I am kind of surprised to read all of these gleaming reviews because when I visited their lab on some occasions and heard staff openly assault students I had to speak up about it.I can not imagine a school could be that good unless they are hiding the bad reviews from the public which I would have to assume because unfortunately myself and others have witnessed some pretty bad actors associated with this school.I would hope for a response to my review here since I see others here have all been answered.I really also hope they can improve their staffing problems.

Was visiting for a study weekend and wowed by the hospitality! Just getting back to my feet and spending my time in gratitude today. Thinking about SportStretch and my time in San Fran, being in such a warm environment made for an even better learning environment!

I just completed the 600hr Massage Therapist Certification program and it was such an amazing experience! I definitely recommend this school to anyone who is interested. The teachers are so knowledgeable and supportive of the students education. The class sizes are small and make for such a great learning environment. This place is amazing!

I just graduated from San Francisco School of Massage and Bodyworks 600 hr massage program. The months I spent here were totally transformative. My class was full of amazing people, my instructors were kind and accommodating, and the administrative staff was always available to answer questions or help with anything you needed.During school you are required to spend 80 hours in the student clinic. During these hours I was able to tune my style, and build my confidence as a therapist. The clinic has a manager, and at the end of a shift we would sit and discuss any challenges or successes that shift brought. The managers then provide advice, and valuable feedback.This program is primarily hands-on, which I think was very valuable, when practicing in class you could verify with your instructor or teachers assistant if youre doing the demonstrated strokes correctly before taking it to clinic.There are lectures, which the instructors style in a very engaging way, like interactive anatomy classes, or business classes including real-world examples.Sarah, the assistant director, is very interactive after and during the program to help you with job placement and applying for your licensure. I am very impressed with her and the administrative staffs responsiveness and clear communication.I think this school is ran very well, with well thought out course progression, and a very safe place to practice your craft in clinic. I would absolutely recommend this school to anyone looking for a solid foundation in massage therapy + certification.

I was in the PT day course and I loved the organization of the classes. The teachers are wonderful professionals and amazing people, I didnt grow just as a massage therapist but also as a person.The school has a job replacement program after graduation and the administrative staff is always there to help you out with anything you need.The space is clean and safe and they have a lot of equipment, they also have a clinic where you can practice with paying customers. The clinic has been a great place for me to understand and have a feeling of what the outside world could be.Thank you for the wonderful experience SFSM!!

SFSM was a great experience for me both intellectually and socially. I was challenged to study and work hard. Director, Asst. Director, Teachers and the whole class really helped form a team environment where everyone helped each other learn and succeed. Such an amazing journey with this organization. I would highly recommend this school to anyone.

The instructors are passionate about what they teach. The administration is responsive and always available to help students. The lab is awesome! Excellent quality for the price paid! best school ever! this is my first review ever thats how good this school is.

Having just finished a 600hr massage therapy program I can honestly say that the homework I did in choosing the right school will continue to pay off for years to come. The staff and curriculum are outstanding, offering real world education from the essential body mechanics, to a refined touch, informed by thorough understanding of anatomy. I will continue to come back to SFSM for more workshops and a way to stay connected to these wonderful people. I highly recommend the school.

This school was perfect for me. I loved how small it was, both in terms of its actual size and the number of people in class. The administrators were super helpful and always responsive when it came to logistical questions about classes, homework, tests, and getting my certification through the CAMTC. The instructors were all very personable and made themselves available for questions outside of class. The scope of the program was also perfect since it fulfilled the basic requirements for certification and got me in and out in 6 months. I would highly recommend this school to anyone who is exploring their educational options within the field of bodywork.

One of the best educational experiences Ive had in my life. The administrative staff, students and instructors were very supportive. There was so much great information presented, and a lot of time to practice as well as the required hours working in Massage Lab that I feel very prepared for my new career!

I am a recent graduate of the 600-hour program at SFSM. This program has helped me grow not only as a massage therapist but also as a person. I would not be who am I today without this school.The program is Western based. Which I think is great - I would much rather have a strong foundation in Western modalities and be able to take continuing education classes for my interests in Eastern modalities. The atmosphere is professional with a relaxed feel.The staff here are the absolute best. I cannot say enough good things about them! No question goes unanswered and I was never made to feel like I was bothering anyone with all my e-mails and knocks on the door.I plan to be involved with this institution for as long as time allows because I never want to leave. :)

I checked out a few schools and this is by far the best experience Im happy to say I have been a part of. You learn so much with the diverse array of massage instructors. They really prepare you for the massage world and the molex exam. And the best aspect of this school, I believe is how great the administrative staff is! I will definitely return for continuing education.

SFSM is an excellent school and Im so glad I chose to go here. The teachers and admins are very dedicated and available. There are a number of payment plan options which made it possible to go at all, and the instruction itself is top-notch. The school clinic was also invaluable in preparing me for actual work with paying clients (not just practicing on other students). I felt ready to launch my career after graduating, passed the MBLEx without much trouble, and the assistant director Sarahs job placement assistance got me my first position only a couple weeks after getting certified. Cant thank the school enough!

The school has a warm family feel right in the heart of SF Mission. Students get detailed hands on experience, instruction and training. Instructors are working experts in the field. Teachers and staff are willing to help and support you on your journey.

I have been certified by the states for more than 5 years, this is my school where all my skills and techniques come from. It had provided me all the best tools and I am very pleased. I now work for a startup company and I have 5 stars rank on my massage skills from many of the clients whom i had worked with. This is the great spot if u r looking for becoming a Professional massage therapist.

I got one of the best educations of my life here, in any field. I was around inspired and inspiring teachers who cared and shared, and around people who are still my friends today. Plus I learned a lot about life and what’s really important in our short journey here.

I could not recommend SFSM more!! I completed the 600-hr Days track of the Massage Therapist program, and it changed my life completely.I have learned so much about anatomy and my own body, as well as a broad range of massage techniques of course.One thing I appreciate about this school is that they focus greatly on body mechanics, plus the therapists themselves cultivating their own style. They know that burnout is unfortunately a common thing with massage therapists, so the school is diligent about trying to instill good body mechanics from the start.The education is fantastic, the school felt like a safe space, and I felt like my class became my community. The location is great, in the bustling Mission with lots of good food around plus easy access from BART.Highly recommend!! Thanks so much, SFSM :)

Great school and experienced instructors who willing to help and support students. I’m so greatful to have chosen this school. Really recommend for someone who want to get new skill and education.

Looked at most schools in the bay area and I had to choose with SFSM. The staff are amazingly helpful and make you immediately feel welcome. The individual attention the instructors provide in class is second to none and they are some of the most well educated practitioners I have had the good fortune to learn from. Instructors practice privately outside of class and every tidbit of their experience is available for students benefit. I am so happy I chose this school and plan to do much of my future continuing education here! You guys are awesome! Thank you SFSM!

SFSM has the best staff Ive ever encountered throughout my education. All the teachers and even the administrative staff are extremely resourceful, quick at responding, and honestly want the best for all the students. The program does a great job at preparing its students to become professional massage therapists and body workers and constantly dropped gems of knowledge and experience to take into my future career. I did the 1 year (600 hour) program which met for 4 hours a day, 3 times a week, and the schedule was very manageable with my full time job for anyone who might have this concern. They understand that were busy with our jobs, family and life and are reasonable when accommodating to individual needs. Also part of the program are their clinical shifts in which students give massages to actual clients. This was one of the best aspects of the program as it gave students a lot of hands on, real world experience to problem solve, interact with clients, and get comfortable with giving massage in a professional environment. If youre thinking of a career in massage and bodywork, SFSM is a great choice for starting off and learning everything you need to know to get on that path.

This school is FIRST rate! The educators and administrators are SO dedicated and committed to you (the student) and your future career as a professional massage therapist. The school has a huge focus on anatomy, body mechanics, the many different modalities (Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofacial, sports, chair massage, and more) and your career. They are also super focused on helping their students pass the MBlex (required exam to get a certificate or license), with test prep and study tips. This is NOT a paid review, I am a graduate of the school and am so proud (and feel lucky) to have done it at the SFSM - San Francisco School of Massage and Bodywork.

I spent a good deal of time researching the best school to pivot a new career choice forward last year (2017). After looking at all the Bay Area schools, both in person and through recommendations from the medical professionals in my life, it was an easy decision to choose the SFSM&B. Now, 7 months later and 600 hours of education, Im sitting here reviewing this school after graduating this week. What a journey! I loved absolutely everything I experienced during my time there. The curriculum was incredibly thorough. The projects were fun and I met with some bold challenges, but in every instance, the staff were there for me and each experience broadened the scope of my future practice. Their industry tenure, knowledgable experience(s), intuitive and cutting edge insights plus warm and caring support were exactly what I would have wished. What a gift. This school has reshaped me in so many ways! I feel confident, knowledgable and ready to begin my career as a Massage Therapist.

Very friendly staff, teachers are dedicated to their professions and it’s actually a life changing experience for me to get my massage certificate here at SFSM. I recommend it to all bodyworks fanatic..

Choosing San Francisco School of Massage and Bodywork is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only was my education technically comprehensive, it was also a joyful and life-changing experience. SFSM produces great therapist, who graduate ready to pass the MBLEx and enter the job market. This school also provides guidance and support through the learning process that goes above and beyond what one can expect. The staff deeply care about the wellbeing and success of their students. I highly recommend you come take a tour if you are interested in massage therapy!

Such an amazing school! A year ago I decided to leave the corporate world and enter into massage school. I feel so blessed to have gone to this one! It was such a transformative experience! Not only did I learn so much about the body but I learned so much about myself and came out a better happier person with skills only this school can offer. The teachers are all amazing and truly care about your growth within the program. Thank you SO much SFSM!! I give you more than 5 stars!

Great place

Its hard to say only a little about this school, because they give so much, but here goes.Learning EnvironmentFrom the very beginning every one of the instructors was welcoming and supportive. They told us if we ever had a question we could call them, text them or send them an email, even during non-school hours. And they meant it. I contacted instructors on several occasions during non-school hours with questions. Each time they were responsive, helpful and kind. They seemed to be genuinely interested in my success throughout the program and worked hard to make the assignments work for me, and to ensure that I passed the exams.FacilitiesThe facilities at the school are top notch. Everything is clean, well maintained and carefully coordinated. Laundry is done every day, and sheets are washed after every use. Any time a table or other instrument is broken it’s quickly taken out of the class and fixed or replaced. The maintenance and overall care taken with the facilities was surprising, and compared to other schools I visited before settling on San Francisco School of Massage and Bodywork, well, there just is no comparison. SFSM facilities are much better.CurriculumAs for the curriculum, it was well written in advance. For each class day the instructor is provided with an outline of the material to be delivered, and every one of the instructors handled the delivery of the material exceptionally. Each instructor has an area of specialization for their own practice, but even when they were required to work outside that specialization they did their homework and brought together a package of instruction that felt well researched, practiced and delivered with confidence.Exam preparationThe preparation for the MBLEx exam was very thorough. It used methods that had been tested many times by the instructors and refined over the years. There were practice exams in class and discussions of common types of questions to expect on the exam. For the entire time leading up to and following the exam both instructors and administrators were available for help preparing for the exam. By the time I went in to take the exam I was fully prepared, and I was confident that if I didn’t pass the exam the instructors would be there to help me prepare for a retake. Going into the exam with that confidence helped greatly with my thought processes leading up to and during the exam. Instead of focussing on what would happen if I failed I was able to focus on the questions during the exam.Practical StudyThe school has three mechanisms for practical study during the program:Practicums are assigned in modules one and two. A practicum is a massage you perform on someone outside the class, of your choosing. It can be anyone you like. Some students worked with their family, others with friends, and some of them even used dating services to find people to work on. The practicums are a comfortable ramp-up to working with strangers, which students are required to do in the clinic.Clinic shifts are where the real-life style work begins. In the student clinic, students are allowed to work on clients who pay real money, albeit at a discounted rate, to come in for massage performed by students in the program. For me, this work was vital. It helped me to develop a functional comfort with touching and working on the bodies of people I had never met.Working with other students in class helped me to build confidence to take on both clinic shifts and practicums.

This school changed my life. I was hesitant to embark on a new career path, but everyone was so professional and supportive that it really made the change a lot easier. I just graduated and will be taking MBLEx and applying for jobs and SFSM is there for you throughout that process as well. I learned so much about healing and anatomy that I totally have a new, gentler relationship with my own body as well as a bitchin new skill. Five stars!

From the moment I stepped in the door, I knew this place was special. Words cannot ever express how profound and life changing my experience here has been. But I will try and capture what makes this place so special.The staff and instructors are the most accomplished and inspiring bodywork professionals in the industry. They are technically skilled, but beyond that they are passionate and kind and amazing healers. They consistently went above and beyond to connect with us and to share their knowledge, time and expertise. Sarah, Emily, Gary, Lilli Ann, Adriene, Leah and Shelby gave me the knowledge, skills and mentorship to make me a successful bodyworker.The curriculum is top notch. I cannot believe how thoughtful and calculated the syllabus and materials were designed. Day by day my brain slowly grew at just the right pace. I never felt overwhelmed. Topics were introduced in theory, practiced hands on in class, and revisited to solidify them. They know EXACTLY how to make students knowledgeable, skilled and confident. And while there are requirements and core curriculum, they help bring out your own unique skills and style. They encouraged me to find my massage style.My classmates quickly became my tribe. The professional and personal relationships I gained here will last a lifetime. I never expected that and am profoundly grateful for them. This only happened because of the amazing learning environment the school established.In addition to textbook learning and hands on demonstrations and practice in class, I learned so much through the schools Massage Lab clinic. There I practiced and perfected my craft. This sets SFSMBW apart. I feel as though Im graduating with months of relevant work experience under my belt and as such have the confidence to go after any job.I cannot say enough AMAZING things about this incredible institution. If you think bodywork is your calling you owe it to yourself to explore studying here. You will not be disappointed.

I am a recent graduate of SFSM and I cant be any more happy and satisfied with my course at this school. I am a health science graduate with the passion for physical rehabilitation currently working at a Physical Therpy clinic. Before going to grad school, I wanted to get some tools under my belt, so I decided to take on the 6 months Massage Therapy 600 hour certification. The outline of the course was very organized and all the subjects they included are all relevant and useful tools for the real world (Swedish techniques, deep tissue, trigger point, sports massage, orhtho-bionomy, pregnancy and so much more!).Instructors are phenomenal massage therapists that are very knowledgeable with the human body (anatomy/physiology and kinesiology enthusiasts/experts) and they have a great way articulating their knowledge to the students. The program I joined was a crash course of 3x/week 8 hours long each day. It was an intense program for those that have time to commit, but whats great about this school is that they also offer 9 month program and a year long program so that it can really fit with work/life schedule.I also have to commend the Director and the business administrative staff that operates the school, because they are genuinely eager to help each student reach their goals. They are very organized and quick to respond with any needs or concerns students may have. There was never a challenge for me when I had a question or concern about an assignment, employment placing questions, making up classes, etc. They were always available and my issues were always resolved within the 24hrs.Thank you SFSM for your passion for this industry and helping spread that same passion to the students. Keep doing what youre doing!

When I first signed up for the CMT program at SFSM I just knew it was the school for me.The staff is incredible and all are deeply passionate about the work and supporting students to the Nth degree.I took a hiatus from school when I thought my life was taking me in a different direction, and when life brought me back to bodywork SFSM helped me get back on track and double down on my focus.My teachers have become friends and classmates have turned into some of my closest knit communities.Ive already had three other friends check out the school when they came to me with interest in massage and no one hesitated to sign up!SFSM will always be home and I am so grateful for such a well rounded and thorough education in such a transformative career path.Thank you!