Continuing Education Workshops
Pre-registration is required for all workshops
To reserve your space, payment in full or a non-refundable $50 deposit* is required. Balance of workshop tuition must be paid in full ten (2) days prior to the start of class. Please follow the appropriate link below to register online or feel free to call the school at 415-474-4600.
Cancellation Policy
If you have registered for a workshop and need to cancel, you must do so one week prior to receive a full refund or credit. If you cancel less than one week prior to your scheduled workshop, you will receive credit only. There will be no refund or credit for no shows or day-of-workshop cancellations.
Cranial-Sacral Therapy
Cranial-Sacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive technique for unwinding tension patterns that can distort the head, spine and central nervous system. It is appropriate for virtually all ages and has many applications for the massage therapist. It assists the body’s natural healing mechanisms to adapt to the negative effects of stress, trauma and dis-ease. This two-day workshop is designed to take the practitioner into the subtle and specific world of the craniosacral system to develop skills for working at the intersection of mind, body and spirit. The cranialsacral pulse will be explored in a series of hands-on activities designed to expand and refine the practitioner’s palpation skills. A complete protocol of specific holds will be demonstrated to access the movements of the cranial bones, sacrum, membrane system and cerebral-spinal fluid. This is an amazing tool for guiding your clients into a deeper state of relaxation and restoration.
Prerequisite: 70-hr massage training. Bring two sheets to class. Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
- MET 1 - Hip, Pelvis & Knee: Saturday & Sunday May 12 & 13, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 16 credit hours
- MET 2 - Shoulder Girdle & Neck: Saturday & Sunday June 16 & 17, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 16 credit hours
Muscle Energy Techniques
Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) are one of the most powerful and flexible tools a clinical massage therapist can have in his or her tool box. METs, a method of manual resistive techniques, is similar to PNF in its use of the client's active involvement and muscle effort but typically is applied with much gentler force allowing for far broader applications and increased sustainability for the therapist. From quickly eliminating trigger points and reducing muscle hypertonicity, to treating acute injuries and increasing range of motion, METs are essential for any massage therapist interested in working with soft tissue dysfunction and injuries.
Prerequisite: 30 hours of anatomy and recommended 1 - 2 years in the field. MET 1 Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). MET 2 Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
- Thurdays, Saturdays, Sundays
May 31, June 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 2012
- 6pm-10pm (Thurs)
- 9am to 6pm (Sat & Sun) - 40 credit hours
Thai Massage Intensive Series Level II
In the Level II Thai massage intensive, the bodywork vocabulary is extended for prone, supine and seated positions. With the addition of side-lying position, practitioners are able to draw from the full range of Thai massage vocabulary, to tailor their sessions in response to individual client needs. Different styles of Thai massage will be explored, such as the barefoot work practiced by hill tribes, and deeper yogic stretches. With more advanced work, the necessity for safety through proper alignment and choice of techniques is emphasized in class, and in practice. Students will also progress in their understanding of Thai massage as energy work; learn more about the Sen lines and Thai medical theory, as well as the diverse origins of Thai Massage.
Prerequisite: Completion of Thai Massage Level I.Tuition: $725.00 ($695.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Lymph Basics & Postoperative Massage
The lymph is a fluid transport system that is essential to our body’s immune response, health and wellbeing. This workshop is about developing a light touch and learning to palpate and recognize lymphatic movement. The first day will introduce you to the basics of lymphatic massage and the second day will focus on integrating these techniques into a hands-on Swedish session. These skills will help you to individualize your clients’ sessions and a range of conditions from simple colds to sprains and post operative swelling.
Prerequisite: 70-hrs massage training. Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Integrative Full Body Deep Tissue
The real benefit of any advanced technique is knowing how to incorporate it into the full body massage that most clients are accustomed to. How does the therapist perform therapeutic, deep work on the full body with smooth continuity for clients who do not want detailed "spot work"? This class answers that question and integrates the isolated segments taught in our Deep Tissue and Myofascial Release level I & II classes into a flowing, full body session. Your clients will have the advantage of detailed therapeutic work on problem areas but also the pleasure of having their whole body feeling integrated so that the whole actually does equal the sum of the parts.
Prerequisite: Level I Deep Tissue/Myofascial Release Tuition: $405.00 ($385.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
advanced neck work
This two day workshop will take students deep into the intricate structural relationships of the muscles and the vertebrae of the cervical spine, how form and function influence one another, and how massage can positively support these and improve these relationships. Students will be given the skills to track down dysfunction in the cervical area and the techniques to work deeply and effectively with clients’ trouble spots in order to restore balance, relieve pain, and improve range of motion and overall function.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage certification. Bring to sheets to class. Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Pregnancy & Postpartum Massage
In this class you will learn the basic physiological and anatomical processes of pregnancy and postpartum. Students will learn to create safe and comfortable prenatal positioning, technique, contraindications and modifications of your existing hands on skills and labor massage. We will also address specific musculoskeletal concerns such as low back pain, as well as edema, leg cramps and shortness of breath.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage certification. Bring two FULL SIZE sheets and a king sized pillow. Tuition: $565.00 ($525.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). Price includes “Comprehensive guide to pre and peri-natal Massage Therapy” by Carole Osborn Sheets
Chair Massage Essentials
This one day workshop will cover all aspects of chair massage from the literal hands-on skills to harnessing its powerful practice building potential. Students will learn techniques for addressing the entire body in their chair massage sessions as well as practical skills for chair massage gigs and will cover chair specific strokes, stretches, deep work, body mechanics, communication, and equipment. There will be lots of hands-on time for students to explore and gain confidence with the techniques presented. A variety of chairs will be available for students to try as well.
Prerequisite: 70-hrs Massage training Tuition: $125.00
Massage For Couples
In this class, students will learn some of the basics for providing massage for their partners, friends, and family. Areas covered will include: massage techniques for the back, shoulders, neck and feet, techniques to prevent fatigued and sore hands, massaging through clothing, and an introduction to seated massage techniques. We will also cover a few easy to perform spa style techniques to enhance your partner's relaxation. Just bring yourselves and we'll take care of the rest!
No Prerequisite. Tuition: $150.00 per pair
- Saturdays, Sundays & Monday
July 7, 8, & 9, July 14 & 15, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 40 credit hours
Deep Tissue & Myofascial Release II
This five-day workshop is offered to students who have completed Deep Tissue I. Subjects will include: Specific treatments for the feet, ankles and legs including the abductors, IT band, knee, quadriceps and psoas muscles and treatments to address the rotators of the hip, and the diaphragm. Techniques for the back, arms, rotator cuff and chest, anterior and posterior thoracic outlet; fascia/muscles of the skull and external muscles associated with the TMJ. Soft tissue strategies and rehabilitation techniques for the injuries frequently encountered in a professional massage practice including common injuries to the ankle, knee, hamstrings, rotator cuff, tendonitis of the elbow and overuse injuries of the wrist.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage certification and Deep Tissue I completion. Bring two sheets to class. Tuition: $675.00 ($625.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Thai Massage Intensive Series Level I
Northern Style Nuad Bo Rarn is taught in close approximation to current teaching available in Thailand. This 40-hour intensive course provides students with the skills to perform a basic 90-minute Thai Massage treatment in traditional style. Bodywork skills are built up in a step-by-step fashion with plenty of practice and time for review and refinement. Body mechanics, awareness of placement, use of breath and relaxation are integrated into the practice at every level, as is the importance of learning through receiving. In addition, there are lectures on the medical theory, cultural background and history of Thai massage. Participation in daily Thai healing ceremonies completes the experience of traditional training in this unique healing art.
No prerequisite. Tuition: $725.00 ($695.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
- Saturdays, Sundays & Monday August 4, 5, & 6, August 11 & 12, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 40 credit hours
Deep Tissue Massage & Myofascial Release I
More than just "hard" massage, our Deep Tissue I workshop introduces myofascial therapy techniques to supplement basic massage skills to work effectively with localized tensions, injury and emotional holding patterns. This extended 5 day class is designed to be immediately incorporated with present massage skills to allow you to work deeply, safely and with ease. This class also includes instruction in range of motion and palpation techniques.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage certification. Bring two sheets to class.
Tuition: $725.00 ($675.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). Price includes "Deep Tissue Manual: A Visual Guide to Techniques".
Structural Integration
Gaining an understanding of the client as a ‘whole’ and not just the sum of their parts is the next paradigm in bodywork. Being able to assess a client’s body issues and then formulate a plan that takes into consideration the tensegrity of entire system (that working one area may affect another) takes a bodyworker’s practice to the next level. This five-day workshop will allow the practitioner to gain an understanding of Structural Integration (SI) and will prepare them for further study in this rewarding way of working. In addition, you will learn the reading tools used in SI and explore hands on fascial palpation/techniques to better understand the importance of working with fascia. Finally, the student will observe a Structural Integration demonstration and practice the theoretical reading tools and fascial techniques learned.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage training. Bring two sheets to class. Tuition: $695.00 ($675.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Thai Massage Intensive Series Level II
In the Level II Thai massage intensive, the bodywork vocabulary is extended for prone, supine and seated positions. With the addition of side-lying position, practitioners are able to draw from the full range of Thai massage vocabulary, to tailor their sessions in response to individual client needs. Different styles of Thai massage will be explored, such as the barefoot work practiced by hill tribes, and deeper yogic stretches. With more advanced work, the necessity for safety through proper alignment and choice of techniques is emphasized in class, and in practice. Students will also progress in their understanding of Thai massage as energy work; learn more about the Sen lines and Thai medical theory, as well as the diverse origins of Thai Massage.
Prerequisite: Completion of Thai Massage Level I. Tuition: $725.00 ($695.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Sports Massage
In our three-day sports massage workshop, students will actively explore the concepts and techniques of sports massage through class discussion and lots hands-on work. The classes will provide tools and a framework to assist clients in preventing and minimizing the effects of injuries and overuse syndromes. This workshop will cover pre-event, post-event and training aspects of massage, and will approach common client injuries in a goal-oriented way while allowing a great deal of hands-on practice.
Prerequisite: 100-hr Massage certification. Bring two sheets to class.
Tuition: $450.00 ($420.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
Lymph Basics & Postoperative Massage
The lymph is a fluid transport system that is essential to our body’s immune response, health and wellbeing. This workshop is about developing a light touch and learning to palpate and recognize lymphatic movement. The first day will introduce you to the basics of lymphatic massage and the second day will focus on integrating these techniques into a hands-on Swedish session. These skills will help you to individualize your clients’ sessions and a range of conditions from simple colds to sprains and post operative swelling.
Prerequisite: 70-hrs massage training. Tuition: $270.00 ($250.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
- Saturdays, Sundays & Monday
September 22, 23 & 24, September 29 & 30, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 40 credit hours
Deep Tissue & Myofascial Release II
This five-day workshop is offered to students who have completed Deep Tissue I. Subjects will include: Specific treatments for the feet, ankles and legs including the abductors, IT band, knee, quadriceps and psoas muscles and treatments to address the rotators of the hip, and the diaphragm. Techniques for the back, arms, rotator cuff and chest, anterior and posterior thoracic outlet; fascia/muscles of the skull and external muscles associated with the TMJ. Soft tissue strategies and rehabilitation techniques for the injuries frequently encountered in a professional massage practice including common injuries to the ankle, knee, hamstrings, rotator cuff, tendonitis of the elbow and overuse injuries of the wrist.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage certification and Deep Tissue I completion. Bring two sheets to class. Tuition: $675.00 ($625.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance).
- Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
October 4, 5, 6 & 7, 2012
- 9am to 5pm - 28 credit hours
Zero Balancing Core 1
Zero Balancing is an elegant integration of energy and structure, a bridge of old and new healing wisdom. ZB’s firm roots in Western anatomy, fused with an Eastern understanding of energy, results in a simple protocol that allows the practitioner to touch both systems simultaneously. When structure and energy are well balanced, dysfunctional habits – such as old emotional patterns and held energy from past traumas – are able to release. You’re able to function with more ease and efficiency, cope with stress better, and enjoy increased vitality. People often report an increased sense of fluidity, integration and well-being after a ZB session.
In ZB Core 1, students will learn the basic Zero Balancing protocol along with the theory and principles of ZB. Learning to distinguish body energy and body structure through touch, and using energy as a working tool are basic skills in ZB Core 1. Other topics include the energetic anatomy of the skeleton, and the theory and application of fulcrums. The student will be able to give a complete Zero Balancing session by the end of this class.
No Prerequisite. Tuition: $595.00 ($555.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). Price includes Zero Balancing Core Manual
Massage For Couples
In this class, students will learn some of the basics for providing massage for their partners, friends, and family. Areas covered will include: massage techniques for the back, shoulders, neck and feet, techniques to prevent fatigued and sore hands, massaging through clothing, and an introduction to seated massage techniques. We will also cover a few easy to perform spa style techniques to enhance your partner's relaxation. Just bring yourselves and we'll take care of the rest!
No Prerequisite. Tuition: $150.00 per pair
- Friday, Saturdays & Sundays
October 19, 20 & 21, October 27 & 28, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 40 Credit Hours
Integrative Anatomy
For massage therapists, it is not only important to understand the structures of the body, but also how those structures work together to move us through the world. This 5 day series of classes will deconstruct the body from a kinesiological perspective. Students will explore the intrinsic relationships between form and function through the lens of movement, palpation, and integration. One of the easiest ways to improve your work as a massage therapist is through deeper understanding of anatomy and physiology. No serious student of massage should miss this class.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage training. Bring two sheets to class. Tuition: $725.00 ($695.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). Price includes book "Trail Guide to the Body".
- Friday, Saturdays & Sundays
November 2, 3 & 4, November 10 & 11, 2012
- 9am to 6pm - 40 credit hours
Deep Tissue & Myofascial Release I
More than just "hard" massage, our Deep Tissue I workshop introduces myofascial therapy techniques to supplement basic massage skills to work effectively with localized tensions, injury and emotional holding patterns. This extended 5 day class is designed to be immediately incorporated with present massage skills to allow you to work deeply, safely and with ease. This class also includes instruction in range of motion and palpation techniques.
Prerequisite: 100-hr massage training. Bring two sheets to class.
Tuition: $725.00 ($675.00 if registered 2 weeks in advance). Price includes "Deep Tissue Manual: A Visual Guide to Techniques".
Chair Massage Essentials
This one day workshop will cover all aspects of chair massage from the literal hands-on skills to harnessing its powerful practice building potential. Students will learn techniques for addressing the entire body in their chair massage sessions as well as practical skills for chair massage gigs and will cover chair specific strokes, stretches, deep work, body mechanics, communication, and equipment. There will be lots of hands-on time for students to explore and gain confidence with the techniques presented. A variety of chairs will be available for students to try as well.
Prerequisite: 70-hrs Massage training Tuition: $125.00