Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy

Learn with world-class experts!

A world-class program in myofascial pain and injury treatment, centred on Biotensegrity, offered only once every 2 years. This advanced course certifies participants as pain and injury specialists, equipping manual therapists with cutting-edge skills and knowledge for chronic pain treatment.

Why our H. Dip. NMT course?

This course is ideal for bodywork professionals seeking to advance their already successful careers. It is an exceptional course that provides advanced clinical skills and knowledge, centered on the Biotensegrity model.

Expert Faculty

Delivered by renowned tutors, including Dr. Joanne Avison, John Sharkey, Kevin Prunty, Jan Trewartha, Michelle O’Melia, and Dr. Wilbour Kelsick, alongside international guest lecturers who are world experts in their field.

Comprehensive

A full curriculum including Clinical Applications of Advanced Neuromuscular Techniques, the Art of Structural Integration, Osseofascial approaches to myofascial pain, Medical Exercise Science and Rehabilitation techniques.

Innovative Learning

This course is delivered using a blended learning model with online content, live lectures, and on-site tutorials. Students can access webinars, video tutorials, and a library of resources via the NTC Learning Portal.

success stories

What our graduates say!

Some of the many unsolicited testimonials we have received from graduates of the NTC's courses

Great course, Great Tutors, Every weekend took my skills and understanding to a whole new level, my clients and the athletes I work with have all felt the benefits, Highly recommended!

Bon Sheekey
Higher Diploma NMT Graduate
All you need to know

Full Details for the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy
course.

(Remember there's even more info in the FAQ section below)

Initially authored by John Sharkey, MSc, and Leon Chaitow, DO, NTC’s Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy was first introduced in 2003. Over the years, the program has undergone several reviews, incorporating the latest research and advancements in the field of bodywork.

The course is committed to preserving the spirit and essence of Leon Chaitow’s work, ensuring that his legacy is passed on to the next generation of neuromuscular therapists.

Used with permission from the Chaitow family.

NTC recognises the importance of staying current with the latest research and techniques to ensure that students receive a well-rounded education in the field. The programme’s constant evolution and attention to cutting-edge research have helped it become a highly respected and sought-after course for bodywork professionals.

As a result of the program’s success, it has attracted many world-renowned tutors and international guest lecturers recognized as experts in their field.

The course is designed to provide advanced knowledge and clinical skills, with a particular focus on the Biotensegrity model. Students who complete the course will have the skills and expertise required to offer advanced intervention procedures for patients with chronic soft tissue pain, muscle, and nerve pain.

The program is carefully designed to maximise interaction between tutors and learners in a friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere. Students have access to an incredible student learning portal where they can watch video tutorials as often as they like, allowing them to perfect their skills or gain a deeper understanding of the theory.

The course’s success is a testament to the National Training Centre’s dedication to providing an exceptional education and staying current with the latest research and techniques in the field. The NTC’s Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy is an excellent choice for bodywork professionals seeking to advance their clinical knowledge and skills and cement a successful career in this specialist field.

The NTC’s Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy, with a focus on Biotensegrity, encompasses all necessary areas to certify you as an advanced pain and injury specialist. This course is ideal for bodywork professionals seeking to advance their already successful careers. It is an exceptional course that provides advanced clinical skills and knowledge, centered on the Biotensegrity model.

Renowned tutors, including Joanne Avison, John Sharkey, Kevin Prunty, David Anderson, Jan Trewartha, Michelle O’Melia, and Dr. Wilbour Kelsick, alongside international guest lecturers who are world experts in their field, will provide instruction.

The course is designed for professionals who wish to develop their clinical knowledge and skills, particularly those who treat patients with chronic soft tissue pain, muscle, and nerve pain.

The course structure enables learners to interact comfortably with tutors, maximising the learning experience. The student NTC Learning Portal provides access to video tutorials that students can watch multiple times until they have perfected their skills or fully grasped the theory.

This course is suitable for those who are dedicated to establishing or advancing a long-term career in neuromuscular therapy in Ireland or overseas. The Biotensegrity model supports advanced knowledge and skills, ensuring successful treatment of chronic pain.

Students have access to webinars and videos, which they can watch at their own convenience, on their tablet, smartphone, or other devices.

This course offers the opportunity to learn from world-recognised leaders and discard outdated notions, gain an appreciation for the latest accepted models and theories, and develop new insights that will provide fresh perspectives in clinical reasoning and activity.

NTC introduced Structural Integration to Ireland as a formal module of the Higher Diploma course. The Art of Structural Integrity is a series of lessons that integrate seeing and assessment skills with advanced whole-body soft tissue manipulation techniques.

The course specifically focuses on the body-wide architecture within the context of Biotensegrity, integrated at every level of fascia, form, and functional movement, as a whole. Techniques include integrated client motion and specific depth adjustment with client movement techniques to enhance self-regulation

The Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy is an advanced complementary medical educational (CME) course involving sports massage and soft tissue manipulation techniques based on the model of Biotensegrity including:

  • Advanced functional anatomy based on BioTensegrity and Four Bar Kinematics
  • Pathophysiology of chronic pain
  • Arthrokinematics – A new explanation of human movement
  • Cranial manipulation and Intra-oral tissue release for effective treatment of chronic pain problems including:
    • head / neck pain
    • dizziness (Vertigo)
    • Otalgia (ear pain)
    • impaired hearing
    • change of sensations in the ear
    • double or blurred vision
    • jaw joint noises
    • sinus pain
    • migraines and headaches
  • TMJ Treatment – effective interventions for TMJ pain and associated symptoms including ear fullness / pressure, ear pain, tinnitus, dizziness, and hyperacusis
  • Breathing patterns disorders and chronic pelvic pain
  • The Art of Structural integrity to include:
    • Biotensegrity
    • the art of seeing
    • structural isolation versus structural integration
  • The superficial and deep architecture and the Four Series Protocol
  • Advanced management of fascial dysfunction
  • Rehabilitation Sequencing – neurodynamic stabilisation and efficiency
  • Laws of European Neuromuscular Therapy™ and their implications in effective NMT interventions
  • Medical Exercise Science – exploring the science of safe, effective and appropriate physical activities to restore neuromuscular efficiency and chronic pain resolutions
  • Advanced neurodynamic stress assessment and ENMT resolutions to restore normal nerve function
  • Fascia, skin and myokinetic chains and links
  • The science and clinical applications of advanced Neuromuscular Techniques – European and American influences
  • Nutrition and biochemical factors that positively influence or help manage chronic pain and dysfunction
  • Tensegrity informed treatment for scars and adhesions - includes Sharon Wheeler Scar Work Certification.
  • Osseofascial approaches to unresolved pain.

The educational investment for obtaining the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy course is €8,470.00.

Fees can be paid by means of a deposit of €1470.00 with the balance via 20 monthly instalments of €350.00 each.

A total discount of €1495.00 is available when you pay full fees of €6975.00 (either a single payment or deposit plus balance) on or before the course start date.

Places are available on a first come first served basis and are places are limited

The Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy programme is exclusively available to qualified bodywork therapists. Qualifying individuals include:

  • Doctors
  • Dentists
  • Rolfers
  • Osteopaths
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Certificate Level Neuromuscular Therapists
  • Orthopaedic Sports Massage Therapists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Chiropractors

All applications are considered on an individual basis.

Current certificate level Neuromuscular Therapy students are encouraged to apply for a place on the next Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy programme. Please note that the Higher Diploma will only be issued once students have successfully completed the Certificate level course and have obtained the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy.

Students registered on the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy course will be eligible to participate on the Dry Needling and Lymphatic Drainage course FREE OF CHARGE. You can opt to attend these courses on the scheduled dates anytime during the term of your H.Dip studies. You will need to register in advance for these courses separately with the office of administration on your chosen course date. The total value of these free courses is currently €1,650.00.

Locations, Schedule and Booking

Information about schedule, locations and start date for the course

GOOD AVAILABILITY

DUBLIN

NTC Dublin
City Centre and Swords

WEEKEND COURSE

SEPTEMBER 6th 2025
  • Blended Learning
  • 18 Months

Meet The Team

The Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy is delivered by an internationally renowned team of bodywork experts.

Dr. Wilbour Kelsick

Dr. Wilbour Kelsick

DR. WILBOUR KELSICK specialises in enhancing elite athletic performance and rehabilitating sports injuries using applied functional anatomy.

Dr. Kelsick completed his BSc. in Kinesiology at SFU and his D.C. at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. He is an esteemed Fellow and Vice President of the College of Chiropractic Sport Sciences in Canada and a Fellow of the College of Chiropractic Rehabilitative Sciences in Canada. He is also a faculty member in the Department of Graduate Studies at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.

With his vast experience, Dr. Kelsick has authored and published several articles, contributed as an author for a medical text, and serves on the editorial board of the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, a prestigious peer-reviewed journal.

Dr. Kelsick holds post-graduate specialties in the field of sports injuries and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. He has served as a team doctor at several high-profile events, including the Olympics, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games. Dr. Kelsick is a sought-after lecturer, delivering talks both locally in Canada and internationally, sharing his expertise in enhancing elite athletic performance and rehabilitating sports injuries using applied functional anatomy.

Jan Trewartha

Jan Trewartha

Jan’s extensive knowledge and experience have led her to teach workshops on a diverse range of topics since 1993. These workshops include Therapeutic Massage, Self-care for the Carer, Body Realignment, Fascial Unwinding, Energy Awareness, and Sharon Wheeler’s ScarWork therapy. As the founder of the British Fascia Symposium, Jan has been instrumental in bringing together experts from around the world to discuss the latest research and techniques in the field of fascia therapy.

Jan’s expertise in the field of scar and adhesion therapy led her to co-edit and co-author Scars, Adhesions and the Biotensegral Body, a textbook for hands-on practitioners. Published by Handspring Publishing in April 2020, this groundbreaking book provides valuable insights into the treatment of scars and adhesions, as well as the connection between the body’s biotensegral structure and overall health.

Jan’s dedication to her work and commitment to advancing the field of complementary therapy have made her a highly respected and sought-after practitioner in her field. With her extensive experience and knowledge, she has helped countless clients find relief from physical and emotional pain, and has inspired and trained many others in the field of complementary therapy.

Cristopher Alejandro, MSc.

Cristopher Alejandro, MSc.

Cristopher’s journey to becoming a Physiotherapist began in the Philippines, where he pursued his undergraduate degree. After completing his studies, he began working at a rehabilitation center, where he gained valuable experience working with patients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. His passion for helping people heal and achieve optimal physical function led him to pursue further education.

Over the years, Christopher has become an expert in his field, and his area of speciality in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling has become a sought-after technique by many. This is a technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into trigger points within the body’s muscles to alleviate pain and promote healing. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the human body, Christopher is skilled at identifying trigger points within the muscles and applying the appropriate techniques to promote healing.

As a teacher, Christopher has been involved in several NTC bodywork educational programs, sharing his expertise and knowledge with students. His unique approach to teaching has helped to shape the way course content is taught, and his students benefit from his practical approach to learning. He is passionate about teaching and empowering students to help their patients achieve optimal health and wellness.

In addition to his teaching work, Christopher also runs a private practice where he provides treatment for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole person and tailoring his approach to meet the individual needs of his patients.

Christopher’s dedication to his work and his passion for helping people heal has made him a highly respected member of the healthcare community. Through his expertise in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling and his commitment to teaching, he has made a significant contribution to the field, and he continues to inspire and help others every day.

Dr. Joanne Avison

Dr. Joanne Avison

Joanne Avison is a certified Structural Integration practitioner (IASI) and a graduate of Tom Myer’s KMI school (1999-2001), with a wealth of experience in both movement and manual therapy. Joanne is a certified teacher of Kinesis and teaches applied structural anatomy for movement and manual practitioners in various fields internationally.

Joanne is the Director of the Art of Contemporary Yoga Teacher Training in London, UK, and a Senior Yoga Teacher (E-RYT500) and Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) with the International Association of Yoga Therapists.

As a member of the BioTensegrity Interest Group (B.I.G.), Joanne is deeply interested in the application of BioTensegrity principles to the understanding of the human blueprint and natural biomotional organisation. She is dedicated to making this emerging context for human movement more accessible and understandable through her writing and workshops.

Joanne is also a CMED Graduate (2004) and has extensively studied human development, with a particular focus on soft tissue and the connections between archetypal behavior and physiology. Her rigorous studies include Human Dissection and movement research in Fascial Fitness with Robert Schleip.

John Sharkey, MSc

John Sharkey, MSc

John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.

John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.

John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.

Michelle O’Melia, MSc

Michelle O’Melia, MSc

Michelle is an accomplished and dedicated NTC tutor with over 20 years of experience in delivering educational excellence to students. Her passion for fitness and health is evident in her teaching, and she is committed to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their full potential. Michelle’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of fitness and nutrition are supported by her Masters Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science from the University of Chester.

As a tutor, Michelle teaches a range of subjects on our primary health fitness programmes, including exercise to music, anatomy and physiology, fitness assessment, and exercise physiology. She also teaches extensively on our Neuromuscular Therapy and Holistic Massage courses. Michelle has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms, making her teaching accessible to students of all levels. Michelle’s engaging and interactive teaching style keeps students motivated and focused, and she is always available to offer guidance and support when needed.

In addition to her primary teaching responsibilities, Michelle also delivers specialised courses in suspension training and indoor cycling. These courses are designed to provide students with advanced skills and knowledge in these popular and effective fitness techniques.

Beyond her work at NTC, Michelle is a passionate advocate for health and wellness. She is actively involved in local fitness and nutrition initiatives and is committed to promoting the benefits of healthy living in her community. Michelle’s dedication to her students and her profession has made her a valued member of the NTC team, and her contributions have helped to establish NTC as a leader in fitness education.

Kevin Prunty, MSc

Kevin Prunty, MSc

Kevin is a highly experienced Neuromuscular Therapist (NMT) and a proud member of the Association of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapists (ANMT). His years of study and practical experience have given him a deep understanding of the integration of NMT within the wider health, fitness, and athletic performance fields. Kevin has worked with many high-profile clients and organisations, including Monaghan United F.C. and Monaghan and Cavan GAA, where he offered sports first aid, pain and injury prevention strategies, and event massage.

With a passion for helping others and a background in emergency first aid, Kevin opened Back in Action, a pain and injury clinic in 2005. Since then, he has become a key member of the National Training Centre’s educational committee, contributing to the development and delivery of the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy (HDipNMT). As the course leader, he has played an instrumental role in creating a comprehensive curriculum and implementing new teaching methods to improve the learning experience for students.

Kevin is currently pursuing his MSc in Neuromuscular Therapy, and he has completed fresh frozen cadaver dissections in the Department of Anatomy at Kings College London. As part of an international team of lecturers, he has also helped to bring advanced qualifications in NMT to groups of physiotherapists, osteopaths, and other healthcare providers in Warsaw, Poland, and Kings College London.

In addition to his work in NMT, Kevin also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications in Creative Multimedia. He has leveraged his expertise to implement a streaming video resource for HDipNMT students, which is currently being expanded to include a range of courses offered by the National Training Centre. These videos feature world-renowned authorities and were filmed during actual classes and in a specialised studio at the National Training Centre. Thanks to Kevin’s efforts, students now have access to a wealth of knowledge and insights from experts in the field, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their goals.

Answers at your fingertips

Frequently Asked Questions

The National Training Centre have been delivering respected educational programmes since 1985 and during that time we have had many questions asked by potential students before registration. Here you can find the answers to the questions we receive most often.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!

Yes. The course is exclusively available to qualified bodywork therapists including:

  • Doctors
  • Dentists
  • Rolfers
  • Osteopaths
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Certificate Level Neuromuscular Therapists
  • Orthopaedic Sports Massage Therapists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Chiropractors

All applications will be considered on an individual basis.

When you complete the Higher Diploma course, you will be an advanced practitioner with expertise in a wide range of advanced clinical applications for soft tissue assessment and manipulation techniques.

You will gain in-depth knowledge and skills to address myofascial pain, advanced trigger point syndromes, and general musculoskeletal issues effectively. Graduates of the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy, are trusted experts, often serving as the first point of referral for certificate-level therapists and medical practitioners seeking non-surgical interventions for their patients.

As an advanced Neuromuscular Therapist, you will master specialised techniques such as cranial manipulation, intra-oral tissue release, and advanced hands-on skills to resolve even the most challenging painful conditions. You’ll also become proficient in combining myofascial trigger point treatments with neuromuscular reactive training to support the rehabilitation of injured tissues.

Graduating from this program will open up a wide range of opportunities, equipping you to make a significant impact on the lives of those suffering from painful conditions that previously had limited treatment options.

The recommended fee for each 45 minute advanced treatment session is a minimum of €80.00.

The number of sessions you decide to complete each week will be determined by your own commitment and the results you achieve.

Yes – Fees can be paid by means of a deposit and the balance via twenty monthly installments.

The facility to pay by installment is not a ‘Pay As You Go’ facility. The installment facility is intended to allow students to spread the payment of course fees over a specified time period. At the time of enrollment the student accepts that all of the course fees must be paid whether they complete the course or not.

Details of deposit amounts, installments, discounts, etc. can be found at ‘Fees’ above.

The Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy™ course is available at the National Training Centre in Dublin. Some practical classes will take place at our city centre location while others while be at our Swords location.

Assessment is carried out throughout the course by means of continual assessment and the submission of course assignments.

The National Training Centre’s code of ethics requires that all NTC graduates who are actively working with the public, hold a professional indemnity insurance policy which covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was received by following the graduate’s professional advice. Graduates who are working on private premises may also need to hold public liability insurance if such cover is not held by the owners of the premises.

The National Training Centre have a customised insurance scheme with discounted rates available exclusively to those who have qualified with NTC. The policy is one of the broadest available including many important features that other policies may not offer.

The policy has been arranged through Balens Ltd and the insurer for the scheme is the Zurich and DAS Legal Expenses.

Balens are a very well established, fourth generation family-run business dedicated to looking after health professionals. They are built on solid roots going back to 1950 and are pioneers in the development of top quality cover for all types of health professionals with special rates and industry leading cover that has been developing and improving over 22 years in this speciality.

The scheme will cover thousands of other therapies/activities you may require cover for and many at no extra premium subject to suitable qualification held.

Some of the features covered in the policy consist of Medical Malpractice, Professional Indemnity, Public Liability, Product Liability, Loss of Reputation, Breach of Intellectual Property, Client Confidentiality Protection, Loss of Documents cover, First Aid cover as well as Good Samaritan Acts.

The indemnity limit is €4,000,000 per claim for the Republic of Ireland.

Unlike some other policies on the market, an unlimited number of claims may be made for any year and unlimited legal defence costs are also included.

Also included, at no extra charge, is retroactive cover to pick up any previous insured work.

Temporary cover abroad (excluding USA/Canada which is available on request) is available with no time restrictions and at no additional premium as long as you are a UK/Ireland resident.

If you cease to practice Balens include unlimited run off cover which means the policy will always be in place if a claim was made after you stop the policy running and this is also free of charge.

For further information or proposal form, please contact Balens directly on 00441684 580771 or e-mail- info@balens.co.uk

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

October 2024 –  12th♦, 19th, 26th
November 2024 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
December 2024 – 7th, 14th
January 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
February 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

October 2024 –  15th, 17th, 22nd, 29th, 31st
November 2024 –  5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
December 2024 –  3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th
January 2025 –  7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th

PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES

February 2025 – 23rd March 2025 – 1st, 2nd
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

January 19th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
National Training Centre, Dublin

When did your course begin?

HIGHER DIPLOMA IN
NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY
Practical classes will take place on Saturday and Sundays from 09:00-5:00pm at either NTC, St Josephs Parade, Dorset Street, Dublin 7 or NTC Swords Campus, Swords, Co Dublin. Students should refer to their course calendar on the portal for the location of each weekend.
2025

September -  6th, 7th  |  October -  4th, 5th  |  November -  15th, 16th

2026

January - 10th, 11th |  February - 21st, 22nd |  March - 28th, 29th
April - 25th, 26th |  May - 23rd, 24th |  June - 20th, 21st
September - 5th, 6th |  October - 3rd, 4th |  November - 7th, 8th
December - 5th, 6th

2027

January -  9th, 10th | February - 6th, 7th | March - 6th, 7th

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday or Friday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
2025

September 18th

2026

February 12th | March 20th | April 17th
June 12th | July 3rd and 24th | August 7th and 28th

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
NTC @ Digital Office Centre, Swords