I made a massage appointment at the Cortiva Linthicum site on Thursday, April 3rd. As I've been a repeat customer, I know to arrive at least 15 minutes early to fill out the forms with my own bedsheets(policy since COVID). I was greeted by a friendly smile as my masseuse introduced herself as Candie. She went over my forms to insure there were no medical issues she needed to be aware of. I would highly recommend Candie and will make sure to request her on my next appointment. She is a great listener and recommended certain stretching techniques which really made a difference--even in this first time meeting her! Her dedication and commitment to the wellness of others is quite evident. She asked if the pressure was too light, just right or too much. She could pinpoint exactly where I was holding tension and did her magic to relieve me of that! I will definitely be back and will be asking for Candi asap! Kudos to Cortiva & Candi!!! Much success! Sincerely, Joe Flores, USAF Veteran read more

Dear Corporate Leadership / Student Relations Department, I am writing to formally escalate a concern regarding my experience with Ms. Angela Brown during an enrollment appointment at your school on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at approximately 6:30 p.m. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed at the corporate level because I believe the circumstances involve concerns regarding professionalism, communication, treatment of a prospective student, and potentially the discussion of a prospective student's circumstances with another individual. This situation is particularly important to me because I have been out of school for approximately 15 years. Returning to school is not something I take lightly. I was genuinely considering making a major change in my life and pursuing my education so that I could work toward greater financial independence and a better future. Before my appointment, my girlfriend and I prayed together because I wanted to make sure that returning to school was the right decision for me. She accompanied me to the school because she had previously attended school and I wanted her support and perspective as I went through a process that was completely new to me. During my appointment and tour, however, I felt that Ms. Brown was communicating with my girlfriend as though she were the student rather than communicating directly with me, the individual considering enrollment. I understand that I was unfamiliar with the enrollment process, but being unfamiliar with something does not mean that I should not be treated as the person capable of making my own educational decisions. My girlfriend eventually asked me to switch seats so that I could speak directly with Ms. Brown and participate more fully in the conversation. After completing the tour, I was interested in the school, but I had not yet made a final decision. I asked about changing the enrollment timing because I needed to consider my finances and personal circumstances. Ms. Brown explained that enrollment was only being handled for the current month and that I could not simply move my enrollment to a later class. I explained that I would be interested in potentially returning in November. At that point, I was told that I would have 48 hours to think about my decision. I relied on that understanding. The following day, Ms. Brown contacted me while I was working. I had already explained that I work full-time at a school and had discussed my available break times with her. When I answered the phone, she said, "Sorry for your condolences." I was confused by the statement and asked her what she meant. She then told me that financial aid wanted to meet with me. I reminded her that we had discussed giving me 48 hours to make my decision. I explained that I felt pressured because I had not been given the time we had discussed. I was then asked why I was not moving forward and what was holding me up. I felt that this became unnecessarily personal when I had simply asked for the time I had been told I would receive. I ultimately ended the conversation respectfully and told Ms. Brown that I appreciated her time. Unfortunately, my concerns did not end there. A friend of mine, Patrick Coleman, went to speak with Ms. Brown that same day. He later informed me that he had his own negative experience during his interaction with her. More importantly, he told me that he overheard Ms. Brown discussing a recent individual who had come to the school with his girlfriend and stating that the girlfriend had talked him out of attending. Because of the timing and the circumstances, I became concerned that she may have been referring to me and my appointment. I want to be very careful and fair in making this complaint: I did not personally hear Ms. Brown make that statement, and therefore I am not presenting it as established fact. I am reporting what Patrick Coleman states that he personally overheard and am asking corporate leadership to determine whether my personal circumstances were discussed with another person. If my circumstances were discussed with another prospective student, visitor, or unrelated individual, I would consider that a serious professionalism concern. I came to your school genuinely interested in becoming a student. I was not looking to waste anyone's time. I was trying to make one of the biggest decisions I have made for myself in many years. I understand that enrollment staff have responsibilities and goals, and I understand that financial aid and enrollment processes have deadlines. However, those responsibilities should not come at the expense of treating prospective students with respect, patience, and professionalism. I am therefore requesting that corporate leadership: * Review my September 15, 2026 appointment and my subsequent communication with Ms. Brown. * Review whether I was appropriately given the 48 hours I was told I would have to make my decision. * Review the circumstances surrounding the statement read more

My experience at this so called Institute was nothing short of stressful, constantly having to display self restraint and patience. When I first started in September we quickly lost our teacher a month later because she wasn't being compensated adequately so we were left with her teachers assistant. Class started at 9 but we didn't start until 10 once she decided to get off her phone and read PowerPoints with words she couldn't pronounce and knowledge she just didn't have. When I transferred to another class she decided to trash talk about the individuals who left her class and then she got demoted to TA again (like I never saw that coming). The Dermalogica bag they give you if only for 1 skin type and when my skin reacted to it I had to bring my own products to be used on my skin, then the clinic coordinator tried to say my skin was probably purging when I initially came in with not a bump on my face but it's because she was trying to sell me holiday products to obviously make commission on her end. The staff overall is incompetent they give you the run around to simple questions, everyone is pissed to go to work and deal with students. The director Michael will BS you in front of your face and smile about it, the lead instructor Cassondra they brought in is useless and never has the answers to anything but has time to give you attitude when you won't let up about an issue. The clinic coordinator Katherine wants to be a somebody in this place but is useless and just waddles around in the classrooms and lies about the state board requirements when doing the orientation mind you she is a licensed nothing. The career coordinator Sanarta who is suppose to ASSIST with the state board appointments caught a whole attitude because I wouldn't sign release forms for the school to use my face or videos for there benefits or be put on there "wall of fame" that has the same 10 people on it since I started. Then got upset when I had to book my own appointments because she wanted access to my account because she's "required" to know if I passed my exams. Keep in mind she uses the same password for all the students new PSI account and put it up on the whiteboard in her office ...can you say security violation. Needless to say I wouldn't recommend this place to my worst enemy this place exploits students to work for free for them and they don't even give them any tips they receive from clients claiming it goes to a "student fund" that doesn't exist. They play with your hours and constantly move your graduation date so you have to keep account for your own hours in order to correct them. Oh and they also require you complete an extra 60 hours and pose it as extra practice but it's really to keep you an extra 14 days to take there "clients". The tables are falling apart and some were replaced with the Amazon tattoo chairs, supplies are scarce and sometimes have to be shared with other classes, there's a steamer graveyard because instead of replacing the broken steamers they'll just throw them in the back which begs the question where is the $15k per student going because it can't be towards supplies. And as of recent they're having clients who get a service done post 5 star google reviews because all the students who have left this place leave honest reviews and their rating was taking a hit! If you're a student looking to get into esthetics please look elsewhere or at most read the student reviews about this place. read more

As a fellow alumni, I don't recommend Cortiva at all for either learning or services. I'm autistic and bipolar so I got somewhat ok treatment (mainly since ADA violations are a bitch and they knew that) but overall it was bad. I had 3 teachers total, however a regular pattern was teachers and administration leaving and new recruits. Which I think is a sign about how the head administrators treat the staff. Now onto the main issues: I basically taught myself everything for the majority of my 9 months in school, just reading the material and practicing when possible. And yes I said WHEN POSSIBLE. It's supposed to be half of the day EVERY FRICKIN DAY! What I especially didn't like was how myself and my fellow classmates were treated. Like I said, I had a tiny advantage but my god did most people get walked on. To the point that the massage classrooms (I was in the esthetics program) were constantly fighting. My personal opinion is that it was built up anger of the students. And these teachers lash out at us students because they are being treated badly as well! The overall feel of the place was just horrible. Also, they do sell you on the "start your own business" model, but after being in the industry for two years, that's not realistic AT ALL. Unless you want to take a personal loan along with your new $13K student loan, not a good idea. Oh and I saved the best for last: NOT SANITARY! THE FIRST THING THEY TEACH YOU IS SANITATION TECHNIQUES AND ITS DISGUSTING IN MOST OF THE TREATMENT ROOMS! LIKE ONCE THE HEAD OF ADMIN CAME IN AND SAID THERE WAS A RAT PROBLEM?!?!? ‍‍‍‍ . Overall, this place is just a loophole of misinformation, misconduct, and mistreatment. You have been warned. PSA TO ALL ALUMNI: WITH THE NEW BORROWER DEFENSE FUND, YOU CAN NOW REPORT CORTIVA FOR MISLEADING YOU INTO THEIR SCHOOL FROM THE OFFICIAL STUDENTAID.GOV PAGE: Most borrowers file a borrower defense application because they believe that their school misled them or lied to them about something that was central to their decision to enroll. Under the borrower defense regulations, this is called a "misrepresentation." For example, some borrowers have qualified for borrower defense in the past when their school made false or misleading promises guaranteeing that they would get a job after graduation, earn a certain salary with their degree, or be able to transfer their credits to another school. PLEASE SEND AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE TO GET YOURS AND EVERYONE ELSE'S LOANS RELIEVED FROM PAYING THE HORROR WE ALL WENT THROUGH. https://studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/borrower-defense-application.pdf APPLY HERE read more

This was my first facial but not my last. I had Millie and she was so relaxing it is hard not to fall asleep. She explained everything and what and why she was doing this cream. She will graduate in December so I will schedule a couple more before she leaves. Her hands are so soft and warm just an overall fabulous treat for myself Definitely recommend as my facial was 45. And I cannot imagine a better one. read more

As a former student, if I could give this place, zero stars I would. This is the most unorganized, misleading and dumpster fire of a school. I would not recommend the school to even my worst enemy. It is not sanitary, most of the instructors are too busy on their phones, or engaging and drama with the students to care about your education, and they give you a whole packet of things you're going to learn, but you'll be lucky to learn a handful of those things. I graduated six months ago and I've been calling once a week to get my graduation certificate and they can't even do that. If you are serious about starting a career as an esthetician, you need to stay as far away as possible from Cortiva in Linthicum Heights. This place is the biggest joke. read more

I should have said something a long time go but FEAR caused me not to. I've been completing therapy recently and it made me remember a traumatic experience at this school. Years ago my husband and I were regulars at this school until I was sexually harassed in a massage. My massage spent more time focusing on my breasts than focusing on my back which was the reason I explained I was there. I didn't know how to verbalize what happened to me, how my breasts started being rubbed and even struggled initially trying to place the blame on myself for what happened. I rationalized the initial attempts as mistakes that happen during a massage but as they became more blatant and consistent I started to seriously have my doubts. It got to a point where I was confused, bewildered, and unsure how I was to handle it and at the end of the day my fear of causing an issue, my fear of hurting the school, and the fear of hurting my marriage ultimately caused me to cover this up. I'm a lot more mature now, more confident, and more comfortable with myself to be able to not only stand up for myself now but to also speak out against this. I wish I knew his name, I wish I could remember his face, I never want anyone to go through what I did again. read more

I am currently a student here at Cortiva Institute and overall, I am pleased with my experience here. I've come here to further my education is massage therapy and so far, I've learned a lot more than I knew before. It is a accelerated program so extra work will have to be put in. The environment is friendly, and I appreciate all the staff here as they try their best to help out. Understand that it is a working progression, so everything is not perfect but since I first started I definitely see postive changes. read more

You can't beat the value here. $25 for a 50 minute massage. The prices at regular spas are at least $100. That being said, you'll get great experiences and not-so-great experiences here. It really depends on the student that's assigned to give you your massage. It's easy to book appointments at the Baltimore School of Massage. You can probably even do it a few days in advance. The public clinic is open on only Saturdays and Sundays. If you really like your massages, you can also opt to purchase gift certificates. There are percentage discounts for pre-buying multiple massage passes. read more

My esthetician was very good at product knowledge, also was the first female Esti that knew how to do a men's facial. Now for the bad *Sighhhh*. The front desk associate tried to charge me an upgrade for my service that was allready pre-paid. Instead of giving me an hour session he charged me for an 1:30 min session. The spa Attendants were very loud during the ending of my session, Discussing everything from their personal life to their work schedules while I was still in session!!! Other than that the Esti that I had was very Helpful. I can't remember her name of the top of my head though read more

taylor was a very supportive person & she made my enrollment very easy going i would recommend her to anyone enrolling moving forward!

I WOULDN'T GO THERE IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A SCHOOL. This review is only for school admission process. Not the actual clinic massage service. I called the other day looking to get some information about general idea of the program and the curriculum. First, be prepare to give all of your personal information out to them even before you can talk to school staff. They use 3rd party phone service to gather information about you! Your phone #, address, how long you were interested in massage program, etc etc they strip you naked. They do not have any knowledge on how long the program is, how much is the tuition etc... I declined to give my information and asked if I could talk to school staff. They transfer me to another person who asked me the SAME damn thing again and again. After i declined for 3 times, they finally transfer me to school admission staff. This staff named Mr. D***** answered the phone. He first wanted to gather SAME damn information again from me. Phone #, e-mail. how long you were interested. etc.. i declined and politely told him that I am interested to get some more information about the program. I asked what the hours were. Full-time or Part-time. How long it takes to complete the program. How does the day like. How much the tuition is. General question No? Mr. D goes "Before I answer those questions, why don't you come over and visit the school in person". Me: "hmmm, but i need to know those questions so that i whether I can take classes or not" Mr. D: "I cannot tell you those information because you seem like you are not a serious prospect and i am too busy to deal with you on the phone. Me: "excuse me?" Mr. Dexter: "My job is to interview serious prospects in person. I don't answer those questions on the phone" Me: "okay, can you please transfer me to anyone who can answer them then?" And then, he provided tuition fee which he said ($13500), full time and part time hours. I was concerned about the licensing massage test because i heard that it is just incredibly hard. So I asked what the percentage of people passing the exam and he said "that's it" I can't talk to you any more. He transferred me to another person at admission. There goes another conversation. Mr. R**: "So i head you want to know more about the program. Do you want to come in and talk?" Me: .... again... "no... i am just trying to get information for now" Mr. R: "Let me tell you about the school. We've been doing business over 100 years now. What makes you think we are not good school?" Me: "hm.. no Mr. R I am just trying to get to know the program so that I would know if I could attend or not. Sorry I am a researcher type here... but how can i even think about attending a school when i don't know about the program about anything?" Mr. R: "Okay then. What is your question?" I asked again about tuition. This time, he said it is $13000. I asked twice to verify. Mr. R's tuition is actually cheaper then Mr. D's! (Guys please go see him). I asked some numbers. again the passing rate. He declined to comment on them. He also declined to comment on graduation rate. He did not know how the curriculum works. I hung up the phone and i was on the phone for 33 minutes.... for 4 questions i had. Overall, very stressful to deal with them. I can't image how it would be like to be actually a student.... Shady admissions just trying to get you in to the school and deal with you. Shady business, Shady education (i assume) I don't know if I feel confident going there... I called Frederick Massage school and they were just very pleasant to deal with. I spoke with them about 10 minutes and got all the information about massage therapy program in MD. That is a relief.... So guys, you know now, go to Mr. R for tuition. But more importantly get ready to be harassed if you have questions about their program. Oh funny as i was writing this, Mr. D called. He asked me if I would want to visit in person. I said "No". Please give them a call to find out. read more

RATINGS adjusted by value! Ok, so this place is no 5 star Lux spa place but for $25 you can get a massage. Sometimes they are just ok but other times I get a winner-student! The setting is not that relaxing--office space feel, and the booths, although private, you can still hear the person next to you (I always get the person next to me who is ticklish). But I mean, what the heck do you expect for $25 (even cheaper if you buy gift certificates)?! I just tell the student what they are doing wrong or to add more pressure, and 92% of the time I come out of the massage way more relaxed and have a "massage sleep" later that night! Totally worth it! read more

If there were an option for 0 stars, I would give this school that. I am currently a Esthetics student at this school, graduating in three months and I am disappointed with the extreme lack of professionalism my family member just experienced. I have a few other disappointments but I will save those for another day I feel like leaving an extensive review. I am utterly embarrassed by this school and prefer for NO ONE to bring their business/money here. I just received this message from my sister who wants to support me and the other students at the school: "Hey! So I've been calling to make 4 appointments for the facials and massage. The receptionist--Delialah--doesn't sound like she's having a good day. She just cut me off and transferred me to Stacy, but Stacy's phone kept ringing and then the phone just hung up. Then I called back and Delialah was just like why didn't you leave a message? I tried telling her that the voicemail never came on but then she hung up on me. I'm scared to call again now. Can you make the appointment for us?" My response was "don't come" and I will have a talk with the school later. But she still wants to support me--how sweet. This school needs to be reevaluated by the Steiner Education Group (SEG) board. I will continue to report the nonsense to those in authority until some serious change happens around there. Sincerely, A VERY Unhappy Student who will later leave feedback about "being a student" here. read more

I'm sure the massages here would have been wonderful and the price is certainly appealing . . . but after making an appointment, arriving 15 minutes early, waiting over an hour, asking several times if we were still on the list, hadn't been forgotten, we then were told that the students "were tired" and there was no one to give us our massages. I understand that this is school . . . but they also offer massages as a service. . . and they do this very badly. In addition, the woman working at the desk had a horrible cough so all I could think about were the germs that were being spewed around. Very, very disappointed. read more

This lonestar comes from this place to which I began my massage career; not much else. This place is fan more like a business than a learning institution; new classes start about every 6weeks. It'd be np if the infrastructure expanded with it; 4 computers available fur a student body of 200+ at anytime. How?! They now offer to pay for the Natl./MBLEX test upon completion which is a huge plus from when I graduated. But you'll probably find that it's taxed onto to your tuition. Word to the Wise: Don't buy a table! I still use mine to this day but they mos def tax you, getting it thru them ($500 or 400 added on to your tuition), there's just plenty other avenues to get the same table for cheaper.Career services consists of a search on Craigslist...yep CL! And someone please explain to me why I needed an invitation to my own graduation?! I could go on & on about this place; bottomline: see what else is out there ie: Fortis. I did like my instructors but that's about it. read more

My mom and I booked appointments for massages and facials. For the price we cannot complain. We both got excellent students who adjusted the massage to our liking. Yes you are in a group setting. But for the most part it's pretty quiet. And it's not like you can see anyone anyway....(I'm hoping you have your eyes closed for the most part). It's all what you make of it. Our facials we enjoyed much more than the massages. Also a group setting, but the procedure was just as good as any facial I've ever had at a spa. And our girls gave us great neck and shoulder massages. As most people have stated you have to understand what you are paying for. For this type of price you have to adjust your standards. We were extremely happy with our experience. This is great if you really just want to relax on a budget, but go in with an open mind. read more

It's been at least 4 or 5 months since I've been to the epicenter of massage therapy BSOM for my massage but thought I'd give it a review just the same. Reading the Sun paper one lazy afternoon an ad for 50 minute massage at 20 bucks caught my eye like a savory massage sandwich dripping with cheese... that cost's nearly nothing. I'm somewhat of a massage enthusiast.(non sexual) I mean who doesn't like a great relaxing massage? One at not the regular 25 dollars, but with the coupon was an extraordinarily 20 american dollars. Yes 50 minute massage ..thats usually pushing 100 bucks.. I'm in! So that weekend I made an appointment to get my rub on, I've met many therapist's who have graduated from the BSOM and had great expectations. Upon entering the industrial park that the school was located in I was really looking forward to a great experience. Wrong, oh I was so wrong. After filling out the consent form I was ushered into a 1950's era class room filled with others and asked to fill out another form, I forgot exactly what it was for but the 2 inch pencils and 3rd grade desks made it slightly uncomfortable. As the students each one by one were called by their masseuse/masseur I thought please not the dude, not the dude..I have nothing against a male therapist I just prefer a female. I lucked out she showed me to a large unlit auditorium and said velcome to your soviet massage comrade...ok she didn't say those exact words but after laying on an old metal bed that squeaked with every bit of hand pressure on my back in a cold dark auditorium separated by only a thin curtain with other comrades moaning around me I thought, 1950's soviet massage! My masseuse wasn't that great and overall while not terrible not a great experience. that old saying rings true.. you get what you pay for. One and half thumbs down. read more

I am a previous student. This has got to be one of the absolute worst establishments I've ever had the misfortune of dealing with. ALL of the administrative staff is unprofessional and rude (even though staff changes every few weeks) I was lied to right out of the gate about being able to take me preplanned vacation, which of course after I was enrolled, I was informed that I would be dropped from the program, so many students go their first few weeks without their kits, and/or text books. The computers, and printers rarely ever work, alot of the teachers are so ghetto and unprofessional, and even though I graduated in September, I STILL am not able to take my exams and get my license! They told me four to six weeks and we are WEll pass that! The reason I gave it two starts, instead on one is because the curriculum is actually really good, which is super unfortunate given the surroundings, and I had one of the few good teachers, Ms. Maria, who was always there for me, and did whatever she could to help me. If you are looking to enroll here, please consider all of your options. There are spas that see that you graduated from Cortiva, and will place your resume right in the trash! Most of us come here because Von Lee doesn't accept financial aid. This place only cares about money, once you are past the two week trial period, they don't care at all if you finish or not. BEWARE!! I am leaving this review any and everywhere I can!! read more

I am a current student and words can't express how happy I am that I made this decision. Besides the support of the staff and fellow classmates, I feel like I am ready for success with the curriculum. read more

This specific Cortiva Institute location gives the ILLUSION that they're family oriented and wants nothing but success for their students, however, the truth is that this school is one big facade to cover up the lack of professionalism and fraudulence that the ENTIRE staff takes part in. The head of education, Stephanie Sweeney is possibly the most unfriendly, rude, unprofessional and overall vile employee to walk the school. She could not give any less of a care in the world about the student's well being, as all that matters is that her staff shows up for the job and finishes out the day. Multiple students have confided in Stephanie (AS WELL AS Hank Blakey, the school director, and the other reps) about the primary issue of the instructors not taking their position as seriously as it should be taken. The instructors are constantly late to class, wear provocative outfits, are constantly on their phones, and they speak on subjects such as race, sexuality and politics. When it comes to teaching the students the actual content that they're supposed to be learning because it applies to the State Board Exam they tend to cram it all into a power point and push the students to learn it quickly just to pass the quiz that's being taken afterwards. The students are not actually internalizing the information and understanding it because it's not being explained in depth. Not to mention that a majority of the equipment being used to learn this trade (steamers, mag-lamps, facial carts, beds) are barely functioning and in serious need of replacement. Now-when these problems were taken to Stephanie Sweeney by one brave student who was genuinely concerned about the problems taking place and how they're affecting the students, Stephanie completely disregarded the issues at hand and said "Well you're not the spokesperson for all the students, so unless you're coming to me with a personal issue that you're having I can't help you". This is a huge issue that she disregarded the fact that this student (as well as the rest) is paying $15,000+ to attend this school, and she feels a genuine concern about the way things have taken place over the course of time and is voicing it for the MANY other girls that feel scared to say anything because they KNOW it won't be taken seriously. We haven't even reached the cusp of all the issues that this school is overflowing with, but I feel the urgency as a student myself to unveil the truth about this corrupt school. The Cortiva Institute - Baltimore location has just been recently purchased by Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers this past June/July of 2019, and I will be taking all measures to make sure that the owner, Neal Heller, is aware of the heinous acts taking place at this newly purchased location. Please save your money, time, and efforts, and apply to another school that will actually put in the work to making sure you FULLY understand this trade and leave completely confident in the industry of Esthetics. ALSO PLEASE DO NOT BELIEVE THE 5 STAR REVIEWS. The students are pushed by the reps to leave google reviews making their experiences sound great. read more

This school is very unorganized, the program is good but the staff is unorganized and never know too much about what's going on. Never know anything about grades, hours or attendance. I was supposed to graduate a month ago and I am still being held hostage in school to do nothing! I would not recommend this school to anyone else. read more

If you are looking into enrolling in this school do your research. this school is the most unprofessional, disorganized school i have ever experienced. they do not communicate with the students OR even their own staff. the staff never knows whats going on and they ALL have different information ALL THE TIME. they do not keep the students in the loop about information that has to do with the actual students graduating. the teachers do not know how to teach, our teacher had us doing extra credit and redoing test 2-3 times and dont have proof of the work we did in the future as if we never did anything.. the staff never have the grades together and the attendance time is NEVER correct. i could go on and on about how i would never recommend this school to anyone. read more

AS A FORMER ESTHETICS STUDENT IM WARNING YOU... If i could give no star i would. This might be a long review but in my experience with the program there was so much that was distasteful and unacceptable i wish i would've saved the money, time, and STRESS for any other establishment. Starting with the staff, unprofessional as i don't even know what. They all act like they don't know their own job description and are completely unhelpful and honestly rude. In my whole program i got ONE progress report i had to hound them for late in my program when you're promised bi-weekly ones and they only listed hours and a grade average that they then said was inaccurate bc so much time had passed and more things needed to be graded so ... useless. Even when i finished the program i had not seen a SINGLE grade on anything. No homework's or class assignments. I had no idea i was passing until i finally met with the lead teaching advisor (Liz who was the only helpful person i had met). The administration is absolute trash. They try to push you to start as soon as possible to meet their quota and get their money and it's blatantly obvious. I was supposed to go on a trip in August and was told it was ok to miss my first week of class. They insisted i started that term and miss but i insisted not too. Luckily i didn't bc i was later informed by their inconsistent attendance policy (which I'll get to next) that i would've been dropped if that happened!! They kept calling and hounding to make sure i was serious and were very pushy. The attendance policy they tried to change while i was in the program which would have penalized my program ALOT but when i showed paperwork to show them the original agreement of the policy i SIGNED UP DOING then it was "ohhh ok then that's fine". Like no????? Be consistent??? You run a school you know know your own rules??? The staff is unprofessional. Most teachers don't know what the hell theyre talking about. I paid 13k for books to teach myself. The program is completely unorganized. I learned the SAME CHAPTER 4 TIMES NOT JOKING. Had the same homework due. Saw the same PowerPoints and ended up missing chapters i had to again .. teach myself before i finished. End of my program i had two months left, they added new students to the class which was a complete disadvantage to my class bc we had to like i said REPEAT multiple chapters when we should have been finishing what we haven't learned not teaching new students in the class what i had learned months ago just to fill up chairs in a classroom to bring in more money. I received NO board prep AT ALL not kidding. NO bag prep. NO practice tests. NOTHING to prepare me for my exam. Teachers sub for each other just to contradict each other and confuse you on if what you're being taught is correct. IDCCCC what you think is right or wrong i want to know what THE BOARD needs me to know is right!!! My teacher was late almost every single morning and made it evident teaching was Not her first priority let alone her 5th or 6th ... when as a paying student who needs to pass a test after this.. it's my FIRST. Hank (the head person) never wants to deal with ANY problems you need him to do & will refer you to anyone else to talk to. The classroom floors weren't TOUCHED or mopped so left a lot of old wax and nastiness on them until after COVID. The teachers are catty to on another and definitely to students. All in all i could go on all day but frankly i don't want to waste another moment on this poor excuse of a school. So SAVE YOUR MONEY AND SAVE YOUR STRESS because it's not worth it. You're paying to teach yourself and get a headache. read more

I really regret letting my daughter sign up for this school. She came home the other day saying she walked past a classroom and she heard an instructor being openly homophobic. I personally don't care about people's bigoted personal opinions but this school should be a learning environment and someone's sexuality isn't a part of the curriculum I assume. She talks about how the school's machines like the steamers don't work or they always run out of stuff which I don't understand because this school make a lot of money off these kids. I really dislike that my child is in an environment where the instructors not only spew their inappropriate opinions but let the other students chime in. I can't wait until she graduates. I wouldn't recommend this school to anyone at this point. Also, I don't like that she feels uncomfortable around some of the administrative staff either. This whole school needs to really get it together Update: She seriously hates this school, doesn't recommend it to anyone. She doesn't even tell people she goes here. The administration harasses them to find people to sign up which I find disturbing. Thank god she's almost done. She has 2 months left and feels like she's going to fail her state board. I'm trying to help as much as I can but it's not my job, it's theirs. Honestly if you are looking for an Esthetician school take your time and save up for something better than this garbage Institute. If I could give it negative stars I would read more

25 bucks for a massage student to massage you for 50 mins that's a deal and a half plus no tips. They can't accept them. Now its shared space so your in a cubicle next to other people but what do you expect for $25. read more

I am a former student at the York Campus of Baltimore School Of Massage. I paid a lot of money for a 2/3 worth of education. I was denied the right to finish the last part of my education because my partner had gotten pregnant and couldn't continue with the school , a nice way to say they forced her out. Since I was partner less I asked for a teacher to be my partner so I could continue, I was denied, I asked to be placed in with another group, I was denied. I was given two options however. 1. I could sit in the class room alone while my class mates went off to complete their schooling daily or option 2. I could go home to which I wouldn't have enough hours to graduate. I chose to go home and drive back to the school nightly to EARN my credits but did not receive the class room knowledge. A one way drive for me was over an hour so that meant I was driving four hours a day to try to get my hours to graduate for which I worked hard for. Many teachers were less then professional and came into the class room with a ring of suck marks all over his neck from the teacher across the hall from which he was cheating with and shared that with the class! I was called a minority because of my spiritual path and many other unacceptable behaviors were done to me but I refused to let them win. I stood on the stage and graduated with out the knowledge of the last quarter of my training. This has weighted heavy on my mind for the last 13 years and I wanted to get this out. If I knew then what I know now I never would have invested my time and money into this schooling that I didn't receive. Thank you for listening. Krista Fischer graduate of 2003 read more

It's affordable when I need only a temporary relief of my spasm and stiffness in my back. It could get expensive when you go to massage sessions regularly. How much one spends to get an hour massage? It's more than this place asks for. The service is not too bad. The trade off is the waiting time. Be prepared to be placed with somebody who might not do the job the way you need it. Either way, if you go to another massage parlor that said that they have an experienced and certified massage therapist, you still might not get the massage relief you need. read more

Definitely best way to start a Saturday Morning. Doing my civic duty and helping assess the students in their massage techniques!! Bonus of this is its open to anyone who can schedule an apt and ....wait for it .....$25 for 50 minutes. So worthwhile read more

This school is a complete JOKE. Please do your research before even enrolling or speaking to an advisor because they will con you in to get their quota up for each term. If you're unsure or on the fence about attending they will stalk you until you give them an answer. The staff doesn't give correct information to students then they'll make you seem like your upset for no reason or not putting in enough effort to succeed. No matter if this school is called Baltimore School of Massage, Cortiva, or any other name they decide to use it's still the same BS. They need to learn how to run their school like an actual educational institution rather than a business to make a check off of "students" . If you want a career in the world of Esthetics or massage please reconsider your options. The curriculum was lack luster from just writing notes for hours, going into a lab where majority of the time you did whatever and it became a social hour, the makeup kits are TRASH (if you want to be an MUA or learn some new tricks please just watch YouTube or attend a class taught by a professional mua because you'll be stuck listening to music and doing ya classmate makeup for fun for 2 hours), and they train you to be their money machine for their public clinic. They do not prepare most of their students for the real world and just send them out with little to no information or actual professionalism. read more

I originally came here looking forward to be a student. However they very quickly ruined that. Ok here we go... they kept asking me if I take part in any religion and I responded saying that I do not have a religion. They continued to talk to me about how god brought me there or whatever. I do not like being put in situations where they are trying to fit me into their religion. And they were acting like they were a high class spa (the reviews say different) but I don't think they understand it's not the fact that they were letting me go to the school it was the fact that it didn't seem like they knew I am the one who was going to pay for it.I lay them and they do their job it's just a school that doesn't get have good reviews. They also asked me multiple times if I was in a relationship and what gender they were. I responded at first and confirmed I was in a relationship (they asked me more than once) and then they asked what gender they are (they also asked me this more than once). Why does hat matter? They seem very unorganized and money crazy. Th wet don't seem to understand they have a job to do and that is to teach. And when the lady showed me the dress code and the pants were extremely scrub like (like the pants nurses wear) and I asked if they were scrubs and she said no. She didn't tell me what I was allowed to wear she just showed me what I couldn't wear. And so I left extremely confused as to what I was doing. Hi cortiva I dont want to go to your school so please stop contacting me again thanks. Not to mention the administration wasn't very nice they all seemed like they were just putting on a mask. And to top it off when I was shown the students they all looked extremely depressed. Not a school I would go to, they should try maybe selling the company and getting all new staff bc they need a glow up. What they have just isn't it. Oh and in the middle of this conversation they wanted me to write down people that would be interested as well. Ummm I didn't come there to show them other people they could accept I came to be accepted into the school. Not wasting money on them. :) no read more

My sister, from out of town, and I went for two massages. They only had one appointment set, lots of confusion and "go sit in the other room". We waited for half an hour then left. Not very "relaxing", and very unprofessional. Apparently lots of the students call in sick on the wekkends. They should plan for this and get their act together. Makes you wonder about cleanliness! We went to another more professional setting, that very day, had two spectacular massages for $50 each. If you want to waste your time.....be treated like you're bothering them....go to the Baltimore School of Massage. read more

AS A STUDENT/GRADUATE OF THIS SCHOOL; DO NOT GO HERE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. Please if you're unable to find something around the area, take extra measures to travel a little further! This school is not worth it. They lose homework (you must have a C or better in every subject/section), their products are dangerous (students have had to go to the hospital), they're inaccurate when it comes to docking your time (this school you must have 601 hours to graduate), they LIE. staff/employees are unorganized. You shouldnt have to take a billion pictures and copies of your work because staff loses it..., this school is like jail! Once you're in it's so hard to get out! Graduation rate is extremely low. Passing rate is extremely low (75% to pass PSI, which says a lot). DROP OUT rate is HIGH. Tuition price is NOT WORTH the education and experience you will receive here! This isn't a fun school. It's very depressing coming to Cortiva (Steiner) Institute!!! If you plan to enroll, ask students about their experience, be VERY DETAILED in all questions you ask. Majority of students regret coming here. Staff & teachers are constantly quitting. The environment here is unstable. The best thing about coming here are the sweet Janitor ladies! There's a 2 WEEK TRIAL PERIOD THAT THEY WONT TELL YOU ABOUT for anyone who wants to see the school out for themselves! Don't believe them when they tell you they'll help you along the way to ensure you'll get the best experience in coming to Cortiva. They're only saying this so they can get their enrollment percentages higher, more money in THEIR pockets..... Please, talk to graduates and currently enrolled students before coming here, not the staff members. They're sugar coaters. read more

I had an appointment this past week-end and was 15 minutes late(and would have totally understood if they had to turn me away, luckily they didn't). I was able to call and let them know, but was also informed that I needed to hurry up or they would cancel me, fair enough. When I arrived I went to the front desk where two ladies were sitting and let them know my name and that I'd just called about being late. The woman Lisa, said ((((("you're late")))), in her outside voice, I acknowledged her comment and asked if they would still be able to take me, she humphed, coughed, burped and said, let me check..."sign the sheet"(still in her outside voice)...(((("just so you know, if you're late like this again, we won't take you")))) (she HAS to be the co-owner). As I stated before, she was loud, unprofessional and devoid of any customer service training. WOW! BSOM, is this what it's come to? I've been a customer since the Woodlawn area days, and have never experienced such poor customer service. My masseuse, will remain nameless, but was the BOMB.COM!!! I will be returning of course, for a repeat of that massage(you can make request once you arrive) and ignore the VERY rude, unprofessional and (((LOUD))) Lisa on the front desk. I will also be on time, to avoid encountering her behavior, because what she doesn' tknow is that I can be LOUD AND RUDE too. BEST MASSAGE EVER! read more

If I could give fewer stars, I would. This review is for the Student Massage Clinic. My boyfriend and I have been patrons of the Baltimore School of Massage for quite some time. The $25 massage is appealing, but we're learning that the bargain price isn't worth the hassle. TWICE, we made 12:15 appointments and were turned away. The first time, we didn't even get to check in. The lady at the desk just said, "Sorry, we're running behind and we're cancelling the afternoon's appointments." We were given a voucher for a free massage the next visit. The second time, we came for our appointment, checked in and sat in the waiting room for approximately 45 minutes beyond our appointment time. After hearing one of the ladies running the waiting room explain to another couple that they're not going to get their full time of his and her appointments, a lady named "Amanda" came in to tell everyone that they have to cancel the day's appointments because students didn't come in to school that day and they were behind. What is the point of having an appointment if you can't honor it? We were told to "just make an appointment for an earlier time" so that it doesn't get canceled. Not acceptable. It's my understanding that there was another group of students coming in at 1:30. Why do those people get to have their appointments, but those that have appointments at 12:15 get canceled? The attitude of this "Amanda" was dismal, as was the attitude of the other lady running the student assignments in the waiting room. We asked for the contact information of the corporate office and HER first and last name so that we can report the information to Steiner Education Group. She came in with a business card (which was not hers) and left. We went to the front desk to get her information. The girl at the desk said she didn't know Amanda's last name. (What? You don't know with whom you're working?) I asked if she would please find out. The girl at the desk came back and said Amanda refused to give this information, and Amanda hid in her office and would not come back out. This is not acceptable in a professional setting. What kind of example is this? Is this what you're teaching your students? We already know that some of your students apparently don't have their priorities straight if they just don't show up to class when the clinic is booked full of appointments. It will be with very careful consideration whether we decide to go back. Until management changes, the business, students, and patrons will suffer. read more

I love coming here to get a massage. Went a few times and enjoyed it. I haven't been in a while due to my new work schedule but I never had a problem. The first time was painful but after that it was good. read more

This place is going downhill fast. Poor management practices and very unprofessional to the consumer. I am a licensed acupuncturist with my own private practice so I know of such things. I have been going to BSM for many years, dating back to when it was locating on Dogwood Road, which is also prior to it being taken over by Steiner. Having said that I still received good to excellent massages for several years. Until the past month or so. I had booked two massages for my girlfriend and myself for Valentine's day. This would have been the second year we did that. As soon as we walked in that day we were handed gift certificates and told there were not enough students that day and in return for not getting a massage, here is a gift certificate. We were in and out of the door in less than 3 minutes. We left a bit shocked, not sure what just happened. We wanted massages, not a gift certificate. Fast forward three weeks. We booked two massages again. This time we were registered and the certificates taken. Our appointments were for 12:15, which was the time given to us when we booked. We sat in the waiting area/classroom with others. While waiting two instructors were trying to browbeat three students into doing a "back facial" even though each said they have not learned how to do that. The one instructor kept saying, "haven't you seen it done in class?", to which the students said no. So it appeared that the instructors are more concerned with getting patients in and out than with getting a quality procedure. At 12:45 we and another couple were still sitting waiting for our massages. The other gentleman inquired and was told there is only one student available and he or she has another client at 1:30. We requested to speak with the manager. Well, apparently there isn't one. A woman came into the room, said something about a lack of students and that if we got massages then there wouldn't be people for 1:30. Really? that is not my problem. I said well then have the instructors give us our massages. Her response? I'm the only one here. So you have students giving massages with no clinical supervision? I'm not sure that is even legal. The other gentleman asked for her name and the number for the corporate office. She left the room and came back with business cards. Only these cards were not hers and had the name of another person. She finally said her name was Amanda and she didn't know how to get in touch with the corporate office, then left the room. We all went back to the registration desk and asked again for the corporate number and Amanda's last name. No one admitted to any knowledge of anything. The one receptionist did go in the back to get us Amanda's last name. She returned to say Amanda refuses to give you her name. She also stayed in the back hiding. This is not customer service by any means. Give us another person's card, then hide from unsatisfied customers? I don't think so. The resolution at the time was to give us back our gift certificates and give us each one more. So great, now we each have 2 certificates that probably will be useless next time. A phone call to Steiner corporate is forthcoming. read more

I'm thrilled with the price and the students who are close to graduating. They are capable of giving better massages that I've paid $100s for. They rate a 5 star rating. The problem with the school is their scheduling nightmare. When you book over the phone or in person, it is a gamble whether or not you are seen with that same previously scheduled appointment. They operate like most hair salons I've been unfortunate enough to frequent. Group appointment with a lottery chance of being seen does not make for a consistent experience. The students can be good or bad like any place where skill and talent rely on the experts professionalism. Be sure to bring a large quantity of patience because you will need it. read more

Mixed experience. Booked two "back to back" massage sessions. After the first session ended, I was told I had to put on my clothes and go back to the waiting room. I waited almost an hour between massages till they took pity on me and I managed to catch the last bus back to civilization on a sunday evening. The first therapist was so so( the staff there recommended this person) and the second one was fantastic. She is ready to graduate in two months. The price was $37.50 total for the two 50 min sessions. The air conditioning is too much for me and the scheduling-management bad but overall a really good deal. I suggest you take a friend or reading material along to keep you company and do not book more than 1 appointment per person per day. read more

Massages are by appt. Only on Saturdays and Sundays. Place is organized and very clean. Unfortunately, won't be around to book appointment.