A rewarding career path from massage therapist to osteopath

2025-01-20

Sarah Gerritsen’s studies in remedial massage helped influence her decision to embark on an exciting career in osteopathy. After relocating to Geelong from Germany to work as a live-in nanny for a local family, Sarah decided to study remedial massage at The Gordon as she had an ‘’ongoing interest in the human body and anatomy, working with the community and helping others’’. Despite this passion, she did not have a clear career plan as a young traveler. Enrolling at The Gordon guided her future.

“As an international student, the remedial massage course at The Gordon was close by and affordable”, said Sarah, who loved the flexibility of the course because it allowed students to continue working while they studied. The course is delivered twice a week, including one day and one evening.

The course was such a great experience. I met a lot of new people and gained knowledge which helped me to pursue further studies. I enjoyed the interaction with the community and other staff through the student clinic. This gave us an opportunity to learn through hands-on practice. I realised that I enjoyed helping others through treatment. It guided me to look into career pathways upon completion of my studies. The course content also prepared you for post studies, how to open your own business or start as an employee. 

Since graduating from the 10-month course in 2021, Sarah has worked as a remedial massage therapist at Be Well Health Group, building a clientele and supporting clients through different stages of life and goals. ‘’I would highly recommend the course to others as it has opened so many doors for me to continue further studies in the allied health field,’’ she said. Today Sarah is undertaking an Osteopathy degree and hopes to settle in Australia where her career can flourish.

Teacher Lou Looby said Sarah’s story was a great example of where massage therapy can take students and the pathways available to further study. “Massage is an in-demand career path as more people seek holistic therapies for health and wellbeing,’’ said Lou. ‘’It is a way to actively help clients relieve their pain, move better, and feel better.’’ Experienced and qualified massage therapists provide hands-on instruction while students gain 200 hours of practical clinical experience in an operational massage clinic. The course is ideal at any career stage – whether it’s returning to the workforce, changing careers, wanting to work from home or within a group setting, or becoming your own boss.

Immerse yourself in hands-on practical massage sessions at The Gordon.

Enrolments are now open for 2025