Welcome to Irene’s Myomassology Institute
Irene’s Myomassology Institute is a nationally accredited Michigan Massage Therapy School preparing students for rewarding careers as Licensed Massage Therapists. Accredited by ACCET, the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training, Irene’s offers a therapeutic massage training program with extensive hands-on experience, a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology, clinical understanding, professional ethics and communication, and career preparation.
For decades, Irene’s has helped students develop the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to begin a successful career in the Therapeutic Massage Profession at our school in Southfield, MI. Our program emphasizes research-based information on the effects and benefits of massage therapy, while also introducing students to meaningful developments in health, wellness, and holistic care. Rooted in the teachings and 50 years of experience of our founder, Irene Gauthier, Irene’s offers a supportive, professional, and heart-centered path for students who feel called to help others through therapeutic bodywork.
Founder Irene Gauthier, C.T.M.I., NCTMB
Long past the age of traditional retirement, Irene remained dedicated to her work. With fifty years of massage experience and thirty years of teaching experience, she was a highly sought-after massage instructor. Building upon knowledge passed down from her father and grandmother, Irene began formally studying massage in the 1950s.
Many of the techniques taught at Irene’s are distinctive and rooted in Irene Gauthier’s decades of experience, research, and intuitive understanding of therapeutic bodywork. She developed a wide range of techniques to support her clients’ healing and well-being, many of which are included in the textbook she wrote for her Metro Detroit massage school. Irene Gauthier also developed a comprehensive educational curriculum designed to prepare students for successful and rewarding careers in therapeutic massage.
Executive Director Kathy Skubik, MSA
Having enjoyed Irene’s influence throughout her life, Kathy has developed a deep appreciation for therapeutic bodywork and the value of high-quality massage therapy education. Her Master’s Degree in administration has been useful in organizing the school’s administrative departments and strengthening Irene’s comprehensive curriculum. She ensures the program includes a strong foundation in therapeutic massage techniques, research-based information, anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, professional ethics, trauma-informed care, and hands-on clinical practice. Her interest in natural health and personal growth continues to support the school’s whole-person approach, while her commitment to student growth motivates her to provide a well-rounded, career-focused education for future Licensed Massage Therapists.
As Irene’s Myomassology Institute continues to flourish, Kathy’s vision remains clear. The school that began as a way for her mother to share her passion and wisdom will remain true to its roots while continuing to grow with the needs of today’s students and the massage therapy profession. Sharing health, love, compassion, respect for the Earth and all its inhabitants, and an unrelenting quest to learn and grow is Irene’s legacy, and Kathy continues to carry it forward with pride.
At a Glance
School: Irene’s Myomassology Institute
Location: Southfield, Michigan
Established: 1987 State Licensed
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET)
Program: Massage Therapy / Myomassology Training
Career Path: Licensed Massage Therapist
Training Focus: Therapeutic massage, hands-on experience, anatomy, physiology, and pathology, research-based effects and benefits, professional ethics, clinical experience, and career preparation.
Irene’s Faculty
Irene’s instructional team brings together professional massage therapy experience, classroom teaching expertise, clinical reasoning, and a strong commitment to student success. Collectively, the faculty represents approximately 191 years of massage therapy practice and 161 years of teaching experience.
A key strength of Irene’s faculty is the ability to connect classroom learning with real-world practice. Instructors emphasize critical thinking, client-centered care, professional communication, proper body mechanics, treatment planning, and career longevity. Together, Irene’s instructors offer students a well-rounded education rooted in experience, therapeutic skill, and a sincere commitment to helping future Licensed Massage Therapists grow with confidence.
Our instructors are all Licensed Massage Therapists with advanced training and experience in therapeutic massage, anatomy, physiology, pathology, professional ethics, lymphatic drainage, fascia therapy, critical thinking skills, and trauma-informed care. Several faculty members also bring professional backgrounds in hospice and palliative care, and music therapy. This depth of experience allows you to learn from instructors who are knowledgeable and skilled teachers.
Irene’s Staff
Behind every successful student experience is a dedicated team ready to help. At Irene’s Myomassology Institute, our administrative staff, retail store employees, and maintenance team work together to create a supportive, welcoming, and well-organized learning environment.
From admissions and financial aid to student advising, student records, licensing support, career services, retail assistance, graduation planning, and campus care, our staff is here to guide students from their first questions through graduation and beyond. Every member of the Irene’s team has been carefully selected not only for their knowledge, experience, and professionalism, but also for their genuine desire to help others succeed.
Together, our staff helps students feel supported, prepared, and confident as they work toward rewarding careers as Licensed Massage Therapists.
Get to Know the interesting story behind Irene’s Myomassology Institute.
While earning a State Massage License,
you can look forward to:
Attending School on a Beautiful Campus
Flexible Schedules Day or Evening Classes
Developing Exceptional Hands-on Skills
Making Lifelong Friends
Become a Licensed Massage Therapist
Enjoyable Classroom Experiences
Being Part of a Supportive Community
Lifetime Job Placement Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are Irene’s Massage School Credentials?
Approved by the State Massage Therapy Board
Licensed by the State of Michigan since 1987
Certified by IMF
Institutional Member of the ABMP
School Member of the AMTA
Research Donator for the MTF
Founding Member of the AFMTE
Approved by THE FSMTB
Q. Does Irene’s have Financial Aid, Scholarships and Veteran’s Benefits to help pay for school?
A. Irene’s has a financial aid department that assists students in securing all the funding they are eligible for. Our Kempley Massage Scholarship provides up to $2,000 for qualified students who need additional help with tuition. We are proud to offer VA Educational Benefits to help veterans with school expenses.
Q. Will the school prepare me for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx)?
A. Irene’s offers comprehensive support to students preparing for the MBLEx. Our graduates consistently pass the exam at rates higher than both the national and state averages. Staff members are available to walk you through the application process all the way through to scheduling your test.