Term 1: Massage Theory & Practice
1
The primary focus of this course is
on learning foundation massage techniques. An overview is
given of body mechanics, physical stress management, corrective
actions, care of the body & hands, taking a health history, and the client therapist/interview process. Discussion topics
include the history of massage, the role of the massage
therapist and spa practitioner, self-care and determining
when massage is appropriate (indications) and when it
is not (contraindications).
Term 2: Massage
Theory and Practice 2
In this course we emphasize a wholistic approach and focus
on introductions in theory and practice in the following
alternative techniques: hot and cold stone massage; meridians
and Acupressure massage; aromatherapy; Polarity Therapy, Reflexology and Ayurveda. Students are introduced to the theory of 5 Element Chinese Medicine. Awareness of contraindications
is heightened so that student spa practitioners are
informed as to when to direct clients to a Registered
Massage Therapist.
Term 2: Hydrotherapy-Spa:
You are introduced to the Spa applications and the application
of water in all its forms. Modalities, such as aromatherapy,
salt glow and scrub, clay packs, herbal wraps, affusions,
contrast baths, paraffin wax and sauna are included.
You will also be introduced to actinotherapy.
Actinotherapy is defined as the use of "rays of light"
for therapeutic benefit. This brief course presents the
theory of ultraviolet and infrared light and their application
in a massage therapist’s practice.
Term 2: Sports Massage
The primary focus in this course is the use of manual
techniques in athletic situations, including pre-event,
prevention & rehabilitation. To
facilitate skill development, integration and application
of material learned in class, students will have the opportunity
to work on site at sports events.
Term 2: Practicum:
Natural Health Spa
Each student is assigned a 5-hour per week clinic shift
for working in the Student In-House Clinic throughout
Term 2. Students are required to make up any missed clinic
shifts.
The primary focus of first year clinic
is systemic massage and spa application with the emphasis
on stress reduction and wellness for the client. Students
practice professionalism & teamwork. Student responsibilities
include all aspects of operating a clinic such as receptionist
duties, computer skills, cash management & laundry.
Terms 1 & 2:
Communications and Ethics 1& 2
This course addresses interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. Students develop and practice communications skills needed in the academic, practical, clinic and professional environments. We identify, understand and apply professional conduct and ethics related to good boundaries, effective therapeutic relationships, sexuality and to business. We present assertiveness strategies and basics of conflict resolution, as well as substance abuse awareness. Students are invited to enhance emotional intelligence and review self-care strategies through methods of stress management such as breathing techniques, self-reflection and collaborative dialogue with classmates. The course functions to build a supportive learning community.
Term 1: Public Health
and Hygiene
This introductory class includes an overview of the principles
of hygiene and public health, and their application to
massage therapy.
Term 1&2: Anatomy
& Physiology 1&2
This course presents an introduction to all of the systems
of the human body. Where possible, a ‘hands on’
approach is taken, creating an opportunity to develop
an applied understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
Nutrition is also covered in this course. It will include
basic theory & principles of nutrition including an
overview of absorption and metabolism of carbohydrates,
proteins, fats and major vitamins and minerals including
the effects of hypo/hyper supply.
Term 1&2: Musculoskeletal
Anatomy 1&2
In this challenging course students learn the bones, muscles and ligaments of
the body using a regional approach. Hands-on labs are
utilized to support the development of integration and
application skills.
Terms 1 & 2: Clinical Theory
& Practice 1&2
This course will combine all course
material studied to date. Students learn how to
assess and treat specific pathological presentations by
integrating massage techniques, hydrotherapy, actinotherapy,
and therapeutic exercise, with an understanding of anatomy,
physiology, kinesiology and communication.
Term 1: Clinical
Practicum: Student In-House Clinic
Students continue their participation in the Student In-House
Clinic. This term they integrate techniques learned in hydro-therapy and MTP2.
Term 2: Clinical
Practicum: Intermediate Outreach
Students will be placed in various practicum situations,
where they will experience working on clients with chronic
and acute pathologies, integrating their skills learned
to date. Such placements include: Hydrotherapy-Spa, Special
Needs Clinic, Sports Clinic, Maternity Clinic, Intermediate
Care Facilities and on-site Business massage.
There will be regular allotted class time
for the above, including discussion and full recording.
Some practicums take place evenings and/or Saturday mornings.
Term 2: Therapeutic
Exercise
The focus of this course is the study of the principles
of exercise and its application and integration in the
practice of Massage Therapy. This exciting course encourages
the student to develop through participation, skills of
core stabilization, stretching, strengthening, endurance
and co-ordination.
Terms 1 & 2: Communications and Ethics 3 & 4
In this course, students continue an exploration of interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. We develop and practice communications skills needed in the Outreach and professional environments, such as with the elderly and special needs clients. Students identify, understand and apply professional ethics and conduct, including recognizing specific challenges for clients with mental health issues, abuse and trauma, and post-traumatic stress. Other topics are anger management, handling resentments, and avoiding burnout.
Term 1&2: Anatomy
Physiology 3 & 4
This course looks at the human body and all its systems
at a much deeper level than year 1. Focus is on a functional
and integrative understanding.
Term 1: Musculoskelal
Anatomy 3
This course is a continuation of M-S 1&2. As a natural
progression we will study the joints of the body and their
relationship to movement and soft tissues.
Term 2: Advanced
Neuroanatomy
This course takes a more in-depth look at neuroanatomy
including such topics as higher brain function, learning,
memory and more.
Term 1&2: Pathology
"Study of the Nature & Cause of Disease"
Our understanding of anatomy and physiology will be applied
in the study of pathologies. Diseases of all systems will
be covered with particular interest in those most commonly
treated by massage therapists.
The evaluation process
has been adapted to better suit the uniqueness of the
third year. During Year III there are many classes of
short duration together with 2 internship classes. Because
of this, the year is not divided into terms.
Integrated Sciences
Students will integrate knowledge from anatomy, kinesiology, pathology and physiology in a regional approach and systems approach of aspects of the human body. There will be some emphasis placed on the nervous system, vascular system and the potential anatomical results of physical injury. This class is designed to start your preparation for the board exams, helping you to organize your notes and mentally build endurance for this type of test.
Jurisprudence
This course provides a detailed look at the current laws
and guidelines that govern the massage therapy profession.
Medicine/Surgery
The following relevant topics, from allied medical professions,
will be presented:
- Surgery - common orthopedic and
other common surgeries;
- Pharmacology - an introduction
to pharmaceuticals. As clients can be on prescribed
medications, we discuss the most commonly seen pathologies,
their medications and the implications of each.
Research
Research plays an important part in the development
of the massage therapy profession. Students will be presented
with basic principles to enable him/her to read, recognize,
understand and critique current research. They will prepare a case report for publication as part of this course.
Communications and Ethics 5
In this course, we continue our exploration of interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. There is a focus on values clarification, critical thinking and problem solving related to ethical issues and ethical dilemmas, the power of a therapist’s words, further on assertiveness, and work-based learning.
Business
This course offers an introduction to small business including:
- Entrepreneurship: business structures
and their characteristics, i.e. partnerships, incorporations,
advantages and disadvantages will be discussed
- Setting effective goals; developing
a mission statement;
- Developing a business plan;
- Marketing strategies;
- Small business accounting;
- The massage therapy practice as
a business.
Clinical Theory &
Practice 3
The course will focus on spinal orthopedics, advanced
regional orthopedics and advanced neuropathologies. The
class builds on the student’s skill and knowledge
level of year 2 and integrates the practicum cases for
the development of critical thinking assessment, management
and treatment skills.
Infant Massage
The Instructor leads three sessions on safe and effective massage for young babies. Babies and moms or dads are present for the third session.
Dr. Vodder’s
Manual Lymph Drainage
This is a basic yet intensive course involving much hands-on
work. The theory covers anatomy and physiology of the
lymph system, connective tissue, effects of MLD and contraindications.
An option for certification is offered by the Dr. Vodder
School.
Advanced Technique
Development
Advanced techniques that require a heightened level of
palpative, manual & intuitive skills are presented
in this class. These include counter strain, ROOD (neural
pathology techniques), cranial sacral, muscle energy and
visceral techniques. Time is devoted to integrate all
techniques developed to date.
Clinical Practicum:
Intermediate Outreach
This is a continuation of Year 2, Term 2 Intermediate
Outreach opportunities.
Clinical Practicum:
Internship
Students will have the opportunity to work under supervision
of qualified health professionals in an existing practice
for two 3-week internships. Each student is required to
find an appropriate professional who matches his/her therapeutic
interests. In most cases internships involve traveling
outside of the Vernon area.
