Structural Integration training requires a background of careful preparation of body, mind and spirit. The following requirements and suggested studies are designed with this kind of preparation in mind.
The Basic Ten Sessions of Structural Integration rooted in Dr. Rolf’s work are required. Candidates for training are also encouraged to experience the Advanced Five Series and movement integration work. Contact the GSI office for a directory of Practitioners in your area.
The work of Structural Integration is physically demanding and for this reason a candidate must be healthy and have a competent structure.
Candidates are required to have massage training and experience. The massage requirement may be met in any of the following ways:
- The Guild’s Prerequisite Course
- A formal full-length course at a massage or bodywork school.
- Physical Therapist training, Occupational Therapist training, etc.
Other courses or backgrounds may be accepted. Please contact the Guild to discuss your unique situation.
This requirement may be met in the following ways:
- The Guild’s Prerequisite Course
- College courses taken for credit, no credit or as an auditor.
- College correspondence courses taken for credit.
- Courses taken through a massage school
- Other courses (discuss with staff)
Supplemental study from the reading list and the Anatomiken workshop offered by Zahourek Systems are highly recommended. Other related course work in the human sciences is encouraged. When studying gross human anatomy, focus on the musculoskeletal system, with emphasis on bones and their attachments, as well as major blood and nerve supply. If you are considering GSI’s preparatory course, contact the office for details.
Candidates must possess a mature understanding of themselves and others. We look for intellectual understanding, integration of personal insight and academic or personal experience that could assist in the Client/Practitioner relationship.College courses, individual therapy or group psychotherapy, independent seminars and workshops are a few areas in which a candidate may gain psychological awareness and understanding. Other modalities are available and may be used to prepare in this area.
A candidate must also demonstrate success in life. The ability to undertake and complete a significant task over an extended period of time is a crucial personal skill. This may be met by obvious professional, business, educational, or personal accomplishments.
A candidate will discover that it is an advantage to have already established a “hands-on” clientele before training. It is not unusual for a new Practitioner to have to build a practice through education and personal referrals.
Candidates are encouraged to research and abide by their local and/or state laws governing bodywork.