By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute

When considering a career in massage therapy or selecting a treatment option, it’s important to understand the differences between clinical massage therapy and wellness massage therapy. They differ significantly in techniques, settings, and objectives. Let’s explore these differences and help you decide which career path is right for you.

Clinical Massage Therapy: A Focus on Problem Solving and Medical Integration

We take pride in the specialized clinical training our students receive. Clinical massage therapy goes beyond relaxation techniques; it is designed to address specific medical conditions and alleviate discomfort at its root. Unlike a routine, choreographed massage, clinical massage involves a tailored approach that begins with assessing a client’s pain, posture, and daily activities to identify the underlying cause of discomfort.

As our Program Director, Mike Hovi, explains, “A clinical massage therapist assesses a client for problems that may be causing pain or discomfort, determines if clinical massage would be beneficial, and provides targeted treatment with the goal of reducing that pain or discomfort.” This approach is not just a temporary fix—it's a vital part of the client’s healthcare plan, working hand in hand with other treatments prescribed by medical professionals.

Our clinical massage therapy program equips students with advanced techniques focused on resolving issues like chronic pain, musculoskeletal dysfunction, and injury recovery. Our graduates don’t just learn how to perform massages; they are trained to think clinically, making them problem solvers who assess and treat the root cause of discomfort, leading to long-term relief for their clients.

Wellness Massage Therapy: Holistic Wellness and Relaxation

Wellness massage therapy is generally centered around relaxation, stress relief, and overall wellness. While it can also address discomfort, the primary goal is to promote general health and relaxation. This type of massage is typically found in spas, wellness centers, and private practices, offering a peaceful, tranquil environment for clients to unwind.

While a relaxing spa massage has its place, it’s important to note the difference between a wellness and clinical massage. We ensure that our students are capable of delivering both, but our clinical training opens up greater opportunities. Graduates trained in clinical massage are highly sought after by employers because they can offer something more—a tailored, results-driven treatment that goes beyond relaxation to address deeper issues.

Why Clinical Massage Therapy is in High Demand

Clinical massage therapy is invaluable for clients and employers alike. Clients who receive clinical massage often find it essential to their health, booking regular appointments because the treatments help them feel and perform better in their everyday lives. Clinical massage provides long-term benefits that clients are willing to invest in.

For clinical massage therapists, this means repeat business and client loyalty. Many clients, especially those in sports, turn to clinical massage for more than just relaxation. They seek treatments that improve their performance and aid recovery. As a result, clinical massage therapists often find themselves in higher demand, with employers regularly seeking Soma graduates because of the specialized training they provide.

Clinical massage therapists are not just following a routine—they are solving problems. Whether it’s an athlete looking to improve their performance or a client seeking relief from chronic pain, Soma-trained therapists offer a level of expertise that sets them apart in the industry.

The Soma Institute: Setting You Up for Success

We don’t just train massage therapists—we cultivate problem solvers who bring immense value to clients, employers, and themselves. Our clinical training is woven into every part of the curriculum, preparing graduates to deliver results-oriented treatments that clients will return for time and time again.

Learn more about our Clinical Massage Therapy program and how you can start your career in this rewarding field by visiting The Soma Institute.