Your Step-By-Step Guide with the New Age Spa Institute
Becoming a massage therapist is more than learning techniques—it’s choosing a
career dedicated to healing, wellness, human connection, and the art of
therapeutic touch. At the New Age Spa Institute (NASI)—a nationally respected,
IBHE-approved school
—we’ve spent nearly two decades preparing students to
succeed in today’s expanding massage therapy, holistic health, and rehabilitative
wellness fields.
Whether you’re exploring a new path or pursuing a long-awaited career change,
here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Enroll in a State-Certified Massage Therapy Program
To become a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in Illinois, the Illinois Board of
Higher Education (IBHE) and the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional
Regulation (IDFPR) require:
NASIs Massage Therapy Program exceeds state standards with approximately 635 hours of comprehensive training.
- A minimum of 600 hours of massage therapy education
- Successful completion of the MBLEx exam (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination)
Our curriculum includes:
- Anatomy, physiology, kinesiology & pathology
- Deep tissue massage
- Swedish & relaxation massage
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Myofascial release
- Therapeutic stretching
- Hydrotherapy & spa body treatments
- Clinical techniques & SOAP note charting
- Ethics, professionalism & client communication
- Business skills for private practice
- Preparation for the MBLEx exam
You’ll learn how to work with real clients, understand the body from a
clinical perspective, and apply techniques that support relaxation, pain
relief, mobility, and overall wellness.
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY
Call 847-759-0900 or click here to send us a message now!
or click here to send us a message now!
Step 2: Meet the Illinois License Requirements
To qualify for a Massage Therapy License in Illinois, you must have:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Completion of a state-approved massage therapy program (minimum 600
- hours)
- A passing score on the MBLEx
- Fingerprints & criminal background check as required by IDFPR
NASI welcomes full-time and part-time students, adult career changers, wellness practitioners, and recent high school graduates ready to enter the healing arts profession.
Step 3: Build Your Career as a Massage Therapist
After you complete your program and pass the MBLEx, a wide range of career
opportunities become available.
- Common career paths for licensed massage therapists include:
- Day spas, wellness spas & holistic healing centers
- Chiropractor offices & pain management clinics
- Physical therapy & rehabilitation centers
- Medical practices & integrative health clinics
- Sports medicine & athletic training environments
- Hospitals, nursing homes & senior care facilities
- Yoga studios, fitness centers & wellness retreats
- Mobile massage or independent private practice
- Luxury resorts, cruise lines & destination spas
Many NASI graduates choose to specialize in areas such as:
- Sports massage
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Medical/clinical massage
- Prenatal massage
- Myofascial release
- Reflexology
- Trigger point therapy
The massage therapy field is growing rapidly as more clients seek drug-free
solutions for stress, chronic pain, injury recovery, posture, mobility, and holistic
wellness.
What Does a Massage Therapist Do?
In daily practice, licensed massage therapists combine science, intuition, and
hands-on skill. A typical day may include:
- Conducting client intake and assessments
- Creating personalized treatment plans
- Performing massage techniques tailored to each client’s needs
- Maintaining SOAP notes and treatment records
- Collaborating with chiropractors, physical therapists, and other health
- providers
- Supporting clients with stress reduction, mobility, recovery, and general
- wellness
Massage therapy is a rewarding, heart-centered profession where no two
days—or two clients—are ever the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is NASI’s massage therapy program?
Approx. 635 hours
Full-Time: ~5 months
Part-Time: ~10 months
Can massage therapists perform body treatments?
Yes; body treatment services support circulation, detoxification, skin health, and
relaxation Massage therapists may offer spa body treatments such as:
- Salt or sugar scrubs
- Mud and clay wraps
- Hydrotherapy services
- Dry brushing + more!
Do I need a background check to get licensed?
Yes. Illinois requires fingerprints and a criminal background check to ensure public
safety and uphold professional standards.
Why Choose the New Age Spa Institute?
A Program That Exceeds State Standards
NASI’s curriculum surpasses Illinois’ minimum hours and meets national
recommendations, giving you the foundation you need for both Illinois licensure
and potential out-of-state transfers.
Comprehensive Clinical & Spa Training
You’ll gain real-world experience through hands-on practice with clients,
preparing you for both wellness and clinical environments.
Small Class Sizes = Personal Attention
Our massage classes are intentionally limited to 10 students or fewer, ensuring
individualized instruction and mentorship.
Experienced, Industry-Leading Instructors
NASI educators bring decades of experience in massage therapy, holistic health,
medical settings, and spa leadership.
Flexible Scheduling for Adult Learners
Part-time programs on evenings and weekends make it possible for working
adults, parents, and career changers to pursue massage therapy with confidence.
Did You Know? Continuing Education Is Required in Illinois
Illinois massage therapists must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE)
every 2 years to renew their licenses. NASI graduates receive:
Lifetime 20% off all Continuing Education (CEU) classes
including Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Advanced Facial Massage,
and Fascia Stretching Workshops.
Ready to Start Your Massage Therapy Career?
A meaningful, flexible, and impactful career is within your reach. Let
NASI help you build it.
Your future as a healing professional begins with one decision—and NASI is here
to guide you every step of the way.
Call 847-759-0900 to speak with our team
