The dream of starting a medical massage school became a reality for Tammy Roecker, President of the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness (ASMMW) in Peoria, Arizona.
This visionary institution is dedicated to bridging the gap between massage therapy and the medical healthcare community.
Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness’ Mission
ASMMW graduates are prepared to work with people who have injuries, pain, and other medical conditions.
Through assessments and critical thinking skills, our therapists are able to create unique, individualized treatment plans and perform superior advanced massage and manual therapy techniques.
We believe that medical massage therapists are an integral part of an interprofessional healthcare team.
Above all, they are prepared to serve as the entry point into the healthcare system with an associated responsibility to collaborate and consult with other healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and the community.
Ultimately, the journey culminated in the start of the first group of students in January 2023. Nine months later, the results are nothing short of remarkable.
A Dream Realized
The path to the founding of ASMMW was a labor of love. It began with a vision of a school that would not only provide top-notch education but also pioneer the way in medical massage therapy. Roecker worked tirelessly, leveraging the expertise and resources of the City of Peoria and the Arizona Small Business Development Council (AZSBDC) to lay the foundation for this unique institution. Additionally, the guidance and wisdom imparted by industry giants like Sandy Fritz and Dr. Ross Turchaninov played a pivotal role in developing a robust 700-hour curriculum that sets the school apart in the field of medical massage therapy.
Bridging Gaps and Fostering Collaboration
This vision emphasizes that medical massage therapists are more than practitioners; they are integral members of healthcare teams. The curriculum is designed to prepare students not just to provide exceptional massage therapy but also to collaborate and consult effectively with healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and the community at large.
The First Medical Massage Cohort: A Triumph
This past Wednesday, the first group of nine students from the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness proudly walked across the graduation stage. Moreover, their success speaks volumes about the caliber of education and dedication within the school.
Remarkably, these students achieved an astounding average GPA of 95, reflecting their commitment to excellence in their studies. Two of the graduates have already taken and passed the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), a testament to the quality of education they received. No doubt the others will also pass at their scheduled times ahead.
Looking Ahead with Enthusiasm
With the success of the inaugural class as a testament to her vision and hard work, the future is bright for the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness. The next cohort of eager students begin their journey on September 26, 2023. They are ready to embark on their life-changing path to becoming skilled medical massage therapists.Â
In conclusion, the graduation of the first group of students from the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness marks a significant milestone in Tammy’s goal of bridging the gap between massage therapy and the medical community. With dedication, a strong curriculum, and a commitment to excellence, this ASMMW is poised to make a lasting impact in the field of medical massage therapy. Congratulations to the graduates, and here’s to a bright future for both the school and the healthcare community it serves.
Images from Graduation Day!
