown so much since I started school, and I know it will allow me to be an amazing therapist! Additionally, what I love about the approach and curriculum is that we don’t learn “cookie-cutter” techniques. Instead we are taught to listen to the body and use our intuition. And by the way, without self-awareness we wouldn’t be able to do this. Studying at Educating Hands School of Massage has helped me get in touch with my spirituality, make more meaningful connections with others, and has prepared and inspired me to be a healing force in the world. - Carolyn Pinto
Opened my awareness of personal energy, of the mind-body-energy connection and its importance in providing a positive therapeutic experience for our clients, and in keeping our ownselves centered. Provided such a communal, comfortable environment to learn, non-mechanically, yet full of the info and techniques we needed to practice the profession. And they’ve stayed present in our lives, providing in-house CEUs, keeping touch with our progress, and personally interested in us, always available to us. – Julie Miller
Many things drew me to massage, the flexibility, the ability to work for myself, and especially because this is my calling. I found Educating Hands, and learned it is one of the top schools in my area. I applied and was accepted, gave notice at work and became a full time student once again at the age of 34, newly divorced, starting a new chapter of my life.
The staff and teachers at Educating Hands are all licensed therapists carrying a multitude of modalities and experience, they cultivate an opennessand creativity inside its walls. My experience at Educating Hands was a life-molding. In learning these teachings, there is a deep level of self-healing, which is then shared with others.
Most therapists I know graduated from EH and our massage styles are as unique as our personalities. This sends a message that EH is interested in developing one’s own personal massage style within a huge array oftechniques, and also provides CEU courses for advancement, a shadow program for training teachers, and a professional clinic.
I am extremely glad I chose Educating Hands. On a personal level, it has offered me a platform to achieve my highest goals, with encouragement and focus, discipline and structure, and a freedom for play and living life more fully. Healing is more necessary than ever before, our planet is suffering at our own hands, and it is our hands that will in turn heal. - Gina Zappia
I expected to have a good basic knowledge of Massage Therapy when I graduated. However at Educating Hands I learned so much more. Not only did they teach me the professional law and ethics, but they taught me about caring and compassion. The most important thing I learned at Educating Hands was how to take care of myself and with that knowledge be a great Therapist each time. I could have learned the practical mechanics of Massage at any of the other schools I interviewed. At Educating Hands I learned to connect on a deeper level and make a difference to my clients. – Terry Rocha
This school is tremendous and pours their soul and energy into the work. As such, it would be a grand honor for this privately owned and family operated school to the receipient of your prize. Owner and instructor, Iris, has created a grand family and is an inspiration to all of her graduates. It seems she has contributed significantly to the industry and has even authored a textbook. It is my impression that her contributions may be undervalued by the industry. She’s a real person, a dedicated instructor, and administrator. - Ciadelle Harguess
Educating Hands not only prepared me to be a massage therapist, but it has, and is changing my life. I underwent tremendous personal growth due to the care of our teachers and the time they spent training our hands, minds, and bodies for the field we have the opportunity to thrive in. I chose Educating Hands because they expose their students to the widest variety of modalities, products, organizations etc. of all the schools I researched, and they do so with out bias. They fully support students finding their own path. I knew at Educating Hands I would learn to be a massage therapist, but I did not expect to become a more whole and happier human being. I will forever be grateful for the shifts in my life that the school has fostered, and they are most deserving of this make-over. I know they would put every item to excellent and full use. – Melissa Jurado
Going to Educating Hands Massage School was one of the most important experiences of my life. In addition to providing the est calibre of teachers, the empahasis was on enabling students to connect with their whole self as well as learning the tools of being a massage therapist. In all aspects of training, connection to self and feelings was as important as book learning. In retrospect, I have learned that this process leads to self trust and self confidence. This perspective was not only taught but also demonstrated by all admistrators and teachers. – Rita Klein
Educating Hands provided a wonderful set of skill tools/modalities without ever teaching routine. They encourage each student to find his/her own way of working with the skills provided. So, in the end, they produce wonderful therapists that are all quite different from one another but all have the knowledge and skills to provide a fantastic service. Educating Hands provides great education without stifling individual creativity and I believe that makes them a truly exceptional and special institution. - Todd Grace
I entered massage school hoping to find a new career path and more flexibility and freedom in my life, however Educating Hands has taught me so much more than that. I am a little over half-way through my program, but already the personal growth I’ve experienced and the private lessons I’ve learned have started having an impact on my life. Educating Hands has opened a door for me to an entire world of alternative health care and lifestyle. And because of it, my outlook and the way I live in this world has changed for the better. - Claudia Ortega
I already completed my education in massage at another school, but after being massaged by a student of Educating Hands at a health fair, I knew I had to be “re-trained”. I feel that I didn’t make the wrong decision. From day one, Educating Hands’ approach to massage was not just methodical but holistic, not just about the client on the table but about the person giving the massage as well. They teach not simply to carry out a routine and getting paid, but about truly being aware of how every action and intention is affecting both individuals involved and how it affects the outcome, expected and unexpected. This approach has left me and my classmates, many a time, in awe of how wondrous the human touch can be. – Jose Caballero
Educating Hands exposed us to a broad range of teachers/practitioners with varied backgrounds and expertise. The school required a high level of academic understanding and had high standards in all areas. The school was extremely supportive when, in my first couple of months of classes, my father died. Being in such a giving and healing environment was just what I needed to come through the grieving process. – Patty Shillington
I live in MA and after checking out the schools here I chose to travel to Miami to get the best massage education I thought I could receive. Boy am I glad I went. For 6 months I went to school every day with some of the best teachers who taught me everything I needed to know to feel comfortable out in the real world. From body mechanics to how to massage a pregnant woman to working with hydrotherapy the list goes on. It wasn’t until I started working in MA that I realized just how great my school was. When working with other therapist they would always ask me, “Where did you learn that?” and I would always reply, “In school, Your school didn’t teach you that?” And I always would feel that for the sake of our profession I was obligated to teach them everything that they had missed from proper draping to simple contraindications to self expression and just learning to flow with another person’s body. My school taught me that massage is not just about the person lying on the table it is about learning to flow through your body to feel what is going on with that body on the table. I could go on and on about the teachers there but I think I have said enough. I would go there again if given the choice. – Amy Ward