While it is tough to deny the convenience of taking home based continuing education classes, it is important that professional massage therapists and bodyworkers looking at this avenue for education consider a few factors before selecting a specific course.
Budget
If you live on a strict budget, then the cost of the class should be near the top of your priority list. Take into consideration all the class has to offer when deciding how much you’re willing and able to spend. You may find you don’t mind paying a little more for a course that includes videos, training modules, books and direct access to the teacher, rather than settling for a course that costs less but offers fewer resources.
Requirements
Obviously, for those massage therapists and bodyworkers who happen to work in areas where the industry is regulated, there may be requirements in place, such as specific topics that must be studied via continuing education. If certain classes are mandated in your region, then you will need to make sure that completing those courses is at the top of your priority list.
Skills
If you have some room to pick and choose your topic, look to your individual goals when selecting a specific course. For example, if you are happy with the services you offer but feel overwhelmed by the accounting procedures in your practice, then find a course that focuses on accounting for massage therapists and bodyworkers. Additionally, if you want to offer new services or are unable to meet the needs of some clients with specific issues and conditions, then look for a class that can teach you new or more advanced skills for the session room.
Quality
Making sure the class you choose counts toward any continuing education units you may need to earn is important, but also make sure the course brings substance and quality to the table. Remember, in the end, you should leave the class with fresh, new ideas to further your career and your practice.