About
What you will learn
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History of oncology massage and its role in mainstream medical practices
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The complexity of cancer. Its origins, manifestations, and metastasis
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Common cancer treatments, side effects, medications, cautions, and contraindications
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The Walton Pressure Scale – the pressure system used nationwide for safe, effective oncology massage
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Hands on demonstrations for full-body oncology massage protocol. Manual lymph drainage techniques, scar tissue concerns, and considerations for clients with medical devices will be reviewed
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Oncology intake form is provided to take home for your practice
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Up-to-date information from the MD Anderson Cancer Care Center massage team
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During the last day of class each student will receive a scripted cancer diagnosis complete with medical conditions and medications. Their partner will interview them and perform an oncology massage.
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Class size is limited to 12 students for personalized attention
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Marketing ideas and career advice will be shared
Erika Jantzen graduated from the Ohio College of Massotherapy in 1984. She began her journey in the field of massage therapy in Ohio, later relocating to Palm Beach, FL, and eventually moving to Atlanta in 1990. She worked in every facet of the spa and massage industry, including serving as lead therapist, trainer and workbook author, instructor, spa manager, product development and sales, and admissions representative at a massage school.
In 2009, she trained under Tracy Walton, one of the founders of the oncology massage protocol – an experience that profoundly shaped her career. Erika spent five years at the Griffin-DuBose Healing Lodge in Athens, GA, as an oncology massage therapist. She currently volunteers at the University Cancer and Blood Center in Athens, GA. She is a member of the Society for Oncology Massage Therapists and listed as a preferred practitioner. She has accumulated more than 2,500 hours of oncology massage practice.
“Working with Tracy reaffirmed my presence as a therapist doing meaningful work and as a healer offering comfort and reassurance to clients undergoing intense medical procedures. My clients were able to lie on a table, relax, and breathe. They were in a setting that did not involve needles, radiation, or chemotherapy. This work is deeply gratifying for both the client and the therapist.” -- Erika
Meet the Instructor
Erika Jantzen-Pitonyak B.A., LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist Provider #1003239
erikajantzen.ngome@gmail.com