How to take first steps into the Holistic massage industry????

[Ahbanib4]

How to take first steps into the holistic massage industry?
Hi there, I'm just a mum whos keen to make a new career into holistic boddy massage, swedish, head,face, etc, I would like to become a proffesional in this area which i have no experience or training in. Im thinking to work as self employeed in the future!!

There seem to be a large number of associations, and courses on offer. Is anyone able to offer me any advice on which route is best to take for someone in my position? It is very confusing all these ITEC, NVQ level 3, and level 2, the VTCT swedish massage or A&P!!!!

I want to gain the best quality of training and qualifications in order to work as self employeed aswell.

So in your oppinion, what are:

1.) The best Colleges in London to study entry level, begginers, etc, Im keen on studying from home aswell is this a good idea?what about BSY? also I was thinking of South Thames College they offer VTCT level 2 Swedish massage as is the chepest of them all!! Is this a good one?

2.) What are the names of the courses i should take and their qualifications/certificate?? is the NVQ level 3 much different than level 2? is it better the ITEC or the VTCT? whats the difference?? Confused!


Please help me! any advice on a good course or combination of courses that would get me to a level where I would have the skills to practice?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Magicandmyth]

hi ya can see why its very confusing when starting out. Last year i done the swedish massage and a and p and this year im doing my diplom in aromatherpy. i have really enjoyed the courses and doing it part time for me is beter as rather than tryn to learn diffrent therapys all the 1 year u spend more time learning. as for which course is best i aint sure just no that the VTCT swedish massage to begin with was best for me. And you can get fee wavers at some college if u are on a low income

 

[shadowgirl15]

Hi Thimela,

The best courses I can recomend are:

Anything by Jane Johnson - http://www.thelondonmassagecompany.com/

Quantum Metta - http://www.quantummetta.co.uk/

Jing - http://www.jingmassage.com/

Essentials for Health - http://www.essentialsforhealth.co.uk/

There are many other course but, these are run by extremely experienced practitioners who have been in the business and are still practicing. Jane Johnson in particular is also a Physiotherapist and Sports Massage Practitioner par excellance.

The above colleges may cost more, but, the quality of training is equal to the cost.

Best of luck. Sue

 

[CypKitty]

I don't know about the colleges in London, VTCT seems to be the most reputable here in Wales. I think you need level 3 to treat clients - don't know if anyone can confirm or correct me on this? Make sure what ever course you do includes anatomy and physiology. As for ITEC and VTCT, they are pretty much the same, I'd go with what college has the best facilities.

Good luck! x

 

[Jim L]

VTCT are the largest awarding body within Beauty and Complementary Therapies. Have a look on their website, that may help you.

You said "or A&P", no or about it, you "need" it, can't do a course without it. I couldn't do Aromatherapy unless I had A&P but I had done it the previous year within my Reflexology course, so that was handy, I had to do a refresher booklet, come to think of it, I did 4 of those books LOL (4 other courses)

The courses are level 3 diplomas, the Swedish Massage I did was Level 3 Certificate, but amounts to the same course level.

Why don't you try a taster session at your local adult community centre, to see if it's really what you would like to do. Good luck with whatever you choose

 

[Pompal 09.]

Hi,
Just thought i would say i would not do a level 3 diploma in complementary therapies, not because its not a good diploma its is, i am doing the level 3 itec diploma, its massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and a and p all in one year so in essence its a 3 year course crammed into one year, its very very intense and the amount of case studies, treatments, homework not to mention A and P study you need to do its tiring, i would suggest doing one course at a time and devote your time to one therapy at any one time. i have a small child, housework, a husband an allotment
plus my study i am surprised i have survived this long lol,

its only a suggestion, i thrive on stress but this has been a challenge


Layla xxx

 

[*Soon*To*Be*Mommy*]

Hey ladies,

Thank you all for your comments and advice, really appreciate it!!

I understand much more now!! you been very helpful and kind.

Have a good weekend!

 

[dthodccz]

A lot also depends on what colleges in your area actually offer.

I am doing VTCT Swedish massage and that's a good course but it was the only massage course in the whole of our region anyway, being offered at a college.

Other colleges in our area cover massage but not at this level and usually as part of a full-time course which was not what I wanted. I just wanted massage and not other beauty treatments.

There are a couple of training schools which do massage courses but they were quoting prices in the thousands, for similar course as mine which is £400+.

Some areas don't have much choice, so you are limited but I'm pleased with mine anyway and the tutor is really helpful and knowledgeable.

Let us know how you get on.