FAQ

Questions about Shiatsu?

What is a CST ®?

CST ® (Certified Shiatsu Therapist™) is the trademarked designation of practicing members of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario (S.T.A.O.). A CST® has successfully completed a 2200-hour (equivalent to three academic years) diploma program at a government accredited private vocational school, or the S.T.A.O. equivalent.

Core curriculum requirements include Western anatomy, physiology, pathology, public health, Chinese medical theory, and at least 650 hours of supervised practice including a public clinic setting. This is the highest standard of training for shiatsu therapists in the world, outside of Japan.

A CST® must also have passed comprehensive written and practical entrance exams set by the association, agree in writing to abide by the association’s code of ethics and carry mandatory professional liability insurance. The CST designation is your assurance of the most highly trained shiatsu therapist in North America.

What is a S.T.A.O.?

The Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario (S.T.A.O.) is committed to heightening public awareness of shiatsu and educating the provincial and municipal governments on the importance of making shiatsu a government regulated treatment modality in the interest of public safety.

Their address is:
517 College Street, Ste. 232, Toronto, ON, M6G 4A2
Tel # 416-923-7826
Website: http://www.shiatsuassociation.com

Is there any reactions to treatment?

Shiatsu may produce side-effects of headache, fatigue, changes in energy and muscle soreness as a result of deep stimulation of the muscles. If you have an old problem that was not healed properly it may come to the surface as your body is trying to get rid of it. These reactions are considered positive side effects, they are perfectly normal and will subside within 1-3 days.

Treatments are generally administered weekly or every two weeks depending on client’s condition and how his/her body responds to treatment. If the problem is acute, two treatments a week may be necessary. If the condition is chronic, 5 to 10 treatments once a week may be required. For Acupuncture treatments disposable needles are used. Your therapist will help you to set a program which best suits your need and also suggest other alternatives to benefit your health.

List of Insurance Companies that may cover Shiatsu?

  • Cumis Life Insurance Co
  • 1. Canada Life Assurance Co
  • Crown Life
  • Desjardins-Laurentian Life
  • Empire Financial
  • Equitable Insurance Co of Canada
  • Hartford Life Insurance
  • Imperial Life Assurance
  • Industrial Alliance Life Insurance Co of Canada
  • London Life Insurance Co
  • Lutheran Life Insurance Society of Canada
  • Maritime Life Assurance Co
  • Metropolitan Life Insurance Co
  • Mutual Life of Canada
  • NN Life Insurance of Canada
  • National Life of Canada
  • North West Life Assurance Co of Canada
  • Primerica Life Insurance Co of Canada
  • Seaboard Life Insurance Co
  • Standard Life
  • Sun Life
  • Transamerica Life Insurance Co of Canada
  • Westbury Canadian Life Insurance Co

Hours of operation?

  • Monday: Workshop + classes
  • Tuesday: 9am – 5pm
  • Wednesday: 9am – 5pm
  • Thursday: 10am – 6pm
  • Friday: 10am – 6pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 3pm
  • Sunday: Closed

Request for Insurance Coverage of Shiatsu Therapy?

Do you need a Request for Insurance Coverage of Shiatsu Therapy? Please contact your insurance provider to see if it is available on your policy.

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