The program is conducted in three semesters. Each semester is approximately 150 hours in length, constituting 500 training hours.
Semester 1
The first semester of the program is concerned with somatic functional problems of the trunk and vertebral column. Students will learn somatic educational techniques that are consistently effective in eliminating fundamental disorders such as chronic back and neck pain, chronic headaches, sciatica, scoliosis, etc. The program includes lectures on kinesiology and the phenomenon of sensory-motor amnesia. Students also learn diagnostic techniques based on recognition of the typical postural disorders of the Landau Reflex, Startle Reflex, and Trauma Reflex. During the first semester, students undergo a written examination on their knowledge of the field of kinesiology.
Semester 2
The second semester focuses on somatic functional problems of the shoulder joints and arms and of the hip joints and legs. Students will learn procedures for eliminating such problems as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitus, frozen shoulders, chronic hip and knee pain, pronated or supinated feet, etc., and attend lectures on neurophysiology. During the second year, students write an examination paper on their knowledge of the field of neurophysiology.
Semester 3
The final semester is largely devoted to expanding the clinical skills of the students and to deepening their understanding of neurophysiology. Students enhance their ability to help clients solve functional problems related to the extremities, walking/gait, balance, and other conditions. Those who successfully complete the coursework and demonstrate competency are certified as authorized clinical practitioners of Prime Somatics (also known as Clinical Somatic Education).
Training Team
The program employs team teaching to enrich the student's learning experience. Team teaching provides greater intellectual stimulation and closer supervision during clinical practice time. In addition, between semesters each student communicates with a mentor from the teaching team. Mentoring helps assure that students receive personal attention with regard to assignments, issues with clients, and staying on track for completion of the program by the end of the final semester.
