Programs/Course Descriptions

Semester Two

Along with our first semester, Semester Two completes our 550-hour National Certification/Comprehensive Program and gives students the opportunity to become Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (as well as state-licensed in Texas). Semester Two is a superb 250-hour clinical training which is open to and highly recommended for all therapists and graduates from 300-hour programs.  Semester Two (for therapists with 300 or more hours) is next offered this year beginning in May.

Advanced Anatomy, Physiology and Kinesiology (60 hours)
Anatomy of the musculo-skeletal and fascial systems, utilizing both left and right brain approaches to learning—drawings, computer graphics, videos, and extensive palpation to learn three-dimensionally. Students also learn the kinesiology of everyday movement, occupations, and sports activities. We also integrate Western and Eastern energetic theories of energy anatomy with Western anatomical thinking.

Clinical Bodywork (52 hours)
In clinical bodywork students learn and practice techniques applicable to: sciatica, hamstring strain, patellar tendonitis, anterior and posterior pelvic tilt, hyperextended knees, lateral and medial hip rotation, shin splints, ankle sprain, plantar fascitis, pronation, supination, sacro-iliac ligament sprain, low, mid and upper back tension syndromes, chronic forward flexion of torso, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, injury and tension in intrinsic hand muscles, rotator cuff tendonitis, protraction and retraction of shoulders, collapsed chest/forward head, chronic elevation and tension of upper shoulder girdle, headaches, TMJ, neck strain/sprain, and whiplash. Students learn clinical applications of circulatory work, cross-fiber work, trigger points, myofascial release, stretching and range of motion.

The best approach to therapy is not to meet clients with a pre-determined approach. It is, rather, to invent the session that is uniquely appropriate for that person. Through this course we concentrate on developing fluency with intermediate and advanced massage/bodywork techniques. Students learn session design, creatively interweaving techniques ideally suited to the individual client.

Deep Massage (43.5 hours)
This unique approach, developed by co-founder David Lauterstein, is an outgrowth from the traditions of Rolfing, Zero Balancing, and other advanced bodywork disciplines. Students learn to contact both clients’ structure and energy, especially in the deeper muscle layers. Students learn myofascial anatomy, its relevance to pain and tension, and over 70 new myofascial release techniques.

Pathology (57 hours)
Medical terminology, pathology for each body system, psychological and emotional states (depression, anxiety, grief, etc.), effects of life stages (childhood, geriatric, etc.), physiological healing processes, basic pharmacology, the effects of physical and emotional healthy use and abuse/trauma, contraindications and indications for specific diseases, injuries and types of massage.

Sports Massage (39.5 hours)
This course helps develop the student’s overall understanding of kinesiology, the role various muscles play in particular activities. Students learn advanced circu¬latory massage techniques as well as pre/post-event massage and connective tissue massage. Practice on athletes, and individualized instruction enables the student to work confidently with this very important and active group of people.

Total contact hours required for Semester Two program: 250

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