Massage Training Faculty

Faculty Qualifications
All PMTC instructors are trained in instructional methods and teaching skills so they are able to teach in a manner that permits the educational objectives of their course to be achieved. All faculty demonstrate a command of theory and practice, contemporary knowledge, continuing study in their field, and a minimum of three years of related practical work experience. Instructors in massage theory and practice techniques are licensed or meet the qualifications for licensure in the state of Missouri. Instructors in anatomy/physiology hold a bachelor's degree or a minor in a healthcare related field.

Dr. Jason Back

Instructor: Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Pathology I & II

D.C., Chiropractic Medicine, Logan College of Chiropractic (2005)

B.A. Biology & Secondary Education, Blackburn College (1999)

Jason is a chiropractic physician with over five years of clinic experience and an acupuncturist with his Meridian Therapy and Acupuncture certificate. He operates a successful practice in Springfield, MO and regularly utilizes Tai Chi, nutrition and Qui Qong in his practice. Jason joined PMTC's faculty in 2010.

Renate Brodecker

Instructor: Thai Massage

Renate graduated from PMTC in 2000, is a licensed massage therapist in Missouri and is nationally certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork. Renate owned a successful floral business and currently operates a thriving massage therapy practice, The Comfort Zone, in Eldon, Missouri. She is currently completing her certification in precision neuromuscular therapy and incorporates energy work into her practice.

Melanie Elliot

Clinic Coordinator & Instructor: Clinical Massage I & II, Practice I & II

Melanie graduated from PMTC's 24th class in 2003 with 600 hours of general massage therapy training. She worked at several successful massage clinics and spas, and in 2008, Melanie returned to PMTC and completed 300 hours of training in Precision Neuromuscular Therapy with PMTC's 52nd class. Melanie is a licensed massage therapist in Missouri and has advanced training in craniosacral therapy.

Candace Fruge

Instructor: General Massage I, Business I & II, Shiatsu/Ayurveda

M.A. Clinical Psychology, Forrest Institute of Professional Psychology (2009)

B.A. Contemplative Psychology, Naropa University (2004)

Candace is a provisionally licensed professional counselor (PLPC), diplomat in Asian bodywork therapy and is nationally certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). She recently completed her master’s thesis examining the role of mind-body awareness training in the reduction of stress and burnout and the enhancement of creativity and wellbeing. Candace has studied and practiced Asian bodywork therapy, including Shiatsu and acupressure, for 20 years and has taught bodywork, traditional Chinese medical therapy, Tai Chi and other forms of Eastern arts and practices since 1990.

Dr. Don Gordon

Instructor: Reflexology

D.P.M. Podiatric Medicine, California College of Podiatric Medicine (1983)

B.A. Medical Science, California College of Podiatric Medicine (1981)

B.A. Science & Education, Oklahoma Christian College (1977)

B.S. Chemistry, Oklahoma Christian College (1977)

Don is a retired podiatrist. He taught at the California College of Podiatric Medicine for 11 years. He first learned reflexology in 1985 and also taught high school chemistry for 2 years in Midwest City, Oklahoma. Don combines acupressure, acupuncture and Qi Qong into the treatment and learning of his patients and students.

Tammie Hutchcraft

Instructor: Kinesiology I & II, General Massage I & II, Business I & II, Exit Exam

Tammie graduated from PMTC in 2001 and since then, has operated a successful massage therapy practice in Joplin. She is a licensed massage therapist in Missouri and her practice specializes in neuromuscular and pain management massage therapy. In 2009, Tammie earned her certification as a precision neuromuscular therapist.

Terra Jeffres

Instructor: Pathology I & II, Business I & II, Spa Modalities, Spa Practice II, License Preparation & NCE Review, Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Spa Exit Exam

B.A. Psychology, St. Louis University (2007)

Terra graduated from PMTC in 2000 and worked in a resort spa for three years. After moving to St. Louis, Terra worked for a large, high-end Aveda salon and spa for three and a half years. Terra is a licensed massage therapist in Missouri and has extensive training in and practical knowledge of Precision Neuromuscular Therapy, Therma Stone, Aroma-Reflex Therapy, Hydrotherapy, Thalassotherapy and Reflexology through the American Spa Therapy Education & Certification Council (ASTECC). While completing her bachelor's degree, Terra earned her certificate in human resources management and studied physical therapy.

Linda Mayhugh

Bio Coming Soon

Mary Witman

Instructor: General Massage I & II, Practice I & II

Mary graduated from the Florida Humanities Center in 1993 for her training in massage therapy and is a licensed massage therapist in Missouri. She owned and operated a successful massage therapy practice, and continued her education in neuromuscular and myofascial release, reflexology, craniosacral balancing and Bowen. Mary is also extensively trained in flower essences and enjoys energy work. She is a reiki master/teacher. Before joining PMTC Mary taught massage therapy courses at Edu Tech in Clearwater, Florida.