Donna M. Call
I want to study acupuncture, which is now a masters program. It's a strong calling that's gotten louder and defies reason. As a nationally certified massage therapist, my scope of practice is limited. I cannot diagnose and I am not qualified to treat serious or chronic conditions. Yet since I began practicing massage in 1980, I've amassed a large body of knowlege about natural health. My clients are charmed by me when I suggest something they've already heard from their chiropractor, acupuncturist, or medical doctor. Understandably though, my voice alone is not well respected. Becoming certified as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine means I will have enhanced my diagnostic and treatment skills to better serve my family, friends, and clients.
Achieving a B.A. is the first step toward that goal. In itself it ' s a worthy objective. Presently, I am considering the awesome task of obtaining state approval to function as a school-- to offer vocational massage training. I would like to participate in the policy making of the Commission on Massage Training and Accreditation. I would like to recommend curriculum guidelines that emphasize an excellent foundation in anatomy and physiology, but also respect the heart and soul of the profession. I want to see massage remain within a holistic framework as a means of integrating body, mind and spirit.
Currently, COMTA accredits schools whose core curriculum meets 500 total hours of in-class, teacher supervised instruction. Practice accounts for only 200 hours. I disagree that the remaining 300 hours must be in-class, teacher supervised. I know that this part of the curriculum can be learned at least as well through a mentored home- study approach.
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