Instructor Spotlight: Celebrating 50 Years of Healing with Marybetts Sinclair, LMT

This spring, Oregon School of Massage celebrates a remarkable milestone alongside one of our most experienced instructors: Marybetts Sinclair, LMT, marks 50 years since becoming a licensed massage therapist on May 6, 1975. With half a century of dedicated service in the field of massage therapy,

Marybetts continues to inspire students and colleagues alike through her deep knowledge, compassionate approach, and unwavering belief in the healing power of touch.
Marybetts’ journey into massage therapy was fueled by a powerful intention. “My deepest desire was to put touch, which had been taken out of medical practice, especially in the 1950s-1970s, back in medicine,” she shares. That motivation led her to begin her studies at Lane Community College in 1974, where she took massage classes before receiving her license the following year. Her commitment to lifelong learning didn’t stop there. In 1985, she became an Emergency Medical Technician and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in the decades since. Her background is both clinical and holistic, making her an invaluable bridge between traditional healthcare and alternative healing modalities.

At Oregon School of Massage, Marybetts teaches Hydrotherapy, Helping Clients Heal from Injuries, and Preventing Eyestrain and Upper Body Tension. She has also taught spa therapy courses in the past. Her classes reflect not only her clinical experience, but also her curiosity and willingness to explore new dimensions of healing. When asked what she enjoys most about teaching at OSM, she highlights the “friendly, efficient staff, and a fascinating variety of students coming from all walks of life and ages.”

Throughout her teaching, Marybetts integrates a wide range of healing techniques, both conventional and alternative. She sees alternative modalities as essential complements to the health sciences, offering tools that might not be used in every session but often resonate deeply with certain clients. “They add a range of skills that may not be needed every session, but will speak to particular clients who were lucky enough to connect with particular practitioners.” She’s seen students flourish when they embrace this kind of variety in their approach, especially in the practice of hydrotherapy. “Students who enthusiastically learn and practice hydrotherapy have more ways to fine-tune their treatments for particular clients and change up what they do. More variety means they have more fun!”

For Marybetts, one of the greatest strengths of OSM’s curriculum is the diversity of techniques available to students. “The school teaches lots of alternative massage techniques, and none are the answer to all our clients’ problems. But each has its own character, feeling, and ability to give clients what they may benefit the most from. For example, a Shiatsu treatment has a different feel than a hot stone massage, and one may suit a client who is very stressed-out better than another.” She encourages students to be curious and flexible, always seeking the right modality for the moment.

Her teaching is deeply rooted in the mind-body-spirit philosophy that defines the heart of OSM. “I try to include information about it in all my teaching, with case histories, articles, class discussion, and personal experiences with clients. I think this holistic philosophy is super-important, and I honor Ray Siderius for always following it – indeed, that is how I have been drawn to teach at OSM.” This emphasis on whole-person healing is not just a philosophy for Marybetts – it’s a lived practice that she models every day in the classroom.

Looking back on her career, Marybetts reflects on the many paths massage therapy has allowed her to explore. “My career has offered me a lot of different experiences – from doing massage in an office to teaching massage overseas, writing articles and books, and practicing in a lot of different [settings].” Years ago, Marybetts taught a pediatric massage workshop for the Oregon School of Massage in Zipolite, Mexico. Her story reminds us of the rich, varied possibilities within this profession – and the value of staying curious, open, and passionate through the years.

As we honor Marybetts Sinclair’s 50th year as a Licensed Massage Therapist, we also celebrate the depth of care, knowledge, and mentorship she continues to share. Her commitment to healing has left a lasting imprint on the field and on every student fortunate enough to learn from her. Here’s to the legacy of touch – and to those, like Marybetts, who dedicate their lives to preserving its power.

If you’re a current or prospective student inspired by Marybetts Sinclair’s journey, consider enrolling in one of her upcoming courses at the Oregon School of Massage. Whether you’re interested in hydrotherapy, injury recovery, or innovative techniques to prevent upper body tension, Marybetts brings decades of expertise and a heartfelt commitment to helping students grow. Her classes are more than educational – they’re transformational.

Ready to begin or continue your massage therapy journey? Learn more about our programs and continuing education opportunities under the Students Section and Class Schedule, or contact us at 503-244-3420.
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About the Author
This blog was written by the Portland Campus Front Desk and Clinic Coordinator, Lizbeth Corona, at the Oregon School of Massage. Our team is passionate about celebrating the stories of our students, instructors, and the healing work happening every day in our classrooms and clinics. Stay connected with us for more instructor spotlights, alumni stories, and continuing education highlights.