Spa Therapy Curriculum
Featuring theoretical and practical instruction in four major areas of discipline and composed of 11 individually certified components, ASTECC’s 264 hour post graduate curriculum provides therapists with the integrative tools to effectively implement individualized, result oriented spa treatment programs. ASTECC is accredited by NCBTMB as a Category A CE provider (#049736-00).
Hydrotherapy
A discipline as old as spa itself, Hydrotherapy is the foundation of modern spa services. This 4 part, 74 hour curriculum explores the mechanical and biochemical principles of water, thermal constancy and the physio-chemical characteristics of mud and clay and provides practical instruction in a wide array of hydro inspired therapies.
Principles of Hydrotherapy and Thermalism
This two day course examines the mechanical and biochemical principles of water, the therapeutic benefits of hot and cold applications and the influence of temperature on the circulatory system. Practical training includes instruction in Sauna, Steam, Whirlpool, Cold Contrast, Vichy Shower, Compress Applications and basic tub treatments. (16 CE hours)
Thalassotherapy
The principle of thermal constancy and the innumerable health benefits of the marine climate are explored with special emphasis on the use of mineral rich seawater and marine plants in spa treatments. Practical training includes instruction in algae, salt and water treatments including Balneotherapy, Marine Wraps, Salt Glo and local applications. (24 CE hours)
The Principles of Mud and Fango
Considered the ‘living matter’ of our planet, mineral rich peloids (mud and clay) are effective in the therapeutic treatment of common ailments such as rheumatism, arthritis, general detoxification, cellulite reduction and muscular aches and pains. This 2 day program examines the physio-chemical characteristics of mud and clay, their biologically active compounds and the role of temperature and penetrability in various treatments. Practical training includes instruction in localized and general treatments including Parafango, Poultice Therapy, and various wraps. (16 CE hours)
Thermastone
Slow and deliberate in application, Stone Therapy utilizes warm and cool river stones to create a deep and penetrating massage. Based on the hydrotherapy principle of thermalism, Stone Therapy promotes tissue integrity, cleansing, deep relaxation and the balancing of the body’s energy centers. Training includes instruction in chakras, stone placement and structured routines for spa treatments. (18 CE hours)
Soft Tissue Therapies
Corresponding to the anatomy and physiology of organ function, this 3 part 60 hour program focuses on analysis and therapeutic treatment skills. Drawing from the disciplines of oriental diagnosis, constitutional analysis anddermatone reflexes, practical training emphasizes identifying organic imbalances(physical, emotional, constitutional) and instruction in corrective protocols and routines.
Reflexology
A rebalancing technique corresponding to the anatomy and physiology of organ function, reflexology is based on the principle the entire body may be accessed through specific reflexes. Rooted in ancient healing practices, reflexology addresses the body’s energy imbalances and serves as an adjunct to other spa modalities in determining a comprehensive spa treatment plan. Practical instruction emphasizes thumb and finger placement and structured routines for therapeutic treatments. (16 CE hours)
Aroma-Reflex Therapy
Drawing from both oriental diagnosis and constitutional analysis, this aromatic inspired, light touch therapy explores the connection between the emotional and physical body. Essential oils are introduced as the medium for treatment and re-balancing. Practical instruction emphasizes the application of ‘constitutional’ oils along pathways. (24 CE hours)
Connective Tissue
Based on the theory of dermatome reflexes, Elizabeth Dicke’s Connective Tissue method identifies and alleviates areas of compromised and congested tissue. Particularly suited for the treatment of circulatory problems (e.g., cellulite, spider veins and fluid retention) connective tissue massage promotes deep relaxation while addressing the somatic body. Practical training focuses on analysis and treatment skills and includes routines for the abdomen, lower back, and legs. (20 CE hours)
Dr. Vodder’s MLD
A precise, light-to-touch therapy recognized by both the international wellness and medical communities, Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is the perfect rejuvenation and rehabilitative therapy. Lecture details the anatomy and physiology of the lymph vessel system and the body’s transportation system. Practical training includes instruction in MLD treatment techniques and protocols for individual body parts. Offered in two components, candidates are awarded ASTECC credit and Dr.Vodder School Spa Body/ Wellness Certification.
Basic Body
Lecture details the anatomy and physiology of the lymph vessel system, the body’s transportation system, and fluid balance. Practical training includes instruction in MLD techniques and protocols for individual body parts. (40 CE hours)
Spa Body / Wellness
Focusing on the specific use of MLD in both a leisure and medical wellness settings, this 6 day course concentrates on treatment protocols for pre and post cosmetic surgery, dermatological indications, cellulite, fluid retention, trauma, sport injuries and lifestyle disorders. Prerequisite: Basic Body. (50 hours)
Bio-Chemical Elements
Understanding the role of bio-chemical elements of the human body and its relationship to food, environment and climate is an essential component of spa education. Students learn to identify the links between general constitutions and the corresponding elements found in spa treatments – links which bear considerable influence in the selection and the efficacy of spa treatments.
Bio-Chemical Elements
Focusing on the symbiotic relationship of general constitutions, bio-chemical elements, nutrition and environment, students are taught the skills to identify and develop bio-chemical treatment programs specific to the client’s constitutional needs.
(16 CE hours)
Personal Lifestyle Profile
Drawing on the ASTECC curriculum and serving as a practical workshop, students evaluate body types, general constitutions and medical histories to determine appropriate spa treatments and home regimes. As the final component of the spa therapy curriculum, students are assigned case histories and are instructed to develop a spa treatment plan based on the content of the ASTECC curriculum. (24 hours)
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