The majority of states currently require a 500 hour education, however, due to the recent results of the ELAP, it is anticipated that State Massage Therapy Boards will begin to increase their hourly requirements. Students will extensively learn about these matters in Board Preparation Class. If you have questions regarding State Licensure or hourly requirements, please see the Academic Dean.
Following are up to 75 hours of Electives available for students to take during their Certification Program at the Berkana Institute. All courses are available at an additional cost of $16 to $20 per credit hour, and students receive a 10% discount when they register for, and pay their tuition for electives on the day of Orientation. Minimum enrollment requirements must be met.
Zen Shiatsu Elective – 20 hours: Introduces the concepts of five element acupuncture theory and how to administer a shiatsu treatment.
Cranial and Somatic Fascial Release (CSFR) Elective – 20 hours: Cranial and Somatic Fascia Release includes a therapeutic protocol to normalize the cranio-sacral pulse. The course includes extremely gentle cranial bone mobilization and appropriate fascia releases. Recognizes the Upledger Hypothesis of the pulse.
Hot Rocks Massage – 15 hours: This is more than just an introductory course. Upon completion students are capable of providing a 1.5 hour and 2 hour session using hot and cold stones. You will learn H.S./C.S. sinus treatments using stones & essential oils, stone layouts, when & how to incorporate stones into your treatment work, using stones for deep relaxation & meditative work.
Massage Chair Basics with Marketing – 15 hours: This course teaches basic techniques of chair massage. 5-10 and 15 minute routines are demonstrated and practiced. Chair massage can be offered on-site at many locations. Marketing strategies for client recruitment from chair to practice are shared with the students.
Clinic Management – 5 hours: Students have the opportunity to work one on one with the Clinic Manager during a clinic shift to learn Office Management and Customer Service Skills Including but not limited to: Greeting clients, scheduling, answering phones, keeping a file system, book keeping and linen maintenance.
