Introduction
In recent years there has been great emphasis on the use of 'natural' or complementary treatments. In modern life there are many pressures leading to undue stress, which result in illness. The Holistic Therapist treats the person as a whole and takes the person's thinking, lifestyle, and physical and social environment into consideration while guiding the client towards better health.
The emphasis is on health in the widest sense and the aim is to maximise vitality and life potential including personal and social success and fulfilment. Holistic Therapy seeks to integrate the person, instead of dividing them into mind and body as separate entities for treatment. There is evidence to link a person's immune system to their state of mind. Negative emotions have a bad effect while a positive attitude leads to enhanced health and well being.
Training in constructive thinking is part of the goal of holistic health remedies. A central course objective is to harness the power of the mind to tackle problems and to improve aspects of one's life. The client is trained to move away from negative destructive thoughts and to embrace thoughts of a good and healthy life of well-being and happiness. The various therapies address the needs in a singular or combined way as appropriate to the individual.
The therapist is a holistic person who recognises their abilities and creative energy as the catalyst for healing. The therapist demonstrates qualities of genuineness, empathy and unconditional regard for the client at all times.
Career Opportunities
This is a rapidly expanding career area offering various opportunities for professional practice. Graduates find employment in:
- Hotels, Guest Houses and Leisure Centres
- Beauty Salons/Health Centres
- Healing Centres
- Cruise Ships
- Sports Injuries Clinics
- Health Spas
- Gymnasiums
- Graduates may also commence professional practice in aromatherapy, massage, reflexology, stress management and sports massage therapy.
Course Structure
This course is aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of a number of the popular therapies and achieving recognised qualifications to engage in professional practice.
Learners explore the diversity of complementary systems and underlying principles. They receive a firm grounding in Complementary Therapy theory and practice together with an understanding of how they fit into the wider context of health sciences. Thus, graduates will be able to approach Complementary Therapies and mainstream medicine in an open minded, informed and constructively critical manner.
Core Elements
This course is a progression from Year 1 and offers additional ITEC modules along with a Diploma in Tuina Seated Massage.
Year Two
Learners are prepared for the following Diplomas:
- ITEC Aromatherapy
- ITEC Sports Massage
- ITEC Onsite Massage
- ITEC Certificate in Facil Skincare
- Tuina Seated Massage
| Course Code | HOL2 (second year) |
| Duration | 1 year – full time September to May |
| Number of places | 25 |
| Number of contact hours per week | 22 approx |
| Timetable contact | 5 days, between 9:00am-6:00pm |
Support Elements
- Industry Training Courses (Infant Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Thermal Auricular Candling)
- Business Studies
- Study Skills
- Career Advice and CV Preparation
Assessment and Certification
- ITEC apply a rigid set of standards governing attendance, learning and examinations.
- Tuina is certified by Tuina Ireland, the independent association of Medical Chinese Acupressure Practitioners in Ireland.
- Examinations take place in April and May.
- Case studies are required for all ITEC practical modules.
Progression
Education/Training
Career
- Graduates may practice as qualified CIBTAC/ITEC, Tuina and Holistic Therapists.
- ITEC Diplomas enable recipients to become international members of ITEC.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should hold an Anatomy, Physiology and Body Massage qualification from CIBTAC, ITEC or equivalent.
Applicants must have successfully completed year 1.
There is a high demand for places and early application is advised. Applications will be processed strictly in order of receipt.
Applicants may be required to undergo a suitability interview. Short listing will apply based on general ability, specific aptitude and demonstrable interests in Holistic Therapies.
Fees
- There are no tuition fees for EU students. At course commencement, students are required to pay for books, exams, €200 PLC Government Levy (unless exempt), a Student Services fee and where applicable professional body registration fees.
- Students will be required to purchase certain items including a uniform and product kits.