Certificate in Somatic 
Massage Therapy

Begin your journey with our Certificate in Somatic Massage Therapy. This 3-module program, set in the inspiring Golden Bay, qualifies you as a Certified Somatic Massage Therapist. Ideal for those starting a career or refreshing their skills, the course provides a comprehensive foundation that leads seamlessly into our advanced diploma program.

Course Overview

This immersive certificate training focuses on hands-on learning, exploring massage techniques, anatomy, and trauma-informed practices. Across 9 days (3 modules, each consisting of 3 days), you’ll develop a complete full-body massage routine and gain a deeper understanding of the principles of therapeutic touch. You can book Module 1 as a stand-alone training to build foundational skills, or advanced therapists can skip Module 1 and book Module 2 as a stand-alone option to deepen their practice. Set in the beautiful Golden Bay, this program offers optional residential accommodation and catering for a fully supported experience.

Modules

3 modules, each consisting of 3 days of immersive training (total of 9 days)

What’s Involved

Focus

Massage bodywork techniques, embodied-therapist approach, living anatomy and physiology

Requirements

Home study and practicum under the guidance of our experienced tutors

Here is what you will learn

Module 1, 2, 3

OPEN TO ALL; NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

KEY TOPICS COVERED:

  • Foundational Massage + Anatomy

    Basics of massage, spinal anatomy, musculoskeletal health, and lymphatic system.

  • Safety, Boundaries + Therapist Well-being

    Safety protocols, scope of practice, consensual contact, self-care, and development.

  • Advanced Techniques + Therapeutic Modalities

    Fascia work, spinal dynamics, trigger points and reflexology.

  • Holistic Somatic + Mindful Practices

    Somatic awareness, yoga, sound healing, breathwork and chi kung.

  • Professional Growth + Certification Requirements

    Supervision, case studies, business skills and assessments.

Certificate Duration

Total Study Hours: 144 hours
Each Module: 24 hours in-class 

(3 days x 8 hours/day)

+ 24 hours Home Study per module

Course Duration & Dates

Training Dates for 2025

Module 1: 28 Feb - 2 Mar
Module 2: 2 May - 4 May
Module 3: 3 Jul - 6 Jul

Module 1: 1 Aug - 3 Aug
Module 2: 26 Sept - 28 Sept
Module 3: 21 Nov - 23 Nov

Information

Each module consists of 3 immersive training days, combining hands-on learning with holistic practices. The full certificate includes all 3 modules, totaling 9 days of in-class training. You can choose to book individual modules or the full course, depending on your needs.

“To have 3 generations behind Soma Academy is magic; the hands, the wisdom, the care. With a touch of humour these powerful women empower me to connect with my own healing touch."

HANNAH | STUDENT

What our Students are saying

|

What our Students are saying |

What You’ll Learn in the Certificate
in Somatic 
Massage Therapy

MODULE 1

Foundational Skills in
Somatic Massage Therapy

You can book this module as a stand-alone training if you’re interested in learning the foundational skills without committing to the full course.

If you’ve ever felt drawn to the world of massage therapy, this is your perfect starting point. We’ll cover the principles of safety, scope of practice, and consensual contact while exploring the foundational techniques to build your confidence and skills.

First, you’ll get hands-on experience with a whole-body massage routine, learning the science of touch, muscular-skeletal health, and the anatomy of the spine. You’ll also engage in complementary practices like Yoga, Sound Healing, Breathwork, and Chi kung to enhance your connection and awareness.

Next, we’ll explore the lymphatic system, the magic of the skin, and how to integrate self-care and embodiment into your practice. By the end of this module, you’ll feel ready to continue with Module 2 and deepen your journey.



Homework: To complete before Module 2.

MODULE 2

Integrative Techniques and Professional Development

Requirements: This module is open to those who have completed Module 1 and the required home practicum, or qualified massage therapists seeking professional development.



Now that you’ve built a strong foundation, it’s time to refine your skills and deepen your understanding of massage therapy. We’ll focus on advanced techniques and somatic awareness to expand your expertise.

In this module, you’ll learn fascia release, trigger point therapy, and deeper techniques for the shoulders and pelvis while practicing under group supervision.

By the end, you’ll explore spinal dynamics, cardiovascular health, and the autonomic nervous system to enhance your holistic approach. You’ll feel confident applying these advanced methods and prepared to continue to Module 3.

Homework: To complete before Module 3.

MODULE 3

Building Your Massage
Practice and Business

Requirements: Homework from Module 2 must be completed to start Module 3.

Becoming a massage therapist doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

In fact, this module is all about giving you the tools to build a thriving practice with ease. You’ll refine your skills, integrate your knowledge, and prepare for your professional journey.

We’ll guide you through advanced techniques like hand and foot massage with an introduction to reflexology, while also exploring the nervous system and how to manage pain phenomena effectively.

You’ll learn how to apply holistic massage techniques in your practice while focusing on embodiment and self-care for long-term success.

Plus, we’ll dive into practical assessments, review anatomy and physiology, and cover business start-up essentials so you feel confident and ready to graduate with everything you need to begin your career.

The Certificate in Somatic Massage Therapy equips you with practical, hands-on skills and a therapist-centered approach to confidently start your career. Learn to offer meaningful massages, master advanced techniques & build a practice that reflects your passion while supporting your clients' well-being.

Book Your Room + Catering

Our venue Rauhītanga offers superb views across Golden Bay with sunrises and sea views. Emerge yourself in the learning experience by including your accommodation and catering.

Golden Bay Awaits!
Join now:

Once your payment is received, your enrollment will be confirmed, and we’ll send you all the details you need, including arrival and departure information, our participant agreement, and a pre-course questionnaire to note any specific needs or preferences. As the start date approaches, you'll also receive a comprehensive welcome packet to help you prepare for your journey.

Pricing Breakdown

$950 - Per Module (one Module)
Includes lunch + morning tea for 3 days.

$2600 - Full Certificate (3 Modules)
Includes lunch + morning tea for all 9 days.

What’s Included:

  • 9 Days of In-Class Training (3 modules x 3 days each) in the stunning Golden Bay.

  • Hands-On Learning: Full-body massage techniques, anatomy, and trauma-informed practices.

  • Holistic Practices: Yoga, sound healing, breathwork, and chi kung.

  • Comprehensive Materials: Training manuals and guided home study assignments.

  • Group Supervision & Practicum: Learn and practice under expert tutors.

  • Professional Development: Certification preparation, business skills, and assessments.

  • Catering: Nourishing lunches and snacks are provided during training days to support your learning and connection.

Excluded:

  • Accommodation + Full Catering (Available only if the fully catered option is selected)

  • Travel to Golden Bay

Add-Ons:

Accommodation and Catering

  • Per Module (3 Days): $400
    Fully catered and includes accommodation.

  • Full Certificate (3 Modules, 9 Days): $1450
    Fully catered and includes accommodation for the entire training.

Note:

Please register your interest by December 31, 2024, even if you're not ready to pay. A $200 deposit secures your spot.

Diploma Program Modules 4-7 dates and prices to be released soon.

Select the plan that fits your journey:

Per Module

Payment of $950

Includes lunch and morning tea for 3 days (1 module).

KEY POINTS

  • HANDS-ON LEARNING

  • FLEXIBLE ONE-MODULE OPTION

ADD-ON AVAILABLE:

+ $400: Includes accommodation & full catering for 3 days.

Full Certificate

Payment of $2600

Includes lunch and morning tea for 9 days (3 modules).

KEY POINTS

  • HANDS-ON LEARNING

  • COMPLETE 3-MODULE PROGRAM

ADD-ON AVAILABLE:

+ $1450: Includes accommodation & full catering for 9 days.

What our Students are saying

“To have 3 generations behind Soma Academy is magic; the hands, the wisdom, the care. With a touch of humour these powerful women empower me to connect with my own healing touch."

Hanna | Student

“I recently had an opportunity to be in a massage training with the team from Soma Academy. From the initial welcome, I felt completely relaxed and cared for by the 3 generations of wonderful hearty healers Judy, Lolly, and Carina. The experience was rich and full of information, techniques, support, and knowledge. The venue was stunning, and we were treated with sound healing and beautiful food. I highly recommend this training and look forward to joining again"

Ananda | Student

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