Massage for Anxiety and Depression

• Identify different types of anxiety and depression disorders.
• Describe common causes and contributing factors associated with anxiety and depression.
• Describe traditional treatment approaches and support resources for anxiety and depression.
• Explain the potential role of massage therapy as a complementary approach for clients experiencing anxiety and depression.
• Identify important massage therapy considerations when working with clients experiencing anxiety or depression.
• Describe massage techniques including Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage.
• Explain the use of vagus nerve massage and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR).
• Describe the components of a 60-minute massage therapy protocol for clients experiencing anxiety and depression.

• Text: Massage for Anxiety and Depression by Corrine Rubida, BS, LMT, 68 pages
• Course instruction guide
• 15-question multiple-choice final exam
• Course evaluation
• Certificate of Achievement upon completion
• Unlimited phone support for course-related questions

The Center for Massage Therapy Continuing Education, LLC is an Approved Provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Approved Provider number 409296-00.

Our massage online continuing education courses are also accepted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), and most state boards.

For more information on individual state requirements and approvals, please visit our Approvals page and click on your state.

I have been taking your courses for many years and this is was one of the the most well-organized and comprehensive courses that I have taken from your organization. - Charlene S.

Love, love love this topic matter. We encounter clients who suffer from mental health issues so often. I am happy with the information I learned to be able to help. - Manuela G.

So easy to take and well organized. I loved the 60-minute massage protocol. I can incorporate it into my massage routine immediately. - Danny T.

I received my materials quickly in the mail. Happy there is a company out there that still mails course materials. - Leslie T., LMT

What is progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)?
a. A technique for reducing stress and tension by systematically tensing and then releasing different muscle groups
b. Meant to activate the body’s “rest and digest” response, it is a technique which applies gentle relaxing pressure along the vagus nerve
c. A therapeutic technique focused on reaching deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue to address chronic tension and discomfort
d. A technique which involves applying sustained pressure to “trigger points” to relieve pain, restore normal muscle function, and promote relaxation

How does bipolar depression differ from major depressive disorder?
a. Depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder are similar to those in major depressive disorder, but the broader pattern of being seasonally affected is what distinguishes bipolar depression
b. Depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder are similar to those in major depressive disorder, but the broader pattern of symptoms occurring after birth is what distinguishes bipolar depression
c. Depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder are similar to those in major depressive disorder, but the broader pattern of losing contact with reality is what distinguishes bipolar depression
d. Depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder are similar to those in major depressive disorder, but the broader pattern of mood swings is what distinguishes bipolar depression

Which of the following is a emotionally calming and stress reducing aromatherapy blend?
a. Lavender & bergamont blend
b. Frankincense & lavender blend
c. Sweet orange & bergamont blend
d. Ylang ylang & lavender blend