École Setsuko - Holistic Health Education

Thai Massage Diploma

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Expand Your Practice with Thai Massage

Thai Massage is an ancient healing art that combines assisted stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic compression to restore balance and flexibility in the body. Practiced on a mat and performed fully clothed, it offers a dynamic, meditative experience that benefits both client and practitioner.

For massage therapists, training in Thai Massage adds a powerful toolset to address musculoskeletal issues, improve client outcomes, and diversify your offerings with a modality that is deeply therapeutic and highly sought after. This is more than just a Thai massage course. This is an in-depth Thai massage diploma with international level certification.

Thai Massage Diploma Program Overview

Thai Massage Course - Thai Massage Diploma: A thai woman massages the back of a clothed person laying on a mat.

Thai Massage Level 1 – Foundations of Nuad Bo-Rarn

Duration: 30 hours
 Course Category: Core Thai Massage Technique (Cycle 1 – 460h Practitioner Certification)
 Prerequisite: None
 Evaluation: Final practical exam (90 minutes) – 100%
 Certification: Optional ITM Chiang Mai Certificate ($100 CAD)

Thai Massage Course L1 Description

This foundational course introduces students to Nuad Bo-Rarn, the traditional Northern Thai massage system taught at ITM Chiang Mai. Rooted in Thai healing philosophy, the course covers the full supine position sequence, including foot, leg, abdominal, chest, arm, hand, and head techniques. Students develop strong foundational skills in acupressure, stretching, and therapeutic rhythm, enabling them to offer a complete 60–90 minute Thai massage session.

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply palm and thumb pressure techniques on the Sen energy lines
  • Deliver a full-body Thai massage in the supine position
  • Maintain safe practitioner posture and mechanics
  • Perform stretching techniques for hips, legs, shoulders, and arms
  • Integrate mindfulness and Thai rituals into therapeutic work

Course Content Includes:

  • Overview of Thai medicine philosophy and Sen energy lines
  • Palm press (PP), thumb press (TP), thumb circle (TC), and finger techniques
  • Assisted stretches for lower body, shoulders, and arms
  • Full-body sequence in the supine position (feet to head)
  • Closing techniques, transitions, and client preparation
  • Wai Khru ceremony and mantra to Dr. Shivago

Pedagogy and Practice

  • Instructor-led demonstrations of all techniques
  • Daily mantra and practitioner mindfulness rituals
  • Supervised partner practice with corrections
  • Emphasis on body mechanics and therapeutic rhythm
  • Use of visual aids and practice logs for skill retention

Assessment:

  • Final Practical Exam (90 minutes) – 100% of final grade (minimum 70% required)
  • 15 Case Studies (90 minutes each) – Required for course completion
  • Attendance Requirement: 90%

ITM Certificate:

Students who pass the exam with 70%+ may apply for an internationally recognized ITM certificate for $100 CAD.

Thai Massage Level 2 – Intermediate Nuad Bo-Rarn

Duration: 30 hours
 Course Category: Core Thai Massage Technique (Cycle 1 – 400h Practitioner Certification)
 Prerequisite: Thai Massage Level 1
 Evaluation: Final practical exam (90 minutes) – 100%
 Certification: Optional ITM Chiang Mai Certificate ($100 CAD)

Thai Massage Course L2 Description

Building on Level 1, this course expands into the side-lying, back-lying (prone), and seated positions of traditional Thai massage. Students learn deeper stretches, spinal work, scapular techniques, and advanced transitions. It prepares students to offer 90–120 minute treatments with broader therapeutic benefits.

Learning Outcomes

  • Perform the full side, back, and seated Thai massage sequence
  • Deliver advanced stretches for back, hips, shoulders, and spine
  • Transition smoothly between positions in a clinical or wellness setting
  • Enhance pressure techniques and client customization
  • Deepen knowledge of Thai energy lines and cultural practice 

Course Content Includes:

  • Side-lying sequence: hip mobilizations, shoulder stretches, spinal twists
  • Prone sequence: back line acupressure, scapular release, cobra and locust stretch
  • Seated sequence: shoulder work, neck release, spinal mobilization
  • Techniques: PP, TP, EP (elbow press), dynamic stretches, and PC (palm circles)
  • Client communication and adaptive strategies
  • Daily mantra and energy-awareness practices 

Pedagogy and Practice

  • Demonstration and supervised partner exchange
  • Focus on advanced sequencing and body mechanics
  • Use of Thai terminology and diagrams
  • Structured repetition with individual correction
  • Integration of mindfulness and breath in touch 

Assessment:

  • Final Practical Exam (90 minutes) – 100% of final grade (minimum 70% required)
  • 15 Case Studies (90 minutes each) – Required for course completion
  • Attendance Requirement: 90% 

ITM Certificate:

Students who pass the exam with 70%+ may apply for an internationally recognized ITM certificate for $100 CAD.

Thai Table Massage – Traditional Thai Massage Adapted for the Table

Duration: 15 hours
 Course Category: Specialized Technique – Additional Training (Cycle 2)
 Prerequisite: Thai Massage Level 1 or equivalent
 Evaluation: Final practical exam (60 minutes) – 100%
 Certification: Optional ITM Chiang Mai Certificate ($100 CAD)

Course Description

This course adapts Thai massage for use on a massage table. Practitioners learn how to apply acupressure and assisted stretches without kneeling or climbing onto the mat, using ergonomic positioning and flowing sequences in supine, side, and prone positions.

Learning Outcomes

  • Perform a 60–90 minute Thai Table Massage
  • Apply Thai pressure and stretch techniques safely on a massage table
  • Adjust traditional movements to Western clinical or spa settings
  • Maintain healthy therapist posture and client comfort
  • Incorporate energy line work and Thai wellness traditions 

Course Content Includes:

  • Introduction to table adaptation and therapist ergonomics
  • Pressure techniques: palm press, thumb press, and forearm roll
  • Assisted stretches modified for table height and body position
  • Sequences for legs, abdomen, arms, shoulders, and back
  • Side-lying techniques for hips and spine
  • Seated finishing sequence and closing ritual 

Pedagogy and Practice

  • Guided practice with feedback
  • Partner exchange to experience giver/receiver dynamics
  • Use of tools: oils, balms, towels, and reflexology stick (if applicable)
  • Emphasis on grounding, presence, and flow
  • Review of contraindications and modifications 

Assessment:

  • Final Practical Exam (60 minutes) – 100% of final grade (minimum 70% required)
  • 15 Case Studies (60 minutes each) – Required for course completion
  • Attendance Requirement: 100% 

ITM Certificate:

Students who pass the exam with 70%+ may apply for an internationally recognized ITM certificate for $100 CAD.

Thai Foot Reflexology Massage

Duration: 15 hours
 Course Category: Specialized Technique – Additional Training (Cycle 2)
 Prerequisite: None (Recommended: Thai Massage Level 1)
 Evaluation: Final practical exam (60 minutes) – 100%
 Certification: Optional ITM Chiang Mai Certificate ($100 CAD)

Course Description

This course teaches a traditional 60-minute Thai Foot Reflexology sequence that applies pressure to reflex zones of the feet using hands, knuckles, and a wooden stick. Techniques stimulate internal organs, reduce stress, and promote whole-body balance.

Learning Outcomes

  • Perform full Thai Foot Reflexology treatments
  • Use finger, thumb, and stick techniques on reflex zones
  • Stimulate the nervous system, circulation, and organ function
  • Identify contraindications and customize treatment safely
  • Incorporate Thai healing rituals and hygiene protocols 

Course Content Includes:

  • Mapping of foot reflex zones and energy lines
  • Application techniques: TP, TC, PP, knuckles, and wooden stick use
  • Sequences to stimulate organs, relieve stress, and improve circulation
  • Foot-wrapping, use of balm, cream, powder, and oil
  • Contraindications and client care
  • Use of massage chair, towel setup, and foot soak bowl 

Pedagogy and Practice

  • Step-by-step demonstration with diagrams
  • Partner exchange and real-time correction
  • Case study journal practice
  • Incorporation of Thai mantra, mindfulness, and intention
  • Focus on hygiene, safety, and professional touch 

Assessment:

  • Final Practical Exam (60 minutes) – 100% of final grade (minimum 70% required)
  • 15 Case Studies (60 minutes each) – Required for course completion
  • Attendance Requirement: 100% 

ITM Certificate:

Students who pass the exam with 70%+ may apply for an internationally recognized ITM certificate for $100 CAD.

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Core Program – Course Outlines and Content

*Required for Quebec Certification and Diploma Programs

ANATOMY / PHYSIOLOGY / PATHOLOGY

OBJECTIVES: To give students a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology of the human body and how it relates to massage therapy.  By the end of the first section students will know the names and locations of 150+ bones and muscles, their origin and insertions points, muscle fiber direction and actions.  Through exploration, palpitation, and self discovery you will feel confident to apply this knowledge to your bodywork techniques. The second section focuses on the 10 major systems that make up our beings.  By understanding not only the anatomy, but the functions of each part individually, we begin to see the bigger picture as a whole, and how that relates to health and wellness. In final section, 10 major pathologies will be covered extensively, as well as others of personal interest.  Students will gain tools on how to research and compile a complete holistic treatment plan to meet the needs of the client.  Other modalities and conventional medicine may be part of this regime.

OUTLINE

Section 1 – Anatomy
  1. Introduction to anatomy: working smart, palpitation hints, terminology, body systems, different layers of structure, bones and muscles, regions of the body, planes of movement, bony landmarks
  2. Shoulder and Arm
  3. Forearm and Hand
  4. Review
  5. Spine and Thorax
  6. Head, Neck and Face
  7. Review
  8. Pelvis and Thigh
  9. Leg and Foot
  10. Review and Exam
Section 2 – Physiology
  1. Introduction to Physiology, Chemical Basis, Cells and Tissue Integration, Anatomy of Stress, Infectious Agents, Inflammatory Process
  2. Integumentary System
  3. Musculoskeletal System
  4. Review
  5. Cardiovascular and Lymphatic System
  6. Review, Anatomy project presentations
  7. Nervous and Endocrine System
  8. Digestive and Respiratory System
  9. Urinary and Reproductive System
  10. Review and Final Exam
Section 3: Pathologies
  1. Inflammation
  2. Infectious Agents
  3. Skin Conditions – eczema, warts, scar tissue
  4. Musculoskeletal Conditions – bursitis, arthritis, whiplash, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, strains, cramps, spasms, TMJ
  5. Nervous System Conditions – multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, pain
  6. Circulatory System Conditions – embolism, thrombophlebitis, hypertension, varicose veins
  7. Lymph and Immune System Conditions – edema, allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome
  8. Respiratory System Conditions – common cold, influenza, asthma, bronchitis
  9. Digestive System Conditions – celiac disease, crohn disease, ulcers, candidia, irritable bowel syndrome
  10. Endocrine System Conditions – diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism
  11. Urinary System Conditions – kidney stones, urinary tract infection
  12. Reproductive System Conditions – pregnancy, menopause, fibroids, endometriosis

EVALUATION:

  • Participation and attendance 25%  
  • Homework and quizzes 25%
  • Anatomy and pathology projects 25%
  • Final exam 25%

Textbooks: 

  • Trail Guide to the Body + Student Workbook
  • Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Manual Therapists 
  • Massage therapist guide to pathology (PDF)
  • Teachers notes, Slides, PDF

HELPING RELATIONS/SEXUALITY/CODE OF ETHICS

This course features lectures, discussions, readings, sharing and experiential work done in small groups. The students will develop interviewing techniques and core abilities in helping relations as it directly applies to professional and personal relationships, how to recognize transference, and gather tools to manage relevant information about their clients. The second section will cover all aspects of sexuality, including anatomy, gender, orientation, pleasure, trauma, consent and boundaries. This understanding is necessary to providing holistic and inclusive care to a diverse group of clients. Students will gather tools on how to recognize trauma in both themselves and clients and learn methods on how to work within the boundaries of a therapeutic relationship. Professional aspects and integrity is always present in any work that deals with human experience, contact, and respect. It is important for students to understand and abide to each association’s professional codes of deontology and how to navigate these rules for both safety of the client, the public and for the profession.  

CODE OF ETHICS, DEONTOLOGY & LEGAL ASPECTS

OBJECTIVES: The course will position the practice of massage therapy in the context of municipal and Quebec provincial laws.  Ethical issues related to this field will be explored and discussed as well as a detailed overview of the Code of Ethics issued by current associations.   The goal is to allow the student to develop his/her personal boundaries which help define the level of involvement and approach.  Massage therapists and health care professionals alike often deal with situations and circumstances that have ethical parameters on many levels that will be covered in the course.

OUTLINE

  1. Introduction – Code of Ethics & Deontology
  2. Overview of the organizations & government depts. overseeing massage therapy
  3. Exercise – Self-discovery and awareness
  4. Review Code of Ethics from a major massage therapy association
  5. Requirements and responsibility of the massage therapist to the client
  6. Requirements and responsibility of the client to massage therapist
  7. Requirement and responsibility of the massage therapist to the profession
  8. Disciplinary action – legal, ethical
  9. Case Studies
  10. Further discussion of modalities not presented
  11. The employee vs the self-employed worker – practical applications

EVALUATION:

Participation/Attendance 100%

HELPING RELATIONS AND INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES

OBJECTIVES:

This course features lectures, discussions, and sharing. There will be experiential work done in pairs, triad and in large group – as well reading will be assigned.

OUTLINE

  1. Exploring the difference between needs, expectations and obligations
  2. Exploring our attitudes about being a helper/practitioner 
  3. Exploring boundaries – personally, professionally and culturally
  4. Experiencing vulnerability: exploring power dynamics
  5. Working with first impressions
  6. The framework: nuts and bolts of our interaction with clients working with it, disengaging from it
  7. The work itself: spacing sessions –  fee setting – collecting payments- answering questions – presenting one’s self and one’s trade -referring clients -ending work with a client – refusing a client – seeking professional support
  8. The value of a consent inform, intake form, progress report form
  9. Ethics: dual relationship – yes or no? other no-no’s
  10. How to recognize burn-out and other signs the therapist is in danger
  11. Self-care: knowing one’s limit; the virtues of supervision
  12. Referral and networking : how to build a practice and a solid reputation
  13. Supervision: a taster

EVALUATION:

  • Level of participation/attendance 25%
  • Health Profile/Questionnaire 25%
  • Journal – level of introspection 15%
  • Completion of assignments 25%
  • Self-evaluation 10%

Textbook:

The Educated Heart (PDF)

SEXOLOGY

OBJECTIVES: Much of our lives and experiences are shaped and impacted by human sexuality. Although still considered taboo, sexuality is deeply rooted in almost every aspect of society. Our knowledge and beliefs about elements of human sexuality are especially important when working with people in an intimate and often vulnerable space. By developing an understanding and comfortability of elements of human sexuality, the student will be able to provide a more effective, holistic and respectful service for their future clients. In this interactive course, the student will be sensitized to a variety of real-life experiences and problems that massage therapists may encounter in the course of their professional practice. The student will also develop the skills to engage and respond to these situations and better support the diverse needs of clients. Through introspection of one’s personal values in relation to sexuality, the student will also learn how to understand personal boundaries while working in massage therapy and how to clearly communicate objectives. The student is always encouraged to participate in the ways they feel the most comfortable and safe doing so. This course will be taught through a feminist framework which recognizes that we all embody a variety of intersecting identities which shape and determine who we are and how we navigate in society. Throughout the course the student will learn how to engage in and implement an anti-oppressive practice into their massage therapy and day-to-day interactions. OUTLINE
  1. Presentation and Introduction
  2. Sexuality, its continuum and its components
  3. Body image and sexual social stereotypes
  4. Projection, perception, intuition (non-verbal language)
  5. Subconscious revelations about sexuality
  6. Sexuality and its impact within the practice
  7. Role playing
  8. Prejudices, strengths and weaknesses
  9. Body awareness and sexual energy
  10. Values and need regarding sexuality
  11. Attitudes toward certain aspects of sexuality
  12. Personal and professional boundaries
  13. Ethics, professional conscious and responsibility
  14. Professional intervention and sexuality
  15. Communicating or talking about sex …!
EVALUATION:
  • Participation/Attendance 25%
  • Class & home assignment 25%
  • Role-playing 25%
  • Self-evaluation 25%

Advanced Courses and Continuing Education Massage Therapy Diploma

Advanced Anatomy 

This advanced course will go deeper into the layers of anatomy: bones, muscles, O/I, muscle fiber direction, actions and connective tissues. By exploring case studies and treatment plans, students will gain clinical experience in working with the body through a postural and biomechanical approach. 

Chair Massage

Chair massage is a portable session performed fully clothed in seated position that targets ailments of the upper body. It was introduced into the workforce in the early 1990’s and is now seen throughout festivals, clinics and promotional events.

Cupping Therapy 

Students will learn how to use the Western silicone cupping techniques in combination with a Swedish massage or deep tissue session. The static cupping techniques are applied over the acu points and follow the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

Integration Clinic

Students will offer sessions to the public or marginalized groups throughout the community. They will do a full intake and create a session plan for both short term and long-term goals.  The purpose of this clinic is to be able to integrate all the different techniques learnt, by working with the client’s presenting complaints, symptoms pain patterns and/or emotional blockages. 

Prenatal

Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage – to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But it’s also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists who are trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

Reflexology

Reflexology is an ancient system whose roots trace back to Egypt, India and China. It is based on the holographic image of the body that is reflected through the soles of the feet, hands and ears. In this course, students will learn the basic principles of TCM, meridians and an in depth understanding of western physiology and pathology through foot reflexology / zone theory. In using these principles, students will be able to use these overlapping systems to help restore vitality and balance to all of the body systems, organs, glands and parts. 

Trigger Points 

Myofascial pain syndromes are among the fastest growing problems that physicians, osteopaths, acupuncturists, and physical, occupational, and massage therapists encounter in their patients. In this workshop we have organized vast amounts of information on treating myofascial pain into an easy to understand and put to practice. We will examine a wide range of pain patterns and present evaluation and palpation techniques for reducing trigger points–and thereby alleviating pain.

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Price: CA $5,700 - Payment Plan Available to all students

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Disclaimer: All content and material is for educational purposes only. Although certain aspects of these courses may be therapeutic, they do not constitute or replace therapy. All results are hypothetical, and the School/Teachers/Therapist/Speakers are not responsible for any claims or outcomes as a result of information shared. We do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical conditions. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.