Asian Body Therapy Certificates

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

 

 

 
    ASIAN BODYWORK COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

 

 

Tui Na Course Descriptions

 

FC450 – FC451: Anatomy I-II

This course sequence systematically presents the macro and microstructure of the human body. Students gain a solid knowledge of the science of anatomy, methods used to study anatomy, and anatomy terminology. Structures of the motor system, including the skeleton, joints and muscles, and the nervous system, are covered. Also covered are structures of sensory organs, the cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, reproductive system, endocrine system, and integumentary system. Students also learn body surface marks. (Prerequisite: None)

 

FC400: Human Physiology

This course presents the functions and mechanisms of the cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the body. It also shows how human physiology provides a scientific foundation for medicine and informs the development of technologies related to human health and physical performance. (Prerequisite: None)

 

CM515-CM516: Fundamental TCM Theory I & II

This two course sequence introduces basic structures of traditional Chinese medicine—Qi/Essence, Yin/Yang, Five Elements, Qi/Blood/Fluid, Eight Entities— and their dynamic interrelationships. The basic theory and characteristics of the pathogenesis and pathogenic factors are covered, including the six environmental excesses (Liu-Yin), the seven emotions (Qi Qing), disharmony of Yin and Yang, the six channel pattern identification (Liu Jing Bian Zheng), and the abnormal functions of Qi, blood, body fluid, and organs. General principles of treatment methods are included. (Prerequisite for CM515: None) 

 

CM561: QiGong

Qigong is an ancient Chinese energetic art whose aim is to cultivate health on all levels. Qi is the foundation of both Qigong and Chinese medicine; this course provides students an experiential awareness of energy pathways and flow in the body through an introduction the Taiyi Swimming Dragon family style of Qigong. Students participate in simple movements to clear channels and activate energy centers, and learn a variety of Qigong methods to assist traditional ways of diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the movement/meditation component of this class, the cultural and historic context of qigong in relation to traditional notions of health, ritual and everyday work are covered. (Prerequisite: None)

 

AT521-AT524: Meridians & Points I - IV

This four-course sequence presents the points of the fourteen channels and selected extra points. Points are located through comparative review of traditional and modern anatomy. Hands-on practice in locating points is emphasized and therapeutic indications and treatment methods utilizing acupuncture and moxibustion are discussed for each point based on meridian theory. Instruction is given in the functional selection of points through the application of differential diagnosis of conditions. The channels are studied following the circadian sequence of Qi movement through the channels. This course prepares students for clinical practice by developing the skill to accurately locate points and the ability to understand and compose point prescriptions.

 

AT565: Introduction to Tui Na I*

This course covers the physio-massage and soft tissue manipulation that exists within traditional Chinese medicine, which is called Tui Na. The following topics are addressed in this course: Chinese physio-massage (Tui Na) history; the Chinese medical theories of Tui Na; indications for the clinical applications of Tui Na; and the study of clinical applications of Tui Na for common diseases and conditions. The class will also focus on developing the student's ability to apply the techniques used in Tui Na, such as strengthening exercises for the hands and wrists. This course focuses on practical therapeutic techniques for specific problems, such as neck, shoulder and back pain, sciatica, headaches, anxiety, fatigue, PMS and indigestion. The roles of proper breathing and posture when performing Tui Na, as well as stretching exercises for both the practitioner and the client, will be emphasized. The didactic portion of this course will include lectures, demonstrations, discussions and practice sessions.

 

AT568: Tui Na II

This course will offer additional Tui Na techniques that are needed to treat a variety of conditions and diseases. The course will integrate the foundation and meridian theories learned in the first quarter with the hands-on application of Tui Na. This class will also focus on learning the Tui Na techniques used on specific acupuncture body points that correspond with the musculo-skeletal and internal systems. Students will also discuss the clinical application of syndromes, including treatment and prevention.

 

AT569: Tui Na III

This class provides advanced training in the clinical application of Tui Na as well as in Tui Na therapeutic techniques such as combining Tui Na and herbal therapies for the treatment and prevention of various diseases. Students will practice and apply techniques for specific disorders of the musculoskeletal and internal systems, focusing on the spine and joints.

 

AT570: Chinese Pediatric Tui Na

Tui Na is highly effective in treating younger people and babies, and is frequently used in Asia to treat conditions such as indigestion, asthma, the common cold, diarrhea, poor appetite, immune system support. This course outlines the basic Tui Na techniques for use in the treatment of babies and children's syndromes as well as the clinical applications for common childhood diseases and conditions.

 

*- Note: This course description is new, and replaces that already listed on page 28 of the Catalog.

 

AT571: Sports Tui Na

Tui Na treatment and deep tissue massage has proven highly effective for addressing acute sports injuries, chronic musculo-skeletal conditions, and injury prevention. This course focuses on the practical therapeutic techniques for specific problems such as joint injury, musculoskeletal injury, and nerve injury as well as injury prevention. The course will also present physical exercises to teach the clients that support the Tui Na treatments.

 

CT570: Tui Na Clinical Training I*

This course offers the clinical practicum component for Tui Na I and Tui Na II. Students will apply the knowledge and skills they have learned on members of the public while under the direct supervision of the Tui Na faculty.

 

CT571: Tui Na Clinical Training II*

This course is a continuation of the clinical practicum component. Students apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in a supervised clinical setting, with additional emphasis on pediatrics and sports injuries.

 

*These courses (CT 570 and 571) represent the clinical component of the Tui Na program and involve students working on patients under the supervision of the Shiatsu faculty. Students will be expected to apply the knowledge and skills that they have learned throughout their certificate program in a supervised clinical setting.

 

WM616: Business, Ethics & Jurisprudence

This course discusses the various ethical and legal issues surrounding bodywork practitioners, the importance of practitioner-client communication skills, and how to create and maintain a bodywork practice. Students will learn about the Bay Area requirements for the permitting of bodywork practitioners and Therapists. Students will also learn the basics of starting a practice, including how to develop a business plan.

 

WM617: Practice Management & Marketing

This course will offer advanced training in the principles of effective practitioner-client communication and marketing techniques necessary for building and sustaining a successful practice. Students will develop writing, public speaking and networking skills and will create a marketing plan specific to bodywork practitioners.

Shiatsu Course Descriptions

 

FC450 – FC451: Anatomy I-II

This course sequence systematically presents the macro and microstructure of the human body. Students gain a solid knowledge of the science of anatomy, methods used to study anatomy, and anatomy terminology. Structures of the motor system, including the skeleton, joints and muscles, and the nervous system, are covered. Also covered are structures of sensory organs, the cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, reproductive system, endocrine system, and integumentary system. Students also learn body surface marks. (Prerequisite: None)

 

FC400: Human Physiology

This course presents the functions and mechanisms of the cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the body. It also shows how human physiology provides a scientific foundation for medicine and informs the development of technologies related to human health and physical performance. (Prerequisite: None)

 

CM515-CM516: Fundamental TCM Theory I & II

This two course sequence introduces basic structures of traditional Chinese medicine—Qi/Essence, Yin/Yang, Five Elements, Qi/Blood/Fluid, Eight Entities— and their dynamic interrelationships. The basic theory and characteristics of the pathogenesis and pathogenic factors are covered, including the six environmental excesses (Liu-Yin), the seven emotions (Qi Qing), disharmony of Yin and Yang, the six channel pattern identification (Liu Jing Bian Zheng), and the abnormal functions of Qi, blood, body fluid, and organs. General principles of treatment methods are included. (Prerequisite for CM515: None)

 

CM561: QiGong

Qigong is an ancient Chinese energetic art whose aim is to cultivate health on all levels. Qi is the foundation of both Qigong and Chinese medicine; this course provides students an experiential awareness of energy pathways and flow in the body through an introduction the Taiyi Swimming Dragon family style of Qigong. Students participate in simple movements to clear channels and activate energy centers, and learn a variety of Qigong methods to assist traditional ways of diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the movement/meditation component of this class, the cultural and historic context of qigong in relation to traditional notions of health, ritual and everyday work are covered. (Prerequisite: None)

 

AT521-AT524: Meridians & Points I - IV

This four-course sequence presents the points of the fourteen channels and selected extra points. Points are located through comparative review of traditional and modern anatomy. Hands-on practice in locating points is emphasized and therapeutic indications and treatment methods utilizing acupuncture and moxibustion are discussed for each point based on meridian theory. Instruction is given in the functional selection of points through the application of differential diagnosis of conditions. The channels are studied following the circadian sequence of Qi movement through the channels. This course prepares students for clinical practice by developing the skill to accurately locate points and the ability to understand and compose point prescriptions.

 

AT662: Introduction to Shiatsu I*

This course is designed for individuals with no previous Shiatsu experience and for health care professionals who wish to expand and enhance their current skill set. Students will be guided through detailed demonstrations and practice sessions while they learn the skills necessary to begin providing a comprehensive, full-body, traditional Shiatsu treatment. Through lectures and progressive palpatory exercises, students will begin to explore 'skillful touch' and the physiological mechanisms by which we find patterns of response that create painful or stressful conditions in the human body. During this course, continual emphasis will be placed on the use of proper body mechanics and energy conservation to better facilitate balance and well being for both the client and the practitioner.

 

AT663: Shiatsu: Guided Practice*

This course must be taken concurrently with AT 662 and is designed to integrate and enhance the information learned in the introductory class. Students are guided through Shiatsu protocols and given individualized attention to learning the proper applications of techniques, body mechanics, pressure points and basic energetic flow patterns of the body.

 

AT667: Shiatsu II

The second class in the Shiatsu series will focus on the posture, structure and function of the upper torso, neck and shoulder-arm areas. Various examination and assessment techniques and Shiatsu treatment strategies will be introduced and practiced as we explore the most common muscular-skeletal disorders seen in these regions of the body in bodywork practices. Techniques and modalities will include manual muscle length and strength testing, postural examination, Shiatsu treatment techniques in a seated position, Thai massage techniques in a side-lying position, as well as corrective postural and therapeutic exercises for both the client and the practitioner.

 

AT668: Shiatsu III

The third class in the Shiatsu Therapist certification program is designed to provide the clinical skills needed for students who wish to develop a successful practice and become professionals in the field of Shiatsu. Numerous modalities will be learned and practiced as we focus on the posture, structure and function of the mid and lower-torso, abdominal and lumbar areas. Students will develop and refine their palpatory skills and utilize treatment techniques that make use of the proprioceptive system, including: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, cranial-sacral therapy, positional release, Hansha Shiatsu, myofascial trigger point therapy and muscle energy techniques.

 

*- Note: This course description is new, and replaces that already listed on page 29 of the Catalog.

 

AT669: Shiatsu IV

This class is designed to synthesize the clinical application of theories, techniques and assessment skills previously studied. Students will continue their exploration of the human body as they focus on the pelvis, iliosacral areas, and the lower extremities. Students will also learn to apply previously studied therapeutic techniques and modalities to treat clients from special populations, including athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, and chronically ill and terminally ill patients.

 

CT572: Shiatsu Clinical Training I*

This course offers the clinical practicum component for Shiatsu. Students will apply the knowledge and skills they have learned on members of the public while under the direct supervision of the Shiatsu faculty.

 

CT573: Shiatsu Clinical Training II*

This course is a continuation of the clinical practicum component. Students apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in a supervised clinical setting

 

*These courses (CT 572 and 573) represent the clinical component of the Shiatsu program and involve students working on patients under the supervision of the Shiatsu faculty. Students will be expected to apply the knowledge and skills that they have learned throughout their certificate program in a supervised clinical setting. 

 

WM616: Business, Ethics & Jurisprudence

This course discusses the various ethical and legal issues surrounding bodywork practitioners, the importance of practitioner-client communication skills, and how to create and maintain a bodywork practice. Students will learn about the Bay Area requirements for the permitting of bodywork practitioners and Therapists. Students will also learn the basics of starting a practice, including how to develop a business plan.

 

WM617: Practice Management & Marketing

This course will offer advanced training in the principles of effective practitioner-client communication and marketing techniques necessary for building and sustaining a successful practice. Students will develop writing, public speaking and networking skills and will create a marketing plan specific to bodywork practitioners.

 

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