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Diploma in Shiatsu Therapy

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Shiatsu Practice (413 hrs)
The complete basic thumb treatment is taught initially and advanced techniques such as meridian shiatsu, table shiatsu, and stretching techniques are introduced subsequently. Meridian shiatsu is our specialty.

Shiatsu Treatment (220 hrs)
This course covers practical aspects of meridian theory, diagnostic procedures, treatment of specific conditions (including infants, pregnant women and the elderly), the client-therapist relationship, and treatment strategies and reports.

Shiatsu Theory (150 hrs)
Topics discussed include th e history of shiatsu, its general principles, kyo-jitsu, the nature of whole body treatment, locations and functions of tsubo points, and pathologies of the major meridians. The physical and psychological effects of shiatsu, contraindications and indications for treatment, "sho", and treatment strategies are also discussed.  

FUNDAMENTALS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE  (150 hrs)
This course details the history and philosophy of Eastern medical theory including Yin-Yang theory, Five Element theory, fundamental substances, meridians, organs, causes of disease, patterns of disharmony, Eastern diagnosis, and rationale of treatment.

Auxiliary Modalities (150 hrs)
This course introduces students to treatment modalities that complement their understanding of Eastern medical theory. The practice and theory of Sotai, moxabustion, acupuncture, cupping, and Qi-gong, are some of the modalities studied, depending on instructor availability.

Business (30 hrs)
This course introduces the student to basic management concepts of practice management to aid in the operation of a successful shiatsu therapy practice. Topics include bookkeeping, taxation, marketing, advertising techniques, public relations, and goal setting. This comprehensive business management curriculum prepares new shiatsu therapists to build and maintain their own businesses.

Communication Skills (75 hrs)
This course aids the student to develop effective communication skills that are vital to the successful practice of shiatsu therapy. Topics include interpersonal skills, personal development, creative problem solving, time management and goal setting.  The course is practical in nature, emphasizing the sharing and exploration of experiences and ideas.

Ethics and Jurisprudence (15 hrs)
The code of ethics of clinical practice, the client-therapist relationship, and relevant aspects of law are discussed in this course.

Human Anatomy 
(200 hrs)
Anatomy is the study of the structure and composition of cells, tissues, and organs, and the systems of the body - skeletal, articular, muscular, lymphatic, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive. The organization of the body systems and co-ordination of their functions are also discussed.

Human Pathology and Symptomatology 
(250 hrs)
Pathology is the study of how the body reacts to injury, and the causes and processes of disease. Students learn about the processes of tissue repair, infectious diseases, and pathologies of bone, muscle, and of the major systems - respiratory, circulatory, nervous, gastrointestinal, reproductive, immunological, and hormonal.

Human Physiology (200 hrs)
Physiology is the study of the functioning of the human body. Cellular metabolism, thermo-regulation, bone growth, muscle function, lymph flow, blood function, respiration, digestion, waste elimination, hormonal influences, reproduction, and nerve function are the main topics.

Nutrition (20 hrs)
Through this course, students acquire a basic understanding of the principles of nutrition, fasting, weight control, nutritional life cycles and alternate practices.

Public Health (25 hrs)
This course examines the health care system of Canada, ways of determining the status of health, factors contributing to good physical and mental health, and the principles of communicable disease.  Referrals, networking, and the role of health professionals are also discussed.

Self Care (30 hrs)
This course explores various aspects of self-care that are important to shiatsu therapists, and their clients in the maintenance of good physical and mental health. It is incorporated throughout the program in the shiatsu practice and treatment courses. 

Student Clinic (272 hrs)
Knowledge and experience gained from other courses is put into practice in Student Clinic. With the supervision of qualified shiatsu therapists, students gain valuable experience in treating a variety of clients drawn from the general public in a clinic setting.