INTEGRATIVE MASSAGE & BODYWORK PROGRAM | 550 HOURS
IMBP
As one of the oldest massage schools in the country, IPSB has a long-standing reputation for training skilled, sensitive, well-educated bodyworkers who are in high demand no matter where they work, with some of the longest, injury free careers in the industry.
The IMBP Integrative Massage & Bodywork Program provides hands-on training, practical experience, and industry support in various bodywork techniques, body mechanics and self-care practices with an integrative blend of Deep Tissue and Sports Massage Deep Tissue/Sports Massage focus.
This program covers the required content to become a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) with the CAMTC.
TAI CHI
BODY MECHANICS
BODYMIND
PRINCIPLES
INTEGRATIVE
EDUCATION
TAI CHI LINEAGE
IPSB has a direct lineage to the
Tai Chi Master, Chen Man-ch’ing
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who brought the practice to the United States. His student Abraham Liu, trained Eileen “Hamsa” Henry, owner of the school from the ‘80s to early 2000s, and Leslie Prell, recently retired long time IPSB teacher. Bringing Tai Chi into the classroom revolutionized the program and set the tone for innovation as the field expanded.
IMBP
INTEGRATIVE MASSAGE & BODYWORK PROGRAM
550 hours
TAI CHI BODY MECHANICS
Proper body mechanics ensure that massage therapists work without strain, preventing the transmission of tension to clients. In our Foundations class, students learn the Yang Short Form of Tai Chi, emphasizing efficient movement, tool protection, and power versus force, enabling deep tissue work without injury.
BODYMIND PRINCIPLES
Our program uniquely emphasizes body/mind integration, viewing the body as a reflection of experiences and emotions, and believes that touching the body is touching the soul. It goes beyond anatomy to explore how life impacts physical well-being.
By prioritizing personal development and establishing healthy boundaries, students learn to hold space for clients while focusing on practitioner self-care to prevent injuries. Through Qi Gong, stretching, and self-massage, practitioners are energized and equipped to work deeply. They emerge stronger, more flexible, and grounded in their bodies.
INTEGRATIVE EDUCATION
The program provides a comprehensive understanding of traditional massage techniques, encompassing Deep Tissue to Prenatal, and offers varied experiences for students to explore potential specializations.
Completed over approximately 18 months, the program allows time for assimilation, practice, and embodiment of learned approaches. Graduates emerge with a thorough understanding of body mechanics and a diverse skill set in accessing the body through various techniques.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS​
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CHOICE OF 2 ELECTIVES:
UPON COMPLETION OF ALL COURSEWORK,
STUDENTS WILL BE PRESENTED WITH A
After program completion, to receive a certification as a Certified Massage Therapist in the state of California, apply through CAMTC
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IMBP CERTIFICATION OF COMPLETION
- REASONS TO BECOME A -​
MASSAGE THERAPIST
According to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
the demand for massage therapists is expected to grow by 26% by 2026.
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There are opportunities for travel.
Tourist spots and cruise ships all over the world employ massage therapists, making it a great occupation if you enjoy traveling.
Massage therapists help improve quality of life.
Massage therapists provide essential relief for pain, injuries, and stress by improving healing, circulation, tension, and emotional health.
Become your own boss.
46% of all massage therapists are self-employed.​​ It’s important to know though that those who are self-employed are responsible for all their overhead, booking and scheduling, and client retention.
Create a flexible schedule.
Many massage therapists have flexible schedules or choose the hours they work, making it a great career for individuals with children or other creative people.
Have a career in wellness that will keep you active.
​If you love the idea of a job that gets you on your feet and engages your entire body, as opposed to one that forces you to sit at a desk all day, massage makes a great option.