About our Events and Classes

  • My Teaching Approach

    Learning Together
    Information becomes knowledge through practice, discussion, and guidance. My goal is to create a learning environment where every student feels safe, supported, and encouraged to participate.

    Inclusive & Respectful Space

    • Everyone is welcome to show up as their authentic self.

    • I respect all learning styles and neurodiversity.

    • I use gender-neutral and appropriate pronouns, and I welcome feedback if I miss the mark.

    • Cultural sensitivity and kindness guide my teaching.

    Classroom Atmosphere

    • Small class sizes (10–12 students) for personalized attention. Teacher’s aids are added if class sizes are more than 12.

    • Comfortable and flexible environment—you are free to move, fidget, or stand as long as others are not disturbed.

    • Conversations are lighthearted yet professional—I aim for an engaging, not boring, classroom.

    Participation & Consent

    • You are never required to speak; saying “pass” is always fine.

    • Being a body model is voluntary. I always ask for consent and check in during demonstrations. You can change your mind at any time.

    • Receiving bodywork is encouraged—experiencing techniques firsthand helps you grow as a practitioner.

    Teaching Style

    • Practical, evidence-based, and directly applicable to your massage practice.

    • Clear, everyday language—always within scope of massage therapy.

    • Questions are welcome; there are no “dumb” questions.

    • I provide references, research, and resources for the techniques I teach. If the topic is more esoteric, I’ll be transparent about that.

    • I tell stories to aid memory but do not rely on anecdotes as proof.

    Structure & Resources

    • Classes begin with introductions—just a brief way to connect with peers.

    • Group discussions are encouraged; the classroom is a “brain trust” where peers can learn from each other.

    • Workbooks, handouts, and updated video links are included for continued learning.

    • Minimal PowerPoint or board writing—I prioritize demonstrations, hands-on practice, and discussion.

    Your Experience Matters
    I want you to leave each class confident, equipped with skills you can use immediately, and supported by a community of peers. I’ll meet you where you are, and together we’ll make learning both meaningful and enjoyable.

  • ·         Essie is very knowledgeable of the subject and explained techniqes in a simple way. I initially signed up for this course because I was not confident in side-lying massage. This class gave me a lot of confidence and I'm excited to tell my chiropractor to send the pregnant patients my way! Thank you!

    -Bodymechanics School of Myotherapy and Massage CE Student

    ·         I appreciate Essie's knowledge base and the lengths she's gone to research and create the course. Thanks Essie!

    -M.W

    ·         This class was great! Really easy to understand and absorb a lot of really good info. I feel much more confident than when I first arrived. Thank you so much!

    -K.R.

  • We keep our classes small so you get the best learning experience. To make that possible, we need clear policies that are fair to you and also help us cover costs if someone has to cancel last minute.

    Registration

    • Your payment holds your spot.

    • We recommend registering early — seats are limited!

    If You Need to Cancel

    • 30+ days before class → Full refund (minus $25 admin fee) OR full credit for a future class.

    • 15–29 days before class → 50% refund OR 75% credit for a future class.

    • 14 days or less → No refund, but if we can fill your spot, you’ll get 50% credit for a future class.

    • No-shows → Sorry, no refunds or credits.

    Substitutions

    • Can’t make it? Send another therapist in your place at no extra cost.

    If We Cancel

    • If we need to cancel or reschedule, you’ll get your choice of a full refund or full credit.

    • Travel and lodging aren’t covered, so please book refundable options when possible.

    Emergencies

    • We understand that life happens! For serious emergencies, contact us and we’ll do our best to work with you.

    • What if I wake up sick?
      We know it happens! If you’re too sick to attend, please let us know before class starts. While we can’t give refunds on the day of class, we’ll give you a 50% credit toward a future course (good for up to 12 months). This way you can still take care of yourself and not lose your entire payment.

  • We have a variety of ways to help you get your CEs.

    If you need to make payments, you have the option of choosing Klarna or Afterpay. You also have the option of choosing PayPal.

    Scholarship:

    We award two Scholarships per year in January and in June.

    January: Mt Shasta Scholarship (deadline January 20)

    Total of 24 hours of learning with Dreamspace Natural Therapeutics, including Ethics and Health Equity.

    Awarded to a massage therapist with less than 6 years of experience.

    June: Mt Tahoma Scholarship (deadline June 20)

    Total of 16 hours of learning with Dreamspace Natural Therapeutics. Awarded to a massage therapist who is moving into solopreneurship or entrepreneurship.

    How to apply:

    Simply sign up for our Newsletter and send us a communication through the Contact form at the bottom of the page.

    Include the following information:

    Mt Shasta:

    • Graduation Date

    • Personal Statement on what brought you to the practice of massage. Please limit to one page.

    Mt Tahoma:

    • How long have you been in practice?

    • Personal statement about your shift from employee to self-employed or employer. Please limit to one page.

    Scholarships are equal opportunity and not based on anything other than your responses to the questions.

Events

Please note all classes and events are subject to sales tax after Oct.1st 2025

October 18th-19th~ Trigger Point & Myofascial Release

with Essie Hicks, LMT and Evan Hassel, PT

Bodymechanics School of Myotherapy and Massage
2330 Mottman Road #106
Tumwater, WA 98512

 

This course explores the foundations of Trigger Point Therapy through the work of Dr. Janet Travell, a pioneer in advancing treatment for chronic pain and injury. Participants will learn how to identify and address myofascial pain patterns using pressure, stretching, and movement-based techniques to release tension and restore mobility.

Whether working with elite athletes or individuals with sedentary lifestyles, students will gain practical tools to improve client outcomes in pain relief and functional movement.

Key topics include:

  • Kinesiology, Trigger Point Anatomy, and Myofascial Anatomy review

  • Application of body mechanics with proper hand and elbow use, drawing on principles from Tae Kwon Do and Aikido

  • Safe and effective use of force and pressure for client comfort and practitioner longevity

  • Client communication skills to build trust, foster dialogue, and tailor treatments to individual needs

  • Outcome tracking and SOAP charting for professional documentation and progress measurement

This class emphasizes both technical skill and therapeutic presence, giving practitioners a strong framework to deliver safe, effective, and client-centered care.

Date: Saturday October 18th and Sunday October 19th 2025

16 CEU NCBTMB Approved

Time: 9am-6pm

12:00-1:00 lunch

360.00

Saturday December 6th and Sunday December 7th. 2025

16 hours CEU NCBTMB Approved

Time: 9:00am-6:00 pm

12:00-1:00 lunch

Elite Massage School
4009 Bridgeport Way West
Suite E-5
University Place, WA 98466

Fundamentals of Pregnancy Massage

Instructor: Essie Hicks

Supporting mothers-to-be through every stage of pregnancy requires specialized skill, knowledge, and confidence. This NCBTMB-approved continuing education course gives massage therapists a strong foundation in safe, effective techniques for working with expectant clients.

In this course, you will learn:

  • Anatomy & Physiology of Pregnancy – understand the changes in the body from trimester to postpartum.

  • Positioning & Comfort – explore safe draping, bolstering, and table positioning options for different stages of pregnancy.

  • Hands-On Techniques – practice massage applications that reduce common discomforts such as back pain, swelling, and fatigue.

  • Precautions & Contraindications – gain clarity on when and how to adapt treatments to ensure client safety.

  • Therapeutic Presence – cultivate confidence in client communication, creating a nurturing and supportive experience.

Whether you are expanding your private practice, building skills for spa or clinical work, or deepening your ability to serve women’s health needs, this course equips you with essential tools to confidently and safely provide pregnancy massage.

Taught by Essie Hicks, MPA, LMT, C-MLD—award-winning massage therapist, experienced instructor, and women’s health advocate—this class blends evidence-based knowledge with practical, hands-on training.

 

360.00

Ethics: Wednesday, January 7th, 2026

1:00pm- 5:00 PM

Zoom Course Online

90.00

Ethics and Best Practices for Washington State Massage Therapists (4 CE Hours)

Instructor: Essie Hicks

Ethics and Best Practices for Washington State Massage Therapists (4 CE Hours)

This 4-hour continuing education course equips massage therapists with a clear understanding of Washington State laws, regulations, and professional standards of practice. Participants will review WAC 246-830-560 and related rules, with focused discussion on boundaries, informed consent, recordkeeping, advertising, and ethical decision-making. Best practices for communication, client safety, and professional conduct are emphasized through real-world examples relevant to modern practice.

The course is led by Essie Hicks, MPA, LMT, C-MLD, an award-winning massage therapist and educator who has been in practice since 1999. With a Master of Public Administration degree and extensive teaching experience, Essie brings a unique perspective that bridges hands-on clinical work with a strong foundation in policy and professional ethics. Participants will leave confident in their ability to navigate state requirements while upholding the highest ethical standards.

This training will take place over Zoom, and a link will be sent out to participants before class.

Smiling woman with glasses and large earrings, wearing a denim jacket over a pink and black leopard print dress, standing with hands on hips against a maroon background.

Health Equity:

Wednesday, January 7th, 2026

5:30pm-7:30pm

50.00

112.00

Racial Equity in Healing Work: A Transformative Deep Dive for Massage Therapists

Examine your practice through the lenses of

  • Power

  • Trust

  • Accessibility

Leave this course with tangible, actionable steps to implement in your practice immediately and a plan to follow through!

This course helps you to unpack how racial inequities shape healing spaces and why neutrality is not enough.

Therapists will gain a greater understanding of Equitable Healing Leadership and how to apply it in their work.

This course is led by Dr. Sarah Lloyd, a community changemaker, speaker, and advocate.

there aren't many organizational challenges she hasn't faced...and overcome….she has extensive lived-experience navigating the impact of inequitable structures first-hand.

this means that dr. sarahlloyd is uniquely positioned to provide support, advocacy, and thought partnership for leaders determined to do dope shit in their communities.

Sunday, April 19, 2026

10:00 AM 1:00 PM

ForestTherapy for Massage Therapists: A Self-Care Experience (4 CE Hours)

Instructor: Essie Hicks

As massage therapists, we dedicate ourselves to the healing of others—often leaving little time to refill our own wells of energy and balance. This unique 4-hour continuing education experience blends professional renewal with deep personal care, through the restorative practice of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku).

Guided by Essie Hicks, MPA, LMT, C-MLD, an award-winning practitioner and instructor with decades of experience teaching massage and bodywork, and a certified forest bathing guide, this event is designed for you. In the quiet embrace of the forest, you’ll be guided through mindful practices that heighten sensory awareness, calm the nervous system, and restore resilience.

This experience is not about technique or treatment (or hiking)—it’s about reconnecting with nature, honoring your own wellness, and learning practical tools to bring a deeper sense of grounded presence into your massage practice.

What you’ll gain:

  • 4 CE hours of Self-Care credit

  • Gentle, guided forest bathing practices to reduce stress and restore vitality

  • A nurturing mini wellness retreat designed specifically for massage therapists

  • New inspiration and presence to bring back to your clients and your practice

  • Forest kit for a mindful wellness routine

    Includes a warm lunch. Dietary restrictions will be accommodated.

Step away from the demands of daily life and step into the forest—this is your time to replenish, breathe deeply, and remember the joy of simply being.

Location: Millerslyvania State Park (State Parks Pass Required)

Space is limited to 12 participants

Forest Therapy for Massage Therapists: A Self-Care Experience

 

140.00

A smiling middle-aged man with a beard and mustache, wearing a blue shirt and a dark blazer, standing outdoors with green foliage in the background.

Date TBD 2026

2 CEU Covering Communication Technology and HIPAA compliance

Location: Your home over Zoom

Class will be on a weekday evening or Sunday.

50.00

Technology & Communication for Massage Therapists: Staying Compliant in the Digital Age

Instructors: Gabe Hicks (tech guy), Software Developer

TA/Instructor: Essie Hicks LMT

In today’s world, technology is part of how we connect with clients and run our practices. This class will help massage therapists feel more confident using email, text, online scheduling, and even social media while keeping professional boundaries clear. We’ll also cover the basics of HIPAA compliance, so you’ll know how to protect sensitive health information as you bring your practice into the digital age.

Please fill out an interest card below for this class and we will send you the details when they are confirmed.

Camp Dreamspace:

CE and Self-Care Retreat

September 2026

Camp Orkila

Orcas Island, WA

Dates TBD

Sunset over a forested mountain landscape with trees, rolling hills, and a cloudy sky.

Please fill out the interest card below, and we will send you details when they are confirmed!

Contact us.

If you have questions about classes or want to apply for the Mt. Shasta or Tahoma Scholarship, please fill out the form.

We never sell your information, and we don’t send spammy emails…because that’s rude.