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Webinars and Continuing Education Classes

AFMTE hosts free monthly virtual events, including continuing education classes for massage therapy educators and Think Tank webinars on topics of relevance to the profession of massage therapy education.

CE Provider and School members of AFMTE in good standing are welcome to advertise their CE offerings through our exclusive members’ area and on this page. To add your listings, log into the members area.

Somatic Mindfulness – Expansion

Provider: Fernando Rojas, Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness

December 11-12, 2024

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM MST

Course Description

Somatic Mindfulness workshops elevate your massage practice, seamlessly bridging somatics and bodywork and embodying trauma-informed knowledge.

Learn strategies to prevent burnout and reduce the risk of injuries, preparing clients for deep work with ease. Delve into somatic touch skills, cultivating mindfulness in action for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

The method inherently supports self-care, ensuring career longevity. Each workshop is self-contained, and there are no prerequisites to take each theme.

In Expansion, the emphasis is on the experience of emotional integration and efficient respiration. Handles are explored from the torso, back, arms, and shoulders and their interconnection with the rest of the body.

Instructor Info

Somatic Mindfulness workshops by Fernando Rojas MSMT/E, LMT, PhD are approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and also sponsored by NCBTMB to teach New York licensed massage therapists continuing education that is accepted by the state of New York for license renewal. It is also approved in Florida and Louisiana.

They are recognized by Trager International and Trager Switzerland as a genuine application of tragerwork principles to complement massage therapy and bodywork. In Switzerland, Trager Therapy is a sanctioned method of complementary health therapy.

Somatic Mindfulness – Connection

Provider: Fernando Rojas, Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness

December 13-14, 2024

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM MST

Course Description

Somatic Mindfulness workshops elevate your massage practice, seamlessly bridging somatics and bodywork and embodying trauma-informed knowledge.

Learn strategies to prevent burnout and reduce the risk of injuries, preparing clients for deep work with ease. Delve into somatic touch skills, cultivating mindfulness in action for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

The method inherently supports self-care, ensuring career longevity. Each workshop is self-contained, and there are no prerequisites to take each theme.

In Connection, handles around several body planes and angles explore the body’s sense of interrelation. Each workshop is self-contained, and there are no prerequisites to take each theme.

Instructor Info

Somatic Mindfulness workshops by Fernando Rojas MSMT/E, LMT, PhD are approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and also sponsored by NCBTMB to teach New York licensed massage therapists continuing education that is accepted by the state of New York for license renewal. It is also approved in Florida and Louisiana.

They are recognized by Trager International and Trager Switzerland as a genuine application of tragerwork principles to complement massage therapy and bodywork. In Switzerland, Trager Therapy is a sanctioned method of complementary health therapy.

Exploring the Human Body through Cadaver Lab

Provider: Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness

December 13, 2024

12:00 PM – 3:00 PM MST

Course Description

This 3 CE course offers Licensed Massage Therapists a unique, hands-on opportunity to deepen their anatomical understanding through direct interaction with pre-dissected cadaveric specimens. Participants will explore major anatomical structures, including muscles, bones, nerves, and organs, in a controlled and respectful environment. Through guided examination and palpation, attendees will enhance their knowledge of the human body’s spatial relationships and functional anatomy, directly relating this to massage therapy practice.

Students will develop practical skills in handling and examining cadaveric material with gloves and aprons, ensuring safety and respect for the donors. The course will emphasize the clinical correlations between anatomical structures and massage therapy techniques, helping students recognize anatomical variations, multi-layered tissues, and their implications for therapeutic practice. Additionally, students will engage in discussions on the ethical considerations of using cadaveric specimens, fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for the individuals who have donated their bodies for educational purposes.

By the end of this course, participants will have enhanced their anatomical knowledge, improved their palpation skills, and developed a greater awareness of the ethical dimensions of their practice, ultimately contributing to more effective and informed massage therapy treatments.

More information: http://www.az-medicalmassageschool.com/events

Learning Objectives

1. Anatomical Knowledge
 – Identify and describe the major anatomical structures of the human body, including muscles, bones, nerves, and organs.
 – Understand the spatial relationships and functions of these structures within the human body relevant to massage therapy.

2. Practical Skills
 – Demonstrate proper techniques for handling and examining dissected cadaveric material using gloves and aprons.
 – Practice safe and respectful handling of cadaveric material.

3. Clinical Correlation
 – Relate anatomical knowledge to massage therapy techniques and practice.
 – Recognize how anatomical variations can impact therapeutic approaches and outcomes.

4. Sensory and Palpation Skills
 – Develop and enhance palpation skills by physically examining cadaveric structures.
 – Understand the tactile differences between various tissues and structures.

5. Ethical Considerations
 – Understand and appreciate the ethical issues surrounding the use of cadaveric specimens.
 – Demonstrate respect for the cadaver as a former living person and a valuable learning resource.

Somatic Mindfulness – Grounding

Provider: Fernando Rojas, Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness

December 15-16, 2024

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM MST

Course Description

Somatic Mindfulness workshops elevate your massage practice, seamlessly bridging somatics and bodywork and embodying trauma-informed knowledge.

Learn strategies to prevent burnout and reduce the risk of injuries, preparing clients for deep work with ease. Delve into somatic touch skills, cultivating mindfulness in action for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

The method inherently supports self-care, ensuring career longevity. Each workshop is self-contained, and there are no prerequisites to take each theme.

In Grounding, the emphasis is on the experience of proprioceptive rooting for balance and stability. Handles are explored around feet, legs, and hips and their interconnection with the rest of the body.

Instructor Info

Somatic Mindfulness workshops by Fernando Rojas MSMT/E, LMT, PhD are approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and also sponsored by NCBTMB to teach New York licensed massage therapists continuing education that is accepted by the state of New York for license renewal. It is also approved in Florida and Louisiana.

They are recognized by Trager International and Trager Switzerland as a genuine application of tragerwork principles to complement massage therapy and bodywork. In Switzerland, Trager Therapy is a sanctioned method of complementary health therapy.

How to Be a Strong Teaching Assistant (2 CE’s)

Provider: AFMTE

December 30, 2024

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST

Are you a current or aspiring teaching assistant in a massage therapy program? Join us for an engaging and interactive Think Tank session on “How to Be a Strong Teaching Assistant,” where we’ll explore the essential skills and best practices that elevate TAs into invaluable assets in the classroom.

Facilitated by experienced massage educators Kimberly Alexander and Vicki S. Winston, BS, LMT, this session will dive into practical strategies for supporting instructors, fostering a positive learning environment, and building rapport with students. We’ll discuss key topics such as managing classroom dynamics, effective communication, balancing authority with approachability, and understanding the unique needs of adult learners in a massage program.

Whether you’re a seasoned teaching assistant or considering taking on this important role, this think tank will provide actionable insights, peer-driven discussion, and an opportunity to exchange ideas on how to enhance the learning experience for everyone involved. Join us to discover how strong teaching assistants can make a transformative impact in the massage classroom.

This session is perfect for teaching assistants, educators looking to mentor TAs, or program directors seeking to refine their support systems for instructional staff.

This class will be worth 2 CE’s for those attending live.

Side-Lying Massage and Stretching

Provider: Marcella Arieta, Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness

January 5-6, 2025

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Course Description

This two day 14CE course will teach you how to safely and effectively work with clients in a side-lying position.

Students will learn how to comfortably position clients so that both the client and the therapist don’t risk injury; especially those with low back, hip or shoulder pain. Students will learn how to easily drape their clients. Students will learn the benefits of side-lying massage, as well as, the contraindications, and current research. Students learn many advanced massage techniques for the low back, hips, neck and shoulder, including PNF stretches, and other passive and active movements aimed at helping dysfunctional joints and soft tissue. Students will learn to facilitate normalization of nerve function and myofascial organization in painful areas with trigger point, structural integration, Swedish and cross-fiber treatment protocols.

Side-Lying Massage teaches students more ways to work with a wide variety of clients, from maternity clients, to clients facing health problems, to athletes. Students will also be able to explore, with more access into the multidimensional layers with movements and stretching, getting into muscles like they have never been able to do before in prone or supine. Engaging lectures, discussion, and guided practice will help you to adapt your own protocols and techniques.

Continuing Education:  Attendance and participation earns 14CE.  

  • ASMMW is an approved provider of CE for the NCBTMB-National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork #451668-11
  • NCBTMB APCE#451668-11, Course # 70085625
  • Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners-CE Brokers-Tracking number #20-689775
  • Arizona Board of Athletic Training Application CE Broker Registered

Cost

To Register: Email your name and number to AZmedicalmassageschool@gmail.com with “Sidelying” in the subject line and pay with the appropriate link above.

Instructor: Marcella Arieta

Student Requirements: Bring 2 sets of sheets, lotion, pen, and water bottle and wear loose movable clothing.  You will be using ASMMW cups in class, options to order cupping kits at a discount will be available. Handouts will be sent prior to class, and you can bring a smart phone, tablet or laptop to follow along if desired.

Acupressure Treatment for Headaches

Provider: Takayoshi Munemoto, Dexterity Professional Development

3-Hour On-Demand Online Course

Course Description

Acupressure Treatment for Headaches explores various approaches to the understanding and treatment of different types of headaches. Recognize the unique nature of headaches, which differ in intensity, symptoms, and origins from patient to patient.

Compare how Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine approach headaches differently. Learn how to conduct clinical assessments for massage therapy to determine if acupressure is indicated and use acupressure to create personalized solutions for headaches.

Explore how to incorporate targeted acupressure into a massage therapy treatment plan. Discover acupressure techniques to activate meridian pathways and become familiar with the most effective acupressure points for headache relief.

Our easy-to-follow guide highlights each step of the treatment process, detailing the locations of pressure points, depth, and timing. It helps you understand how to implement an acupressure treatment and integrate it into treatment through a variety of multimedia elements.

Enhance your approach to headache care by learning how to integrate acupressure into treatment confidently through our online massage therapy course.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will understand professional responsibilities when integrating complementary modalities.
  • Participants will identify root causes of diverse headache types for optimal treatment.
  • Participants will compare and contrast Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine strategies for addressing headaches.
  • Participants will learn headache assessment techniques and create individualized acupressure treatment plans.
  • Participants will target specific acupressure points for effective headache relief.
  • Participants will apply your knowledge through case study analysis featuring a sample acupressure treatment plan.

Instructor Bio

Takayoshi (Taka) Munemoto MA, RMT, RAc., CLT, has been practicing manual therapy since becoming licensed as a Registered Massage Therapist in 2005. He is also registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Taka is a dedicated bodywork specialist with over 18 years of global experience, passionately strives to enhance balance and movement in each client. His expertise spans Oriental Medicine, particularly Acupuncture, as well as Osteopathic Manual skills, Feldenkrais Method, and Somatic Education. Bridging Eastern and Western philosophies, Taka integrates a rich tapestry of knowledge acquired from Canada, Japan, Taiwan, the USA, Germany, and Italy.

Taka’s holistic treatment approach, guided by TCM principles, focuses on meridian channels for self-healing in injured tissues, encompassing styles like 5 elements balancing and Japanese techniques rooted in TCM.

Certified by Dr. Vodder School International, a leader in lymphatic obstruction treatment, Taka excels in manual lymphatic drainage techniques, recognizing its role in promoting tissue health and a robust immune system. Taka’s commitment to holistic well-being extends to his mastery of the Feldenkrais Method, addressing sensory and motor issues. Through finely coordinated movements, this dynamic approach alleviates muscle tension and joint stiffness, enhancing overall range of motion and promoting pain-free movement.

Continuously seeking knowledge globally, Taka ensures clients receive profound results in health through his distinctive and integrated treatment approach.

Acupressure Treatment for Shoulder Pain

Provider: Takayoshi Munemoto, Dexterity Professional Development

3-Hour On-Demand Online Course

Course Description

Acupressure Treatment for Shoulder Pain empowers massage therapists to effectively use acupressure to ease shoulder discomfort caused by various issues through our online massage therapy course.

Learn how to conduct a clinical assessment for massage therapy to assess and determine if acupressure is indicated for the treatment of chronic shoulder problems. Gain the expertise to deliver precise acupressure treatments for the shoulder, neck, and thorax.

Our easy-to-follow guide takes you through each step of the treatment process, highlighting crucial details such as pressure points, depth, and timing. This ensures that you can confidently reduce shoulder pain using acupressure in your sessions.

Enhance your approach to shoulder pain care by learning how to confidently integrate acupressure into massage therapy treatment.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will compare Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment strategies and approaches to shoulder problems.
  • Participants will understand the significance of meridian channels and myofascial connections in maintaining shoulder health.
  • Participants will learn a variety of assessment techniques to tailor your approach to each patient.
  • Participants will examine the precise acupressure points that activate meridian channels and provide relief from shoulder discomfort.
  • Participants will explore how the neck, thorax, and other areas contribute to shoulder support and explore the acupressure points to address these compensatory areas.
  • Participants will discover the approach and protocol for integrating acupressure into treatment.
  • Participants will enhance your skills with a real-world case study that illustrates a hands-on acupressure treatment plan in action.

Instructor Biography

Takayoshi (Taka) Munemoto MA, RMT, RAc., CLT, has been practicing manual therapy since becoming licensed as a Registered Massage Therapist in 2005. He is also registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Taka is a dedicated bodywork specialist with over 18 years of global experience, passionately strives to enhance balance and movement in each client. His expertise spans Oriental Medicine, particularly Acupuncture, as well as Osteopathic Manual skills, Feldenkrais Method, and Somatic Education. Bridging Eastern and Western philosophies, Taka integrates a rich tapestry of knowledge acquired from Canada, Japan, Taiwan, the USA, Germany, and Italy.

Taka’s holistic treatment approach, guided by TCM principles, focuses on meridian channels for self-healing in injured tissues, encompassing styles like 5 elements balancing and Japanese techniques rooted in TCM.

Certified by Dr. Vodder School International, a leader in lymphatic obstruction treatment, Taka excels in manual lymphatic drainage techniques, recognizing its role in promoting tissue health and a robust immune system. Taka’s commitment to holistic well-being extends to his mastery of the Feldenkrais Method, addressing sensory and motor issues. Through finely coordinated movements, this dynamic approach alleviates muscle tension and joint stiffness, enhancing overall range of motion and promoting pain-free movement.

Continuously seeking knowledge globally, Taka ensures clients receive profound results in health through his distinctive and integrated treatment approach.

Acupressure Treatment for Low Back Pain

Provider: Takayoshi Munemoto, Dexterity Professional Development

2-Hour On-Demand Online Course

Course Description

Acupressure Treatment for Low Back Pain empowers massage therapists to effectively use acupressure to ease low back pain caused by a range of issues through our online massage therapy course.

Explore Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine perspectives on diagnosis and treatment of low back pain. Discover how to conduct clinical assessments for massage therapy to determine if acupressure is indicated in treating low back pain.

Gain expertise in targeting the appropriate meridian channels and become skilled at applying acupressure to precise points for the treatment and relief of low back pain. Dive into how to treat common compensatory areas, including the neck, thorax, pelvis, and hips.

Our easy-to-follow guide highlights each step of the treatment process, detailing the locations of pressure points, depth, and timing. Through a variety of multimedia elements, you can understand how to implement acupressure treatment and integrate it into massage therapy.

Enhance your approach to low back pain by learning how to confidently integrate acupressure into massage therapy treatment.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will gain insight into the typical triggers of low back pain.
  • Participants will explore diverse treatment approaches across different professions, broadening your toolkit for effective solutions.
  • Participants will combine Western and Eastern methods to provide top-notch care by blending insights from both approaches.
  • Participants will master the art of pinpointing low back pain causes with precision, and create a tailored treatment strategy that incorporates acupressure techniques.
  • Participants will explore the complex relationship between common compensatory zones and low back pain, both anatomically and within the Meridian channels.
  • Participants will become an expert in applying the most powerful acupressure points to alleviate low back pain, addressing both the root cause and associated areas.
  • Participants will enhance their skills with a real-world case study that illustrates a hands-on acupressure treatment plan in action.

Instructor Biography

Takayoshi (Taka) Munemoto MA, RMT, RAc., CLT, has been practicing manual therapy since becoming licensed as a Registered Massage Therapist in 2005. He is also registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Taka is a dedicated bodywork specialist with over 18 years of global experience, passionately strives to enhance balance and movement in each client. His expertise spans Oriental Medicine, particularly Acupuncture, as well as Osteopathic Manual skills, Feldenkrais Method, and Somatic Education. Bridging Eastern and Western philosophies, Taka integrates a rich tapestry of knowledge acquired from Canada, Japan, Taiwan, the USA, Germany, and Italy.

Taka’s holistic treatment approach, guided by TCM principles, focuses on meridian channels for self-healing in injured tissues, encompassing styles like 5 elements balancing and Japanese techniques rooted in TCM.

Certified by Dr. Vodder School International, a leader in lymphatic obstruction treatment, Taka excels in manual lymphatic drainage techniques, recognizing its role in promoting tissue health and a robust immune system. Taka’s commitment to holistic well-being extends to his mastery of the Feldenkrais Method, addressing sensory and motor issues. Through finely coordinated movements, this dynamic approach alleviates muscle tension and joint stiffness, enhancing overall range of motion and promoting pain-free movement.

Continuously seeking knowledge globally, Taka ensures clients receive profound results in health through his distinctive and integrated treatment approach.