Student Policy Handbook
Thank-you for joining our Polarity Therapy training. We value your commitment to further education and are looking forward to supporting you on your journey. This document outlines the program policies — it contains key information about logistics, graduation requirements, payment, refund and other important matters. Please take some time to read and absorb these policies. The intention is to establish a positive, collaborative learning environment. We are going to have a more fulfilling and successful experience if we are all on the same page. If you have any questions or need support in the enrollment process please don’t hesitate to contact us.
ENROLLMENT CONTRACT
This document forms the contract between the Student and the Institute for our training program. The student is required to abide by the policies, procedures and guidelines contained in this document as a condition of enrollment. The student agrees to these policies as part of the Application process and upon acceptance, these policies automatically go into effect as a training contract between the Institute and the participant.
Program Requirements Overview
At the Polarity Therapy Institute, we uphold a standard of excellence in line with the ethical codes mandated by the American Polarity Therapy Association (APTA), and the International Polarity Education Alliance (IPEA). Our membership in these organizations underscores the importance of every student completing a rigorous and comprehensive training program to maintain the integrity of our diplomas and ensure competent practice.
Two Paths of Education
We offer two different paths to learning Polarity Therapy: the Certification Path, and the Non-Certification Path. The cost of both programs is the same.
The Certification Path is our standard education, a hybrid of in-person, live zoom classes and pre-recorded video content. Completion of the training requires a certain amount of practice sessions given to test clients, and sessions received from a professional practitioner. In-person practicums are held in San Francisco twice per year, and are required for all three levels of training - Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced (total of six). Completion of this training leads to APTA and IPEA credentials and is recommended if you intend to practice professionally. You belong to a cohort in this path and gain community and support in your training process, which contributes to your development.
The Non-Certification Path is a self-paced learning option that is entirely by pre-recorded video. This option appeals to persons who may be unable to take the Certification Path for a variety of reasons, for example:
they are unable to attend live practicums in San Francisco because of geographical distance or other demands that prevent travel; but still want some knowledge of Polarity Therapy or to begin exploring some of the concepts in the practice.
they are already a care provider in another field and do not want to formally hold themselves out as Polarity Therapy Practitioners; they are simply interested in deepening their understanding of energy medicine and integrating some of Dr. Stone’s concepts into their existing practice
they are already Polarity Practitioners and would like to repeat their training at the Institute, to deepen their understanding of Polarity Therapy without joining a formal cohort.
This option appeals to persons who are self-motivated, independent learners, who prefer to learn at their own pace. You are provided with video access for one year per level. Within that year you have flexibility to complete the content at your own pace. We recommend practicing the demonstrated sessions but do not provide any specific reqiurements or supervision around your practice. If you would like additional support or supervision, it is available from our teachers and teaching assistants at an hourly rate. This option does not lead to any professional credentials. If you verify you watched all videos, we can provide a certificate of completion of the digital training as outlined below.
Certification Path: Program Completion Ethics
Providing healthcare services professionally requires a high level of ethical responsibility. The integrity of our practice and the well-being of our clients depend on this thorough preparation. As a member of the Polarity Therapy community, your work affects the reputation of the practice as a whole and impacts your colleagues, so it’s essential you complete the same level of training all other Polarity Practitioner have undergone before holding yourself out professionally as a Polarity Therapy Practitioner. While the Institute offers considerable flexibility in the pace and manner in which you complete requirements, the certification course is not intended to be taken “buffet style” — “take what you like and leave the rest.” All components must be completed in order to graduate and practice ethically. Completing all course requirements according to APTA standards insures competence in your practice.
Non-Certification Path: Program Completion Ethics
The Non-Certification Path is not intended for persons who wish to practice Polarity Therapy professionally or to hold themselves out as Practitioners in any formal way. It is intended as an adjunct to other kinds of practice or to deepen your knowledge of Dr. Stone’s work without the rigor of formal training and supervision. It is unethical to hold yourself out as a Polarity Practitioner professionally without completing the certification requirements noted above which include a much higher degree of supervision, guidance and mentorship, as well as group support. It is impossible to fully train in Polarity Therapy without a degree of in person support and supervision from a qualified teacher. You have the option of transferring from the Non-Certification Path to a Certification Path cohort if at some point you find yourself in a position to do so.
Logistics
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE
Polarity Therapy Institute
50 Seward St.*
San Francisco, CA 94114
this is the office location; our in person trainings are held at other locations.
415-857-5085
polaritytherapyinstututead@gmail.com
Our program is approved by the American Polarity Therapy Association and the International Polarity Education Alliance.
FACULTY & STAFF
Please see “Faculty” on polaritytherapy.com for a complete overview of our Faculty. The primary instructor is Brian Jansen, RPE, BCPP, RCST. Additional Teaching Assistants are available for support, as well as Guest Instructors who teach elective courses and sometimes co-teach core content. In the event of an emergency, we reserve the right to provide a qualified substitute teacher if the scheduled instructor is unavailable.
CALENDAR
See the “Course Schedule” on polaritytherapy.com for the latest schedule of classes.
ZOOM & GOOGLE CLASSROOM
All online classes are held on Zoom. You can join with a regular web browser.
Practicums are typically held at St.Matthews Lutheran Church, 3281 16th St., San Francisco unless otherwise noted. We provide materials for the class — recordings, handouts, etc. — via a virtual classroom which you are required to join; instructions are provided with your acceptance email.
Training Program Overview
The Polarity Therapy Professional training teaches you the Polarity Therapy model of energy medicine and integrative health developed by Dr. Randolph Stone. It is geared both toward existing care providers as well as individuals new to healthcare practice. The Polarity system includes energywork (touch), diet, energy exercise, and verbal communication. We work with all of these aspects of the practice in the course.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The professional training is divided into three levels - Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced, which are 225 hours each. Each level takes about a year to complete.
Within the level, there are three modules (each module is 75 hours).
Beginner — Modules 1, 2, 3
Intermediate — Modules 4, 5, 6
Advance — Modules 7, 8, 9
Certification - Module 10 (optional). Upon completion of the entire program, there is one additional Certification Module if you intend to become Board Certified. This final module is 125 hours including required practice hours.
All levels include a combination of online learning, pre-recorded videos, practice sessions, and in person learning via the practicums that happen twice a year. In order to be adequately trained students must be capable of giving and receiving therapeutic touch which can sometimes include deeper pressure, active movement, as well as gentle holds.
CERTIIFICATION PATH: CREDENTIALS
Graduates of our certification path trainings are eligible for membership in the American Polarity Therapy Association (APTA) and the International Polarity Education Alliance (IPEA) along with certain titles within those organizations.
After Module 2 (155 hours training) students are eligible for :
APTA’s “APP” (Associate Polarity Practitioner)
IPEA’s “EPP” (Energy Principles Practitioner)
After Module 9 (675 hours training), graduates are eligible for:
APTA’s “RPP” (Registered Polarity Practitioner)
IPEA’s “PTP” (Polarity Therapy Professional)
After Module 10 and successfully passing the Board exam, graduates are eligible for APTA’s “BCPP” (Board Certified Polarity Practitioner)
The field of Polarity Therapy and Energy Medicine is evolving and alternative methods of certification and credentialing may become available in the future. The Polarity Therapy Institute reserves the right to offer alternative credentials to its graduates in the event that new professional associations or comparable titles become available.
NON CERTIFICATON PATH: Certificate of Completion
Each level on the Non-Certification Path must be completed within one year. If you continue on to the Intermediate and Advanced levels, you will retain access to the earlier videos. Upon completion, you have the option to receive a Certificate of Completion from the Institute, which confirms that you have viewed all the videos. Please note that this certificate is not the same as formal Certification or credentials from professional associations such as APTA and IPEA. To obtain the Certificate of Completion, you need to verify that you have watched all the videos through one of two methods: either by passing all the quizzes provided after the videos or by submitting a set of notes—at least one page per hour of video. These notes will be reviewed to ensure they capture the key concepts presented. We reserve the right to review and evaluate submissions to maintain the quality and integrity of the program.
Curriculum Summary
Note the practice sessions noted are recommended but not required for the Non-Certiifcation Path; they are required for the Certification Path.
BEGINNER LEVEL
The focus of the Beginner level of training is on establishing the basics skills and concepts of Polarity Therapy system that become a foundation for further study and are used throughout the training. The main focus is working with the three principles (positive, negative and neutral states of energy) and the five elements (ether, air, fire, water, earth), along with corresponding chakra systems, fields, energy lines, and body parts/systems, as well as reflex points/zones. Students learn how to trace energy blockages and enable release of energy for a restoration of health.
Beginner - Module 1 (75 hours) - Chakras & Energy Essentials
Energy Essentials Online Classes or Videos - 30 hours
Communication Class - 5 hours
Practicum - 30 hours
Give 10 Sessions - 10 hours
Beginner - Module 2 (75 hours) - Five Elements
Five Elements Online Classes or Videos - 45 hours
Give 20 sessions - 20 hours
Electives - 5 hours
Astrology & Polarity 1
Biophysics of Energy Medicine 1
One add’l class of student’s choice
Receive 5 sessions - 5 hours
Note: if you wish to apply for APTA’s APP program, you must also watch the 5 hour Ethics video which is part of Beginner 3, for a total of 155 credit hours.
Beginner - Module 3 (75 hours) - Reflexology & Energy Tracing
Practicum - 30 hours
Reflexology & Energy Tracing Online Classes or Videos
Theory - 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Business - 6 hours
Anatomy - 10 hours
Electives - 5 hours
Boundaries Workshop
Astrology & Polarity 2
One add’l class of student’s choice
Partner Trades outside class time- 5 hours
Ethics Video - 5 hours
INTERMDIATE LEVEL
The Intermediate Level is organized around the sacred geometry of the five-pointed star and six-pointed star patterns. These integrative patterns reflect the interrelationship of the energy body, psyche (mind/ emotions), neuro-endocrine systems, visceral (organ) and somatic (muscle/connective tissue) function. Students gain skills for working with clients who are experiencing pain and imbalance on many levels, while helping the client cultivate greater self-regulation, self-organization and natural vitality.
Intermediate - Module 4 (75 hours) - Five Pointed Star
Practicum - 30 hours
Online Classes or Videos
Theory - Five Pointed Star - 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Food Group - Cleanse - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
Intermediate - Module 5 (75 hours) - Six Pointed Star
Energy Exercise Workshop & Additional Homework - 10 hours
Additional Online Classes & Videos:
Six Pointed Star Theory - 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Business - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Ethics - 5 hours
Electives - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Receive Sessions - 5 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
Intermediate - Module 6 (75 hours) - Structural & Spinal Balancing
Practicum - 30 hours
Online Classes or Videos
Communication - 8 hours
Food Group - Health Building - 6 hours
Theory - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
ADVANCED LEVEL
The Advanced Level brings the Craniosacral system into focus, while sensitizing students to trauma dynamics and helping to build their capacities as clinicians. This integrative level helps build the student’s confidence and prepares them for practice prior to graduation.
Advanced - Module 7 (75 hours) - Craniosacral Dynamics
Practicum - 30 hours
Craniosacral Online Classes or Videos
Theory- 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Business - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
Advanced - Module 8 (75 hours) - Trauma Dynamics
Energy Exercise Workshop & Additional Homework - 10 hours
Additional Online Classes & Videos:
Theory - 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Clinical Nutrition & Ayurvedic Assessment - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Ethics - 5 hours
Electives - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Receive Sessions - 5 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
Advanced - Module 9 (75 hours) - Clinical Considerations
Practicum - 30 hours
Online Classes or Videos
Theory - 6 hours
Communication - 8 hours
Business - 6 hours
Anatomy Videos - 10 hours
Give Sessions - 10 hours
Partner Trades outside class - 5 hours
BOARD CERTIFICATION LEVEL
The certiiffcation module - Module 10 - is intended for practitioners who wish to become Board Certified via APTA’s BCPP exam. It is focused on strengthening your mastery of the material and implementing it pragmatically with supervision and support in a clinical context.
Certificaiton - Module 10 (125 hours) - Supervised Clinical Work
Give 40 Sessions with documentation - 60 hour credit
Supervision Group - 20 hours (16 hours class + 4 hours homework)
Exam Preparation / Content review - 20 hours (12 hour class + 8 hours home study)
Electives, Research Project or other Relevant Outside Credits - 25 hours (at Institute’s discretion)
Non-Certification Path
All non certification coursework needs to be completed within a year. If a student enrolls in level 2, an exception will be made and we will extend access to level 1 to allow the student access to review any level 1 materials.
PRACTICE CLIENTS
On the Ceritifcatio Path, you are required to obtain a massage table and schedule practice clients to support your learning. Certain classes require you to schedule a client during the 2-hour break in the middle of class when we have live demos. When a class requires you to schedule a practice.client, you will be notified.
ELECTIVES
Electives are 90-120 minute specialty classes with guest teachers. We also have a library of past elective videos you can choose from and new electives are scheduled several times per year. 10 hours of Electives (about 5 electives) are built into the curriculum for each level of training (Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced).
FOOD & EXERCISE VIDEOS
As part of the program, students are required to watch and practice the energy exercise and energetic nutrition videos. These videos allow you to practice at home and integrate Polarity nutritional concepts into your diet as you wish. If you have any health concerns with respect to diet or exercise, please consult with an appropriate physician or care provider. The videos are intended for educational purposes and do not take the place of advice from a licensed nutritionist or doctor.
DOCUMENTATION OF SESSIONS GIVEN
For the Certification Path, a simple session form is provided with the course. It is strongly recommended you document the session immediately after you complete it. How to document:
At each level:
15 sessions must be “logged” - they only require date of session, length, and what was practiced.
15 sessions must be “documented” - fully documented on the provided form during the beginner level, which asks for some more thoughtful reflection on the sessions. In the Intermediate and Advanced Levels, students design their own documentation system.
Each new student receives a link to a shared google drive where you can store and revisit your forms/logs. Documentation must ber saved in your drive in order to receive credit and graduate.
PRACTICUMS
In-person support and supervision are essential to mastery for persons who wish to practice. The practice is ‘transmitted’ to some degree through touch. While you can gain about 70% of the required skills through online education, an additional 30% of the training must happen in person if you wish to practice competently. Therefore we offer a 4.5-day Practicum twice a year in San Francisco. Practicums are occasionally held in alternate locations other than SF, pending student interest.
On the Certification Path, only one out of the six practicums may be completed remotely, with permission from the Director, based on special circumstances such as illness documented by a physician. Your alternatives include attending the same Practicum next time it is offered live, or a combination of reviewing videos and receiving private tutoring at an additional cost. The institute does not guarantee the quality of the Practicum videos as the Practicum is intended to be taken live; the videos are provided as a courtesy to help those in extenuating circumstances.
Gaining credit for the Practicum requires making up all 30 hours, including giving and receiving sessions (typically about 14 hours of trades), with documentation and/or an exam to verify attendance via video and understanding of the material. History shows it is entirely easier and more fulfilling to attend the Practicum live than try to make it up via video.
SESSIONS RECEIVED
To graduate the certification path, you must also receive sessions from a Polarity Therapy Practitioner at a BCPP (Board Certified Polarity Practitioner) Level or practitioner of similar level proficiency. The cost of these sessions is not included in tuition. If you attend a Practicum, usually sessions are available with the instructor and with Teaching Assistants at a discounted rate to help you gain these hours in conjunction with the Practicum. A total of 5 sessions are required per level of training (total 15).
EXPECTED COMPLETION DATE
Most students complete each level in around nine months to a year, depending when the start date is and how motivated they are. All requirements for a particular level must be completed within 1 year of the start date of that Level, or additional costs and hours may be required.
RECOMMENDED READING
The course requires the following outside reading:
Polarity Process by Franklyn Sills
Polarity. Therapy Vol 1 & 2 by Dr Randolph Stone (available free online)
Health Building by Dr Randolph Stone (available free online)
Eastern Body, Western Mind by Anodea Judith
CERTIFICAITON PATH PROGRESS ASSESSMENT
Your participation in class, and your practice sessions forms submitted, allow the instructor and teaching assistants to assess your progress. An “Open Book” Final Exam is required to graduate each level. This is an invitation to summarize what you learned and assess your understanding of the Polarity system. It is not graded; it is an opportunity to identify if you are missing any key concepts. Additional assessment of touch skills and therapeutic presence takes place during the Practicums and during online trades.
Advancing in the program requires the completion of each module's work before proceeding to the next. At the discretion of the Program Director you may progress to the next module while still completing course work from a previous module, provided specific deadlines are established and met. A final assignment at the end of each level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) assesses your understanding and application of the material, alongside periodic quizzes and tests, and evaluation of your work in zoom classes, tutorials, and Practicums.
Tuition, Fees & Refunds
NOTE: Non Certification Path is only paid for in full, per-level. For Certification Path the options below are available..
A non-refundable deposit of $300 is required to secure your place in a training class, and this deposit is required for each level you enroll in (once per year). The following fees are then due in addition to the deposit (choose 1 option):
Pay by Level - $2690 per level: This payment option allows you to pay for each level in full, once per year. Payment is due 30 days prior to the start of the level.
Pay by Module - $920 per module: If you prefer a more modular approach, you can choose to pay for each module separately. Payment is due at least 30 days prior to the start of the module.
Payment Plan per Level - 9 monthly payments of $320: This payment plan option allows you to spread the cost of each level over 9 monthly payments (3 per module). Payments will be automatically withdrawn from your bank account or credit card, starting 30 days prior to the start of class.
PAYMENT METHODS
We accept payment via credit card through our online training platform.
PRIVATE SESSION FEES
The cost of five required Polarity sessions are not included in any training fees. Estimate $100-$200 per session, depending on who you see.
REPEAT CLASSES
If you’re a graduate of our program, after graduation you may repeat online classes at a rate of 50% off and repeat in-person (practicum) classes at a rate of 25% off. If you graduated another program, you can repeat comparable online and in person classes with us at a rate of 25% off (at the institute’s discretion).
TRANSFER CREDITS
We may at our own discretion accept transfer credits from other APTA-approved training programs. Transfer of credits requires a written transcript from the institution. A $30 administration fee is applied for transfer of credits in or out of the institute.
WITHDRAWAL/REFUND POLICY
NON CERTIIFCATION PATH: No refund or withdrawal is offered for the non-ceritifcaiton path. You have access to the video course materials for one year from enrollment date.
CERTIFICATION PATH: We strive to maintain a fair and transparent refund process for persons who are joining a cohort. Should you choose to withdraw from the program, it is necessary to inform the Institute in writing (email). Your fees will be determined based on the date your written notification is received.
Enrollment signifies a commitment to complete the entire level for which you have registered. The Institute makes considerable arrangements based on this commitment, including hiring instructors, securing practicum spaces, and coordinating student activities. Withdrawal from the program imposes additional administrative tasks, such as adjusting student groups and partnerships, occasionally modifying class plans, and managing adminsitrative updates related to your enrollment. Consequently, the fees charged upon withdrawal reflect both the services already provided to you and the non-recoupable costs incurred by the Institute due to your departure. The specific fees assessed include:
The $300 non-refundable deposit is retained
A $25 fee per hourly credit for classes already conducted or video content delivered, applicable whether or not you have attended or accessed the materials. Access to video content remains available for up to a year from your date of enrollment.
Please note:
All anatomy videos are non-refundable and are included in the assessment fees for modules you have attended. Delivery of anatomy videos may occur after your withdrawal depending on the release schedule for the entire class.
Fees are assessed for practice session hours (given/received) and partner trades. Provided your completion of these assignments is documented, these credits are recorded and can be carried forward should you decide to re-enroll in our program in the future or transfer to another institution.If you have not completed the hours, the fee is still assessed for the current module in session whether these sessions were completed or not.
Regarding practicum sessions:
Due to the considerable cost in renting practicum space, if you withdraw less than 60 days before a scheduled practicum, you will be charged for the practicum hours and provided with a video recording of the session. There are no refunds or partial refunds for missed practicum hours.
Travel and accommodation costs are not reimbursable by the Institute, regardless of whether these are arranged independently or through the Institute. If accommodations are arranged by the Institute for out-of-town practicums and you withdraw, any payments made toward such accommodations are forfeited.
Lastly, accounts that remain unpaid for over 60 days will be referred to a collection agency, and you will be responsible for any additional fees incurred by the Institute in this process (typically an additional 40-50% of the fees assessed are added as collection agency fees).
Certification Path: Other School Policies
ABSENCES / MAKING UP CLASSES
Attendance at all live Zoom classes is mandatory. Should unforeseen circumstances prevent your attendance, you must view the recorded session and submit one page of notes or a reflective essay for each hour of missed. — notes should have enough details to confirm that you watched the entire video This includes making up for any time missed due to arriving late or leaving early.A maximum of two zoom classes can be taken via recording in any given module. If you miss more than 3 consecutive classes, the Institute reserves the right to remove you from the training.
Practice Session and Communication Class Requirements
Missed practice sessions from Zoom classes must be made up independently, with documentation included in your notes. This includes whether you missed a zoom class, or attended the zoom class but didn’t practice the demonstrated session during break. All in class exercises must be practiced if you missed class. You are required to find a fellow student to complete the exercises. If you cannot find a student, you are able to hire a TA. For missed communication classes, it’s required to arrange a supervised session with a Teaching Assistant, at a cost reflective of the support level needed (independent tutorials cost more than group tutorials).
Attendance Tracking
You are responsible for tracking your own progress and updating your attendance sheet.. Failure to accurately track attendance will necessitate you reviewing video recordings to determine which classes you missed, a process that falls outside the Institute’s provided services. Attendance records are audited for accuracy before graduation.
Enrollment Suspension Policy
As our training progresses to more advanced levels, ensuring that all students have a relatively uniform understanding of the material is critical. If you find yourself with numerous unmet requirements and are struggling to demonstrate progress, the Program Director might suspend your enrollment. This step is taken to offer you an opportunity to catch up on missed material without the pressure of additional classes. With dedication and a commitment to completing these requirements, you will have the opportunity to rejoin the training in the future with another group, to complete the coursework and obtain your diploma. Prior to suspension the Institute will make every effort to support you in completing your requirements and staying with your current cohort.
Certificates and Diplomas
As we are bound by APTA and IPEA ethics with regard to credit hours and certain professional competencies, parts of the program cannot be skipped. Earning your module certificates and final diploma requires completing all program requirements, which include documenting any courses taken through video and making up all missed assignments. Successfully finishing the program makes you eligible for external credentials from APTA and IPEA. Although some individuals might choose to engage in the course without pursuing certification or credentialing, it’s crucial to recognize that the Institute can only vouch for the competence and readiness to practice of those who have fully completed the training as outlined. We strongly advise against offering professional services or representing oneself as a Polarity Therapy Practitioner without meeting all training requirements. Engaging in professional practice under these circumstances not only undermines the professional standards upheld by the Polarity Therapy community but also poses significant ethical risks, potentially harming clients. The training is designed to ensure you are properly prepared for professional practice.
CLASS RECORDINGS
All of our classes are recorded. You will have access to a class recording for the duration of your enrollment if you want to review the material again, and access is retained for 12 months from enrollment date for the level you are in. Available recordings may be from a previous cohort for similar content, and may not be edited or of the highest quality as it is expected most students will attend classes live rather than by video. These are private links intended for paid participants only; they are not to be shared with others or via social media. Unlawful sharing of the video links is a violation of copyright laws.
Classroom Etiquette
ONLINE ETIQUETTE
Please contribute to a cooperative online learning environment. We ask all students to adhere to the following:
If you are late for class, please text the instructor, Brian 617-970-0049; please make every effort to arrive on time and stay for the duration of class.
Insure your camera, microphone and internet connection are working if joining by Zoom.
Keep your camera on throughout class.
Do not move around with your camera, eat on camera, multi-task, or do other distracting activities. Your camera may be turned off by the host if you are doing activities that distract the group process.
When asking questions please insure they are pertinent to the group learning as a whole, rather than your individual needs. Save individual concerns for a private discussion outside class.
Avoid putting yourself in a teacher or coach position with classmates. When giving feedback to fellow students share with “I” Statements.
Leave out discussion of other practices (including yoga, massage, psychotherapy, craniosacral, Ayurveda, acupuncture) that other students may not be familiar with. Please keep the focus on the Polarity terminology and skills.
Participating in class under the influence of alcohol or recreational mood or mind altering drugs is a violation of ethical codes and may result in termination of your enrollment.
IN PERSON ETIQUETTE
Please arrive on time and plan to stay the entire class. If you are running late, please text the instructor, 617-970-0049.
Be respectful of the space - clean up after yourself, avoid leaving your belongings out.
Please save food and drinks for scheduled break times in the break area.
If at any point you are uncomfortable receiving touch, please notify the instructor or supervisor right away. You may withdraw consent to be touched at any time.
Do not mix modalities and introduce other practices (such as other kinds of bodywork/energywork/therapy/ psychic healing) into practice sessions.
Some students have chemical sensitivity; please refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, and other strongly scented items like essential oils. Please refrain from chewing gum or candies with a strong smell in the shared space.
Working under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs (including marijuana) is not permitted, and may lead to immediate expulsion from the training program.
The next few sections are very important. Please read them carefully!
CONCERNING PARTNER TRADES - Do’s & don’ts
Throughout your training at our institute, both in-class and outside of class activities will involve exchanging sessions with classmates. It’s crucial to approach these sessions with realistic expectations about your role as a "test-client." These sessions are designed to enhance the student's development in the practitioner role, rather than focusing on the personal healing of the individual in the "client" role. It's important to understand that these sessions may be truncated or interrupted to highlight teaching points, and personal needs might not be fully addressed as in a standard session.
PLEASE DO:
Practice patience with your peers as they navigate the challenges of learning new skills and concepts.
Allow that everyone is working through insecurities and awkwardness. Be supportive rather than demanding.
Allow yourself to be with some discomfort within yourself, especially at the start of a session when your trade partner is still settling into being in the practitioner role.
Please speak up if:
You experience pain.
You experience persistent discomfort, beyond initial adjustment periods.
You feel the exercise is not being followed correctly or the practitioner is ignoring the assignment.
The best option is to call over a TA or the Instructor to assist.
If you do share directly with your trade partner, please use “I” statements to share what you’re experiencing and your concerns. Ask questions.
PLEASE DON’T:
Step into a coaching role or asserting superiority over your classmates.
Get into micromanaging the session or directing the client.
Expect your partner or the TA’s/Instructor to read your mind. If you’re struggling with something call a time-out and ask for help — everyone can use it as a learning opportunity for all.
Usually when distress arises in the field it means some principle of the work needs greater clarification or some technique needs greater refinement. Invite the instructor or a TA in to provide that support to the practitioner.
What Material to Bring into Classroom Trades
Generally, it is advisable to refrain from bringing deeply challenging or emotionally charged issues into partner trades or demonstrations. Instead, save such issues for private sessions with a fully qualified professional. The classroom setting is intended as a space to learn and practice the fundamental principles and tools of Polarity Therapy; personal healing, while possible, is not the primary focus.
For instance, a student might more effectively learn a specific technique by discussing a minor annoyance with a neighbor rather than discussing severe historical trauma with a parent. Using less intense examples can help elucidate core principles and allow the practitioner to hone their skills in a safer, lower-risk environment, preparing them to tackle more complex cases in the future.
Unlike typical sessions where the practitioner's focus is solely on serving the client, in a classroom setting, the client serves the educational needs of the practitioner or the class. This involves "loaning" their body/mind to aid in skill development. This role can also provide insights that enhance your own understanding as a practitioner. However, the primary goal is to foster professional growth, not to focus on your personal healing as would typically occur in a private session.
Therefore please consider whether the issues you bring up as a client support or hinder the learning process. If you find yourself in acute distress or in need of additional support that interferes with participation, seeking external help or pausing your training may be necessary until you are better equipped to handle the material.
Self-Care Commitment
By enrolling in our classes, you acknowledge that this training involves personal development, and you are responsible for ensuring adequate self-care. While instructors and assistants are available to assist with emergent emotional themes, managing your well-being is primarily your responsibility. This training is not a substitute for group therapy or self-help workshops, and any sessions received during training are intended to support your learning rather than replace comprehensive therapeutic care. If you require additional support, it is your responsibility to seek out the necessary resources. If your personal issues repeatedly disrupt the learning environment, the institute may ask you to temporarily suspend your participation until you can obtain the necessary support.
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Please respect difference. Discrimination or abusive behavior will not be tolerated. We value diversity and respect differences of race, ethnicity, class, gender expression and sexuality, religion, and other forms of identity. Allow space for each individual to be a part of the group and to absorb the material at a pace and in a manner that is right for them.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Conflict can sometimes emerge in a group learning environment. If you find yourself in conflict with a fellow student, please do the following:
1) see if you can resolve it between yourselves first.
2) If you are unable to, or feel you need further support, notify a Teaching Assistant. It is ideal if this conversation can be postponed til a break. The TA will hold space and brainstorm with you ideas that could lead toward resolution. The TA may take notes to document the situation and communicate it back to the Instructor and the training team.
3) If you still feel unresolved, or if your conflict is with a Teaching Assistant rather than fellow student, a meeting may be set up with the Instructor either during a break or outside class time. The Instructor may ask for written reports from all parties involved to assist in clarifying the situation. The instructor will use these reports to guide follow up meetings with you or other parties involved.
4) If you are still feeling unresolved after your initial meeting, you can submit a request to schedule a time to meet with the Instructor, with or without the other parties involved. In most cases this will not happen during the class, but will be scheduled after the class is complete.
5) If after speaking directly with the Instructor you are still feeling unresolved, you will have a decision about how you’d like to proceed. You can either remain in the training at your own discretion, or you leave the training and request a refund (according to the Withdrawal & Refund Policy).
Please be aware that at any point during the Training the Faculty reserves the right to remove any student, training team member, or support team member from the training without needing to provide any feedback or follow any set policy. Only the Instructor has the right to do this. In such an unlikely case, you would receive a refund (according to the Withdrawal & Refund Policy. We will not be held responsible for any other training-related costs.
UPDATE OF POLICIES
All training policies, procedures, and guidelines are subject to change without notice and will be updated regularly. The current copy will be maintained on this webpage, polaritytherapy.com/student-policy-handbook. It is your responsibility to read any updates and adhere to them, or to inquire to make sure you have the most recent update, as you are nonetheless bound by all such policies, procedures, and guidelines.
Legal Liability / Informed Consent
This informed consent clause is required by California Law: SB-577 Health: complementary and alternative health care practitioners.
By entering into any class, training program, or session work you understand:
Brian Jansen and others educators at the institute are not licensed physicians
The treatments are alternative / complementary to healing arts services which are licensed by the State of California.
There is currently no licensure for Polarity Therapy (“Polarity”) in the State of California. There are however Standards for Practice and a Code of Ethics for practicing and teaching which are maintained by the American Polarity Therapy Association. Our instructors adhere to these codes.
Brian Jansen (lead instructor) has the following qualifications / credentials (see the “about us” section for qualifications of other instructors):
Board Certified Polarity Practitioner (APTA)
Registered Polarity Educator (APTA)
Approved Training Manager for APP & RPP Polarity Training Programs (APTA)
Registered Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist (BCST/NA)
Board Certified Massage Therapist (NCBTMB- not currently offering Massage Therapy services)
Certified Trauma Professional:
NARM (Neuro Affective Relational Model) Practitioner with Master level training - for healing developmental trauma
Touch Skills for Trauma Therapists Training (with Kathy Kain, PhD)
It should be understood this system is complementary healthcare. It is not a replacement for medical care, psychotherapy or psychiatry, physical therapy or massage, yoga instruction, work with a nutritionist or dietician, or any other form of licensed healthcare. If the participant or their clients have any health concerns they should consult an appropriate licensed healthcare provider and cease participation in class.
While the theoretical approach taught in Polarity Therapy offers a useful framework which can support practitioners from various clinical disciplines, all participants in the Polarity Therapy Training/ Classes should clarify to what extent using the Polarity approach in their practices is condoned by the law in their area, and/or the licensing body for professions to which they belong.
Limitation of Liability
LEGAL REGULATION
Legal regulation of Polarity Therapy varies state to state. In Californian it is governed by SB-577 Health: complementary and alternative health care practitioners. Please check with the law in your particular area about what is required to practice legally.
Regardless of what style of healthcare you practice you should work within the scope of your practice and your scope of expertise as determined by the type of license you have, your education and clinical experience. The Polarity Therapy training is not intended to replace any other professional training. For example it is not a replacement for a massage, psychotherapy, or medical education. The Polarity Therapy Training provides adjunctive skills for those already within a therapeutic profession; it is used by psychotherapists, massage therapists, yoga teachers, nutritionists, nurses, acupuncturists, and many other professionals. It also can be practiced by persons without another healthcare license but the American Polarity Therapy Association only endorses independent Polarity practice by those who have completed the entire 800-hour Board Certification education, and successful passing of the Board exam.
How you apply the learning and experience from the Polarity training to your own practice depends on your own education and training, licensure and scope of practice for your discipline. Any questions about this should be directed to your professional association, licensing board or relevant legal, ethical or clinical resources for your professional discipline. Polarity Therapy Institute Faculty and Staff are in no way responsible for your application of Polarity theory and skills, and will not be liable for any legal or ethical issues regarding your use of Polarity Therapy.
If you have any questions about the appropriateness for you of participating in this training, please direct them to the Polarity Therapy Institute at: polaritytherapyinstitute@gmail.com
Video Release
All online and in person classes are recorded, and may be used in a variety of ways in the future for educational, marketing or other purposes. By enrolling in any class or training you enter into the following agreement with Polarity Therapy Institute:
I have been informed that training both in live classes and online web conferences / classes may be recorded and that my name, likeness, image, voice, appearance, and /or performance may be captured as part of the sessions in which I participate.
I hereby grant permission to Polarity Therapy Institute, its assigns, and/or any person or entity authorized by the Polarity Therapy Institute, to use these recordings in any format, without limitation, and the right to edit, duplicate and to use these recordings in whole or part, as the Polarity Therapy Institute may elect.
I understand the Polarity Therapy Institute owns and retains the copyright interests to these recordings. I hereby waive all rights and interest in the results and proceeds of the video or audio recordings produced in these trainings/ classes/ events in which I participate, as well as the right to inspect, modify, or approve it.
I hereby forever waive any right to royalties, payment, or compensation hereunder beyond the consideration stated herein.
I hereby release, defend, and hold harmless the Polarity Therapy Institute, its officers, agents, licensees and assigns, from and against any claims, damages or liability arising from or related to my appearance in training or educational videos.
I grant the Polarity Therapy Institute the right to present, market and otherwise distribute these recordings in whole or part, for educational, training, research or marketing purposes, including the right to use these recordings for publicizing or promoting future Polarity Practitioner Trainings and Classes.
I grant the Polarity Therapy Institute the exclusive worldwide right in perpetuity to use any or all of the video recorded during its live trainings/ events and online events/classes/workshops including but not limited to the right to prepare derivative works therefrom, lease, license, convey or otherwise use or dispose of the Images, Audio, or Video by any method or through any medium now or hereafter known, in any field of use, to permit the duplication, distribution and public display thereof, all upon such terms and conditions as the Polarity Therapy Institute and may approve in its sole discretion.
I understand that if I ask questions while a recording is in progress I will be recorded and will appear in the video/audio recording. My electronic signature on the enrollment documentation reaffirms that I grant this unconditional release. Many demonstrations are recorded on video; If I volunteer to participate in a demonstration, my digital signature below reaffirms my unconditional release.
I am over the age of 18 years and have the right to enter into this agreement and do so willingly and freely.
I have read this release before enrolling in any class and by enrolling I affirm that I fully understand the content, meaning and impact of this release and agree to all that is stated above.