Introduction to Pregnancy Massage (6 CEUS)

Learn about "conscious conception & pregnancy"
Learn techniques for specific trimesters
Massage in the side lying position
Learn about massage with awareness of the baby on the inside
Learn the basic Do's and Dont's during Pregnancy

Sunday, August 19
Cost $125, Deposit $50, Register by to receive $15 off


Luna Wood, a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist and Doula of 16
years previously trained through DONA( Doulas of North America), ALACE
(Association of Labor Assistants & Childbirth Educators), and is
currently a Certified Massage Doula graduating from the advanced six
month Massage Doula program at the Star Institute. She is currently
teaching various programs at the Austin Schools of Massage and has 10
years of experience as an instructor specializing in pregnancy and
childbirth. She will be offering the Vidaluna Certification Series.

  Vidaluna Doula Certification Series(each
class is 3 days in duration). Dates and Times TBA.Graduates will
receive a Certificate of Completion and CEU credit for hours
completed. Optional Mentorship Program and Doula Certification
requirements will be offered.

Vidaluna Doula Certification Series includes:
Conception-Origin of the Starseed
Pregnancy- Sacred Journey
Birth & Bonding- Blessed Union in the Outer

Visit www.vidaluna.com or call 512.445.0020 for more information.

Prepare to become a Massage Therapy Instructor (MTI)

New State laws going into effect in September will dramatically increase the
need for
qualified instructors. Now is the time to get your credentials taken care of so
you can
become licensed. This class meets the State requirements for teaching adults as
an MTI.

There has already been a large response for the upcoming Sept. class. There are
only 8
spaces available. Call now to reserve your place.


Adult Learner Facilitation Class

Leverage your knowledge: teach CE classes or at a massage school

September 14 -17 , 2007
30 Texas & NCBTMB CE hours

$350 until 9/1
$395.00 thereafter
Advance registration required.


Call 512-448-2266 to register.
VISA or MC Accepted

http://www.resource-connection.net

This 30 hour course fulfills the Texas Department of State Health Services
requirement for
Massage Therapy Instructors. Participants will become familiar with learning
theories and
concepts, as well as classroom management skills and lesson planning. In
addition,
assessment tools will be incorporated to help potential instructors determine
their
teaching strengths and weaknesses. These tools will provide mechanisms which may
be
used to meet the learning needs of a variety of students.

The class includes a workbook containing reference material, assessment tools
and
sample exercises. Also included is a book specifically addressing classroom
management
skills, which will be used for the exercises which focus on behavior of students
in the
classroom.

Participants will have an opportunity to work in groups to problem solve as well
as share
insights.


Taught by: Michelle Burns, BSN, BS Alt. Med., LMT, MTI
Michelle Burns is a State of Texas approved CEU provider with over 15 years of
experience
as a massage therapist and massage therapy instructor for a wide variety of
subjects. She
has also taught classes for the public at several resort spas and continuing
education
classes in touch and aromatherapy for nurses. Her experience includes
supervising
massage therapy instructors and teaching them the skills they need for the
classroom. She
also teaches advanced technique classes in a variety of specialties.

Michelle Burns is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic
Massage
and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider.

Business Opportunity
I have a complete massage therapy business set up and ready to go.
Problem is I have no body to run it. I am looking for a licensed
massage therapist that can take the ball and run with this. The
business will concentrate on pregnant patients, however the general
public is of course welcome. I will fund the entire project including
office space, tools, linens, web site, brochures, business cards,
booking, etc… It's already set-up, I just need a self motivated go
getter that can get it done. I am willing to give a generous portion
of the fees collected. It is located inside an OB/GYN's office so
there are anywhere from 30-40 pregnant women passing through each day
and you can interact with the patients since we own the clinic. I had
it going and our wonderful therapist got pregnant herself. It will
take a special self directing, self motivated person to run this. The
possibility for expansion is present and eventually total management
control. The physical location is near downtown and within blocks of
the Metropolitan Methodist Hospital. If you feel you are this person
please call me and we can discuss more details.

George
279-9143

Hi Guys,

Texas.... HERE WE COME!!! Looks like the times will be April
25-26, 2009 in Central Texas. With all that area has to offer, I think
it's going to be a great start in Texas.

What do you think? What classes would you like to take?

Take care,
Mike

Prepare to become a Massage Therapy Instructor (MTI)  Class is in Austin

New State laws going into effect in September will dramatically increase the
need for
qualified instructors. Now is the time to get your credentials taken care of so
you can
become licensed. This class meets the State requirements for teaching adults as
an MTI.

Adult Learner Facilitation Class

Leverage your knowledge: teach CE classes or at a massage school

July 16 - 19 , 2007
30 CE  and NCBTMB hours

$395.00
Advance registration required.  There is still room for 2 in this class. You may
register
through Sunday, July 15 for this class.


Call 512-294-3271 to register.
VISA or MC Accepted

http://www.resource-connection.net

This 30 hour course fulfills the Texas Department of State Health Services
requirement for
Massage Therapy Instructors. Participants will become familiar with learning
theories and
concepts, as well as classroom management skills and lesson planning. In
addition,
assessment tools will be incorporated to help potential instructors determine
their
teaching strengths and weaknesses. These tools will provide mechanisms which may
be
used to meet the learning needs of a variety of students.

The class includes a workbook containing reference material, assessment tools
and
sample exercises. Also included is a book specifically addressing classroom
management
skills, which will be used for the exercises which focus on behavior of students
in the
classroom.

Participants will have an opportunity to work in groups to problem solve as well
as share
insights.


Taught by: Michelle Burns, BSN, BS Alt. Med., LMT, MTI
Michelle Burns is a State of Texas approved CEU provider with over 15 years of
experience
as a massage therapist and massage therapy instructor for a wide variety of
subjects. She
has also taught classes for the public at several resort spas and continuing
education
classes in touch and aromatherapy for nurses. Her experience includes
supervising
massage therapy instructors and teaching them the skills they need for the
classroom. She
also teaches advanced technique classes in a variety of specialties.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASSES
Pregnancy Massage, Sunday, 7/29/07, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Infant Massage,    Monday, 7/30/07, 10:00am - 4:00pm

PREGNANCY MASSAGE (6 Continuing Education Hours)
Pregnancy, labor and the birth process itself is one of the most
transformative events in a woman's life. It brings many physical,
psychological, social and spiritual changes. As therapists, we are
honored to be a part of this process and need to be prepared for the
special circumstances that arise with pregnancy massage. Learn to
support the expectant mother as you help her feel more at home with
her changing body and preparation for childbirth.
Class Covers:
-anatomy and physiology of pregnancy;
-contraindications and potential complications;
-side lying and semi-seated massage session;
-specific techniques for the 3 trimesters of pregnancy;
-acupressure and aromatherapy during pregnancy;
-plus marketing for individual clients and classes.

INFANT MASSAGE (6 Continuing Education Hours)
Clinical evidence shows that loving, nurturing massage for infants
has a positive impact on their physical and psychological
development. It is a very powerful means of communica-tion in a non-
verbal way, creating bonding between caregiver/mother/father/family
and baby.
Class Covers:
-anatomy and physiology of infancy;
-contraindications and potential complications;
-15 and 30 minute infant massage session;
-massage for minor childhood ailments;
-massage for infants with special needs;
-aromatherapy for infants and children
-plus marketing for individual clients and classes.

Cost of each class is $129 per class, if paid one week in advance;
$150 otherwise; $300 individual class; Credit Cards Accepted

These two classes will be held in Wimberley, Texas at 43 Deer Ridge
Road (between Austin and San Antonio (and 15 miles between San Marcos
and Dripping Springs).

Classes include lecture demonstration, hand-on practice, workbook and
Continuing Education Certificate. Instructor Janie Thorpe-Cooke is a
Licensed Massage Therapist, Massage Therapy Instructor and Continuing
Education Provider through the Texas Department of State Health
Services. She has a 20 year background in Holistic Health,
Therapeutic Massage, Pregnancy/Infant Massage, Sports Massage, Reiki,
Reflexology, Shiatsu, and Transformational Breathwork. She has
trained as a Birth Facilitator with experience in Water Birth and
Dolphin Research. In private practice for 15 years, Janie is the
owner of A Healing Touch and Advanced Bodywork Techniques. She has
developed the curriculum and textbooks for the above listed workshops
and has enthusiastically taught them since 1991.

For additional details, please go to:
http://www.janiethorpe.holisticlocal.com/courses, or
contact Janie Thorpe-Cooke at: 512/847-5899; 512/468-8498; or
e-mail: janie_cooke@...

Some of you have concerns about the meeting that was convened by a
group of stakeholders, consisting mainly of massage therapy school
owners, with the state agency that regulates them in Austin, Texas on
or about June 19th, 2007.

It seems the purpose of the meeting was to develop and/or provide
suggestions on policies before the State has developed the policy.

If you are such a person, you may be interested in this post.

The original meeting was not made public. In fact, we have heard of
some fellow therapists who happened to become aware of the meeting who
have stated that they "crashed the meeting". This verbiage suggest
that they were not invited and did not have any understanding that it
was an open meeting, but decided to be bold in their actions to
attend the meeting, despite not being invited.

At the meeting, we have heard that in attendance were stakeholders
mainly consisting of massage therapy school owners and three
representatives from the State of Texas, including Dan Meador of the
General Counsels Office.

The fact that Dan Meador is attending these meeting(s) suggests that
he may have a question about an actual conflict of interest, or a
perceived conflict of interest by the public about this group being
an advisory committee. If so, his concerns are certainly verified.

In fact, Vicki Matthews of the Texas Association of Massage
Therapists recently used the following words in one of her posts to
a major online user group within the Texas massage industry ...

<quote> "The AdHoc committee, which I like to call an advisory
committee …" <unquote>

Obviously, even senior members of the "AdHoc" committee consider
themselves an Advisory Committee.

In addition, just yesterday, we saw a post to a user group by
an individual who grades practical exams for the Texas Department of
State Health Services who stated that he received an e-mail stating
that "the last practical exam will be given in August". He went on to
state that "this surprised me, because I had heard anyone in school
before Sept. 1 still had to take the practical, once they finished."
He went on to ask the AdHoc/Advisory committee why the practical is
being discontinued after August.

Indeed, even someone who does work for the Texas Department of State
Health Services is turning to this AdHoc/Advisory committee, rather
than his contacts within the State of Texas, to obtain answers to
legislative issues. Truly, he must believe that the AdHoc/Advisory
committee is calling the shots within TDSHS.

Why is this important? Read on.

We have heard that TDSHS has not designated this body as an advisory
committee. However, even if DSHS is attending a meeting where
stakeholder input is being taken, it should be a public meeting
regardless of who convenes it.

The group in question is making specific recommendations to DSHS for
the development of policy, procedures and rules, not providing
stakeholder input into draft rules, policy, or procedures that have
already been developed. As such, they are acting in an advisory
capacity to DSHS, regardless of whether DSHS convened them or not.

Because the original meeting was not open to the public, it has
created a perceived conflict of interest. Indeed, this advisory body
has provided stakeholder input, and proposed policy, procedure, or
rules to DSHS under which they would directly benefit. As a result,
the State of Texas Sunshine Statutes and Conflict of Interest Laws
should apply as they are codified.

By law, the Texas Department of State Health Services should only
implement rules that meet the requirements of the law. However,
should TDSHS adopt rules that exceed the requirement law, anyone can
request a judicial review. In such reviews, if it is found that TDSHS
has exceeded the requirements of the law, the rules will be dismissed.

I urge you to read the suggested rule changes being submitted by this
AdHoc/Advisory Committee and any other person and committee. Indeed,
many of the suggested rule changes exceed the requirements of the law.

I urge you to take the following actions:

1) Read and become aware of the new massage therapy law. You may read
the new law here:
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/html/HB02644F.htm

2) Develop and submit your recommended rules to the Texas Department
of State Health Services. Your submission can be sent via US Mail to:

Massage Therapy Licensing Program
Texas Department of State Health Services MC-1982
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, TX 78756

Or, my e-mail to: massage@...

3) Become aware of any and all submitted suggestions for rule changes
by submit an "open records request" to the State of Texas and ask the
following:

"I request to be notified of the public comment period on any and all
drafted policy and/or rules based on HB2644. In addition, I request a
copy of any and all recommended and suggested rule changes and any
other material provided to the State of Texas to date and in the
future by any person, group, and/or committee."

An open records request can be made at the following URL:
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/plc/plc_open.shtm

4) If you are concerned about the suggested rule changes by
AdHoc/Advisory Committee, submit the following the Texas Department
of State Health Services:

"I understand that a meeting, which was not publicly announced, was
convened by a group of stakeholders, consisting mainly of massage
therapy school owners, with the state agency that regulates them. It
seems the purpose of the meeting was to develop and/or provide
suggestions on policies before the State has developed the policy. I
have seen posts to a user group that suggests that the public views
this group as a State of Texas sanctioned "Advisory Committee".
Indeed, there is a perceived conflict of interest. As a result, the
State of Texas Sunshine Statutes and Conflict of Interest Laws should
apply as they are codified. In addition, I urge the Texas Department
of State Health Services to implement rules that meet the
requirements of the law. However, should TDSHS adopt rules that
exceed the requirement law, judicial review may be necessary."

Your submission can be sent via e-mail to:
massage@...

5) Within the public comment period, voice your concerns about any
rule(s) that exceed the requirements of the law.

In Service,
Brad Stevens
http://www.novocupido.com

Classes are filling quickly, so be sure to register early!
16 NCBTMB-approved CEUs for only $150.00

Where else can you beat that price AND the instructor lineup we have?!?

Classes will be taught by Bruce Baltz, Brita Ostrom, Michael Buck,
Laurie Azzarella and Nathalie Cecelia.

Check it all out at the http://www.worldmassagefestival.com

Join us at the 2nd Annual World Massage Festival, get CEUs in some of
the most popular classes, visit with vendors, take a chance on some
great door prizes,  enjoy all the goodies we have gathered for your
registration packets and meet therapists from across the Southeast.

AND...we have demonstrations of various modalities & products
including Bamboo Therapy, SacroWedgy, Touch for Health, T-Touch,
Acupuncture, Massage Cupping, Yoga, Mind Spa, Egyptian Healing Rods,
Pilates and much more scheduled throughout the weekend.

We hope you will attend the entire weekend and enjoy networking with
other therapists.  Currently, we have registrations from therapists
who practice in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina,
Tennessee, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas & Alabama!  This
should make for a great weekend of sharing ideas and methods.

We will be inducting Laurie Azzarella, Bruce Baltz, John Barnes,
Michael Buck, Judith DeLany, the Esalen Institute, Aaron Mattes, Tom
Myers, Brita Ostrom, David Palmer, Therese Pfrimmer, Linda
Tellington-Jones and Janet Travell into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame.

The Festival will be at the Hadji Shriner Temple on Nine Mile Road in
Pensacola, Florida.  The dates are October 20 & 21, 2007, from 7 am to
8 pm both days.

Hope to see you there!
Cindy Michaels, Registrar
World Massage Festival

Prepare to become a Massage Therapy Instructor (MTI)

New State laws going into effect in September will dramatically increase the
need for
qualified instructors. Now is the time to get your credentials taken care of so
you can
become licensed. This class meets the State requirements for teaching adults as
an MTI.

Our early registration rate has been extended through Friday, 7/6.

Adult Learner Facilitation Class

Leverage your knowledge: teach CE classes or at a massage school

July 16 - 19 , 2007
30 CE hours

$350 until 7/6
$395.00 thereafter
Advance registration required.


Call 512-448-2266 to register.
VISA or MC Accepted

http://www.resource-connection.net

This 30 hour course fulfills the Texas Department of State Health Services
requirement for
Massage Therapy Instructors. Participants will become familiar with learning
theories and
concepts, as well as classroom management skills and lesson planning. In
addition,
assessment tools will be incorporated to help potential instructors determine
their
teaching strengths and weaknesses. These tools will provide mechanisms which may
be
used to meet the learning needs of a variety of students.

The class includes a workbook containing reference material, assessment tools
and
sample exercises. Also included is a book specifically addressing classroom
management
skills, which will be used for the exercises which focus on behavior of students
in the
classroom.

Participants will have an opportunity to work in groups to problem solve as well
as share
insights.


Taught by: Michelle Burns, BSN, BS Alt. Med., LMT, MTI
Michelle Burns is a State of Texas approved CEU provider with over 15 years of
experience
as a massage therapist and massage therapy instructor for a wide variety of
subjects. She
has also taught classes for the public at several resort spas and continuing
education
classes in touch and aromatherapy for nurses. Her experience includes
supervising
massage therapy instructors and teaching them the skills they need for the
classroom. She
also teaches advanced technique classes in a variety of specialties.

Hello,

This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the sanantoniomassage
group.

   File        : /Medical Massage through Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy.doc
   Uploaded by : janinecray <janine@...>
   Description : Medical Massage through Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy - 2007

You can access this file at the URL:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sanantoniomassage/files/Medical%20Massage%20throug\
h%20Pfrimmer%20Deep%20Muscle%20Therapy.doc

To learn more about file sharing for your group, please visit:
http://help.yahoo.com/help/us/groups/files

Regards,

janinecray <janine@...>

Reminder: 
Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy® classes will begin in August 2007 - Austin Community College and Hands on School of Massage in Beaumont. 
File uploaded to this website.

For more information click here:  Pfrimmer Class Info

Contact Janine Ray, LMT, MTI

Pfrimmer Certified Instructor
(512) 331-5922
www.northaustinmassage.com 
www. piforcmt.com 

Hi Folks!

This is Mike Hinkle, Curator of the World Massage Festival and the
Massage Therapy Hall of Fame.

I'd like to get some feedback from the group. We are considering
bringing the World Massage Festival to the Austin area in 2009 and
would like to know how you think it will be received by massage
therapists and if you would plan to attend the Festival.

In 2009, we will be offering up to 24 NCBTMB-approved credit hours for
CEUs.

Visit our website at http://www.worldmassagefestival.com to see this
year's class lineup and Hall of Fame inductees and let me know what
you think!

Thanks for your help!

Take care,
Mike

Thamk you for the update. Robert M. Mata LMT, LMTI

--- Janine Ray <janine@...> wrote:

> On June 15, 2007, HB2644 sponsored by Rep. Rose
> became law with the
> effective date of September 1, 2007, instead of the
> original proposal
> of January 1, 2008. HB2644 will directly affect the
> massage therapy
> industry of Texas by increasing the educational
> hours to a minimum of
> 500 hours from the current 300 hours, and it
> eliminates the practical
> exam. The bill passed the House's Public Health
> Committee and the
> Senate's Health & Human Services Committee. The 80th
> Texas
> Legislative session contained three bills which will
> have a direct
> effect on the massage and bodywork professions. HB
> 1883 sponsored by
> Rep. Anchia and HB2957 sponsored by Rep. Jackson
> were left pending in
> the Government Reform Committee of the House of
> Representatives.
>
> To the dismay of the Texas Association of Massage
> Therapists (TAMT),
> Representative Rose was adamant about not allowing
> any amendments to
> HB2644. At the last minute Senator Carona proposed
> three amendments on
> the floor of the Senate; and two of those amendments
> were added to his
> bill anyway. He did protest and a conference
> committee was formed
> from members of the House and Senate, and when they
> accepted the
> amendments, the bill was sent to the Governor for
> signature. Without
> a signature or a veto, the bill became law after 10
> days.
>
> Unfortunately for the Department of State Health
> Services (DSHS), the
> amendment providing for an Advisory Counsel did not
> pass. As you will
> see reading on, the changes in the law will
> necessitate drastic
> changes to the rules and regulations by the DSHS. An
> Ad Hoc Committee
> of major stakeholders of the Massage and Bodywork
> Industry met with
> DSHS on June 15th to collaborate with the Licensing
> Division to define
> the new terms so the transition might be less
> complicated. Voluntary
> Committees are being formed to advise the state of
> the wishes of each
> group affected by the new law: Asian Bodyworkers,
> Somatic
> Practitioners, Massage School Owners, Massage
> Therapy Associations, etc.
>
> The first amendment states: "A person may not for
> compensation
> perform or offer to perform any service with a
> purported health
> benefit that involves physical contact with a client
> unless the person
> holds an appropriate license". It also states that
> "The department
> may issue one or more types of licenses not
> otherwise provided for by
> this chapter that authorizes the license holder to
> perform a service
> described by Subsection (c). The department may
> adopt rules governing
> a license issued under this subsection."
>
> This amendment has caused a flurry of questions and
> concerns
> statewide. The original intent of this amendment was
> taken from Rep.
> Anchia's HB1883. Rep. Anchia's district in Dallas
> has had significant
> problems with prostitution and human trafficking.
> The district
> attorneys and prosecutors were having trouble with
> the charges
> sticking in court because the "bad actors" in his
> district were
> calling themselves "Asian Bodyworkers" or "Asian
> Spas" or even just
> "Spas". With such classification they did not have
> to comply to the
> massage therapy licensing laws. Although the TAMT
> board of directors
> was not pleased with massage therapy being
> associated with
> prostitution one more time, they realized from the
> many complaints
> they had received through the years that this was
> not just a Dallas
> problem. Persons performing touch therapies across
> the state have
> been able to skirt the licensing issue claiming that
> they were not
> "massage therapists" but defined themselves as
> Bodyworkers, Structural
> Integration Practitioners, Somatic Practitioners or
> one of the hundred
> other bodywork techniques.
>
> Using the terminology of "physical contact for
> purported health
> benefits" is vague and open to interpretation by the
> state. Some have
> expressed apprehension over the fact that dance
> teachers, yoga and
> Pilates instructors, martial arts instructors, etc.
> will need licenses
> in order to practice. In all the meetings that I've
> had with the
> Representatives and legislative aides at the
> capitol, regulating those
> professions was never their intent; therefore I hope
> that DSHS will
> not overstep the boundaries to include those
> businesses. During the
> first Ad Hoc Committee meeting with DSHS, Dan
> Meador, the DSHS legal
> representative, explained that the law change gives
> them the right to
> establish the possibility of multiple licenses, such
> as: a massage and
> bodywork license, a massage therapy license, a
> Somatic Practices
> License, an Asian Bodywork license or even a license
> for each modality
> imaginable. Because no provision was made in the law
> for additional
> staff for DSHS to implement these changes, we don't
> believe such
> drastic changes will take place.
>
> HB2644's sole intent sought to raise the education
> standard for
> massage therapy instruction in the State of Texas to
> be equal to
> National standards. With the last minute amendments,
> the bill now has
> long term repercussions and need for clarifications.
> Although it is
> understood that those therapists currently licensed
> in Texas will
> automatically be grandfathered, I posed the question
> about
> grandfathering the other touch therapies alluded to
> in the bill. The
> DSHS staff present at the first committee meeting
> did not have a clue
> how they will go about implementing all these
> revisions. The major
> impact will be on the schools. Is the state prepared
> to approve each
> school's curriculum additions by September 1st,
> 2007? Will the
> schools be able to hire teachers for the new
> subjects in the
> curriculum (pathology, kinesiology, CPR, other
> techniques)? The
> school owners are also in a quandary as to the start
> date of their
> next sessions. The wording in the law states that a
> student
> "enrolled" before September 1st will only need to
> complete the 300
> hour curriculum. Will some schools enroll students
> before September
> 1st even though their classes don't begin until 2008
> or later? Will
> those students feel slighted or under educated if
> they miss out on the
> additional required subjects? How fast can the
> schools find qualified
> massage therapy instructors to teach the new
> subjects?
>
> The good news is that eventually the schools will
> have the option to
> expand their curriculums to offer students different
> educational
> tracks, such as specialties in Spa Massage, Medical
> Massage, Sports
> Massage, Asian Bodywork, etc. We may even see
> national bodywork and
> somatic practices schools come to Texas.
>
> Now to touch on the second amendment ! It basically
> includes harsher
> penalties for practicing without a license and more
> law enforcement
> capabilities. It also provides penalties for any
> operator,
>
=== message truncated ===




________________________________________________________________________________\
____
Looking for a deal? Find great prices on flights and hotels with Yahoo!
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On June 15, 2007, HB2644 sponsored by Rep. Rose became law with the
effective date of September 1, 2007, instead of the original proposal
of January 1, 2008. HB2644 will directly affect the massage therapy
industry of Texas by increasing the educational hours to a minimum of
500 hours from the current 300 hours, and it eliminates the practical
exam. The bill passed the House's Public Health Committee and the
Senate's Health & Human Services Committee. The 80th Texas
Legislative session contained three bills which will have a direct
effect on the massage and bodywork professions. HB 1883 sponsored by
Rep. Anchia and HB2957 sponsored by Rep. Jackson were left pending in
the Government Reform Committee of the House of Representatives.

To the dismay of the Texas Association of Massage Therapists (TAMT),
Representative Rose was adamant about not allowing any amendments to
HB2644. At the last minute Senator Carona proposed three amendments on
the floor of the Senate; and two of those amendments were added to his
bill anyway. He did protest and a conference committee was formed
from members of the House and Senate, and when they accepted the
amendments, the bill was sent to the Governor for signature. Without
a signature or a veto, the bill became law after 10 days.

Unfortunately for the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the
amendment providing for an Advisory Counsel did not pass. As you will
see reading on, the changes in the law will necessitate drastic
changes to the rules and regulations by the DSHS. An Ad Hoc Committee
of major stakeholders of the Massage and Bodywork Industry met with
DSHS on June 15th to collaborate with the Licensing Division to define
the new terms so the transition might be less complicated. Voluntary
Committees are being formed to advise the state of the wishes of each
group affected by the new law: Asian Bodyworkers, Somatic
Practitioners, Massage School Owners, Massage Therapy Associations, etc.

The first amendment states: "A person may not for compensation
perform or offer to perform any service with a purported health
benefit that involves physical contact with a client unless the person
holds an appropriate license". It also states that "The department
may issue one or more types of licenses not otherwise provided for by
this chapter that authorizes the license holder to perform a service
described by Subsection (c). The department may adopt rules governing
a license issued under this subsection."

This amendment has caused a flurry of questions and concerns
statewide. The original intent of this amendment was taken from Rep.
Anchia's HB1883. Rep. Anchia's district in Dallas has had significant
problems with prostitution and human trafficking. The district
attorneys and prosecutors were having trouble with the charges
sticking in court because the "bad actors" in his district were
calling themselves "Asian Bodyworkers" or "Asian Spas" or even just
"Spas". With such classification they did not have to comply to the
massage therapy licensing laws. Although the TAMT board of directors
was not pleased with massage therapy being associated with
prostitution one more time, they realized from the many complaints
they had received through the years that this was not just a Dallas
problem. Persons performing touch therapies across the state have
been able to skirt the licensing issue claiming that they were not
"massage therapists" but defined themselves as Bodyworkers, Structural
Integration Practitioners, Somatic Practitioners or one of the hundred
other bodywork techniques.

Using the terminology of "physical contact for purported health
benefits" is vague and open to interpretation by the state. Some have
expressed apprehension over the fact that dance teachers, yoga and
Pilates instructors, martial arts instructors, etc. will need licenses
in order to practice. In all the meetings that I've had with the
Representatives and legislative aides at the capitol, regulating those
professions was never their intent; therefore I hope that DSHS will
not overstep the boundaries to include those businesses. During the
first Ad Hoc Committee meeting with DSHS, Dan Meador, the DSHS legal
representative, explained that the law change gives them the right to
establish the possibility of multiple licenses, such as: a massage and
bodywork license, a massage therapy license, a Somatic Practices
License, an Asian Bodywork license or even a license for each modality
imaginable. Because no provision was made in the law for additional
staff for DSHS to implement these changes, we don't believe such
drastic changes will take place.

HB2644's sole intent sought to raise the education standard for
massage therapy instruction in the State of Texas to be equal to
National standards. With the last minute amendments, the bill now has
long term repercussions and need for clarifications. Although it is
understood that those therapists currently licensed in Texas will
automatically be grandfathered, I posed the question about
grandfathering the other touch therapies alluded to in the bill. The
DSHS staff present at the first committee meeting did not have a clue
how they will go about implementing all these revisions. The major
impact will be on the schools. Is the state prepared to approve each
school's curriculum additions by September 1st, 2007? Will the
schools be able to hire teachers for the new subjects in the
curriculum (pathology, kinesiology, CPR, other techniques)? The
school owners are also in a quandary as to the start date of their
next sessions. The wording in the law states that a student
"enrolled" before September 1st will only need to complete the 300
hour curriculum. Will some schools enroll students before September
1st even though their classes don't begin until 2008 or later? Will
those students feel slighted or under educated if they miss out on the
additional required subjects? How fast can the schools find qualified
massage therapy instructors to teach the new subjects?

The good news is that eventually the schools will have the option to
expand their curriculums to offer students different educational
tracks, such as specialties in Spa Massage, Medical Massage, Sports
Massage, Asian Bodywork, etc. We may even see national bodywork and
somatic practices schools come to Texas.

Now to touch on the second amendment ! It basically includes harsher
penalties for practicing without a license and more law enforcement
capabilities. It also provides penalties for any operator,
supervisor or owner of a massage establishment or school who is not in
compliance with the statute and the rules.

Will the state have to establish a separate license for each school
represented by each different license or modality? Will the state
license instructors for those modalities? Will Continuing Education
in any category be acceptable for all the different licenses? Will
each license require continuing education as massage therapy does now?
We still have tons of questions to be answered, but be assured that
there are concerned professionals involved working diligently to
protect the rights and welfare of the "Touch for Purported Health
Benefit Industry!"

Janine Ray, LMT, MTI, CE Provider, ME Owner
Legislative Chairperson
Texas Association of Massage Therapists

For more detailed information or copies of these bills, log on to
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us. For questions regarding the changes
in rules and regulations: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/massage/mt_new.shtm
Texas Association of Massage Therapists
http://www.texasmassagetherapists.com/

I've searched and searched for CEU's this summer in or near San
Antonio and some of the websites list San Antonio as "coming soon".
Does anyone know a reliable/current website listing upcoming CEU's?  I
cannot go to Austin and spend the night.  I'm not from Texas and this
is adding to my confusion.
thanks.

Prepare to become a Massage Therapy Instructor

Adult Learner Facilitation Class

Leverage your knowledge: teach CEU's or at a massage school

$350 until 6/30
$395.00 thereafter
Advance registration required.

July 16 - 19 , 2007
30 CE hours

Call 512-448-2266 to register.
VISA or MC Accepted

http://www.resource-connection.net

This 30 hour course fulfills the Texas Department of State Health Services
requirement for
Massage Therapy Instructors. Participants will become familiar with learning
theories and
concepts, as well as classroom management skills and lesson planning. In
addition,
assessment tools will be incorporated to help potential instructors determine
their
teaching strengths and weaknesses. These tools will provide mechanisms which may
be
used to meet the learning needs of a variety of students.

The class includes a workbook containing reference material, assessment tools
and
sample exercises. Also included is a book specifically addressing classroom
management
skills, which will be used for the exercises which focus on behavior of students
in the
classroom.

Participants will have an opportunity to work in groups to problem solve as well
as share
insights.


Taught by: Michelle Burns, BSN, BS Alt. Med., LMT, MTI
Michelle Burns is a State of Texas approved CEU provider with over 15 years of
experience
as a massage therapist and massage therapy instructor for a wide variety of
subjects. She
has also taught classes for the public at several resort spas and continuing
education
classes in touch and aromatherapy for nurses. Her experience includes
supervising
massage therapy instructors and teaching them the skills they need for the
classroom. She
also teaches advanced technique classes in a variety of specialties.

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--- In sanantoniomassage@yahoogroups.com, "jguz1999" <jenguzman27@...>
wrote:
>
> I am looking for ceu classes in san antonio in June or July.
>
> Specifically, I want ce's in deep tissue or trigger point, but would be
> interested other aspects of massage.
>
> Thanks in advance!
> Jenifer
>
Jen:  here's the website for the school I currently attend -
Therapeutic Body Concepts:
http://www.massageservices.org/
  Contact either Leon, Estella or Jeanie the owners and they can tell
you if they know of any other classes taking place in San Antonio.  I
know they are working on a Trigger Point class, but I don't know when
it will be completed and ready to go.
-elena

Massage Cupping - Level One Training

24 Texas CE's

This technique is one of the most effective and useful modalities to be
incorporated into
massage in years. It is easy to learn and reduces stress and effort for the
therapist. You
now have the chance to learn this technique from an advanced clinical
practitioner right
here in Austin.

Monday - Wednesday, June 11-13

$340 until 5/31, $375 thereafter
Credit cards accepted.

Advance registration required.
Call 512-448-2266 to reserve your space.
Registration management by Resource Connection
visit www.resource-connection.net

Massage Cupping Level 1
An ancient art that has been modified for current use!  This simple yet powerful
technique
can be integrated into almost any massage modality and greatly enhances the
benefits of
many body treatments.

The first day workshop includes an introduction to a variety of equipment,
discussion of
the applications of massage cupping, contra-indications and safety, and history.
Students
will perform and experience the technique for the posterior body.

The second day includes a review of abdominal anatomy, lymphatic anatomy and
reflexology as well as practice time with the techniques learned on the anterior
body.

The third day focuses on marketing, integration into practice, the incorporation
of
massage cupping into a therapeutic Aromatherapy cocoon and practice time with
the
techniques.

All massage cupping supplies provided for the class and available for purchase
on site.



Taught by - Michelle Burns, BSN, BS Alt.Med., RMT, MTI of Advanced Holistic
Healing Arts

Michelle holds degrees in Nursing and Alternative Medicine and has practiced in
a wide
variety of specialities. She works closely with many health care professionals
as a certified
medical massage therapist. She teaches continuing education classes for massage
therapists, advanced bodywork techniques and Massage Therapy Instructor
training.

Michelle has a history of working with others to see situations in new ways and
helps
others reach their full potential. She believes learning should be fun,
interactive,
participatory and relevant and puts these skills and beliefs to work in all her
classes.

Learn more about Michelle and Advanced Holistic Healing Arts: http://
www.holistichealingarts.net

I am looking for ceu classes in san antonio in June or July.

Specifically, I want ce's in deep tissue or trigger point, but would be
interested other aspects of massage.

Thanks in advance!
Jenifer

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