Student Clinic

The Student Clinic Practicum gives senior students the opportunity to provide massage to the public under faculty supervision. Students report that the clinic is one of the most rewarding aspects of their training. As students see a wide range of clients, they identify their own strengths and growth areas. Students also apply the full range of massage techniques they have learned. Moreover, they begin to evolve their own unique styles. As a result, students acquire greater confidence and begin to see themselves as promising, professional massage therapists.

The Community Outreach component of the Practicum is inspired by Dr. Jay Scherer himself. Our founder was well known for his willingness to work with individuals from all walks of life. In this spirit, Scherer Institute encourages students to serve their practicum hours in service to local organizations to benefit those with special needs, such as the elderly, people living with HIV, and victims of domestic violence. Other students choose to volunteer for events such as the Women's Health Fair, Peace Day, Friends Forever (children living with cancer), and a variety of sporting events.

What our students say about the Hands-on Practicum:

“While the in-class instruction at Scherer is superb, the true growth of knowledge comes from one's ability to apply the information gathered in a practical manner. The Student Clinic/Practicum at Scherer is a wonderful setting that benefits both the students and clients. It provides a safe and comfortable setting where clients receive an excellent, relaxing massage experience and students are allowed the opportunity to work with, to touch, a wide variety of people under the close supervision of a registered massage therapy instructor. As a student, having an RMTI close at hand to answer questions, give gentle guidance and support, and cheer on my moments of success, meant the world to me. As I have moved into my professional career, I have taken with me the lessons learned during my time in Student Clinic/Practicum. And I know that if I am in a situation where I need professional guidance, I still have a knowledgeable and caring support system available to me at the Scherer Institute of Natural Healing.”

Leisha Campbell, 2007 Scherer Graduate

“Student Clinic/Practicum built my confidence, and was a wonderful way to discover how much I'd learned and already begun to integrate. At the same time, some of my best learning happened as I was practicing with many different people, bodies and situations. The clients were appreciative and often got exactly the results they were seeking. It was great to feel the support of all my classmates and teachers, and to have opportunities to discuss questions and strategies in class - to have our own hands-on case studies. I left the school ready to work, and had a job within weeks.”

Andrea Fechter, 2007 Scherer graduate

The clinic experience provided a vehicle to improve my confidence. More importantly, the experience also opened my heart. At Scherer I learned so many wonderful things, and perhaps most important of all, I learned that "it is an honor to touch another person." I am just now beginning to fathom the depth and wonder of that statement recognizing that healing is a force beyond our ability to articulate its meaning. Healing is something that unfolds in utter mystery and unconditional positive regard for another human being. What I learned at Scherer cracked me wide open, it shook me to my core, and it showed me how astonishing life is when directed toward an awareness of the 'other.'

Chris De Getmon
2007 Scherer graduate

“The Practicum is really rewarding and gratifying. Whether clients want deep tissue or relaxation, I can use the skills and tools I learned in class and help to bring relief and comfort to people. It makes it all worth it!”

Peter Schaefer
2007 Scherer graduate