The School . . .
Each future graduate is equipped with extensive knowledge and expertise through hands-on experience. Not only do the instructors provide excellent resources but they also are licensed massage therapists who currently work in the massage field. To know what works in the real business world sets our students apart and ahead of the game in this business. "Our students are qualified to work in day spas, resorts, cruise ships, doctor and chiropractic offices, hospitals and beauty salons, health clubs or go on to open their own successful businesses." We are also a Veterans Administration Approved Institution.
The History . . .
The Massage Institute of Cleveland, formerly known as the East Tennessee School of Massage Therapy, was founded in 1997. The school was so successful that it outgrew its original location and relocated to its present location at 201 Keith Street SW, Suite 56 in Cleveland, TN.
The Massage Institute is under new ownership. Updated information is soon to come! Stay tuned.
The Mission . . .
The Massage Institute of Cleveland is a special purpose institution. The purpose is to help each student learn a strong base of professional knowledge, skills, business practices, and ethical considerations in the profession of Massage Therapy so they can become eligible to take the National exam for Massage Therapy in the State of Tennessee and be a credit to the profession. This purpose does not include preparing students for further college study. Students should be aware that transfer is solely up to the receiving institution. Any student interested in transferring credit hours should check with the receiving institution directly to determine to what extent, if any, credit hours can be transferred.
The Faculty . . .
Marisa Rivera-Rodriguez
Marisa was born in New York and has a BA in Art History with a minor in American History. She was the Director of Education at The Lockwood Mathews Mansion in Norwalk, Connecticut and The Morris Jumel Mansion in New York City. In addition, she completed an internship and worked at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and worked at Christie’s Auction House in New York City. Moving to Florida, she felt a need to change careers and was introduced to massage by a friend who owned a spa. She said, “The moment I worked on my first client I was hooked! It is so good to know I can help someone with pain and not have to administer meds! This work is a gift and in giving I receive joy!" She graduated from the Florida School of Massage in 2014. She is presently the Massage Instructor/School Administrator and is certified in Medical Massage, MPS Therapy, Vacuum Cupping, and Pre-Natal Massage. Her interests include life coaching, natural remedies, and essential oils.