ACADEMIC PROGRAM CATALOGUE

Mission

The mission of the Acupressure Therapy Institute is to provide a comprehensive education in Asian Bodywork Therapy. We are dedicated to training professional practitioners with sensitivity, skill, knowledge and compassion so that they can provide health care to the public in complementary and alternative/integrative medicine. We encourage our students to self-discovery and to the development of their emerging selves as professional therapists.

Asian Bodywork Therapy Professional Training

The Acupressure Therapy Institute is pleased to offer a comprehensive program for training professional Asian Bodywork Therapists in the Acupressure Shiatsu style.

The 730-hour program fulfills the educational standards set by the national professional association, the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA®).

Asian Bodywork Therapy is recognized as an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine along/side with Acupuncture and Chinese herbs by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM®).

What is Asian Bodywork Therapy?

Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) is a healing profession that emphasizes balancing the body’s energy or “Qi” on a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level. Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Shiatsu and Classical Acupuncture Theory are the foundation for assessment skills and treatment planning.

American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia® Definition of ABT

Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) is the treatment of the human body/mind/spirit, including the electromagnetic or energetic field which surrounds, infuses and brings that body to life, by using pressure and/or manipulation. Asian Bodywork is based upon Chinese Medical principles for assessing and evaluating the body's energetic system. It uses traditional Asian techniques and treatment strategies to primarily affect and balance the energetic system for the purpose of treating the human body, emotions, mind, energy field and spirit for the promotion, maintenance and restoration of health.

The Forms of Asian Bodywork Therapy

AOBTA® uses the term "Forms" to refer to the various Asian Bodywork Therapies which have been recognized as specific and distinct.

All Forms that are recognized here originally had their roots in Chinese Medicine. Over the centuries, practitioners in China, Japan, Thailand, Korea, and more recently North America and Europe, have adapted and evolved these Forms into separate and distinct therapies. The AOBTA® formally recognizes those Forms of Asian Bodywork Therapy that meet our professional curriculum standards and have been approved through our application process.

Although AOBTA® members are trained in a specific Form, they sometimes refer to their profession by a more generalized term such as: Acupressure, Shiatsu, Tuina or Qigong.

There are many Forms of ABT, at ATI we teach the following forms.

What is Acupressure Shiatsu?

Acupressure Shiatsu is a blend of Acupressure (which puts more emphasis on specific acupressure points in treatment) and Shiatsu (which focuses on balancing the channels/meridians). To learn more clic Acupressure and Shiatsu.

What is Tuina?

Tuina techniques are used to treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal (orthopedic) and internal organ disorders by opening stagnant meridian channels and encouraging the flow of qi into deficient areas. To learn more clic Tuina.

What is Medical/Clinical Qigong?

Medical/Clinical Qigong refers to a wide series of therapeutic methods, including breath training, psychosomatic exercises, meditation, and guided visualizations that direct the practitioners to create a place of health and balance in their clients. To learn more click Medical/Clinical Qigong.

It might be helpful to elaborate on the term Medical Qigong, that has become more commonly used to describe both Qigong the exercise, also known as “Health Qigong,” which can refer to a personal practice and/or a teacher student relationship. Clinical Qigong however refers to a practitioner of Qigong in a clinical setting. The AOBTA refers to this as “Medical Qigong.” Below I have included excerpt descriptions provided by the National Qigong Association (NQA). To learn more click, NQA “What is Qigong?”

A Note On The Term "Medical Qigong”

Due to the breadth and richness of the many applications of the words “medical” and “medicine” in the Qigong context, the NQA has consciously removed the term "Medical Qigong" from its descriptions above. The definition of “Medical Qigong” ranges from clinically-oriented Qigong with a certified professional to a personal practice of Qigong for health maximization or a medical challenge. However, the NQA recognizes and supports those who use the term "Medical Qigong" in honoring their distinct tradition or understanding of the phrase.

Health Qigong: A self-cultivation practice to prevent dis-ease and to improve, sustain, and maximize overall wellbeing.

Clinical Qigong: A practice where the teaching of self-cultivation and clinical applications are intertwined throughout a curriculum wherein clinical abilities develop as personal cultivation evolves.

Martial Qigong: A practice that increases one’s defensive and offensive martial abilities.

Spiritual Qigong: A unity practice to increase a practitioner’s connection to the transpersonal—heaven, earth, humanity, and source.

What are common Adjunct Therapies used in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Adjunct Therapies include, but are not limited to, magnet therapy, moxibustion, cupping, herbal plasters, liniments and corrective exercises such as Sôtai and Qigong (also known as Health Qigong).

The Asian Bodywork Therapy Profession

Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) includes the energy-based bodywork therapies that originated in Asia and share a common Chinese Medicine foundation. These therapies are referred to as the ABT Forms.

The United States Department of Education recognizes Asian Bodywork Therapy as a distinct professional training program (Classification of Instructional Programs) and the established ABT professional entry-level curriculum specifically trains ABT professionals in the Chinese Medicine principles for assessing and treating the client's energetic system for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health. This primary focus on treating the energetic system from a Chinese Medical perspective distinguishes it as a distinct professional scope of practice.

Sometimes, the training programs for other therapeutic bodywork professions may include instruction in some of the techniques unique to ABT Forms or in the basic principles of Chinese Medicine. This instruction may enable those practitioners to claim that they incorporate some techniques of an ABT Form or some principles of Chinese Medicine into their therapeutic bodywork or massage therapy practice, but it does not qualify them to claim that they practice any one of the ABT Forms or the ABT profession.

MA State Licensing Requirements

Although graduates of our Asian Bodywork Therapy Program may apply for a massage license in their state or town, Acupressure Shiatsu is more closely aligned with the East Asian medical community (Acupuncture, etc.) than with the massage therapy community.

In Massachusetts ABT is currently excluded from the state massage license enacted in 2008 and is not considered “massage” since ABT works with the meridian and acupoint system of energy medicine. Therefore graduates do not need to be state licensed under massage. They are able to practice ABT with their AOBTA® and/or NCCAOM® national credentials. In Massachusetts some towns may license bodywork therapies or other manual therapies not considered “massage”.

Applicants and Students will have the opportunity to discuss professional goals and regulatory requirements. Graduates are advised to check with the city, town and state when setting up their practice to ensure compliance with current regulations.

ATI Graduates

Graduates of this program will be professional practitioners capable of assessing, evaluating, treating and following the care of the individual. The aim is to develop not only technical expertise but also self-development as a healer. We wish our graduates to be healers in the global sense, able to foster peace and health within themselves in order to share it with others.

ATI is now accepting applications for our 2023-24 Professional Asian Bodywork Therapy training program.

ADMISSIONS

Length of the Acupressure Shiatsu Training Program

The AcupressureTherapy Institute offers a 730-hour program for professional training in Asian bodywork therapy that may be completed in 16 months. Classes are scheduled two evenings a week and one weekend a month for intensive submersion. Elective classes will be scheduled as weekend workshops.

The Acupressure Therapy Institute (ATI) offers a comprehensive professional training in Asian Bodywork Therapy, specifically Acupressure Shiatsu, with separate tracks for Tuina and Medical/Clinical Qigong.

Applications

The Acupressure Therapy Institute accepts applications on an ongoing basis. Admission into the program is based on the applicant’s genuine interest in studying Asian BodyworkTherapy, as well as, the applicant’s ability to meet the demands of a serious course of study.

To be considered for the program, applicants must:

1. Submit a Student Application and Statement of Intent.

2. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have obtained at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

3. Provide official documentation of degrees earned.

4. $50 non-refundable Application Fee.

5. Arrange an Interview.

For questions and to learn more contact:

Lauren Paap, President/Director

Hello@AcupressureTherapyInstitute.com - Note! This email address is currently not working properly.

In the meantime, please use my clinic email address at Lauren@Inspired-Thought.com.

(617) 942-1271

Non-Discrimination Policy

The Acupressure Therapy Institute welcomes individuals 18 years or older. The school is an academic community dedicated to openness, tolerance and respect. ATI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or physical handicap.

Exemptions and Advanced Standing

Students able to demonstrate advanced training through prior study or professional training may petition for exemption from core curriculum classes which cover that material. Petitions must include appropriate documentation; and students must satisfactorily pass a written equivalency exam and demonstrate practical proficiency by giving the instructor a treatment.

Approval is granted at the discretion of the instructor and director of the program. A $75 fee will be charged for the evaluation of such a petition.

Credit for classes other than core curriculum classes will be considered if having been completed within the five year period before the date of application for admissions at the Acupressure Therapy Institute.Approval will be based on written petition, proper documentation and discretion of the instructor and program director.

Classes which require a practical proficiency component (i.e. Tai Chi, Qigong, Adjunct Therapies, etc.) will require a practical exam for evaluation at a fee of $50.

Auditing Courses

Students may apply to audit individual classes. Acceptance is by consent of the instructor. Courses taken on an audit basis fulfill no curricular requirements. If you audit a course, you attend classes but do not turn in assignments or take exams. No grade is issued and you do not receive credit for the course.

An audit is useful: (1) if you want a review of an area you are already knowledgeable in, or; (2) if you are interested in attending specific classes but not interested in certification. Tuition is reduced for auditing classes.

Should you audit a course and later need it for credit, you will be required to register for the course with full tuition and complete all assignments and exams.

Program Schedule

The Acupressure Therapy Institute is gearing up to welcome its next training cycle. While we are preparing to start spring 2024, core classes will begin after a minimum of 12 students successfully enroll. Students are encouraged to get a head start by completing a college or university Anatomy and Physiology class in advance.

We also offer Western Body, Eastern Mind: Integrated Anatomy & Physiology which you can start at any time.

Please note that if you plan on enrolling in Acupuncture school in the future, we suggest taking a college or university level A&P course as the Western Body, Eastern Mind course will not qualify. If future transfer credit is not an issue, then you may enjoy a class taught by someone knowledgeable in both the east and western traditions.

TUITION AND FEES

Details for tuition costs, payment plans and other student costs will be posted soon.

ACADEMIC POLICIES

Certification Requirements

The Acupressure Therapy Institute awards a certification of completion in Acupressure Shiatsu Therapy to students who have met the certificate requirements. A nominal fee will be charged for the printing of the certificate to be awarded at time of graduation.The certificate will be awarded to students who meet the following requirements:

1. The satisfactory completion of the required number of hours.

2. Satisfactory completion of all course requirements.

3. A cumulative letter grade of C (grade point average of 2.0) or better.

4. A satisfactory record of student comportment.

5. Payment of all fees and tuition owed to the Acupressure Therapy Institute.

Grading System

Each faculty member clearly states the grading policy on the course syllabus. Grading is at the discretion of the individual faculty member in accordance with the grading policy approved by the program director. Students will receive a full grade report and evaluation at the end of each class. Students must satisfactorily complete each course before being allowed to enroll in the next level of study. Students who receive a failing grade will be required to repeat that course at full tuition rates and fulfill any requirements deemed necessary by the instructor, before continuing to the next level of study. Non-core curriculum classes may be offered on a pass/fail basis.

Final grades are issued to students in letter grades as follows:

Examinations

Student evaluations will be determined from written and practical examinations throughout each course. The purpose of examinations is to aid the student in ascertaining their own level of proficiency and knowledge.

Make-up Exams

Make-up of final examinations must be arranged with the instructor involved. No charge will be made to students who present a valid doctor’s certificate of illness or family emergency. A make-up exam fee may be assessed in all other cases.

Tutoring

ATI is committed to supporting students in the completion of their academic course of study. Students who are experiencing difficulty or who have been identified by faculty as having difficulty are encouraged to consider private tutoring with instructors or graduates. It is ultimately the student’ s responsibility to make arrangements with the tutor for time and fees.

Termination, Withdrawal and Leave of Absence

The administration reserves the right to request the termination of a student at any time to maintain the academic standards of the program or for any reasons deemed appropriate. The student shall be accorded the right to an appeals process. A written appeal may be submitted for review by the administration, and if deemed suitable, the student may be granted a probationary period to be determined by the faculty before consideration of readmittance into the program.

Students wishing to withdraw from the program voluntarily must apply in writing.The effective date of withdrawal to be used to determine any refund per the refund policy will be the date the application is mailed. Failure to attend classes or merely giving notice to the instructor is not considered an official withdrawal.

Students needing a leave of absence for special circumstances may make arrangements on an individual basis; upon resuming their academic studies, any changes in program requirements will apply for completion of the program.

Attendance and Tardiness

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and special seminars as required. Approval from the instructor is necessary for more than two absences.All class materials, practicums and exams must be satisfactorily made-up to receive a passing grade for the course. Students are asked to make necessary arrangements to avoid any tardiness to scheduled classes. Should a student be consistently tardy to class without reasonable explanation or instructor approval, a warning and probationary period will be invoked.

Should the situation not improve, formal complaints may be brought before the administration. Attendance records will be maintained in order to provide verification if needed. Attendance and class participation is a percentage of the final grade in each course.

Conduct, Attire and Personal Hygiene

Students are expected to respect and uphold the academic policies of the program. Students are expected to conduct themselves with appropriate demeanor, suitable attire and hygiene. Hands should be clean at all times and nails must be trimmed short. Students will be expected to wear whites for participation in the student public clinic.

Teacher to Student Ratio

Class size will be limited to 24 students.

Guidance & Counseling

The Acupressure Therapy Institute provides guidance and counseling to support both personal and professional aspects of the student’s life. We are invested in your personal and professional success and want your time with us to be successful.

Private consultations with the Director or pertinent faculty members are arranged to discuss options available to the students in need of counseling. Discussions may include a student taking a leave-of-absence, maternity-leave, or withdrawal from the program. It may also include listening to student’s personal life challenges that might impact performance at ATI.

Appropriate recommendations and referrals will be made to support the student’s mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.

Job Placement

The Acupressure Therapy Institute shares with its students and graduates any job listings or employment opportunities that have been sent to the school. This information is made readily available to the students. Job placement is not guaranteed.

Career Options and Job Placement

Many practitioners like the creativity and flexibility of being self-employed, working out of their home or renting office space. There are many holistic office spaces that create a sense of community, often with opportunities to sub-let while you grow your private practice.

For those seeking gainful employment, there are an array of options available. The Acupressure Therapy Institute shares with its students and graduates any job listings or employment opportunities that have been sent to the school. This information is made readily available to the students, however job placement is not guaranteed.

Asian Bodywork Therapy is still a relatively unknown profession in the United States, so while these options are available, if professional employment is important to you after graduation talk with me, Lauren to discuss viable paths. Like Acupuncture and Massage Therapy, that were emerging professions only a short time before, there is a wonderful opportunity to be on the leading edge of potential.

Library Resources

ATI has a growing library and expanding resources for students to access. This enables students to research reference materials to write their thesis required for graduation. It also offers the opportunity to explore topics of interest within the Chinese medicine field and related areas.

When possible textbooks can be checked out for a period of time. Limited editions and out of print copies can only be used on-site. We take great care of our collection, and ask that our students do the same, so that these treasures can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Donations: We are grateful to our colleagues and teachers who have generously contributed to our collection of books and resources. If you are interested in adding to our collection please contact Lauren Paap, President and Director of the Acupressure Therapy Institute.

Complaints Process

Formal complaints by students or faculty shall be processed by the administration as follows: complaints must be submitted in writing and an appointment made with the administration for initial discussion, after which the administration will make such arrangements as is necessary for satisfactorily resolving conflicts through arbitration of the involved parties.

Work Study

The Acupressure Therapy Institute is working to create work study opportunities. Please inquire if interested.

Student and Client Records

All student academic records are confidential. Student information shall be released only at the written request of the student. Students may gain access to their records by appointment with the administration. Patient records from the student public clinic will be kept in confidentiality and will not be released without written consent from the client.

Changes to Schedule, Class Cancellations and Snow Days

The Acupressure Therapy Institute reserves the right to cancel any course that does not meet its minimum enrollment by the registration deadline date. In the event of cancellation, full refunds will be granted or tuition credit applied toward another course.

In case of inclement weather or unusual circumstances, classes will be rescheduled or when possible, held on-line.

The winter class calendar will reserve extra teaching days to be used for make-up in case of class cancellations due to snow.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

The Acupressure Shiatsu (740-hrs) Professional Training Program

Acupressure Shiatsu Certification Program The Acupressure Therapy Institute offers a 603-hour program for professional training in Asian Bodywork Therapy that may be completed in 16-months. See co-requisites required to complete certification.*

Classes are scheduled two evenings a week with one weekend per month for intensive submersion.

The curriculum and course descriptions are as follows:

Clinical Requirements

The Acupressure Therapy Institute requires students to attend a minimum of 100-hours in supervised student treatment clinic.

Students will be required to obtain liability insurance before participating in the student clinic ($2,000,000 coverage is available to students for $25 per year at Massage Magazine Insurance Plus). To qualify for this discount you must be an AOBTA® Student Member in good standing.

Students participate in two on-site clinics:

1. A Chair Acupressure Shiatsu Clinic during Level 3 gives the opportunity for students to develop confidence in giving Acupressure Shiatsu in short sessions to clients in a seated position.

2. Student Acupressure Shiatsu Clinic during Level 5 prepares students in applying theory and technique in a practical setting and gives students confidence and experience for opening their private practices upon graduation.

Massage Magazine Insurance Plus: Student Insurance - Select “Asian Bodywork”
https://www.massageliabilityinsurancegroup.com/partners/massage-magazine-insurance-plus-aobta/

American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia ®

AOBTA®: Student Application
https://aobta.org/page/Student

AOBTA® Student Membership: At a Glance
https://aobta.org/page/Student_Landing_Page?&hhsearchterms=%22insurance%22

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

Core Classes in Asian Bodywork Therapy

These will emphasize Acupressure Shiatsu and consist of 5 Levels, 50 hours of independent case studies and a final thesis. Each Level will include theory, demonstration and hands-on application.

Level 5 students will participate in a Student Acupressure Clinic. As advanced students, they will be able to take client histories, do assessments based on interviewing, observation and palpation skills and to plan appropriate treatments for individual clients.

Student clinics will be supervised by an instructor at all times. A description of the 5 Levels of core classes follows. Refer to the calendar schedule available online for semester details.

Level 1a: Fundamentals Of Acupressure Shiatsu (72 hours)

Students will learn a whole body shiatsu form. Concepts of yin and yang, qi, blood and fluid will be presented including their correlation with the channel system. Students will learn the theory of the 12 main channels; their anatomical locations, functions, correlations with the diurnal and five phase cycles, and interrelationships. Location and energetics of major acupoints will be learned. Students will be introduced to the four basics of assessment skills - asking, looking, listening and touching.

Level 1b: Acupressure Point Location (33 hours)

The anatomical location and energetic functions of approximately 60 major acupoints will be learned. The pathways of the twelve major channels will be reviewed. Emphasis will be placed on developing kinesthetic skills and sensitivity of touch.

Level 2: Theoretical Foundations & Intermediate Shiatsu (72 hours)

Assessment skills including pulse, tongue, abdominal and back palpation are continued. Concepts of zang-fu theory are presented with differentiation of patterns. Advanced shiatsu techniques include side position and use of elbows, knees and foot. Treatment forms for specific conditions common to zang-fu patterns are learned with an introduction to combining acupoints.

Level 3: Traditional Chinese Medicine Patterns & Clinical Acupressure I (69 hrs)

Zang-fu organ pathologies and aetiologies are continued. Common patterns will be studied for each of the major organs. Acupressure treatment patterns will be discussed and presented for common clinical conditions often seen in practice ie. headaches, PMS, dysmenorrhea, asthma, low back pain, etc. Students will learn how to identify, differentiate, and create a treatment plan for specific conditions. The appropriate use of adjunct therapies including magnet treatment, sôtai, and moxibustion will be explored.

A Chair Acupressure Shiatsu Clinic during Level 3 gives the opportunity for students to develop confidence in giving Acupressure Shiatsu in short sessions to clients in a seated position.

Level 4: Clinical Acupressure II & Extraordinary Vessel Acupressure (69 hours)

The study of common clinical conditions is continued. Theoretics of the Extraordinary Vessel system will be presented. Students will learn abdominal palpation patterns for differentiation and assessment for the 8 Extraordinary Vessels. Acupressure patterns will be presented for specific treatment of imbalance in the Extraordinary Vessels which can treat the deep energetic source or “root.”

Assessment and Practicum Review (27 Hours)

A review of assessment techniques and practical clinical treatments are practiced in preparation for the student clinic experience in the fifth semester.

Level 5a: Introduction to Clinic (9 hours)

The logistics and procedures of making appointments and running the student clinic will be reviewed. Forms and procedures for keeping case histories on clients in clinic will be provided. In addition, proper and ethical conduct will be discussed, as well as, problems that might arise in a clinic setting. Intro to clinic will be scheduled before the spring and fall student clinics.

Level 5b: Student Treatment Clinic (97 hours)

A supervised student clinic open to the public by appointment will prepare the student for opening their practice after graduation. Students will be responsible for making appointments, setting up the clinic and receiving clients. In addition, students will do client intakes, evaluate and assess the presenting condition, carry out a full treatment and plan follow-up care. Emphasis will be on developing a professional manner and gaining experience in dealing with the diversity of situations that commonly arise in a clinic setting.

Case histories will be reviewed and discussed on a regular basis throughout clinic.

Independent Case Histories (50 hours)

Throughout the five levels of study, students will be required to write up case histories on clients that are followed outside of class, as well as, on clients followed in the student treatment clinic.

The case histories will reflect the student’s increasing knowledge and ability to assess, evaluate and plan treatments.Group discussions will assure a deeper understanding of individual cases and will explore the best treatment options that can be offered including adjunct therapies and client education. A total of 50 case histories will be submitted and/or presented for review by an instructor.

Final thesis (14 hours)

A final thesis is required at the end of the core curriculum classes. It must be at least five typewritten pages and include an introduction, research results, discussion, and a reference bibliography. The topic may be any special field of interest in Asian Bodywork Therapy approved by the instructor. A presentation to the class will be required.

Adjunct Therapies (30 hours)

Adjunct therapies to the practice ofAsian BodyworkTherapy include Sôtai (Japanese corrective exercises),magnet therapy, moxibustion (a special Asian herbal heat therapy), liniments and poultices, cupping and gwasha. The history, theory and principles of technique will be presented through lecture, demonstration, and practical application. When appropriate adjunct therapies may be used in the student treatment clinic with instructor supervision.

Business Management (20 hours)

Business management is taught so that students will be capable of setting clear professional goals and will have the tools and knowledge to achieve them. Pertinent legal considerations, licensing and professional organizations will be covered.

Practical aspects of how to start a small business will be taught along with successful management practices. Students will be prepared upon graduation to have the know-how to successfully establish themselves as professional practitioners.

Ethics (13 hours)

The professional ethics requirement is designed to help students to prepare for ethical decision-making in professional practice. It is also designed to aid students in developing their emerging professional identities and also to encourage students to maintain the highest standards of ethical and professional practice.

The course content will include such topics as: regulation of the profession and code of ethics, issues of boundaries in relation to bodywork, interpersonal aspects of the therapeutic relationship, responsibilities of the therapist, emotional and psychological factors in physical illness.

Research (15 hours)

The research requirement is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of how to locate, read, and critically analyze scientific research articles. Students will learn how to find quality research articles; how to identify and interpret various components of a research article including: theory, hypothesis, constructs, variables, and measurement; and how to assess the usability and impact of the scientific evidence presented in each article.

Contraindications

Guidelines for safe practice and proper contraindications are integrated in each Level and discussed in class.

PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

The Acupressure Therapy Institute is gearing up to welcome its next training cycle. While we are preparing to start spring 2024, core classes will begin after a minimum of 12 students successfully enroll. Students are encouraged to get a head start by completing a college or university Anatomy and Physiology class in advance.

We have also partnered with Bodymind Treasures to offer an Anatomy and Physiology class that helps ground students in the paradigms of the east and west. We highly recommend Western Body, Eastern Mind: Integrated Anatomy & Physiology which you can start at any time.

Please note that if you plan on enrolling in Acupuncture school in the future, we suggest taking a college or university level A&P course as the Western Body, Eastern Mind course will not qualify. If future transfer credit is not an issue, then you may enjoy a class taught by someone knowledgeable in both the east and western traditions.

We welcome you to reach out to speak with us so that we can help you assess the best path for you.

CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE
QUALIFIED COURSES AND INSTRUCTORS

Anatomy and Physiology (100 hours)

A comprehensive study of western human anatomy and physiology of all the major systems is required for certification. ATI offers a course titled, Anatomy and Physiology: Western Body, Eastern Mind (below) designed specifically for bodyworkers and introduces eastern perspectives to A&P. This is a 35-chapter, 100-hour online pre-recorded program that can be started at anytime and includes regular individual phone sessions with the instructor.

Alternatively A&P may be completed by attending a course at a local college. Exemptions are possible if transcripts show that you have successfully completed 100 hrs. of A&P within five years of enrollment.

To Register, Visit (On-line Course): Western Body, Eastern Mind: Integrated Anatomy & Physiology.

While it can be completed before (highly recommended) or after the core training program, this course must be completed for students to qualify for graduation. It is also important to know that while this course meets the requirements for professional ABT training, the DOE distinguishes different criteria for vocational vs university level science courses, therefore it does not meet the requirements for professional Acupuncture training. Also, if you have successfully completed a comparable course within the last 5-years you may be eligible to waive this course.

While I (Lauren Paap, ATI Program Director) highly recommend this program (I have attended both!) please talk with me about your short and long term professional aspirations before enrolling in this course. That said, Deborah does a fabulous job of teaching A&P in a way that makes it relevant and come alive for East Asian Medicine students. I wish all of my graduate level science teachers had taken this class! I know I will be taking this class again.

Note to Students: This class does not qualify for transfer credit to another institution. If you plan to continue your studies, we recommend taking an college or university accredited course. While we are preparing to start the core program in spring of 2023, this winter is a wonderful time to get a jump on your education.

Note to professionals: This class qualifies for NCCAOM PDAs.

Electives (32 hours)

Elective classes offer the student the opportunity to focus on areas of special interest. Info on seminars and workshops will be announced in class and posted online. Please check with us before enrolling in a class that you plan to use for credit towards graduation. Most NCCAOM approved courses will qualify, including courses offered by our sister organization, Eastern Medicinal Therapies Education Center.

First Aid and CPR (10 hours)

Standard First Aid with Adult CPR is required for certification. This course is taught by the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross. Note: If there is enough interest by students to fill minimum enrollment classes can be scheduled at ATI.

BOOKS AND SUPPLIES

Book Stores
Amazon - Redwing Press - Singing Dragon - Thrift Books
We are working to develop affiliate links, the proceeds of which we will use towards a scholarship fund.

Shiatsu Theory and Practice 3rd Edition
by Carola Beresford-Cooke (Author), Thomas Myers (Foreword)

Publisher: ‎ Singing Dragon; 3rd edition (June 21, 2022)

Language: ‎English Paperback: ‎411 pages ISBN-10: ‎183997530 XISBN-13: ‎978-1839975301

Purchase Links: Amazon

The Book of Shiatsu: Vitality and Health Through the Art of Touch
by Paul Lundberg (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Atria Books (February 11, 2014)

Language: ‎English Paperback: ‎ 192 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 9781476765266 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1476765266

Purchase Links: Amazon

The Ethics of Touch: The Hands-on Practitioner's Guide to Creating a Professional, Safe, and Enduring Practice Paperback
by Cherie Sohnen-Moe Ben E Benjamin PhD (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Sohnen-Moe Associates (September 16, 2020)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 379 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 1882908449 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1882908448

Purchase Links: Amazon

Business Mastery: A Guide for Creating a Fulfilling, Thriving Business and Keeping It Successful 4th Edition
by Cherie Sohnen-Moe (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Sohnen-Moe Associates, Inc; 5th edition (January 1, 2016)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 516 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 1882908058 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1882908059

Purchase Links: Amazon

Oakworks Nova Treatment Table Packages

We recommend the Oakworks Nova Treatment Table with the following specifications.

Width: 31”
Corners: Rectangular (not rounded)
Padding: Semi - firm
Working Weight: 550 lbs
Stool Hight: High
Carrying Case: Professional
Table Warmer: Oakworks (quality)

Sample Table Package: https://massageworld.com/massage-tables/oakworks-nova-massage-table-packages/

Please note: Treatment tables are not required the first semester of school. We recommend speaking with someone before purchasing to ensure you are getting the best tools for your practice. Our first semester we will be working on the floor using traditional Shiatsu Mats.

Other items to purchase when setting up your professional practice will include items from the following list. Again, we recommend you wait to purchase until you have had the chance to experience the equipment that we provide at the school to see which items suit your personal taste and style of practice.
Pillows: Neck and Ankle
Bolsters: Pregnancy and Body
Linens: Table, Face and Pillow Covers
Optional: Table Warmer, Step Stool, Shiatsu Mats.

RECOMMENDED
BOOKS AND SUPPLIES

Take Five: The Five Elements Guide to Health and Harmony
by Pamela Ferguson (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Newleaf (January 1, 2000)

Language: ‎English Paperback: ‎192 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0717128709 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0717128709

Purchase Links: Amazon Redwing Press

Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine Paperback
by Harriet Beinfield (Author), Efrem Korngold (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Ballantine Books (June 30, 1992)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 448 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0345379748 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0345379740

Purchase Links: Amazon

The Web That Has No Weaver: Understanding Chinese Medicine
by Ted Kaptchuk

Publisher: ‎ McGraw Hill; 2nd edition (May 2, 2000)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 528 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0809228408 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0809228409

Purchase Links: Amazon

The Spark in the Machine: How the Science of Acupuncture Explains the Mysteries of Western Medicine
by Dr. Daniel Keown (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Singing Dragon; 1st edition (March 21, 2014)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 304 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 1848191960 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1848191969

Purchase Links: Amazon - Singing Dragon -

Applied Channel Theory in Chinese Medicine Wang Ju-Yi's Lectures on Channel Therapeutics Illustrated Edition
by Wang Ju-Yi (Author), Jason Robertson (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Eastland Press; Illustrated edition (April 14, 2008)

Language: ‎ English Hardcover: ‎ 718 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0939616629 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0939616626

Purchase Links: Amazon

The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text
by Giovanni Maciocia CAc(Nanjing) (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Churchill Livingstone; 3rd edition (July 27, 2015)

Language: ‎ English Hardcover: ‎ 1320 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0702052167 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0702052163

Purchase Links: Amazon

Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Guide
by Giovanni Maciocia CAc(Nanjing) (Author)

Publisher:‎ Churchill Livingstone; 2nd edition (June 6, 2018)

Language: ‎ English Hardcover: ‎ 1128 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 9780702044144 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0702044144

Purchase Links: Amazon

Trail Guide to the Body: A hands-on guide to locating muscles, bones and more
by Andrew Biel (Author)

Publisher: ‎ Books of Discovery; 6th edition (September 1, 2019)

Language: ‎ English Spiral-bound: ‎ 230 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0991466675 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0991466672

Purchase Links: Amazon

RECOMMENDED
BOOKS FOR TEACHING ASSISTANTS

Sand to Sky: Conversations with Teachers of Asian Medicine
by Pamela Ferguson (Author), Debra Persinger (Contributor)

Publisher: ‎ iUniverse, Inc.; 0 edition (January 30, 2008)

Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 230 pages ISBN-10: ‎ 0595445152 ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0595445158

Purchase Links: Amazon

RECOMMENDED
DIGITAL RESOURCES

A Manual of Acupuncture
We highly recommend getting the Manual of Acupuncture. You will use it frequently in your practice. With detailed exposition of the names, locations, indications and actions of every point, it is characterized by hundreds of beautiful and anatomically exacting illustrations (one for every point), lengthy commentaries on the points, numerous point combinations drawn from classical texts and comprehensive indexes.

Purchase Links: https://amanualofacupuncture.com/digital-membership/

TCM Clinic Aid
Good for the student who is considering Acupuncture school and/or wants to expand their TCM knowledge. Customizable: Acu-Points (Body, Scalp, Ear, Tung), Symptoms, Nutrition, Materia Medica (herbs), Tongue, Pulse, Six-Stages, etc.

Purchase Link: https://cyberandsons.com/

TCM Tests
The Student-College Subscription can be helpful to prepare for foundations and point location and function tests. That said the Manual of Acupuncture is sufficient for your needs as an Asian Bodywork Therapy student. Your college subscription includes basic study material for the four modules (acupuncture, foundations, biomedicine and herbology). It is designed and recommended for first, second, and third year students studying academic material, learning how to take online tests, and preparing for other high value examinations in their school setting. Perfect for students thinking of going to acupuncture school and those who enjoy deepening their understanding of TCM.

Purchase Links: https://www.tcmtests.com/