Continuing Education

Cortiva Institute is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider. The school strives to provide training and support that enhances the skills and experience of massage therapists.

Please note that most of our courses require that you are a licensed health care provider. If you have questions about your eligibility to attend a course, please contact the school at (312) 753-7900 or email ce.chicago@cortiva.com .

If you need a replacement Certificate of Completion for a Continuing Education class you took at Cortiva Institute in Chicago or Crystal Lake, IL, click here to download a Replacement Certificate Form .

Continuing Education Courses

National Certification Exam Preparation

Continuing Education Courses

Professional Ethics for Bodyworkers
Register Now

Sunday, January 11, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / 6 hours / $130.00
Loop Location

In the rapidly expanding field of massage therapy, concerns regarding ethical behavior and practice are also on the rise. Given the intimate setting of bodywork, it is crucial to establish a safe environment and a clear understanding between client and therapist as to what is expected. Therapists must also be able to effectively communicate within the parameters of each individual's unique personality, including their own. The intent of this workshop is to define the broad scope of ethics, empower each therapist with their own personal Code of Ethics, and explore possible ethical situations which will challenge participants to make good decisions as to how they respond.

Prerequisites: Class is open to all massage therapy students and LMTs.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

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Reflexology for Stress
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Sunday, January 25, 2009 / 9:00am - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Loop Location

Recent studies have found that 75% to 85% of all illnesses or conditions are caused by stress. This one day introductory class in reflexology is designed to help you combat stress for yourself, friends and family. We will cover the history, definition, benefits of reflexology as well as perform hands on solutions to help alleviate two common conditions.

Prerequisites: This class is open to LMTs as well as non massage professionals interested in learning about reflexology.

Please bring: set of sheets, unscented oil/cream, writing utensil. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

Instructor: Annette Chamness - Annette has over 15 years experience as a Massage Therapist and teacher. She was first exposed to the spa concept and treatments at the Heartland Spa. Through out her career she has blended and integrated various techniques to deepen the relaxation effect for her clients, enhancing their therapeutic outcomes. Annette has worked extensively with clients who have chronic pain, cancer, stress related disorders, pregnant and laboring women, and other medically complex clients.

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Shiatsu Table Work I
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Sunday, February 8, 2009 / 9:00am - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Loop Location

Back by popular demand!

Join us for a day of therapeutic and clinical applications using table Shiatsu as its focus. The training's goal is for the therapist to utilize their knowledge in movement, energetic channels, and anatomical specificity.

Areas of Study:
  • Supporting movement/exercises for both therapist and client
  • Table setup (height and width)
  • Placement of the client
  • Therapist body awareness
  • Tsubo location and stimulation
  • Guided exchanges of supine, side-lying and prone techniques

These trainings will begin with introductions, a statement of the goals of the course, and an overview of the techniques to be used. Lectures to include a fundamental overview of anatomical and energetic locations to be addressed in the class.

Prerequisites: none, this class is open to LMTs as well as non massage professionals interested in learning about Shiatsu.

Please bring: set of sheets, unscented oil/cream, writing utensil. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

Instructor: Randall A. Cummins, L.M.T., M.T.I., A.O.B.T.A. Cert. Instructor, NCBTMB Provider - In his 23-year career, Randy has been on the teaching faculty of the Chicago School of Massage Therapy, the Lauterstein-Conway School, provided trainings throughout the United States and Caribbean, as well as maintaining private practices in Chicago and Austin, Texas. His expertise, humor and wisdom will help you open to the possibilities of self and client.

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Marketing Mystery: How to Get Clients
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Friday, February 13, 2009 / 9:00am - 1:00pm / 4 hours / $85.00
Loop Location

"Selling" massage is typically not why massage therapists became massage therapists. Whether you work for yourself or someone else, it is your responsibility to "sell" your craft, your profession, and the cumulative benefits of your work. This class is designed for those who may struggle with this concept and with the reality of knowing how and where you begin to market your massage practice. Everyone can be successful with marketing if they have the right tools. You will discuss and gain resources and suggestions for advertising, networking, news/publicity, partnerships and client relations. Marketing doesn't have to be an expensive and overwhelming aspect of your practice. This can be fun and results-driven. These skills will allow you to see your efforts pay off.

Prerequisites: This class is open to all practitioners of the healing arts who wish to learn more about the topic.

Please bring: writing utensil, wear comfortable clothing.

Instructor: Jennifer Sommermann - Sole practitioner in New York, owner of "Massage by Land & Sea", nationally certified by NCBTMB and a member of the AMTA since 1992, Jenn Sommermann, LMT, owned a wellness clinic in Boston for 12 years. Selling that business in 2003 enabled her to relocate and at present, Jenn is both teacher and chair of business department at Swedish Institute in Manhattan. Jenn continues to reach a broader audience offering continuing education in Practice Management and Ethics throughout the country and has published articles in Massage Therapy Journal, Massage Magazine and Massage Today. Most recently, Jenn was awarded the 2007 AMTA National Meritorious Award for her work with the NY Chapter. Jenn has successfully coached hundred of massage therapists in all aspects of their business.

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Customer Service - It's All About the Details
Register Now

Friday, February 13, 2009 / 2:00pm - 5:00pm / 3 hours / $65.00
Loop Location

With the field of massage therapy growing and competition being fiercer than ever, what distinguishes one therapist from another? The answer is customer service. Although most MTs think they know what that means, there is much more to it and it can always be improved upon. The before, during and after (the massage) must be taken seriously as consumers are looking for more of an "experience" with their service. This course will outline what impeccable customer service is and how to add it to your existing practice.

Prerequisites: This class is open to all health care practitioners who wish to learn more about the topic.

Please bring: writing utensil, wear comfortable clothing.

Instructor: Jennifer Sommermann - Sole practitioner in New York, owner of "Massage by Land & Sea", nationally certified by NCBTMB and a member of the AMTA since 1992, Jenn Sommermann, LMT, owned a wellness clinic in Boston for 12 years. Selling that business in 2003 enabled her to relocate and at present, Jenn is both teacher and chair of business department at Swedish Institute in Manhattan. Jenn continues to reach a broader audience offering continuing education in Practice Management and Ethics throughout the country and has published articles in Massage Therapy Journal, Massage Magazine and Massage Today. Most recently, Jenn was awarded the 2007 AMTA National Meritorious Award for her work with the NY Chapter. Jenn has successfully coached hundred of massage therapists in all aspects of their business.

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Advanced Anatomy Techniques: Pelvic Girdle
Register Now

Friday, March 6, 2009 / 9:00pm - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Crystal Lake Location

This workshop reviews muscle fiber direction, layering, and muscle action testing in order to enhance massage therapists' skills with mechanics and application of muscle stripping, longitudinal and transverse friction, and deep muscle lengthening. We will use drawing, skeleton taping and movement games to learn the many muscles in the pelvic region that have been forgotten since graduation from school. To better understand anatomy is to become a more informed, skilled therapist. Join us for a day of learning and fun.

Prerequisites: This class is open to all health care practitioners who wish to learn more about the topic.

Please bring: set of sheets, unscented oil/cream, writing utensil. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

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Reflexology for Stress
Register Now

Sunday, May 3, 2009 / 9:00am - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Loop Location

This one day introductory class in reflexology is designed to help you combat stress for yourself, friends and family. We will cover the history, definition, and benefits of reflexology as well as perform hands on solutions to help alleviate two common conditions.

Prerequisites: none, this class is open to LMTs as well as non massage professionals interested in learning about reflexology.

Please bring: set of sheets and unscented oil/cream.

Instructor: Annette Chamness - Annette has over 15 years experience as a Massage Therapist and teacher. She was first exposed to the spa concept and treatments at the Heartland Spa. Through out her career she has blended and integrated various techniques to deepen the relaxation effect for her clients, enhancing their therapeutic outcomes. Annette has worked extensively with clients who have chronic pain, cancer, stress related disorders, pregnant and laboring women, and other medically complex clients.

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Advanced Anatomy Techniques: Shoulder Girdle
Register Now

Friday, June 5, 2009 / 9:00pm - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Crystal Lake Location

This workshop reviews muscle fiber direction, layering, and muscle action testing in order to enhance massage therapists' skills with mechanics and application of muscle stripping, longitudinal and transverse friction, and deep muscle lengthening. We will use drawing, skeleton taping and movement games to learn the many muscles in the pelvic region that have been forgotten since graduation from school. To better understand anatomy is to become a more informed, skilled therapist. Join us for a day of learning and fun.

Prerequisites: This class is open to all health care practitioners who wish to learn more about the topic.

Please bring: set of sheets, unscented oil/cream, writing utensil. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

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Introduction to Spa Basics
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Sunday, September 20, 2009 / 9:00pm - 5:00pm / 7 hours / $150.00
Loop Location

Curious about spa services? This one day experience will give you a brief overview of spa treatments commonly performed by Massage Therapists. We will discuss the different types of spas and the other professionals who may work there. We will concentrate on and experience various types of exfoliations and body wraps. Participants will go home with instructions for a spa style treatment for the feet and the basic procedure for a body wrap performed in a "dry room". A course manual and materials will be provided for each attendee.

Prerequisites: This class is open to all health care practitioners who wish to learn more about the topic.

Please bring: Bring set of sheets, unscented oil/cream, 1 pillow, 1 blanket,1 bath towel, 2 hand towels, 1 wash cloth, writing utensil. Note: please do not shave/wax legs 3 days prior to class. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.

Instructor: Annette Chamness, LMT, RCST, NCTMB - Annette has over 15 years experience as a Massage Therapist and teacher. She was first exposed to the spa concept and treatments at the Heartland Spa. Through out her career she has blended and integrated various techniques to deepen the relaxation effect for her clients, enhancing their therapeutic outcomes. Annette has worked extensively with clients who have chronic pain, cancer, stress related disorders, pregnant and laboring women, and other medically complex clients.

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National Certification Exam Preparation

National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Sundays, January 18 & 25, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Loop Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Fridays, March 13 & 20, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Crystal Lake Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Sundays, March 15 & 22, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Loop Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Sundays, June 7 & 14, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Loop Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Fridays, June 12 & 19, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Crystal Lake Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Sundays, August 23 & 30, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Loop Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

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National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Fridays, September 11 & 18, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Crystal Lake Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

top

National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Sundays, December 6 & 13, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Loop Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Frances Salvato - Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association for outstanding performance as a massage educator. Frances is an instructor in anatomy, kinesiology, technique and leads the Myofascial Certification program along with numerous continuing education symposia. A 1994 Chicago graduate, Frances has advanced training in Structural Integration, Myofascial Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage, Healing Touch, and Reiki. She has Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.

top

National Certification Exam Preparation
Register Now

Fridays, December 11 & 18, 2009 / 9:30am - 4:30pm / $275.00
Crystal Lake Location

Become a nationally certified massage therapist! Whether you have been out of school for a time or are a recent graduate, the National Certification Exam is a prerequisite to become a licensed massage therapist in the state of Illinois. Join CSMT faculty for two days of exam preparation to review anatomical and clinical information, take practice tests, and become acquainted with the exam expectations. You will also receive a copy of Outline Review of Massage Therapy by Barbara Rice ($30 Value), a nationally published review book. This workshop will refresh your knowledge, help alleviate test anxiety, and prepare you for your national certification. The exam review manual will be provided in class. Course content will provide review of materials for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage only, which does not include Asian Modalities.

Prerequisites: All who are preparing for the NCETM are invited to attend.

Please bring: writing utensil, paper.

Instructor: Earl Conner - A long time faculty member, Earl has been teaching workshops in neuromuscular therapy and myofascial therapy throughout the U.S. since 1991. Earl is a 1987 Cortiva graduate with advanced training in St. John Neuromuscular Therapy, myofascial therapy, and sports massage. He specializes in massage for relief of chronic pain, and postural/fascial distortion.

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