University Requirements For Becoming an Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapy is a health profession that assists people with physical or mental impairments to engage in their daily routines. An occupational therapist may work with families and individuals, to encourage activity. This is achieved by modifying the environment, learning or re-learning skills, adjusting the activity, or facilitating mental or physical rehabilitation.

Occupational therapists are accredited at the Masters level through university study. To be admitted to a Master of Occupational Therapy program, the student must hold an accredited Bachelors degree in any subject. However, there are prerequisites that should be fulfilled at the undergraduate level. These vary from school to school, but most require at least a B average at 300 and 400 level courses; three credits in Human Anatomy at the 300 level, with an emphasis on gross musculature; three credits in social sciences; three credits in behavioral sciences. Some also require a course in statistics. Seventy hours of volunteer or work experience with people who have cognitive, physical or emotional disabilities are also required before admission to some graduate programs in Occupational Therapy. Some programs also require courses in physiology, child development, and developmental psychology of adolescents and adults. A prospective student must also display competence in the English language.

The exceptions to these prerequisites is the School of Occupational Therapy at University of Western Ontario, School of Rehabilitative Therapy at Queen's University, and School of Physical and Occupational Therapy at McGill University which require only the completion of a four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum B average in the last ten full courses.

The School of Rehabilitative Science at McMaster University requires only one course in biologic or life science, and one course in social science or humanities. School of Occupational Therapy at Dalhousie University requires six credits in human physiology, and three credits in human anatomy. The program at McGill incorporates a qualifying year, which ensures that all participants in the program have the same basis for continuing studies at the graduate level.

The Masters programs all cover a core of courses and clinical practicum to prepare the student for work in a variety of settings. These courses cover the theory of occupational therapy, health conditions and occupations, professional practice, human anatomy, assessment and analysis, wellness by design of technology, research methodology, social influences on occupational performance, neuroscience, pharmacology, and applied research.

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is the body overseeing the certification of Occupational Therapists. Schools offering the program meet the criteria of CAOT for their students. CAOT is affiliated with the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, meaning that graduates who complete a program in Canada meet the criteria to be licensed in countries that recognize the WFOT guidelines. Upon completion of studies, the graduate will be certified by the CAOT after writing the Certification Examination. CAOT also offers continuing education courses to its members.

Each province also has a regulatory body for the practice of Occupational Therapy and provincial associations. Many provincial organizations also offer continuing education for practitioners in their province.

The field of Occupational Therapy requires a lot of study and training. It is a great choice for those who want both a rewarding and lucrative career helping people function in their daily activities.

What Is Transference and How Is It Involved With Massage Therapy?

If you are in the body-work industry, you should be very aware of transference, what it is and especially how it relates to your work. My understanding of transference is best illustrated by the following scenarios:

1. Therapist attends to a client with a headache, symptoms of a "bug," acne, anger, fatigue, good or bad pregnancy-related issues, et al emotional scenarios. The client leaves happy, refreshed and ready for life, but the therapist suddenly, or later, starts exhibiting symptoms they didn't have previously.

2. Client is nervous and unable to relax. Suddenly a usually-confident therapist starts feeling nervous and fidgety during the session (or the reverse scenario).

3. During the massage, the client or the therapist feels extremely powerful parasympathetic/reverse parasympathetic stimulation and begins to believe more is happening during the session than actually is. (Either could imagine they are "in love," being "hit on," harassed, touched inappropriately, etc).

4. Therapist and client knowingly or unknowingly disagree on the purpose of massage. (Clients can tell whether a therapist is committed to and believes in the therapy, or this is just a job and the therapist can't wait to finish and go do other things.)

5. Client, or therapist, spends the session discussing personal matters/gossip and when they part, one or the other or both are still in the negative emotional place of the discussion.

6. Client or therapist decides when they meet that they don't like one, the other, or each other.

7. Client has a preconceived idea of the skill set/caliber of the therapist and begins to condescend to or intimidate him/her; maybe say something negative about the establishment, etc.

8. Client has history with molestation and/or rape trauma and related issues, etc., and misconstrues "normal and professional" handling during the session as "harassment."

9. Client gets upset during treatment (maybe the therapist forgot a "request not to do") and either speaks angrily to the therapist, starts breathing angrily, or scowling or some other defensive reaction, verbal or non-verbal.

10. The session "takes the client to a place" they struggle or wasn't prepared to go and this has caused an emotional release (laughter, crying, embarrassment, etc.), or physical release. (Unfair responsibility/blame, etc. can sometimes be projected in either direction.)

Any of the above illustrations will affect the business, the delivery and/or reception of service, the results of the therapy, as well as whether the client returns for follow-up care and/or whether the therapist exercises his/her right of refusal of such care. A certain "energy" change in that environment will happen and set a tone, much like when someone scorned, confident, powerful, loved, or esteemed, etc., walks into a room filled with people. That person can usually feel the "presence" of the mass and whatever the dominant energy is.

So how does one guard/shield from any energy transference? Any defense will have much to do with your belief systems and/or your own personal convictions, as well as your education. If you believe you are a conduit between the universal energy and the client, then you would know that to be effective at this task one needs to be centered, grounded and committed to being the best, purest, cleanest conduit with purpose. This is accomplished mainly by breathing, allowing energy to flow through you with limited attachment.

First, the therapist must be very confident and knowledgeable of their skill-set and especially their purpose for being in the business. Secondly, that therapist must understand their purpose for treating each client and keep "referring" to this mentally throughout treatment. Why am I touching this person and what result do I want them to have? For me, is massage just to "feel-good"? Equally important to these is BREATHING, with purpose. If the therapist is not breathing properly, hence administering self-care, he/she will interpret and react or respond to any "improper or inconvenient discovery". The reverse of this also is true for the client. Both people need to focus on their breathing and purpose for being in that little room together regardless of the undertones. The deeper your breaths, the more oxygen your heart gets to pump and the faster the exit of energy flow to the universe; also, the more calm you'll remain, grounded, collected and focused on the purpose at hand. When client and therapist work as a team with a common purpose or objective, there will be lots of room for the healthy benefits and enjoyment of massage therapy and less chance of transferring the unwanted.

The hands can transfer the energy, good or bad, from client to client, between therapists, and vice versa. It is imperative that each party, but especially the therapist, take care of "self" before, after and during the session, to allow for only a limited attachment to any unwanted "energy" or ailment. Wash your hands immediately after each session and before touching another person, including yourself. As soon as possible at the end of your day of giving/receiving therapy, get some cardio exercise, meditation, etc., and most definitely bathe. Depending on your convictions, as mentioned, a therapist might want to wash their clothes in preparation for the next day. Never go to bed unwashed after giving therapy to someone and if you are a client who felt some ailment or unwanted energy was transferred during your session, take another shower/bath. These are very effective in cleansing and soothing "the spirit" as well as the body.

Two Common Types of Hot Stone Massage Therapy

A stone massage therapy is an ancient form of utilizing heated stones to relive anxiety and alleviate pains in the body. It is a practice of manipulating muscles and other tissues of the body leading to release of stress physically, emotionally and spiritually. It is sometimes used for conventional treatments and involved in alternative medicine.

There are several types of stone massage therapy. Typically, hot stones are utilized and placed in different parts of the body. Others may also use both the hot and cold stones using specific techniques. Some treatments use stones all over the body while some may only place it in specific energy centers like the client's back. There are other treatments that stones are not used as a central point but only as one part of the whole process. To learn more on the different types of stone massage therapies, here are two of the most common procedures:

1. The traditional type of hot stone therapy uses basalt stones for the treatment. These are black, volcanic stones rich in iron that promote relaxation and healing. This therapy session is done with a combination of a Swedish massage. Oils will be applied on your body. The therapist will start massaging slowly by gliding her fingers across your shoulders and down your arms up to your fingertips. She will also stroke your neck down to your spine and to your lower back.

She will then be using basalt stones to massage across you back and down to your legs. These stones have been pre-heated at 120-150 degree of water. The smoothness of the stones and the oil will allow it to move easily through your body and promote relaxation.

Finally, the masseuse will place the stones in certain points which are the energy centers of the body. This will warm the body and produce therapeutic effects. It will improve blood circulation allowing the body to pump more oxygen. It also helps in releasing endorphins which will help in alleviating pains and aches.

2. The La Stone therapy is a hot stone massage involving the use of both cold and hot stones. In this therapy, the client is required to remove his clothing to help open up the energy channels of the body. The hot and cold stones utilized in the session will help alleviate many ailments such as muscle spasms. These stones are used in an alternative manner. There is a scientific explanation for this therapy. The heated stones will increase the oxygen supply of the body leading to improvement of blood circulation and metabolism. The cold stones in the other hand remove congestion and prevent blockages. Swelling and inflammation is also relieved. This technique will help the body improve its healing capability. It will also assist in balancing physical, emotional and spiritual energies.

The La Stone massage therapy also acts as a sedative and increase the body's energy level. It is deeply detoxifying and allows an individual to reach a meditative level. It also enhances the immune system increasing an individual's resistance to infection.

The hot stone therapy is great for people who have undergone huge stress in their lives recently. Whether it's emotional or physical stress, a stone massage therapy will certainly help you relax and reduce aches and pains. If you have never had a hot stone massage therapy before, then now is the perfect time to try one. After all, you definitely owe yourself this pleasure.

Benefits of Watsu

Watsu is the type of bodywork that uses warm pool water in order to properly stretch, heal and relieve the body of a client from various conditions that hinder a healthy constitution. The water should be around 35 degree Celsius or 95 degree Fahrenheit in order to fully achieve best result. The warmth of the water also helps the body to relax by allowing the muscles to loosen up in preparation for the stretching and bodywork techniques.

Watsu was invented by Harold Dull in the early 1980s during one of his experiments with Zen shiatsu which was done in a pool with his students. He was then the director of the Harbin School of Shiatsu and Massage when Watsu was developed and known as what we enjoy today. Zen shiatsu was associated with the water therapy in order to improve its effects to the health and body of the client.

The water therapy is designed for the treatment of chronic pain conditions all over the body. Musculoskeletal pains can be treated with stretching and massage therapy while in the pool water. Significant results after the session can be felt which makes the therapy quite popular and a choice when it comes to muscle pain relief. The therapy is also great for the rehabilitation of injuries and surgeries as it doesn't involve the use of pressure during the therapy. The advantage of making the client float gives the therapist a helping hand in doing various stretching and shiatsu techniques.

Aside from the treatment and correction of various problems including arthritis, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke, fibromyalgia, post surgeries and other disorders, watsu can be taken as a form of relaxation therapy. The mere feeling of floating on the water and being stretched and massaged is a luxurious way of enjoying an afternoon from work. Anyone can enjoy the soothing and calming effects of this therapy as it is quite safe to be taken without the fear for risks and contraindications.

During a watsu therapy session, the massage therapist supports the body of the patient while in the water as he rocks the body in gentle stretching positions. The passive movement of the body helps a lot in joint mobilizations which is effective in improving the range of mobility and flexibility of the moving parts of the body. It also helps in strengthening the joints, preventing friction of the joints, and the weakening of the muscle tissues surrounding it. The therapy session is also filled with silent and still moments in order for the body of the patient to achieve the feeling of weightlessness which can't be attained if done on land.

The risk of drowning or drinking too much water may be a disadvantage to the client if the professional service of a certified watsu massage therapist is not taken. Contagious skin problems are also risky and should not be given this type of treatment in order to contain the disease. Contact your doctor in order to make sure whether the therapy is safe for you or it's the type you should stay away from.

What's the Difference Between Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage?

Massage therapy is not a one-size-fits-all practice. Knowledgeable and skilled therapists will adjust their techniques and tactics depending on what issues you're dealing with and what kind of relief you hope to gain. The goal is to provide benefits that are specific to your needs and wants, which means tailoring the massage accordingly.

That said, there are distinct techniques under the therapy umbrella that boast different schools of thought, manipulation techniques, and health benefits. Two common practices in the U.S. are Swedish massage and deep tissue. While they do share certain characteristics and a therapist may be certified and trained in both methodologies, there are also distinct differences between the two. Knowing the hallmarks of a specific massage practice can help you choose wisely and reap the maximum benefit it.

Swedish Massage

If you're new to massage, Swedish massage is probably what you think of as a standard, "classic" massage. During a this, your therapist will employ an array of movements, including effleurage (sliding across and stroking the skin), petrissage (kneading motions), tapotement (rhythmic tapping with the palm, back, or side of the hand), vibration, and friction. The kneading and tapping can relieve muscle tension and dispel knots, while gliding and creating friction can increase blood flow to the area, stimulate nerves, and further soothe sore muscles. In general, Swedish massage works on the superficial muscles and promotes relaxation and well-being.

Deep Tissue Massage

For people with injuries or ongoing musculoskeletal issues, deep tissue massage can be just the right prescription. Unlike Swedish massage, deep tissue massage digs down below the surface muscles to directly target problem areas. By manipulating the fascia-the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, organs, and nerves-a therapist can release unhealthy muscle patterns and stretch chronically injured or overly tense muscles. Deep tissue is often included in physical therapy regimens for injury recovery. Athletes, dancers, and other people who rely on their body professionally use it to improve performance. During a deep tissue massage<, the therapist may use fingers, fists, forearms, or even elbows to reach the necessary tissue layer.

Considerations

For a soothing, full-body relaxation experience, choose Swedish massage. Deep tissue is more intense, as the goal is often to encourage injured or tight muscles and fascia to heal faster and to increase range of motion and flexibility. If you're in doubt about what's right for you, talk to your doctor before setting up a massage therapy appointment. Also, always inform your therapist of any and all physical issues you're having before he or she starts the session. Afterward, take care to hydrate and to gently stretch out any areas with residual tension. Note that it's common to experience some soreness after it, particularly a vigorous deep tissue massage. However, massage therapy should never be truly painful and is best viewed as a supplement to rather than a replacement for standard medical care.

Is It Okay for Massage Therapists To Be Smokers?

Massage Therapy is an occupation where the Massage Therapist is up close and touching the patient/client. This is something that Therapists have to be mindful of at all times. Nicotine and cigarette smoke are unmistakably strong, (to some offensive) smells. These smells are not easily masked. No perfume, cologne or mouthwash seems to be greatly effective in eliminating this odor.

A major part of a good massage experience is the physical atmosphere of the room. That means a quiet, clean room, with a pleasant soothing scent or no scent at all. A Therapist who smokes can create this setting but he/she would have to be a very light smoker. Even this is risky, because some people are very sensitive to the smell of smoke and can detect even a light scent of tobacco.

We also have to consider some of the unpleasant byproducts of this habit. A main one is "Smoker's Cough". I attended a course on Medical Massage Therapy conducted by a Licensed Massage Therapist who was an obvious heavy smoker. How did I know? He paused frequently, throughout his lecture and demonstrations, to cough. He knew his subject quite well. He was a good teacher and a well experienced Massage Therapist.

But I could not help wondering what his patients/clients experienced when they came to him for therapy. Imagine lying on a massage table trying to relax and having to contend with, not only that strong smell of cigarette smoke, but also a disquieting cough throughout the massage. Back in Massage Therapy school we were not allowed to discriminate against students who smoked as we gave each other practice massages.

Having a smoker Therapist give you a facial massage often had a direct opposite intended effect. It is hard to relax and breathe calmly when your nose is assaulted by the smell of nicotine from the Therapist's fingers. I empathize with Therapists who smoke. How difficult it is to quit, is well documented. But it is also undeniably evident, that smoking is health hazard for both Massage Therapist and patient/client.

The other issue here is that a major benefit of massage therapy is to help rid the body of toxins. Second hand smoke from a Therapist's clothing, hands, hair or breath, poisons the air. Is it okay for Massage Therapists to be smokers? Smoking tobacco is not an illegal activity.

But the intended benefits of massage therapy and the noxious effects of tobacco smoke should make a smoker who is, or is considering becoming a Massage Therapist; quit one or the other pursuit. To your total best health, Guildford Joe Thomas L.M.T.

Inversion Therapy May Help You Avoid Back Surgery

Inversion therapy uses the simple reversal of gravity's pull on the body to affect changes in the back's discs, joints and muscles. Inversion tables can be purchased for you home, making it a flexible component of back pain treatment.

Benefits

Inversion therapy is primarily used to treat herniated spinal discs. When the exterior ring of a spinal disc weakens and cracks, the gel in the center of the disc oozes out and irritates nerve roots as they exit the spine. Sciatica is a common result of herniated discs. When inverted, the force of gravity on the spine is reversed. The spine is elongated and the space in between vertebrae increases, allowing discs to expand. After a number of treatments, the disc is expected to fully expand and reabsorb lost fluids.

Discs aren't the only area of the spine affected by inversion. Spinal joints can be decompressed by elongating the spine. The muscles and ligaments that run along the spine experience a good stretch during an inversion session. Muscle tension is common in both the lower and upper back, and relieving this tension can go a long way in treating some people's back pain. Also, tight muscles can actually cause compression of discs and joints, so stretching them out may help reduce the risk of these related problems.

The body begins to experience beneficial effects of stretching at 20-30 degrees of inversion. 40-60 degrees is generally recommended to experience the full range of inversion benefits, although beginners should start in the lower range for the first week or two until the body has become more flexible.

A number of studies confirming the benefits of inversion therapy have been conducted since the 1960's. A more recent study by Parad KS et. al. looks at the outcomes of 22 participants who were awaiting surgery for a herniated disc; one group was prescribed physical therapy and the other, physical therapy combined with inversion treatment. While most members of both groups still had MRI evidence of herniation at the end of the 6-week treatment period, only 23% of the inversion group went on to have surgery, while 78% of the control group still needed surgery. Even though herniation was still present in the inversion group, pain was decreased enough to eliminate the need for an invasive procedure. A summary of the study can be found at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22263648.

One Component of Treatment

Inversion therapy is generally not a treatment plan in itself, but a possible helpful component. Exercise therapy is almost always necessary to thoroughly treat back pain; strengthening the core muscle group will help to more permanently relieve strain on spinal discs and joints. Maintaining flexibility in the region is also important to prevent tight ligaments and muscles from compressing spinal structures. Those with muscle imbalances may need physical therapy and myofascial release to help restore balance to the body. You may experience positive results from combining inversion therapy with a simple home core workout routine.

Reviews

While some caution that there is not sufficient research to support the use of inversion in treating back pain, others may point to the reviews of people who have used this type of treatment. At http://www.dailystrength.org/treatments/Inversion_Therapy, we see that inversion therapy has a 100% effectiveness rating among 24 reviewers with back pain, fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Since a quality inversion table can be purchased for around $100, it may be a wise investment.

Contraindications

Inversion therapy should not be used in cases of:

Glaucoma

High Blood Pressure

Weak or Fractured Bones

Circulatory Problems/Use of Blood Thinners

Hernia

Extreme Obesity

Stroke

Spinal Injury

Stroke

Pregnancy

If inversion therapy is not contraindicated for you, then it is a safe way for you to address back pain in the comfort of your home. Combined with exercise, inversion can help you naturally treat the cause of your pain and avoid unnecessary surgeries.