What students are saying about McKinnon

After an eight plus year stint, I decided to save myself and leave the rat race of media production for what was my salvation: calm and peace. It was to be a Massage and Bodywork Practitioner, a huge but necessary lifestyle change as I found myself inspired by my therapists' balanced quality of life. McKinnon BTC was to be that light at the end of the tunnel. I found myself drawn to the energy within the walls of the ole' building on Webster, and instantly felt its rich history and aura during my initial visit/orientation. The staff, instructors and fellow aspiring practitioners seemed to feed off of this energy and harness it into a positive synergy between a strong desire to learn and the emphatic passion to teach. A truly unique learning experience and environment encompassing the dynamic between thorough technical knowledge of anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on trusting our natural hands-on intuition as our guide to heal and work with the body.

— Felix Payomo, Swedish, Shiatsu, Craniosacral

When I started at McKinnon I didn't have a clue about the next path in my life. It was so encouraging when instructors would say, "You will." And it's true, as I delved into the awesomeness of learning about our bodies, developing skills to unwind tight muscles, walk beside someone on their way to healing or just being present with another person, I did discover my path! Each of the McKinnon staff adds incredible depth in their unique approaches to applying the skill of massage. I am also grateful for the underlying mission of McKinnon to make massage available to all, with courses designed to fit my schedule. I watched in awe as they made our learning space "green" creating a safe, non-chemical space. In every way McKinnon is a leader in the field of massage and bodywork.

— Joyce Petersen, Swedish, Asian Systems, Sports/Deep Tissue, Touch for Diverse Populations, Advanced Modalities

I chose the McKinnon Institute initially because of the convenient location and flexible schedule that included weekend classes but I keep taking classes at the Institute because the instruction has been amazing for both my personal and professional development. I entered the school facing the challenges of juggling career and life with two small children. I was looking for a change, a new career that afforded me the flexibility I need. I found the support and knowledge of an extremely diverse staff who have helped me sculpt my education and begin to define and understand my bodywork practice. I especially appreciate the emphasis on anatomy, efficient use of power, energy and developing solid ergonomic body mechanics, helping us help our clients while we protect ourselves.

— Jen Reeve, Swedish, Sports/Deep Tissue

I had a wonderful experience at McKinnon. I took their Swedish Massage 100 hour course. First the range of courses they offered and the times and dates gave me many options. Second, they were affordable. It gave me the opportunity to try out one modality without having to invest too much money up front. Without this option, I would not have been able to take massage. The curriculum was varied and thorough and the teachers were patient, knowledgeable, professional and very kind. I grew in ways that I couldn't fathom beforehand. I learned that bodywork is much deeper than just routine or technique, and this knowledge helped me become more in tune with my own body and spirit as well.

— Matthew D. Wolf, Swedish

I chose McKinnon over other massage schools because the atmosphere is very relaxed and welcoming. And McKinnon is a GREEN school! The other schools I checked into were too sterile, no personality, and the instructors didn't make time to introduce themselves when I visited those schools. When comparing them academically, McKinnon offers more in-depth studies over the others I've visited and at a more affordable price, and you can fit the classes in with your schedule, unlike other schools in the Bay Area. Can't beat that!

— Gina Marie Sparacino

I left behind a career in advertising to pursue work that felt more personally meaningful. I feel grateful and lucky that my path led me to McKinnon. Initially I chose to study at McKinnon because it was nearby and offered a variety of flexible course offerings. I appreciated that I could begin my study of massage with minimal commitment and financial outlay. After completing my first 100 hours of Swedish training, I was able to put my skills to use and began earning money as a bodyworker while I continued my training. As I furthered my studies at McKinnon, I was continually impressed with the small classes and personalized teaching from skilled and generous teachers, and the support and encouragement that was offered from the administrators. Due the the flexibility in the thoughtful program design, I was able to study the modalities I was interested in, and each course built upon the skills I previously learned. I was taught solid technical skills while simultaneously learning to develop and trust my intuition as a bodyworker. I now have a successful private bodywork practice and give much credit to wonderful folks at McKinnon for guiding me on this incredible path. Every day I am thankful that I have a new profession that allows me to contribute to the health and well-being of others.

— Jen Worth