Rhodes Wellness College and Vancouver School of Healing Arts (VSOHA) are industry leaders in Holistic Bodywork Therapy. Vancouver School of Healing Arts offer a career-focused Bodywork Therapy Program designed for individuals who want to learn bodywork and massage. After graduating, students can work in the spa industry and become self-employed bodyworkers.
Launched in 2004, the Bodywork Therapy Program is intensive and comprehensive, covering several different disciplines. The curriculum starts with a strong foundation in the human sciences and manual skills before moving on to the most popular spa modalities. Students learn to integrate these techniques, giving them a well-rounded perspective on the healing qualities of bodywork.
Bodywork Therapy Program Curriculum (700 hours)
Our curriculum ensures Bodywork Therapy Program students will graduate with skills that will enable them to take up professional practice immediately.
Human Sciences (130 hours)
The Human Sciences course (APPK) is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of human anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology as they pertain to the practice of therapeutic massage. Emphasis is placed on human anatomy specifically the location, structure, function and pathology of the neuromusculoskeletal system. Human organ systems are also covered with emphasis placed on the general structure and function of each system and how these systems work together.
Anatomy
Anatomy is the study of the structure of the body – from cellular structure, to the organization of organs, tissues, and systems. Particular attention will be paid to the muscular and skeletal structures.
Physiology
Physiology is the study of the systems of the body (muscular, skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, pulmonary, respiratory, lymphatic, urinary, digestive, nervous, reproductive) and how they work together to sustain life.
Pathology
Pathology is the study of disease and dysfunction. Particular attention will be paid to common disorders and conditions one might encountered in a massage practice.
Kinesiology
Kinesiology is the study of human structure and function and their relationship to movement.
Manual Skills (210 hours)
Swedish Techniques
Swedish techniques are the basis of the contemporary Western approach to massage. This course includes draping, benefits and contraindications, body mechanics, palpation, and basic strokes (effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration). Students will learn to be precise and thorough in the application of soft tissue massage, while cultivating mindfulness to create a safe, nurturing environment for the client.
Deep Tissue
This course introduces the foundational knowledge and skills needed to identify and release tension patterns in connective tissue. Emphasis will be placed on the application of a slow, sensitive and at the same time decisive form of deep touch. Deep Tissue Massage is applied with an understanding of the structural relationships of the major body segments and helps the body’s structure to find an improved postural balance.
Topics include postural analysis, regional assessment, different types of strokes and strategies to release holding patterns, and the biomechanics of working deeply with minimal effort and safety.
Integrative Bodywork
Integrative Bodywork is the heart of the Bodywork Therapy Program. It is specifically designed to teach students how to integrate all of the different techniques covered during their time at VSOHA. The objectives are to develop intuition around touch, explore creative and effective session design, refine a detail-oriented “spa touch”, and to create smooth transitions from one technique to another. Everything from draping and biomechanics to advanced techniques will be reviewed, fortified and embellished.
Students will begin to approach bodywork as an art form – developing their own unique style and creating both effective and beautiful treatments specific to the individual client’s needs.
Sports Massage
The Sports Massage modality familiarises students with the principles and application of stretching in the context of any session and to discover pre-event and post-event Sports Massage techniques. The course focusses on an introduction to techniques and stretches as a way to increase circulation, reduce stiffness, assess and improve flexibility and integrate anatomy learned earlier in the program.
Joint Release
Joint Release is a gentle form of bodywork that facilitates the release of deep-seated physical and mental holding patterns. The method is characterized by gentle shaking, stretching and rhythmic rocking movements, which re-educate the body to experience the possibility of effortless movement. Joint Release can be easily combined with other methods of bodywork, such as Deep Tissue work or Swedish massage.
Prenatal Massage
The childbearing year is a time of great change physically, physiologically and emotionally. This course teaches how to safely massage and nurture pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies. Students will learn the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, alternatives to client positioning, appropriate draping techniques and proper body mechanics
Spa Modalities (120 hours)
Aromatherapy
The art and science of aromatherapy combines the healing properties of aromatic plant essences with massage, a complimentary use of the sense of smell with the healing art of touch. Aromatherapy can be used to assist in various ways during a massage to alleviate stress, uplift the mood and enhance emotional and physical well being. In this aromatherapy course students will learn to differentiate and apply 16 of the most common essential oils in the various therapeutic categories. Students learn to understand the healing properties and benefits of these oils, using case studies to examine how Aromatherapy can be used to address the needs of individual clients. Students will take a practical approach to blending aromatherapy products for multiple applications such as compresses, massage bars, aromatic steams and salts and massage oil blends.
Reflexology
Reflexology is the study of the reflexes. This course will provide students with general knowledge of Reflexology techniques and how to use these techniques to give a ‘reflexology style foot massage’. Reflexology is a natural, non-invasive healing art based on the principle of reflexes in the feet that correspond to every part of the body. Reflexology helps to balance the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the whole body. Reflexology does not diagnose or prescribe; the whole body is treated rather than a specific condition. Reflexology reflexes are found in the feet, hands and ears. Our focus will be on the feet. This is not a certification course. The techniques learned are founded in Reflexology teachings and intended to be a companion in relaxation massage sessions.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is the use of hot and cold water, ice, and steam to facilitate the healing process. Students will learn the theory of hydrotherapy techniques such as exfoliations and wraps where they will practice them in both the classroom and at a beautiful day spa. This course is a superb treat where students experience first hand the self care this modality and can offer.
Indian Head Massage
The Indian Head Massage (IHM) or shirobhyanga, is a modality that has its roots in the healing practice of Ayurveda. This massage technique, practiced with the client seated, has a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating effect through work on the “marma” or pressure points and various massage techniques on the head and face. The massage is a half hour practice which also includes the upper arms, neck, and shoulders and focuses on releasing tension in the body, as well as mental stress.
The Indian Head Massage is a practice which is beneficial in relieving headaches, stress, insomnia, “computer shoulders” and depression, Indian Head Massage works on an energetic, emotional and physical level. It is a simple and effective treatment that can be incorporated into any spa practice. The oils used on the scalp are optional and are wild-crafted organic Ayurvedic oils, used traditionally to relieve stress, nourish the scalp and address issues of hair loss and dry scalp.
Hot Stone
Hot Stone Massage is of the most popular spa treatments today. Following this course, practitioners will surpass client’s expectations and have them returning again and again. This course uses the student’s current repertoire of massage techniques and teaches how to properly use heated stones into treatment designs that are either structured or spontaneous. The techniques taught allow students to provide either a relaxing, therapeutic or energetic treatment.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese healing art with its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Shiatsu literally means “finger pressure”. Natural body weight is used when pressure is applied on meridians (energy channels) and tsubo (pressure points). In addition to pressure itself, Shiatsu involves gentle stretch and manipulation techniques.
Personal & Professional Development (125 hours)
Body Mind Integration
Many of the bodywork and massage techniques explored in the Bodywork Therapy Program address the deep, subtle and chronic tensions held within the bodily structure. Freeing physical tension holds the possibility to in turn awaken, trigger or release contained emotions, traumas or memories stored in energy levels of the body. In the Body-Mind Integration component students will study and explore the psychosomatic relationship that exists between body, mind and spirit and learn to honour this connection within massage. The objective is to develop students’ ability to listen, support and respond to clients needs as they unfold while maintaining a grounded, integral and authentic presence.
Professional Development
During Professional Development students will examine the impulses, styles, preferences, passions and gifts that they naturally bring to their massage practice. Based on their unique characteristics and strengths, students will develop practical ways to hone their skills in the workplace and improve their effectiveness as professionals. Key focus areas include identifying personal vision and values, practicing effective communication, understanding the various roles and functions in the workplace, setting boundaries, developing strategies for dealing with conflict and cultivating an optimal balance between personal and professional life.
Business Skills
The Business Skills course is divided into 2 components: Spa Employment Preparation and Self-Employment.
Spa Employment Preparation:
This course will provide an overview of the spa industry locally, regionally and globally. Spa industry trends, opportunities and challenges for bodyworkers will be identified. Students will discuss ways to present personal & professional skills to a diverse industry. Individual preferences & thresholds for workload, pay, location and benefits will be determined.
Self-Employment:
For wellness practitioners to create a successful self-employed career, in addition to being skilled at their craft, they must also have business skills. This course was created to provide the valuable tools and resources for a practitioner to start their own small business and to bridge the gap from being a skilled practitioner to being in practice.
Self Care
A critical skill in sustaining a long and enjoyable practice as a bodyworker is the ability to take care of yourself. This seminar series will introduce students to the ancient principles of Ayurveda including nutrition, yoga, meditation and pranayama. Students are encouraged to commit to a self care regime for the duration of this demanding program and to develop habits for a long, healthy, happy life. You will learn the art of Ayurvedic Self Care in order to be successful in both your personal life and professional practice – increasing the longevity of your career and enjoying the work that you do.
Ethics
This course provides a foundation of understanding the components of ethics. It will include an exploration of common ethical dilemmas which are relevant to bodywork and massage.
CPR
Students will receive a Level A certification in CPR.
Student Clinic (115 hours)
Student Clinic
This is the perfect opportunity for students to hone their professional skills, experiment with the different techniques they are learning and receive invaluable feedback from real clients.
During Student Clinic, students will gain practical experience including:
- Interacting with the general public
- Developing treatment plans based on client needs
- Working in a spa-like environment
- Developing professional skills
- Adhering to appointment times
- Working as a team
- Practicing spa modalities
- Receiving feedback from clients
- Receiving guidance from the Clinic Supervisors
Learning Objectives
Upon graduation, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate broad theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skills in the various disciplines covered in the program
- Employ a solid foundation of knowledge and kinesthetic awareness of the human body and its various systems
- Utilize professional skills and experience gained working with the public during Student Clinic
- Build a professional practice with confidence
- Choose to pursue continuing education and advanced studies
- Design a career that is aligned with your values
Graduate Outcomes
Our graduates have gone on to work as a bodyworker in the following areas include: Spas, hotels, ski resorts, fishing lodges, retreat centres, sporting events, cruise ships, recovery and treatment centres, massage studios and mobile massage services. Many also run their own successful bodywork practices.
Faculty and Staff
We boast a faculty of experienced and professional instructors who bring diverse skills, abilities and knowledge to the art and science of teaching Bodywork & Massage. Our instructors are highly respected in their fields of expertise, providing excellence in education and training.
Our faculty are leaders in bodywork therapy industry, please visit the faculty page for detailed profiles.
Admissions Requirements
Rhodes Wellness College welcomes students of any sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, national or ethnic origin or religion.
- High school diploma or equivalent or 19 years of age prior to the start of the program
- Fluency in English
- No disability or disease that could impede the learning process of the individual or jeopardize the health and safety of fellow students/clients
- Personal interview with an Admissions Advisor
- Have received at least one professional massage/bodywork treatment
Tuition Breakdown
| Tuition (Domestic) | $10,950 |
| Tuition (International) | $12,045 |
| Application Fee (Domestic) | $100 |
| Application Fee (International) | $250 |
| Textbooks & Course Notes | $895 |
| Archiving Fee | $10 |
Additional Information
Course Type: In person and Online
This program has been approved by the Registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.
