Educators dedicated to student success

We offer a wide range of high quality tutors who strive to see students succeed

At MBLEx Tutors, we understand what it means to be a massage therapy student studying for licensing exams.  As a student, we have been in your shoes, we have a feel for the testing process, and we can help prepare you to excel when your test day arrives.  Learn more about our tutors by selecting a name below, and check the schedule for available dates and times for classes you are interested in attending!

David Merlino, LMT, BCTMB

David Merlino, LMT, BCTMB, has over 15 years of experience preparing students to pass massage licensing exams, including the MBLEx and NCETM.  David is the owner and founder of MBLEx Test Prep, established in 2013.

Having seen first hand what high quality education can bring to test preparation, David realized there was a huge need for incomparable tutoring for the MBLEx.  David’s materials have been utilized by numerous massage schools as part of required curriculum, and by thousands of massage students to prepare for, and pass, the MBLEx.

David’s specialties of instruction include Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology, Kinesiology, Medical Terminology, along with test taking strategies.

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Sherra Talley, CMT

Sherra Talley, CMT has been practicing massage for 20 years, and preparing students for successful massage therapy careers for five years.

Sherra took notice of the gap between foundational massage therapy education and the knowledge necessary to pass the MBLEx and began creating videos and resources to help both students and professional therapists relocating to another state prepare for the MBLEx. Sherra successfully incorporated David Merlino’s review study guide into her curriculum and saw an increase in MBLEx pass rates.

Sherra specializes in breaking down complex material into understandable information that students are more likely to recall.

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Starr Nordstrom, LMT

Starr Nordstrom is a licensed massage therapist in the State of Nevada.  Starr is excited to tutor in many different subjects.

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Tom Zel, LMT

Tom brings over 30 years of massage and bodywork experience to his students and has been teaching MBLEx prep in a college setting since 2020.  Tom’s motto is “Be Excellent to Each Other”.  It is Tom’s commitment to not only instruct, but instill in each student a sense of wonder and enthusiasm about the human body.  Understanding that we don’t all learn the same way, Tom offers a variety of learning experiences employing the use of video, lecture, and games such as Quizzo or Name the Bone.

Tom’s uplifting demeanor exudes enthusiasm, compassion, and humor.  He will brighten your day.

Tom’s specialties of instruction include Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology, Kinesiology, Business, and Ethics.

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what students are saying

Jodi helped me identify the areas I was weak in and dive into those areas I was struggling with. Once I started to learn, I felt a lot more confident in my role as a massage therapist entering the holistic world. I would encourage everyone to try at least one session of group or private tutoring.

Dora E.

Sherra is an excellent instructor.  Sherra breaks down the lecture in to segments and engages with the classroom so that we have the opportunity to ask questions if something is unclear.  Sherra is very patient and encourages her students to ask questions.

Diana T.

Working with MBLEx Tutors was the turning point in my preparation. MBLEx Tutors broke down complex material into manageable lessons, providing me with the specific test taking strategies I needed to succeed. I truly couldn’t have navigated this challenging milestone without their expert guidance.

Andrew F.