Course Descriptions

Bodywork

Principles of Structural Integration

Prior to touching a patient’s body, students must learn how to analyze the body’s structural relationship through observation and touch. Principles of Structural Integration focuses on how to use myofascial length testing (MFLT) and functional analysis in order to plan a course of treatment.

Techniques of Structural Integration

In this hands-on course, students learn how to apply the techniques of Structural Integration. Students will learn to systematically improve the structural balance of the human body using myofascial manipulation techniques. This course also emphasizes effective biomechanics in the delivery of the work. Structural Integration Practicum Students apply their skills and knowledge by delivering a Structural Integration series to models and each other under direct supervision of instructors.

Movement

Human Evolution and Gravity/Embryology: An overview of the development of human form and function, emphasizing psychological and cultural factors that interfere with optimal movement development.

Introduction to Structural Movement

As an introduction to basic movement principles and movement facilitation, students learn to analyze movement patterns in relation to the objectives of the Structural Integration sessions. Learning activities include lecture, demonstration, observation and practice sessions.

Body Awareness & Movement Lab I

In this course, students acquire new movement patterns through exercises. These exercises provide a foundation for increased movement awareness. To facilitate student learning, instructors also employ demonstration and video.

Structural Movement Practicum

In the Structural Movement Practicum, students learn to deepen their ability to analyze the client’s gait by observation. Under the direct supervision of instructors, students also begin the process of teaching effective movement lessons to others.

Ergonomics

This course examines movement during work, while at home, and while playing sports. The student learns how to evaluate and resolve issues of human biomechanics so as to affect optimal movement and functioning.

Communicating Movement Lessons

Students learn to assist clients in increasing their awareness of their bodie’s movements and movement patterns. This course includes practical applications of passive movement, video analysis, and how to communicate both verbal and kinesthetic movement lessons.

Psychology

Introduction to Psychological Inquiry

A survey of several major theories of psychological functioning, including Jung, Erikson, Reich, Stone, Body-Centered Psychotherapy, and Voice Dialogue.

Movement and Psychology

This course develops student’s understanding of the psychological language of structure, movement, and body language.

Fundamentals of Dialogue

In this course, students explore communication from a humanistic and transpersonal perspective. This lecture and lab course introduces students to the essential ingredients of effective facilitation. Key concepts introduced and practiced include creating emotional safety, presence, building rapport, congruence, active listening, and working with emotional release.

Intra/Interpersonal Communications

An exploration of the Voice Dialogue technique of the Psychology of Selves as a foundation for understanding communication. Students learn to increase their conscious presence while communicating with clients and themselves.

Anatomy and Physiology

Introduction to Body Systems/Physiology

This course familiarizes students with the systems of the human body and gives general descriptions of their structure and function; Includes lectures, slides, and Independent Study.

Structural and Functional Assessment I

In this course, students develop an understanding of how the musculoskeletal and connective tissue systems provide the functions of balance and alignment for the body. The course includes an overview of the extrinsic musculoskeletal components and connective tissues and their relationships. Primary teaching modes include lecture, observation, analysis and palpitations, and instructors will use regular oral inquiry to evaluate student understanding.

Structural and Fundamental Assessment II

This course continues the exploration of the musculoskeletal and connective tissue relationships by focusing on the body’s intrinsic musculature and connective tissues. Teaching methods and evaluation are the same as Structural and Fundamental Assessment I.

Myofascial Anatomy

Students will gain an understanding of the body’s fascial lines and fascial bands. This course covers the constituents of fascia, the relationships of fascia to muscle, superficial and deep fascia, fascial planes of the body, and connective tissues. Students also study the origins and insertions of all the major muscle groups. Teaching methods and evaluations are the same as Structural and Fundamental Assessment I and II.

Applied Human Anatomy/Physiology

In this class, students develop the ability to manually identify the muscles of the human body and to assess joint function including range of motion, end-feel qualities, and neuromuscular and myofascial restrictions. Palpation and demonstration are the primary learning activities. Students will observe and evaluate their own progress.

Pathology

Theory and Causes of Disease

This class, students study the causes of disease, with particular emphasis on pathologies affecting structural alignment and function. The course also covers basic terminology employed by medical professionals to discuss disease.

Business

Ethical Standards and Practices

This course covers the ethical responsibilities of Structural Medicine Specialists with regards to their clients and business practices. Topics also include basic business ethics and ethical decision making.

Introduction to Marketing

Based on successful marketing techniques employed by Institute’s faculty, this course prepares students to market their own practices.

Practice Development

In this class, students learn how to attract new clients, expand their businesses, and how to further develop professional skills.