Massage Colleges Iowa | The East•West School

Anatomy and Physiology

This course presents an overview of the organization of the human body. Although body systems are studied, there is an emphasis placed on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. The study of regional anatomy focuses on surface landmarks; individual muscle origins, insertions and actions; posture and movement analysis; and specific nerve innervations. Anatomy, being the study of the structure of the body parts while physiology is the study of the function of these parts. The levels of organization in the body are discussed. Various terms can be used to describe the location of body parts and organs. These terms are explained, as are terms used to describe body sectioning, body regions, and major cavities in the body. The major functions of the organ systems are also summarized and the concept of homeostasis is explained. The anatomy course work at East-West School of Integrative Healing Arts is College level emphasized and taught by the same instructor that taught Anatomy and Physiology at Kirkwood Community College for years. Over 50% of your Boards will cover anatomy and pathology. We guarantee you pass the first time, or we give you the anatomy and pathology classes again for free. Your success matters to us!

Anatomy Lab

This is a four part program and only offered at East-West School. Hands on work with the body to learn where the body parts and muscles are located. Great class!

Structure and function of the human body and bodily systems. Attention will be paid to the relevance of these systems to therapeutic massage and bodywork. Among the variety of modalities used are lecture and awareness exercises. Additionally, faculty will provide education in experiential anatomy, expanded organ system instruction, and tissue release.

Aromatherapy

Pamela Sabin, BA, LMT

This is an introductory class to Aromatherapy. Theory, practice and use of essential oils will be taught. Students will learn the fundamentals of blending, and be able to make their own body products for use with their clients and at home. This class is taught in two half days and will give you a great start on using Aromatherapy for your health and well being and a great addition to your massage practice.

Business

Business Practices

At East-West School we teach Business I, II, III & IV.

Topics include ethical behavior and principles, record keeping, building a successful business, and attitude. The importance of ethical professional practice will be stressed. Liability issues and marketing will also be discussed. Kristen is a firm believer in the following: “It’s not what you do, but how you do it that counts!” There is a recipe for being a successful massage therapist. “Love what you do, be really great at it, and help a lot of people….and success will follow!” Kristen is known for her award winning business practices. In Feb 2011, she was awarded the Deb Dalziel Entrepreneur of the Year for the State of Iowa (Read more). Business classes at East-West School are fun! Special guests will also be a part of this Business Program.

We also offer advanced business mentoring as part of many of our programs. Many of our graduates go on to own their own business.

Chair Massage

Many people benefit from Chair Massage or otherwise known as “Seated Massage”. It’s quick, affordable and your clothing remains on. We spend one full day teaching you how to incorporate Chair Massage into your practice. This is a fun class and you will receive and give Chair Massages. Everyone taking this class will get to practice giving Chair Massage during our Massage Clinic that is open to the public.

Eastern Theory

Structure and function of the human body as seen through the energetic system of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Topics covered include the meridian system and Chinese medical cosmology. Students will be given both theoretical and hands-on experience with meridian therapy. Additionally, five phase theory and the eight principles approach are taught using the understanding of patterns of disharmony and appropriate diagnostic procedures.

Eastern Theory is a required set of classes at East-West School and will help you stand out in your profession. Many Massage Schools do not spend more than a day on this topic, which is a huge disadvantage to the student. It is Eastern Theory and Shiatsu that will help make you an outstanding LMT.

Energy Healing I

Intro to Energy Healing

An introduction to energy healing systems, theory and technique is taught. Discussion of the body’s major and minor energy centers and their relationship to the body’s energy field is included. Use of techniques for balancing, harmonizing, clearing, and expanding the field will be practiced. Chakra’s are discussed in depth.

Energy Healing II

Intro to Energy Healing II

Techniques for working with the human energy field are taught. These include opening the energy field, pain management, mind clearing, release of stagnant energy, wound sealing, headache relief, spinal relief and distance healing.

Intro to Energy Healing I & II are required at East-West School and create a very grounded and balanced therapist. These are essential classes for making you an outstanding therapist. Many Massage Therapy Schools do not require any energy healing work. We find this to be a disadvantage to the student.

Ethics

Professional Ethics

Topics include ethical behavior, boundaries and principles, record keeping, building a successful business and SOAP charting. The importance of ethical professional practice will be stressed, including client confidentiality, boundaries and the professional relationship. Liability issues and some marketing will also be discussed. Being professional and ethical at all times is an expectation of all East-West School Students and graduates.

We encourage all students to review the Iowa Law regarding massage in the state of Iowa in addition to taking this required course.

We also offer this class as a CEU course. It is required for National Certification.

Fun Study Days

Fun Study Days is a new and unique part of our program, just one more thing that makes East-West School stand out. The students get a chance to work together, create anatomy and pathology flash cards, play anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and pathology learning games and memorize the muscles, bones and other systems of the body. We also watch movies from time to time and have popcorn, with a question and answer session afterwards. We know school is time consuming enough, and students rarely enjoy doing homework at home. We make studying fun at East-West School and we do this as a group in a fun environment with your fellow students and a Licensed Massage Therapist available for questions and mentoring.

We are a Massage School Leader with the highest passing rate in the state as far as we know, and we know it’s because we don’t make you do much homework outside of the school….we have you do it where there is an advisor right there to help if you have questions. We allow this time for you to do your studying at school…..a little like a study hall, but way more fun!

Happiness & Healing

This class is offered as part of our program. You will learn the art of self fulfillment and how to be happy. You will also learn about the healing powers of self love, meditation, quiet time and reflection. Healing others is an important part of our program, and healing the self is even more important. You can’t give what you don’t have.

Headaches and Head and Neck Specifics

Headaches and Head and Neck Specifics

Joan Wollschlager, RDH, LMT

The Chronic Tension Headache: just the word “tension” describes what massage therapists are best equipped to affect and change, muscle tension producing pain. Rather than treat the pain with a pill, most clients would prefer to eliminate the pain without medication, then learn how to avoid the pain the next time!

Because headaches affect over 15% of the population, massage therapists must learn to address the specific muscles involved in tension headaches and learn to elicit change within not only in the muscles themselves, but also in the repetitious behavior that creates the pain in the first place. In that way, we as massage therapists can have a lasting effect on our clients.

Using case studies, we will learn to identify the causes of tension headaches, the mechanisms of repetitive muscle movement that creates pain, how to address the head and neck muscles effectively, and how to educate the client to create lasting results.

Because the muscles of the head and neck are small and delicate, we must develop and hone our tactile skills. A common question asked during class is, “What should this feel like when I’m working on it?” Using an innovative variety of mediums, we will heighten our sense of touch prior to actually working on each other, learning to “listen to the muscles,” recognizing problems, then eliciting change. Using this knowledge, we will then use these skills in hand-on class time.

Hospitality

Hospitality Hours

“Hospitality” is the word we choose to use at East-West School for the hours that are required by everyone that pertain to the following:

Customer Service, Sales, Networking, Laundry, Managing the Reception Area, Volunteer Work, Off Premises School Chair Massage Events, and Miscellaneous parts of the program that teach the student about professionalism, marketing themselves and being “hospitable”. Any employer will expect a Licensed Massage Therapist to have experienced these items in their Massage Therapy Training, and we feel it is an important part of the program. We offer more hospitality hours than are required, so it gives the student some flexibility in choosing the hospitality classes/events they prefer.

Hot Stone

Heated Stone Therapy
Kristin Bergman B.A., LMT

Use of hot stones, oils and specific techniques for relaxation and deep tissue massage. Benefits to the practitioner include increased client appeal and ease of application. This is always a favorite class amongst students. Knowing Hot Stone techniques can also improve your practice and revenue.

Updated list of items needed for this class as of Winter 2010: Please be sure to check with our Student Adviser two weeks prior to taking this class to be sure equipment requests are the same.

1.) At least 12 palm-sized, smooth, clean basalt stones.
2.) A crock pot or other heater they stones can fit into.
3.) One canning thermometer.
4.) A set of tongs
5.) Good quality massage oil
6.) Set of twin sheets and blanket
7.) Two towels

(Stones can usually be found at landscaping stores or on-line massage therapy supply sites.)

It’s best if you can bring your own supplies, as sharing can diminish the full experience of the class.

Thank you!

Hydrotherapy

This course is intended as a first level introduction to safe and appropriate use of hydrotherapy for massage therapists. This course will expand a therapist treatment scope and career opportunities and is an essential tool of tying this ancient and effective use of water into hands-on knowledge.

Hydrotherapy:
History and General Principles of Hydrotherapy
Physiological Physical Effects Of Hydrotherapy
Reflex effects of hot and cold water
Effects on Circulation
Effects of Contrast Hot and Cold Applications
Indication & Contra- indication
Therapeutic Techniques and Procedures
Incorporating Hot and Cold packs in a massage
Fomentation
Compresses

The techniques of Hydrotherapy:
Baths Foot baths, contrast baths
RICE
Contrast Therapy
Cold/Hot/Herbal Packs
Uses of Spa therapies: whirlpool, sauna and steam.

Integrative Massage

Integrative Massage
Pamela Sabin, BA, LMT

This class allows students to blend the skills they have acquired in Asian and Western bodywork forms as well as the use of therapeutic stretches. Offered near the end of the term, students have an opportunity to incorporate all they have learned into a coherent whole. Please bring sheets and oil.

Isolated Stretching

Active Isolated Stretching

The Mattes Method will expand the potential of your profession. Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) one of the safest and most effective therapeutic stretching methods practiced today. A.I.S. has been developed over the last 35 years by kinesiotherapist, Aaron Mattes.

An effective treatment for deep and superficial fascial release, A.I.S. isolates hypertonic muscle groups and increases their range of motion through assisted repetative stretches. These stretches promote physiological wellbeing by promoting improved circulation, joint mobility and tissue elasticity.

This course will focus on the lower body. Materials will be provided. Students will stretch and be stretched, so bring loose, comfortable clothing. Information on the upper body course will follow.

Light Language

Light Language is taught as a special CEU class from time to time at East-West School. It is not a part of the required program.

Ancient Mayan system of healing and manifesting, using the energies of specific colors and sacred geometries in sequences called grids. These grids act as a loud prayer and shift the aura of the person, group, object or place to magnetize the desired outcome.

Light is a valuable resource that can be programmed and used to create desired outcomes. Its use gives you conscious control of your reality. Light is the ultimate form of energy and is available to you all the time. Light Language is a healing and manifestation system. This class is practical and gives you techniques to use in your everyday professional and personal life. Using the energies of the specific colors and sacred geometries in sequence you will enhance your client care, your own healing abilities, and lengthen the life-span of your career.

Syllabus:
What is Light Language
How does it structure energy for healing & energy/manifestation
How to incorporate into client care and massage therapy
How to use Light Language professionally and personally
Learn 20 colors, definition and uses
Learn 14 shapes, definition and uses
How to construct personal chakra grids, stationary grids, dictionary grids and 49-shape grids
Learn healing grids for more than 164 different diseases
Benefits for practitioner, enhance abilities & ease of practice
Why Light Language is growing in popularity as a complimentary method of healing/energy manifestation
Light Language as an additional source of income
Become certified Light Language Practitioner

Lymph Drainage

This is a 2 day class focusing on the theory and hands on techniques of Lymph Drainage Therapy. This is a gentle technique that works through the body’s lymphatic system to assist with circulation and lymph and to stimulate functioning of the immune and parasympathetic nervous systems. The results of these actions can include reduction of edemas, detoxification of the body, relief of numerous chronic inflammations reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. This technique will be a fantastic addition to any massage therapy practice. (Work in the breast & groin area’s should be expected)

Basic and Advanced techniques will be taught.

Teacher: Erin Auer-Sears

For a more in-depth description, call the school at 319-351-3262.

Massage Clinic

All students are required to do 20% of their program through clinic massage. These will include practice massages on clients from the community and CORE fitness. We also have days for inviting in friends and family.

There will be lots of time for you to practice your newly learned techniques! You will have an opportunity to practice both Shiatsu and Western style techniques at the school, but will also be asked to practice at home.

We believe that clinics are an important part of being sure you are ready to become a professional. We believe practice makes perfect and we believe the more clinics a student does, the more empowered and confident they become.

If you were planning to run or swim in the Olympics would you practice just 30 times or over 100? More practice is better.

Medical Massage

This is an Advanced Technique Class. The therapist will learn advanced palpation skills and a structured approach to assessment, treatment and rehabilitation. This class helps therapists bring about quick results in order to relieve client’s pain. An in-depth protocol with be taught.
• The Twelve-Step approach to assessment, treatment and rehabilitation
• Carpal Tunnel
• Frozen shoulder
• Ankle sprain
• Low back pain
• Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome
• Stretching techniques

Please bring sheets and oil to this class.

Meditation

This is a half day course on the fundamentals and benefits of meditation. You will learn the theory of meditation and participate in the meditation process. Please wear comfortable clothing.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Unlike most full-time Massage Therapy Programs, East-West School does not hold classes every day of the week. We are closed most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. You are required to be in the classroom every Tuesday and Thursday during your program, and 1-3 weekends/month, depending on which program you choose.

We require students to make Tuesday & Thursday a school day. Please do not schedule other activities on these days or it will impact your education in a negative manner.

We find Massage School to be quite intense, and our students love not having to be in class every day of the week. This also offers students time to work if they would like on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Nutrition

This class will cover basic Western nutrition along with overviews of nutrition theories in Eastern cultures. Biochemistry will be discussed as related to nutrition and massage therapy.

This is a class that is taught on occasion at East-West School and is not a part of the required program.

Orientation and Registration

Orientation & Registration: First day of class

Tuition
Enrollment Documents
Health Documents
Professionalism
Review Student Handbook
Review School Policies & Procedures
Get to know fellow students
Get to know School Staff
Get to know School Directors/Instructors
Encourage positive development as a student of East-West School and what the expectation are.

Time: 08:45 AM
Location: East-West School

Pathology

Disease processes, symptoms, and their effects on bodily tissues an organ systems. Nervous system pathology also includes psychological issues as they relate to your practice. Understanding how to respond appropriately to various types of emotional problems will be discussed. Important issues regarding modifications and contraindications in bodywork technique to given pathological states form an important aspect of the course.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy Massage
Kristin Bergman, B.A., LMT

This course teaches specific techniques supportive to pregnancy, birthing, post-partum recovery and nursing. It also talks about issues that parents need to consider in order to greet their new babies compassionately and confidently. Volunteer Pregnant women will be available for hands-on practice. GREAT class for a CEU.

Private Massage School

Why Private is BETTER!

East-West School of Integrative Healing Arts is a Private Massage Therapy School offering many options in education. Our extensive program and curriculum is approved by the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Massage Therapy Board. We are members of both ABMP and AMTA. Our school is the only massage therapy school affiliated with the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in the entire state of Iowa. East-West School was nominated and won “Business of the Year” in 2008 in the Iowa City area through the local Chamber of Commerce. We offer thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. We believe Private is Better! It is clear to anyone who visits our school, that quality is our top priority! Being an accredited school does NOT insure quality, as many are lead to believe.

We would be happy to share our views with you:

Many schools are unable to function without Federal Financial Aid. In order to get these benefits, they must become accredited through a Federal Organization which mandates their program. They pay a large fee to become accredited. Financial Aid benefits to the student are very limited, even to accredited schools.

We choose to have a program that allows more electives and options than a “cookie cutter” program. Accredited schools are not allowed to have any elective courses. This means, everyone takes the same classes. There is no room for designing your own program. We were accredited, and chose not to be in 2004. We find students like our program and level of education much better as a Private School. We believe you will agree.

Not all Massage Therapy Schools are created equal.

Psych Aspects

Psych Aspects
Kirsten Richardson, MSN

In this course, you will learn about the different types of psychological diseases and challenges your clients may have that you will encounter as a LMT.

Reflexology

Reflexology~

Study and theory of the feet and hands, their meridians, and how reflexology can be incorporated into your massage therapy training.

Reiki I and II

These courses explore the simple, unique, and powerful energy therapy for treating oneself and others. Students will be attuned to the Usui method of healing, and will be given introductory information on how to use Reiki most effectively. You must take Reiki I to move onto Reiki II. Reiki III is sometimes offered at East-West School.

The latest information about the origin of this healing system will be included from Dr. Usui’s own writings.

Shiatsu/Eastern Technique

“I loved our new Shiatsu Technique class today! The instructors were awesome!” – August 2010 Sandy Dennis/Student

Instruction in shiatsu/acupressure. The course covers techniques, schools of thought, and various theories of shiatsu. Body analysis, practitioner body mechanics, indications and contraindications for massage. Meridians.

Most Massage Therapy schools teach either Western or Eastern Massage Techniques. At East-West School, we prepare you thoroughly by teaching you an extensive amount of both. It’s what makes the difference between a good therapist and an outstanding therapist.

Spa and Body Wraps

Learn some of the great treatments they perform in a spa setting. Muds, Salts, Wraps and more. This class is taught in a Western Style. This class can be a little messy. Come prepared.

Please bring:

Set of linens
Bath Towel
4 towelettes
Fav. essential oil
One lime or lemon
One small plastic bowl
1/2 pound of sugar
Small bottle of base oil for mixing
Crock Pot

Sports Massage

Sports Massage Technique

This will be an integrative class that brings the best of Western and Eastern techniques to prevent and relieve injuries. After complete the class, the student will be able to assess disorders and find their source using Posture & Gait Analysis. Assessment techniques will be especially useful in finding potential injuries before they happen. This class will prepare the therapist to work at sporting events, with advanced athletes, and side-by-side with Physical Therapists and Doctors. Common injuries for Runners will also be covered.

Please bring sheets and oil to class.

Swedish/Western Massage

Swedish/Western Massage Techniques

We offer a series of Western style classes & clinics at East-West School.

Integrated instruction in Swedish and other Western approaches to bodywork, including proper body mechanics, and indications and contraindications for massage. Various strokes are taught including effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement along with their proper usage throughout the body.

Western style clinics will also offer you more practice in this area. We suggest all students practice at home in addition to practicing these techniques at school.

Please bring sheets and oil/lotions to this class.

The Healing Touch International Certificate Program

The Healing Touch International Certificate Program

Carol Ann Flack

The Healing Touch International Certificate Program is a multi-level course of study in energy-based therapy that moves from beginning to advanced practitioner and is complementary to heath care. The program incorporates a variety of energy-based modalities that are sequenced in Levels 1 through 5, allowing participants to progress from beginner to practitioner. Students receive a certificate of completion at each level. Upon completion of levels 1-5 and additional requirements, students are eligible to apply for certification through Healing Touch International, Inc. Level 6 prepares the individual to become an instructor.

Each level in the Healing Touch International Program includes both didactic and experiential learning in which participants’ practice and share experiences using energy-based healing techniques. In addition the program encourages the developing practitioner to enhance skills and knowledge through recommended readings and practice sessions. There is also a strong commitment to personal growth and knowledge of holistic health principles.

Target Audience
The Healing Touch International Certificate Program is a nursing continuing education program for registered nurses, health care professionals, body-oriented therapists, psychotherapists or other licensed health care professionals and individuals who desire an in-depth understanding of healing work that uses energy-based concepts.

Certification as a Healing Touch Practitioner is an appropriate goal for those who wish to establish a Healing Touch practice or incorporate Healing Touch as a major focus within an existing professional practice.

Level 1 Description
Level 1 begins with 15-18 continuing education contact hours of instruction, allowing persons with varying backgrounds to enter, acknowledge their previous learning and to further develop concepts and skills in energy-based therapy. A strong commitment to personal growth is required.

Trigger Point Therapy

Effective Treatment of Common Pain Patterns/Trigger Point Therapy

This course is intended to provide the developing therapist with techniques to manage common, specific soft tissue complaints that often present during a massage session. We will explore the possibilities of cause, the symptoms, and certain effective treatment for issues such as: TMJ syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, psoas pain and dysfunction, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff imbalance and pain, and gluteal/IT band dysfunction; possible additional technique, time permitting. These applications may be used to augment a ‘routine’ massage or as stand alone treatments for pain relief.

This course is usually offered just once/year at East-West School.

Work and Life Balance

Learn how to use the “Life Wheel” in your every day life to keep your life moving forward and worth living. This class will help identify the areas of your life that are out of balance and offer a road map for getting things back on track.

Yoga

Theory and Experience. Please wear comfortable clothing for stretching and more.