About Us
At Academy of Health, we are dedicated to offering more than just a massage therapy education—we’re committed to nurturing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Founded by Dr. Jeffrey Montoya, a passionate instructor with over a decade of experience in massage therapy and education, our goal is to provide a holistic approach to learning, blending expert instruction with real-world practice.
Our program offers the perfect balance of online coursework and hands-on experience, making it easy and convenient for you to earn your certification while balancing your personal life. With small class sizes, you’ll receive personalized attention from our instructors, ensuring you never feel like just another student.
Convenient Curriculum
Our blend of online learning and in-person sessions allows you to learn at your own pace and apply your skills in real massage environments. Whether you’re studying from home or practicing in a professional setting, we ensure that you’ll be ready to step into the field as a fully prepared, licensed massage therapist.
Small Class Sizes
We intentionally keep our class sizes small to ensure individualized attention for every student. This means more guidance, more hands-on practice, and more confidence when you graduate.
Learn in Real Massage Environments
Our in-person training is conducted in real massage settings, so you’ll be well-equipped to step into any environment with ease. From day one after graduation, you’ll be prepared to offer professional-level massage therapy.
Holistic Approach
We believe that true wellness comes from treating the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Our curriculum is designed to teach you a variety of massage techniques and modalities, giving you the tools to support the overall health and well-being of your clients.
Flexible Payment Options
We understand that paying for school is a big commitment, and we want to make it easier for you to invest in your future. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans to fit your budget. Our affordable tuition of $6,500 includes all your books, so there are no hidden fees—just one straightforward price to start your new career.
Meet Our Experienced Instructors
At the heart of our school are passionate educators who believe in the healing power of touch. Rooted in both science and intuition, our instructors bring years of experience, wisdom, and a deep connection to the art of massage therapy
Dr. Jeffrey Montoya
Dr. Jeffrey Montoya, Founder and President, has been a massage therapist since 2011 and a massage educator since 2015. He holds a diploma in therapeutic massage from Madison College and a doctorate of health professions education from Logan University. He has been a dedicated volunteer with the American Massage Therapy Association. In 2019 was honored with the Jerome Perlinski Teacher of the Year Award. In addition to AMTA, Jeffrey has volunteered with the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and the International Consortium of Manual Therapies. He has been inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame.
Matthew Werlein, Academic Success Coach
Matthew Werlein, Academic Success Coach, has been a massage therapist since 2024. He is also a graduate of Academy of Health. He does massage therapy part-time while working a full-time position in banking and finance.
Deborah Hrycaj, Lead Instructor
Deborah Hrycaj, Lead Instructor, has been a massage therapist since 2012. She has also been a certified personal trainer since 2019. In 2023 She received the Jerome Perlinski Teacher of the Year Award from the American Massage Therapy Association. She has also been a dedicated volunteer with AMTA currently serving as the Wisconsin Chapter President.
Jesse Peterson, Instructor
Jesse Peterson, Instructor, has been a massage therapist since 2023. He is a graduate of Academy of Health. He has been a personal trainer since 2010. He loves to blend his knowledge of the human body from personal training into effective massage treatments for athletes and those suffering from chronic pain.
Sheila Johnson, Instructor
Sheila Johnson brings three decades of experience as a massage therapist, with a professional background spanning salon, spa, health club, hospital, and clinical environments. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to the mind-body-spirit connection, consistently integrating a holistic philosophy into her practice.
In addition to her extensive massage therapy experience, Sheila is a licensed psychotherapist, addiction counselor, and independent clinic supervisor. Her teaching reflects this unique blend of expertise—grounded in trauma-informed principles and a comprehensive understanding of holistic healing. Sheila’s approach empowers students to cultivate not only technical skill, but also the sensitivity, awareness, and professionalism essential to facilitating meaningful student outcomes.
Mickaela Summers, Instructor
Mickaela Summers has been a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2009 and a wellness advocate for over 20 years. With a B.S. in Social Work and a minor in Psychology from Marian University, WI, she integrates mind, body, spirit, and emotion into her holistic approach. Her experience spans the spa industry, yoga, trauma workshops, life coaching, and speaking. Mickaela is known for creating safe, sacred spaces that empower individuals and organizations to discover their own strength and cultivate intentional well-being.