Massage Continuing Education

Women having forehead massaged
At a Glance

LLCC Continuing, Corporate and Professional Education is committed to helping you meet the increasing challenges of today’s health care environment and to promote and improve the health of society. Please review continuing education opportunities below. 

Fall 2024 Massage Tools Series

This fall, join Michael Kirchgesner, LMT and owner of MK Sports Massage, as he teaches a dynamic series of massage continuing education workshops. Delve into the artistry of massage therapy like never before as we explore an array of innovative tools to elevate your practice to new heights. Immerse yourself in the ancient healing technique of cupping therapy, where ancient wisdom meets modern application. Discover the rhythmic flow of bamboo bodywork, harnessing the power of nature to invigorate and restore. Focus on therapist longevity and ergonomics while also unlocking new dimensions of therapeutic effectiveness. Prepare to delve deeper as we uncover additional elements designed to transcend the ordinary and revolutionize the massage experience. This series isn't just about learning; it's about transformation. Are you ready to redefine what's possible in massage therapy? Join us this fall and unleash the full potential of your practice.

CE credit for IL LMT.

Cupping Therapy Workshop

In this four-hour course, you will learn about cupping theory, where science, history and practical application converge. This dynamic course offers a deep dive into the various types of cupping devices, essential contraindications, safety precautions and meticulous sanitation protocols. Beyond theoretical exploration, this course promises hands-on practice sessions, empowering you to integrate cupping therapy into your massage practice. Gain confidence and mastery as you discover the transformative potential of cupping, yielding remarkable results for your clients.


NOTE: Please bring massage table, linens, cupping therapy set and cleaning supplies to this massage CE workshop.

Register for Cupping Therapy

  • Registration is required. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
  • Registration fee is $79.
  • Deadline to register, pay or cancel and receive a refund is Monday Aug. 26 at 4 p.m.


Date

Wednesday, Aug. 28, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Location

LLCC-Medical District, 130 W. Mason Street, Springfield, IL 62702  

Bamboo Bodywork Workshop

This four-hour course dives into the transformative potential of bamboo in the realm of massage therapy. Explore the fusion of ancient wisdom and modern technique as you uncover the myriad of benefits and refined methods of harnessing bamboo sticks and tools to elevate the massage experience. This course navigates the contraindications, along with essential sanitation and safety protocols. This course allows you to gain holistic understanding of bamboo therapy and empowers you to deliver a rejuvenating and risk-free experience for clients. Join us as we unlock the secrets of bamboo, transforming ordinary massages into extraordinary wellness rituals.

NOTE: Please bring massage table, linens, bamboo tools and cleaning supplies to this massage CE workshop.

Register for Bamboo Bodywork

  • Registration is required. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
  • Registration fee is $79.
  • Deadline to register, pay or cancel and receive a refund is Monday Sept. 23 at 4 p.m.

Date

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Location

LLCC-Medical District, 130 W. Mason Street, Springfield, IL 62702

Massage Tools for Longevity and Comfort 

Elevate your massage therapy expertise with this immersive four-hour LLCC Continuing Education course. This course is tailored for professional massage therapists seeking to expand their skillset while safeguarding their own joints and muscles. Tools discussed in this course will include Gau-sha tools, metal scraping tools, reflexology tools and many others, meticulously crafted to alleviate strain on therapists while delivering precise and targeted pressure to clients' tissues. Through a blend of theoretical insights and hands-on practice, participants will acquire the knowledge and proficiency to seamlessly integrate these tools into their massage sessions. Join us to unlock a powerful arsenal of techniques to address a wide spectrum of client needs while ensuring therapist longevity.

NOTE: Please bring massage table, linens, any/all massage tools you wish to discuss and cleaning supplies, to this massage CE workshop.

Register for Tools for Longetivity

  • Registration is required. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
  • Registration fee is $79.
  • Deadline to register, pay or cancel and receive a refund is Monday, Oct. 28 at 4 p.m.


Date 

Wednesday, Oct. 30, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Location

LLCC-Medical District, 130 W. Mason Street, Springfield, IL 62702

Additional Elements to Elevate the Massage Experience

This isn't just a course – it's an invitation to revolutionize your approach to massage therapy. Tailored for professional massage therapists, this course delves into the positive synergistic effects of combining massage with holistic elements like sound therapy, aromatherapy, massage ointments and heat application. Led by Michael, participants will explore theoretical foundations and practical techniques to create multi-sensory experiences that enhance client relaxation and healing. Join us and learn to create a transformative experience for both you and your clients.

NOTE: Please bring massage table, linens, and cleaning supplies to this massage CE workshop. 

Register for Elements to Elevate

  • Registration is required. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
  • Registration fee is $79.
  • Deadline to register, pay or cancel and receive a refund is Monday Nov. 18 at 4 p.m.


Date

Wednesday, Nov.20, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Location

LLCC-Medical District, 130 W. Mason Street, Springfield, IL 62702

How to Effectively Use Stretching in Massage Therapy

Elevate your practice with practical insights to enhance client well-being through effective stretching techniques. This dynamic course seamlessly blends lecture, hands-on demonstration and interactive massage/stretching trade sessions to ensure a holistic learning experience. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, participants will leave equipped with the skills and insights needed to enhance their clients' well-being through targeted stretching techniques.

NOTE: Please bring massage table, linens, and cleaning supplies to this massage CE workshop.

Register for Stretching in Massage

  • Registration is required. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
  • Registration fee is $99. (There will be a 45-minute break for lunch; lunch is not included.)
  • Deadline to register, pay or cancel and receive a refund is Monday Dec. 2 at 4 p.m.


Date

Saturday, Dec. 7, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 

Location

LLCC Main Campus, Trutter Center, 5250 Shepherd Road, Springfield, IL 

About the Instructor

Male in navy blue shirt smiling with his arms folded acrossed chest. There is text overlay that reads "MK - Michael Kirchgesner"

Michael Kirchgesner's journey is a testament to his commitment to holistic wellness and the betterment of those around him. Once on the path to become a doctor of physical therapy, he discovered the fascinating world of massage therapy. Kirchgesner graduated as a massage therapist at the top of his class in 2013. In addition to being an LMT, Michael also has an associate degree in health science and a bachelor's degree in business administration with a pre-med minor.  

 In 2015, he opened MK Sports Massage. His specialization in sports massage allows him to play a vital role in an athlete’s “team” by assisting in their recovery and wellness journey.  

Kirchgesner is an expert in many massage techniques including Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage, cupping, bamboo fusion and others. By 2022, Michael added the titles of NCBTMB certified professional and CEU provider to his credentials, amplifying his vision of elevating the massage therapy industry. Beyond his professional achievements, Michael's personal triumph over cancer fuels his drive to give back.