Accredited Oncology Massage Practitioners Diploma (Massage for those with cancer)

This course includes the following components:

• Pre-course reading to build foundational knowledge.
• A knowledge check quiz based on the pre-course material to be completed before attending training.
• One full day of in-class training, combining theory and hands-on practice.
• Completion of 3 case studies (to be submitted within 6 months)
• A final open-book quiz to assess understanding and consolidate learning.

Oncology Massage Course

Inclusion Through Education – Massage for People Affected by Cancer

At the Glasgow School of Massage, we believe that individuals affected by cancer should not be excluded from the benefits of massage therapy. Instead, we advocate for training that empowers therapists to provide safe, compassionate, and effective care.

That belief is the foundation of this course.

Course Overview

This comprehensive program is designed to equip qualified massage therapists with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to safely support clients affected by cancer—whether in clinical, hospice, hospital, or private practice settings.

What the Course Covers

• Dispelling the Myths – Understanding outdated beliefs around massage and cancer

• Historical, Ethical & Philosophical Context – The evolution of massage therapy in oncology care

• The Benefits of Massage – Exploring evidence-based advantages for this client group

• Professional & Legal Responsibilities – Working within your scope of practice

• Cancer-Specific Considerations – Contraindications, cautions, and care planning

• Cancer 101 – An introduction to cancer types, staging, grading, and how it spreads

• Treatments & Side Effects – How surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and other therapies impact massage

• Treatment Adaptation – Modifying techniques based on the client’s condition, treatment stage, and needs

• The Emotional Impact – Understanding the diagnosis journey and its effect on the individual and their family

• Consultation, Consent & Communication – Building trust and creating safe spaces

• Signposting – Knowing when and how to refer clients for additional support

• Therapist Self-Care – Managing emotional resilience in oncology settings

• Massage Routine – Learn and practice a safe, adaptable routine with minimal contraindications

• And much more…

The course combines theoretical learning with practical application, giving you the tools needed to deliver safe, empathetic, and tailored massage treatments to people affected by cancer.

Course Leader

This course is developed and led by Rachel Black, an experienced massage therapist specialising in oncology massage. Rachel has:

• Over 8 years of experience at a cancer support centre located on the campus of Scotland’s specialist cancer hospital

• 2 years working in a palliative care hospice

• 11 years teaching oncology massage to qualified therapists

Her passion, knowledge, and hands-on experience make this course both inspiring and practical.

Rachel also offers ongoing mentoring support by email or phone after the course—free of charge.

Course Assessment & Certification

This is an advanced training course for qualified massage therapists looking to expand their practice.

You will be assessed through both formal and informal methods during the course. To receive your Diploma in Oncology Massage, you will need to:

• Complete 3 case studies (3 treatments for each of 3 clients) You will have 6 months do do so. These are brief case study write ups in comparison to your diploma in therapeutic massage case studies. 

• Submit an open-book written exam, marked upon completion

If you’re ready to expand your skills and offer meaningful care to those who need it most, this course is a powerful next step in your professional journey.