2024 BHA FastTrack Professional Certification Programs (FTPC)

August 5, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Castor Oil Packs, Medicated Oils, and Essential Oil Use in Clinical Practice

Castor oil has been used for thousands of years for various purposes. The castor oil plant has a long history of ethno-pharmaceutical use for the treatment of abdominal disorders, arthritis, backache, muscle aches, sciatica, chronic headache, constipation, gallbladder disorders, menstrual pain, and the reduction and treatment of scar tissue.

If you have never worked with or utilized castor oil packs, you will learn how to and if you already know how to apply a castor oil pack this course will greatly expand your knowledge and abilities.  Dr. Lawton refers to this course as going to castor oil "graduate school." .

In this 6-hour certification course you will learn:
      • When and for what conditions you can use a castor oil pack.
      • How castor oil affects your body and how mixing and blending castor oil creates different physiological
        effects on the body, its organs, and organ systems.
      • How to design, mix, and blend your own medicated oils.
      • How to combine medicated oils with a castor oil pack.
      • How to select and use essential oils in combination with a castor oil pack.
      • How to properly apply a castor oil pack to the vertebral spine.
      • How to apply a castor oil pack to the various muscles and joints of the body.
      • How to apply a castor oil pack to the thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic regions.
      • How to use castor oils packs for the treatment of inflammation and chronic pain.
      • How to train your patients to use castor oil packs.
      • How to treat musculoskeletal pathology and internal organ problems with a castor oil pack, medicated oils,
        and essential oils.
      • How to make dietary, nutritional, and herbal recommendations to augment your use of castor oil packs,
       medicated oils, and essential oils.
       • The business side of castor oil packs, medicated oils, and essential oils and how to increase your clinic or Medi spa
        revenue through the use, promotion, and sale of castor oil, castor oil packs,and other patient-oriented
        supplies and equipment.

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline: July 25, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $135

August 12, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Lymphedema Therapy Training Workshop and Certification Program
Lymphedema Therapy Training (6 hours of live in-person training)

Are you looking to expand your knowledge and skills in lymphedema therapy and patient management? Look no further than our lymphedema certification workshop! Our workshop offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to lymphedema therapy, with an in-person workshop taught by Dr. Gregory T. Lawton. This workshop covers everything from a multiple step lymphedema patient treatment protocol to complementary and adjunctive therapies including facilitated energetic therapeutic exercise (FETE), dietary and nutraceutical supplementation as well as herbal medicine, both topical and internal.

Our certification workshop is designed for licensed, registered, and certified health care professionals, including PTs, OTs, MTs, AMTs, PTAs, SLPs, COTAs, RNs, CNPs, MDs, DOs, DPMs, DCs, PAs, ATCs, acupuncturists.

This workshop is approved by the NCBTMB and meets the requirements set by the American Medical Massage Association, and the American Manual Medicine Association.

Our certification workshop provides the highest quality education and training to help you become a skilled and confident lymphedema therapist. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate that documents your expertise in lymphedema therapy and patient management.

This professional certification workshop is:

      • A comprehensive and hands-on approach to lymphedema therapy.
      • Taught by Dr. Lawton with his highly qualified licensed and certified teaching assistants.
      • Covers everything from manual lymph drainage to a multistep treatment protocol.
      • Designed for licensed, registered, and certified health care professionals.
      • An intensive training program that provides certification upon completion.

At this workshop you will learn:
      • Why many contemporary manual lymphatic drainage programs are ineffective or harmful.
      • Why a comprehensive multistep lymphedema protocol is needed to provide effective lymphatic drainage and treatment.
      • The correct therapy and treatment steps in a systematic therapeutic protocol.
      • How to observe and evaluate a clinical response in lymphedema patients.
      • How to manage lymphedema symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, and swelling.
      • How to apply the measured and correct amount of manual compression therapy.
      • How to treat specific areas or body regions that have been damaged and injured by surgery, drugs, or radiation.
      • How to manage lymphedema symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, and swelling.
      • How to provide manual therapy to treat scar tissue or connective tissue damaged by radiation.
      • How to provide topical medicated liniment or essential oil therapy for the treatment of lymphedema.
      • Specific types of exercises and muscle contraction techniques for lymphedema patients.
      • Herbal medicines and formulas that prevent and treat lymphatic conditions
      • The use of light and photo modulated therapy in lymphedema treatment.
      • ... and more!

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline: August 2, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $145
Lymphedema training manual, CD, and workshop handouts are all included in the workshop fee.

August 19, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Herbal Medicine and Women's Health Issues and Conditions

Our Story....

For hundreds of years and countless centuries herbal medicine has been an important part of the practice of traditional healthcare as well as massage and manual therapy. During the 1970's I had the great privilege of training with physicians who went to school or practiced during the late 1800's and early 1900's. A common denominator among them all was their use of herbal medicines for the treatment of their patients. Over the last 50 years of my teaching career, I have been bringing this knowledge to my students and teaching them about the value and benefits of herbal medicines and preparations, whether used internally or externally.

As a result of my training, experience, and clinical practice related to herbal medicine and as a master herbalist, licensed chiropractor, licensed naprapath, registered naturopath, and licensed acupuncturist I teach practical and effective methods and treatment protocols for treating a variety of patient conditions. As a manual therapist myself, I can speak and instruct directly to the kinds of patients and conditions seen daily by massage and manual therapists as well as herbalists and holistic health practitioners.

In this 6-hour certification course this is what we will do and cover:

Herbal Medicine History Related to Women's Health Issues -
      • Investigate the history of herbal medicine as it relates to the advancement of women.
      • Discuss early leaders, women and men, in the herbal medical profession and their contributions to women's health.  These women and men include:  Lydia Pinkham (1819-1883) - Harriet K. Hunt (1805-1875) - Catherine Beecher (1800-1878) - Ellen R. White (1827-1915) - John Harvey Kellogg (1852-1943) - Benedict Lust (1872-1945).

Hormonal Balance and Herbal Remedies -
      • Discuss the impact of hormonal imbalances on women's health.
      • Explore herbal approaches to regulate hormones, manage PMS, and support menopause.
Fertility and Reproductive Health -
      • Address fertility challenges and natural ways to enhance reproductive health.
      • Highlight specific herbs that promote fertility and support conception.
Menstrual Health and Pain Management -
      • Cover common menstrual issues (e.g., heavy bleeding, irregular cycles).
      • Introduce herbal remedies for menstrual pain relief and overall well-being.
Herbs for Stress and Anxiety -
      • Explore adaptogenic herbs that help manage stress and anxiety.
      • Discuss their impact on hormonal balance and emotional health.
Herbal Medicine Use During Pregnancy -
      • Provide guidelines for safe herbal use during pregnancy.
      • Discuss herbs for nausea, fatigue, and overall pregnancy wellness.
Postpartum Recovery and Herbal Healing -
      • Address postpartum challenges (e.g., healing, lactation).
      • Share herbal strategies for postpartum recovery.
Breast Health and Herbal Approaches -
      • Discuss breast health, including prevention and support.
      • Highlight herbs for breast tenderness, cysts, and overall health.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention -
      • Explore herbs that promote bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
      • Discuss lifestyle factors and herbal supplementation.
Herbs for Menopause Transition -
      • Cover herbal options for managing menopausal symptoms.
      • Address hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
Gynecological Disorders and Herbal Solutions -
      • Address conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and PCOS.
      • Present herbal approaches to alleviate symptoms.
The External Application of Herbal Medicines, Medicated Oils, and Essential Oils -
      • Learn the benefits of herbal medicines as external applications.
      • Learn where and how to apply herbal medicines as external applications.
Herbal Safety and Dosage Guidelines -
      • Educate attendees on safe herbal use.
      • Discuss dosage, interactions, and potential risks.

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline: August 9, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $145

August 26, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Dynamic Table Stretching Lab and Kinesio Taping Workshop - Learn how to stretch and tape your clients properly and safely

Part One - Dynamic Table Stretching (3 hours)

Table stretching labs are a growing and profitable segment of the massage profession. In this workshop we teach you how to help your clients improve their flexibility, mobility, and posture.

Stretching is not only good for muscles, joints, ligaments, and the spine, but also for mental clarity, emotional balance, and a positive mood. Stretching can help reduce stress, prevent injuries, and enhance performance in sports, work, and life. But how do you stretch clients safely, correctly, and effectively? If stretching is not performed correctly, you might be doing more harm than good to your clients.

Stretching not only improves flexibility, mobility, and posture, but it also improves blood circulation, muscle strength and coordination as well as significantly increasing muscle mass. This is especially important for older clients.

That's why we created this stretching workshop for health care professionals like you.

In this 6-hour certification course you will learn:
      • The benefits of clinical table stretching and how it affects the body and mind.
      • The different types of stretching and when to use them.
      • The many kinds of stretching performed on a client on a treatment table.
      • The best stretches for your clients' specific needs and goals.
      • The common mistakes and myths about stretching and how to avoid them.
      • How to develop a stretching "flow" and sequence.
      • The tips and tricks to make stretching fun and enjoyable.
This workshop is not only suitable for health care professionals who want to add stretching to their toolbox of therapeutic skills, but it is also important for the therapist or anyone who wants or needs to improve their own flexibility, mobility, and posture, regardless of their age, fitness level, or experience.

Part Two - Dynamic and Kinesio Taping for Muscle Strength and Rehabilitation (3 hours)

Clinical or sports taping is any technique that uses therapeutic tape to relieve pain and inflammation resulting from various physical disorders or sports injuries. The word kinesio is associated with the concept of body movement and physical activity. In this hands-on workshop we will combine table stretching methods with the correct application of kinesio and dynamic tape.

Dynamic taping is a therapeutic technique that uses a special type of elastic tape to modify the load and movement of injured structures, such as muscles, tendons, and joints. Dynamic tape can stretch in different directions and has more recoil than kinesio tape, which means it can act like a spring to absorb and inject force.

Dynamic taping can help with pain relief, inflammation reduction, joint stability, movement control, and function enhancement. Dynamic tape has been rapidly replacing kinesio tape as the tape of choice for chiropractors, physical therapists, and massage therapists.

In Part Two of this 6-hour certification course you will learn:
      • The theory and principles of several forms of clinical and therapeutic taping.
      • How dynamic taping modifies the load and movement of injured structures, and how it differs
from kinesiology tape.
      • The physiological benefits of kinesio and dynamic tape and their effects on blood circulation, lymphatic flow, nerve function, connective tissue and fascia growth and strengthening, and pain management.
      • The practical skills to apply therapeutic tape to various conditions and scenarios, such as muscle injuries, joint problems, posture correction, and edema reduction.
      • The hands-on practice of taping with feedback from your instructor who will guide you through the most advanced and professional taping methodology. This workshop is interactive and hands-on.

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline August 16, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $135

September 16, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Scar Erasure 101 - A Workshop for Massage Therapists on Scar Remediation and Management

Scars are a problem!  Whether a scar is external or internal, scars are chronic causes of pain and inflammation as well as disruptors of normal function, movement, and internal physiological processes.

Learn a non-invasive and non-surgical approach to treating and managing scar tissue, whether it is internal or external.

Learn how to help your clients heal from scars and improve their quality of life. Expand your skills and knowledge in scar tissue remediation and management. Join Dr. Lawton and his talented teaching assistants for a one-day workshop on massage therapy techniques for scar remediation!

Learn how to use herbal medicine, essential oils, and infused oils for scar tissue remediation. Join us for a one-day workshop on this critically important and beneficial topic!

Learn an effective, non-invasive, multistep scar treatment protocol.

      • Surgical scars
      • Traumatic scars
      • Burn scars
      • Pregnancy scars
      • Thoracic scars
      • Abdominal/pelvic scars
      • Reproductive system scars

In this workshop, you will learn:
      • The anatomy and physiology of scar tissue formation and its effects on the body.
      • The benefits and contraindications of massage therapy for scar tissue.
      • The assessment and evaluation of scar tissue and its surrounding structures.
      • Massage techniques to remove scar tissue, the use of medicated and infused oils specifically for scar tissue remediation, FETE stretching, as well as microcurrent and instrument-assisted scar tissue massage.
      • How to treat external scars with low level light therapy.
      • The best herbs, essential oils, and infused oils for different kinds of scars, such as keloid, hypertrophic, and contracture scars.
      • How to make your own medicated and infused oils for therapeutic scar treatment.
      • How to prevent or minimize scarring after injuries or surgeries.
      • The best practices and tips for applying these techniques safely and effectively.
      • The home care and self-care recommendations for clients with scar tissue.

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
      • Identify and treat different types of scars, such as keloid, hypertrophic, and contracture scars.
      • Enhance the appearance, mobility, and function of scar tissue and its adjacent tissues.
      • Reduce the pain, itching, inflammation, redness, and sensitivity of scar tissue.
      • Increase the range of motion and flexibility of joints affected by scar tissue.
      • Improve the blood flow and lymph drainage of scar tissue.
      • Prevent or minimize the formation of adhesions and complications from scar tissue.
      • Identify and treat scars internally and externally with herbs, essential oils, and infused oils.
      • Improve the appearance, texture, and elasticity of scars.
      • Enhance the blood circulation and lymphatic drainage of scar tissue.
      • Boost your immune system and skin regeneration.
      • Create your own personalized scar care products.

This workshop is suitable for massage therapists of all levels who want to add scar tissue remediation and management to their practice. You will receive a certificate of completion and 6 CEs upon finishing the workshop. The workshop fee is $145 and includes all materials. To register, click on the link provided below.

Space is limited, so sign up today and don't miss this opportunity to learn from the experts in scar tissue massage, management, and remediation.

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline: September 6, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $145

September 30, 2024 (Monday - 9am to 4pm) - Instructor - Gregory T. Lawton, D.C., D.N., D.Ac.
     This course is NCBTMB Approved for 6 CE Hours and meets the Michigan 1-Hour mandatory license renewal
      requirement for pain and symptom management.
Clinical Cupping, Myofascial Scraping, and Pressure Point Therapy - 3 Workshops in 1!

Part One
Approaches to Clinical Cupping - Learn this Ancient Art of Healing:

Have you ever wondered what those circular marks on some people's backs are? They are the result of cupping, a traditional therapy that has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions.

Cupping involves applying suction cups to the skin, creating a vacuum that pulls up the underlying tissues. This stimulates blood flow, releases toxins, and relieves pain and inflammation. Cupping can benefit anyone who suffers from chronic pain, muscle tension, stress, fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, and more. It can also enhance your immune system, improve your skin, and promote relaxation and well-being.

If you are interested in learning more about cupping and how to do it, join us for our upcoming cupping workshop. You will learn the history, theory, and practice of cupping, as well as the different types of cups and techniques.

In this workshop, you will learn:
      • The history and theory of cupping
      • The different types of cupping tools
      • The many kinds of stretching performed on a client on a treatment table.
      • The proper technique and amount of suction for treatment
      • The areas and body regions upon which cupping is applied
      • A body routine that you can do to relieve pain and promote healing
      • How to incorporate clinical cupping into your practice

Our cupping workshop is suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Whether you want to use cupping for your own health or add it to your repertoire of skills, this workshop will give you the confidence and knowledge to perform cupping safely and effectively.

Don't miss this opportunity to discover the ancient art of healing with cupping. Register now and get ready to experience the benefits of this powerful therapy.

Part Two
Approaches to Myofascial Scraping - Learn the Ancient Healing Art of Scraping:

Join us for a myofascial scraping workshop and discover the benefits of this ancient healing technique.

Myofascial scraping is a method of scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and release toxins. It can help with a variety of conditions, such as:
      • Arthritis
      • Fibromyalgia
      • Migraine headaches
      • Low back pain
      • Edema
      • Sagging skin
      • Tension
      • Stress
      • Anxiety

In this workshop, you will learn:
      • The history and theory of scraping
      • The different types of scraping tools and how to choose the best one
      • The proper technique and pressure for treatment
      • The pressure points, muscle points, fascial lines, and lymph nodes on your body
      • A body routine that you can do to relieve pain and promote healing
      • How to incorporate myofascial scraping into your practice

This workshop is suitable for anyone who wants to learn a natural and effective way to improve their health and appearance. No prior experience is required. All materials and tools will be provided.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a licensed practitioner and experience the benefits of this ancient healing art. Register now workshops fill quickly!

Part Three
Approaches to Pressure Point Therapy - Learn the Art of Pressure:

Learn how to relieve pain and stress with pressure point therapy. Join us for a pressure point therapy workshop and discover the secrets of this ancient massage technique.

Pressure point therapy is a form of massage that works on specific points on the body that are connected to the peripheral and central nervous system. By applying gentle pressure to these points, you can stimulate nerve receptors that reduce pain and inflammation. Some of the benefits of pressure point therapy are: :

      • Reducing pain and inflammation
      • Relieving stress and anxiety
      • Improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
      • Enhancing immune system function
      • Promoting relaxation and sleep
      • Supporting digestion and detoxification
      • Boosting mood and energy levels
      • Stress

In this workshop, you will learn:
      • The history and theory of pressure point therapy
      • The different types of pressure points and how to locate them on your patients
      • The proper technique and pressure for pressure point therapy
      • A pressure point therapy routine that you can use on patients to address common issues such as headaches, back pain, insomnia, and more
      • How to incorporate pressure point therapy into your daily healthcare practice

This workshop is suitable for anyone who wants to learn a natural and effective way to treat pain and inflammation. No prior experience is required. All materials and tools will be provided.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a certified pressure point therapist and experience the power of this ancient healing art. Register now and get ready to tap into your awesome healing potential!

Your course Instructor -
Dr. Gregory T. Lawton is a licensed Chiropractor, Naprapath, and Acupuncturist as well as a Master Herbalist and registered Naturopath with over 40 years of professional health care practice experience and 50 years of teaching experience.  Dr. Lawton is the founder of the Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences.

Registration Deadline: September 20, 2024
No refunds will be given after purchase unless the program date is cancelled due to low enrollment

What does this course cost?
Classroom training - $135