Mark Olson holds an M.A. in Educational Psychology and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Illinois, with specialized training in cognitive and behavioral neuropsychology and neuroanatomy. He has more than 30 years of teaching experience and previously spent ten years as director of the Pacific Center for Awareness and Bodywork in Hawaii. He is also a NARM® practitioner, aquatic therapist, and published author on chronic pain and trauma-informed care.
As Education Director at Sarasota School of Massage Therapy, he emphasizes scientific literacy, critical thinking, thoughtful clinical reasoning, and a client-centered approach to massage therapy. His educational philosophy brings together contemporary neuroscience, evidence-informed practice, and an appreciation for the complexity and individuality of the people massage therapists work with.
