VTCT Diploma in Massage for the Complementary Therapist Level 4

In a nutshell

The VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Massage for the Complementary Therapist has been designed to develop further the knowledge and understanding of advanced massage techniques and applications.

This qualification will enable you to add additional techniques for treatment application to your existing repertoire whilst further developing your knowledge of the theories and practices for advanced applications of massage

This course is for you if...

...you are a qualified complementary therapist

...you hold a Level 3 qualification in Massage including Anatomy and Physiology

What will I be doing?

Through this qualification you will develop your interpersonal skills while expanding your understanding of advanced massage techniques. This qualification is designed to give you the essential knowledge to assist you to provide advanced therapeutic skills within a clinical setting.

During the course you will cover effective communication skills, conducting subjective and objective assessments of clients, treatment planning, advanced massage techniques such as soft tissue release, muscular energy techniques and trigger points, reflective practice, anatomy and physiology.

The units covered include:

• Interpersonal skills for the complementary therapist
• Advanced anatomy and physiology for the complementary therapist
• Advanced massage therapy for the complementary therapist

Assessment is though the creation of a portfolio of evidence, written tests, observations and case studies to include reflective practice. You will be required to provide your own clients for case studies and carry out and document evidence for a minimum of 30 treatments on 15 clients with a minimum of two treatments per client.

What is expected of me?

You’ll need to be self-motivated and driven, friendly with good interpersonal skills, demonstrate critical thinking skills, a good time manager and able to demonstrate excellent attendance and punctuality.

What comes next?

This qualification is designed to lead employment in a variety of roles, either self employed, in a complementary therapy clinic, beauty or spa facilities or private practice. This qualification may also lead to employment within a hospital, hospice or other healthcare environments.

Whilst the primary purpose of this qualification is to prepare learners for employment, learners may choose to develop their knowledge and skills further by completing a specialist qualification at Level 4 in one or more of the following areas:

- VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Providing Therapies for Clients with Cancer or other Life Limiting Conditions
- VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Reflexology for the Complementary Therapist
- VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Aromatherapy for the Complementary Therapist

This qualification has been developed collaboratively with employers, professional associations and key stakeholders in the massage therapy sector. Because of this, the knowledge, skills and competencies gained will provide the best possible opportunity for progression into employment.

This qualification is formally supported by the following organisations:
- Federation of Holistic Therapists

Additional information

You will be required to wear a clinic uniform and suitable footwear.

The course fees include tuition and registration fees. Tuition fees are due at the time of booking/enrolment. If required, this can be by direct debit, over five instalments.If your employer is funding your course, confirmation of this in writing will be required so that the college can arrange to invoice them.

It is essential that you are able to provide suitable clients as case studies for your assessments.