Academy Of Alternative Healing Arts

The Academy of Alternative Healing Arts, situated in the heart of Grandville, Michigan, is dedicated to providing individuals with the knowledge and skills to embark on rewarding careers in alternative health. We believe in the power of holistic healing and strive to equip our students with a comprehensive understanding of massage therapy and related modalities. Our mission is to make quality health education accessible to all, fostering a community of skilled practitioners who are passionate about promoting well-being. We pride ourselves on offering an affordable, comprehensive training program that prepares graduates to excel in the field of alternative health.

Our Programs

At the Academy of Alternative Healing Arts, we offer two distinct programs designed to cater to diverse interests and career goals. Our flagship program is the Healing Massage Program, a comprehensive 754-hour curriculum accredited by the State of Michigan. This program provides a strong foundation in all aspects of massage therapy, encompassing anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, ethics, and a wide range of therapeutic techniques. Upon successful completion, graduates can confidently sit for the state massage board exam, paving the way for a fulfilling career as licensed massage therapists.

For those seeking a broader perspective on holistic health, we offer our Holistic Health Counseling Program. This program delves into the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to guide individuals on their journey toward optimal well-being.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The Healing Massage Program is meticulously structured to provide students with a thorough understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of massage therapy. The comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of essential subjects:

• Anatomy / Physiology / Kinesiology/Neuro/Myology: A foundational understanding of the human body is crucial for effective massage therapy.
• Pathology: Students gain insight into common injuries and medical conditions that may require specific massage considerations.
• Massage Business: This module equips graduates with the practical skills to establish and manage their own massage therapy practices.
• Business and Professional Practice: Students learn about professional ethics, legal considerations, and effective business practices within the alternative health field.
• Professional Ethics and Boundaries:

Developing a strong ethical foundation is essential for building trust and maintaining professional boundaries with clients.

• Massage Theory/Client Assessment and Treatment Planning: This module focuses on the core theories underpinning massage therapy and teaches students how to assess individual client needs and develop tailored treatment plans.
• Therapist Self-Care Techniques: Promoting their own well-being is critical for massage therapists, and this module equips students with techniques to prevent and manage work-related stress and injury.

Clinical Modalities

The clinical portion of the curriculum encompasses a diverse range of massage techniques, allowing students to develop a well-rounded skillset:

• Swedish Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: A gentle and relaxing technique focusing on long, flowing strokes, kneading, and circular movements.
• Healing Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: Explore therapeutic massage styles that aim to address deeper muscular imbalances and promote healing.
• Sugar Foot Scrub/Concept & Theory: This invigorating treatment exfoliates and rejuvenates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.
• Trigger Point Theory Hot Stone Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: A focused technique targeting specific areas of muscle tension, using heated stones to promote relaxation and release.
• Therapeutic Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: This module delves into advanced therapeutic techniques for managing pain, improving mobility, and addressing specific health conditions.
• Sports Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: Tailored to the needs of athletes, this technique focuses on preventing and treating sports-related injuries.
• Prenatal Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: A specialized technique designed to support women during pregnancy, easing discomfort and promoting relaxation.
• Geriatric Massage Techniques/Concept & Theory: This gentle approach addresses the unique needs of older adults, promoting circulation, flexibility, and overall well-being.
• Reflexology Techniques ( Foot) /Concept & Theory: The theory and practice of massage applied to specific pressure points on the feet to stimulate corresponding areas in the body.
• Lymphatic Drainage Techniques/Concept & Theory: This gentle technique promotes the flow of lymph, supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.
• Cupping Techniques/Concept & Theory: Utilizing suction cups to create a localized vacuum effect, this technique encourages blood flow and muscle relaxation.
• Chair Massage/Concept & Theory: A convenient and adaptable technique performed using a specialized chair, often provided in workplaces or public settings.

By immersing themselves in this robust curriculum and dedicated clinical training, students at the Academy of Alternative Healing Arts gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to embark on successful and fulfilling careers in alternative health.