RESOURCES & DISCIPLINES Bring This Course to You!
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VitalStim Therapy and Beyond is now a Specialty Certificate Program! This program is the only accredited NMES for Dysphagia program. After successful completion of this program, participants receive their Specialty Certificate as a specialist in the use of NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. On April 3, 2015, the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE) granted accreditation to CIAO Seminars' VitalStim Therapy Specialty Program for demonstrating compliance with ICE 1100 - Standard for Assessment-Based Certificate Programs. ICE 1100 was first published in January 2009 to ensure that assessment-based certificate programs adhere to modern standards of practice for the credentialing industry. More information about ICE is available online at www.credentialingexcellence.org. |
Jodie graduated from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL with a Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders. She has been a practicing speech language pathologist since 1995 with extensive experience in the private sector, school settings and clinical experience in hospital settings which include long term care and outpatient rehab. Jodie became a VitalStim® Provider in 2005. Since then she has utilized this modality in the treatment of dysphagia with both her pediatric and adult patients. Jodie is also a licensed NOMAS® practitioner and certified in NDC (NMES for Dysphagia), MDTP (McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program) and Myofascial Release. She has presented locally and nationally on various topics such as Best Practices, The Benefits of Oral Motor/Feeding Therapy on Articulation/Speech Clarity amongst others. Currently, Jodie serves the Speech Language Pathology profession as a therapist at Val Verde Regional Hospital in TX and as a certified instructor of the VitalStim® Therapy and DINES Specialty Certificate Program for CIAO Seminars.
Financial Disclosure: Jodie receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: Jodie uses VitalStim Therapy in her practice.
Penny Head is an ABPTS Board Certified Specialist in sports physical therapy and an NATABOC Certified Athletic Trainer. With over 17 years’ experience Penny is currently the Clinical Director of Sports Medicine at Baptist Rehab Hospital in Tennessee. She has also worked as a Sports Medicine Coordinator and Director of Physical Therapy in a clinical setting. Penny is currently a guest lecturer and lab instructor at the University of Tennessee, her alma mater. Penny is also currently a Certified Instructor for the VitalStim® Certification Course teaching NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. She has served as Certified Athletic Trainer, Team Physical Therapist and Rehab Consultant to several athletic programs including the Memphis Redbirds. Penny is a member of APTA, Tennessee PT Association, and Tennessee Athletic Trainers Association.
Financial Disclosure: Penny receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: No relevant relationships
CIAO is recognized on the NBCOT Provider Registry (meets PDU requirements for NBCOT)
The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.
CIAO is accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). CIAO complies with the ANSI/IACET Standard, which is recognized internationally as a standard of excellence in instructional practices. As a result of this accreditation, CIAO is accredited to issue the IACET CEU.
CIAO Automatically reports to CE Broker for Florida Occupational and Physical Therapists and Assistants. Florida SLPs can either use the ASHA CE Participant Form (Bubble Sheet) or self-submit through CE Broker.
This course is offered for 1.6 ASHA CEUs (Intermediate level, Professional area)..
"Thanks for having this course live. Please keep live courses available"
- New Orleans, LA / Mar 2024
"This course was a great refresher of cranial nerves and their functions. The use of real life examples was very helpful in addition to the hands-on labs."
- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024
"Learned a lot more than I thought I would! We learned about other tips outside of/beside, vitalstim/NMES."
- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024
"Very informative course for background on anatomy and for hands-on learning with the device! I feel confident and excited to provide a new level of care to my patients!"
- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024
"I leave a lot of courses, not feeling like I learned anything. That wasn't the case here. I feel like a new and better therapist."
- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024
"This course was very educational and designed very well to facilitate learning and understanding. "
- Baltimore, MD / Jan 2024
"I appreciated the time + experience from our instructors today. I felt they provided the opportunity for questions + real life application from examples/experiences from their clinical practices. "
- Baltimore, MD / Jan 2024
"I learned more about dypshagia in this course than i did in grad school and through experience. Jodie is phenomenal! "
- Phoenix, AZ / Dec 2023
"The course was engaging and interactive- instructors were super helpful and helped me feel comfortable- they were supportive and very kind which eased my anxiety/nervousness about the lab component. "
- Miami, FL / Dec 2023
"Presenters were well-versed and knowledgeable about the material. Great hands-on practice!"
- Chattanooga, TN / Nov 2023
"I always enjoy CIAO live classes. I learn something new each time I recertify."
- Houston, TX / Nov 2023
"FANTASTIC speakers! I loved the anatomy/physiology review as well as the case studies. one thing I might change would be for the exam to more closely align with the course content."
- Houston, TX / Nov 2023
"Greatly improved my knowledge and confidence in using vitalstim. I'fd love to purchase the new device"
- Houston, TX / Nov 2023
"One of the best courses I've taken! Definitely worth the cost. I learned so much! The manual binder is clear and so helpful."
- Tampa, FL / Oct 2023
"This course kept my attention and interest. Perfect amount of time to feel adequately prepared. "
- Tampa, FL / Oct 2023
"A fantastic course! Presenters were very knowledgeable about the subject and expert in their field. I would highly recommend!"
- Seattle, WA / Sep 2023
"Presenters both very knowledgabe - able to re-phrase / explain and frequent check-ins to make sure we understood info and offered opportunities for questions. Both did excellent."
- Boston/Waltham, MA / Sep 2023
"Excited to cross-over to the peds bundle!"
- Atlanta, GA / Aug 2023
"Nice handouts and case studies at end. Demo/hands on lab very helpful"
- Santa Ana, CA / Aug 2023
"Presenters were excellent and well-knowledged "
- Charlotte, NC / Jul 2023
"Jodie did an amazing job of bridging the gap between text book knowledge and applicatioin into tx sessions. John provided an overall picture of the entire body's involvement in swallowing."
- Jackson/Flowood, MS / Jul 2023
"So much more information than Ampcare. I feel as though I have a real understanding now. Thank you SO much!"
- Jackson/Flowood, MS / Jul 2023
"I would benefit from more practice with adjusting settings based on case scenarios, but this will come with practice :)"
- Pittsburgh, PA / Jun 2023
"Please consider having speakers use microphone lecture as it was difficult to hear information at times in a large room. "
- Glen Cove/Long Island, NY / Jun 2023
"Well put together course with exceptional information. Jodie and Joe are wonderful and highly capable in their ability to communicate the material. The physics/Estim section at the end of the day one is difficult, due to being at the end of the day."
- St Louis, MO / Jun 2023
"The instructors werevery knowledgable and friendly. Loved Lesley's personality and energy! The course ran on time, was very informative and prepared me for actual treatment,"
- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023
"The presenters were knowledgable and answered all questions with details. The labs were helpful in identifying the proper placement for electrodes. Don't change anything. It's perfect as it is!"
- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023
"This course had the most in-depth anatomy overview of any course I've ever taken, but was explained so thoroughly that it was easier to understand. Y'all know your stuff! Thank you! :)"
- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023
"Great course! 5 stars!"
- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023
"More capability and confidence using NMES. A fantastic course! Jon and Jen are fantastic instructors who crammed valuable (a ton of) info into 2 days and made it very enjoyable. Time flew by!"
- Denver/Englewood, CO / May 2023
"This course was very helpful - this info could easily be a week long training."
- Denver/Englewood, CO / May 2023
"I will be able to utilize NMES in conjunction with my current treatment tools to improve patient outcomes. Overall very impressed -- I appreciated the balance of information and hands on practice. "
- Denver/Englewood, CO / May 2023
"I will be able to offer more resources to my swallow patients and have a better understanding of impairment vs pathology, etc. Jon & Jen were such amazing instructors! There was a perfect combo of lecture & hands-on practice. I appreciated the in-depth A&P review& how they spent a good amount of time answering questions. Thank you!"
- Denver/Englewood, CO / May 2023
"I will use NMES where I had not before. This will facilitate a better rate of progress for my patients. Great class - both presenters were wonderful, best class I've taken in a long time. "
- Denver/Englewood, CO / May 2023
"Modalities presentation not specific to SLPs. Did not understand the PT examples or relevance."
- Chicago, IL / May 2023
"Most useful continuing education course I've completed. "
- Orlando, FL / Apr 2023
"Presenters were friendly and knowledgeable. Both were great with education and with explanations. I feel confident in using NMES with this course."
- Omaha, NE / Apr 2023
"Amazing course! 10x better than I expected. They explained concepts in a way that they finally "clicked" for me. I would recommend this course to any clinician that treats patients with dysphagia."
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2023
"The presenters/specialist were highly educated and presented the information in a clear and concise manner. Ciao Chique was positive, helpful and so uplifting!"
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2023
"answered all questions. Attentive"
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2023
"Excellent course. Kelly and Tom were great presenters. Christie is a treasure."
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2023
"Loved this course! Thank you!"
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2023
"Both speakers were exceptional. Both were very knowledgable. They were animated speakers that kept my attention the entire time. Highly recommend. "
- Dallas, TX / Mar 2023
"Both instructors were fantastic! I've learned more in this CEU than any other CEU course I have taken. Thank you!"
- Dallas, TX / Mar 2023
"I am wondering if you could spread the content of the course in 3 days. "
- San Antonio, TX / Feb 2023
"Very Kind, help with any anxiety and were patient"
- San Antonio, TX / Feb 2023
"Great course/ Wonderful Instructor. No questions left unanswered. Leaving this course felling confident."
- San Antonio, TX / Feb 2023
"The instructors were very engaged and enthusiastic about the content which helped with learning!"
- Nashville, TN / Jan 2023
"Awesome course! Very helpful in gaining a better understanding of dysphagia. Can't wait to implement these practices "
- Nashville, TN / Jan 2023
"It was a great course! thanks for John and Karin"
- Istandbul, NSW / Jan 2023
"thank you! it was very informative and fun!"
- Istandbul, NSW / Jan 2023
"Thank you =)"
- Istandbul, NSW / Jan 2023
"Awesome course. Loved the hands on labs, feedback and case studies discussed."
- Houston, TX / Nov 2022
"Loved the course! I am confident to use VitalStim in my everyday practice! The hands on labs made a huge difference."
- Houston, TX / Nov 2022
"This course was truly though provoking and engaging for continued growth in this field. I have truly learned more than just VitalStim and look forward to using this to change lives of future patients."
- Houston, TX / Nov 2022
"A lot of information to take in...but presented extremely well! Course handouts and resources were excellent augmentations to lecture. Adequate hands on practice let me pretty confident to implement in practice. "
- Chicago, IL / Nov 2022
"Requires practice to achieve high capability. Please consider providing a DINES "fact" or "cheat" sheet for quick reference out in the field and easy to find contacts. "
- Mt Laurel, NJ / Oct 2022
"Kelly and Tom were awesome instructors! The pace of the course is perfect and information projected in good easy to understand manner!"
- Mt Laurel, NJ / Oct 2022
"Excellent course. Instructors were personable, approachable, and very knowledgeable. "
- Mt Laurel, NJ / Oct 2022
"The binder is an excellent resource. Gina and John were excellent instructors. They were extremely thorough and well spoken. I truly enjoyed this course."
- Boston, MA / Sep 2022
"Fantastic course! I learned more about dysphagia in this course than in my grad school classes! "
- Boston, MA / Sep 2022
"The speakers were fantastic! Karin and Julie were patient, helpful, and provided excellent tips and advice."
- Santa Ana, CA / Aug 2022
"100% would recommend to all my co-workers and fellow SLPs. So detailed with practical application and use. Really appreciated the hands on lab time!"
- Santa Ana, CA / Aug 2022
"Effective, calm, and supportive instructors. Easy to understand examples of targeted concepts. Good that other NMES estim units discussed."
- Santa Ana, CA / Aug 2022
"Highly informative course! Very interactive/hands on, with excellent real life experience and practice. Providers were very knowledgeable and helpful. Will definitely reference the excellent manual!"
- Charlotte, NC / Jul 2022
"Much appreciated the consideration for nursing moms!"
- Birmingham, AL / Jun 2022
"Great course! Both presenters were wonderful"
- Birmingham, AL / Jun 2022
"This course not only helped me to use VitalStim, but also helped me with effective dysphagia tx in general."
- Kansas City , MO / Jun 2022
"Thank you for a great weekend of learning - it was challenging and applicable. So nice to be IN PERSON!"
- Kansas City , MO / Jun 2022
"Denise and Jon were great educators and really helped us understand the concepts in a very functional way. Was a great course!"
- Kansas City , MO / Jun 2022
"For re-certification, this course entails more information than necessary. CIAO should develop a course that is more of an express course for re-certificaiton. "
- Detroit, MI / May 2022
"Thank you! Very informative, lots of hands on practice. great functional examples!"
- Minneapolis, MN / May 2022
"This course was set up in a very functional way to allow for learning and understanding the material. There are so many wonderful things I can take away from this course to use in my clinical practice!"
- Minneapolis, MN / May 2022
"Really enjoyed the labs and practical applications. Lots of helpful treatment recommendations."
- Minneapolis, MN / May 2022
"Explanation of anatomy, use of device, patient characteristics, etc. was great-easy to understand and apply!"
- Denver, CO / Apr 2022
"Loved this course and cant wait to use it in my practice."
- Denver, CO / Apr 2022
"Loved the course! So informative and presented in a great way."
- Fort Lauderdale (Th/FR), FL / Apr 2022
"Excellent! Presenters were extremely knowledgeable and experts in the field. So glad I did this course. Thank you!"
- Dallas, TX / Apr 2022
"Very informative & helpful presenters. Highly recommend! "
- Philadelphia, PA / Mar 2022
"Thank you all! Maddie provided wonderful, bright energy. John is highly intelligent and skilled- challenging my skills just like his pts :) Loved Denise's presentation skills, practical and relatable. I'll consider more CEU's with updated website platform for multi-media. CASE STUDIES VERY HELPFUL (even with more details!). "
- Baltimore, MD / Feb 2022
"The therapy manual REALLY helped my learning "
- Baltimore, MD / Feb 2022
"Very informative seminars"
- Baltimore, MD / Feb 2022
"I loved the course"
- New Orleans, LA / Feb 2022
"I really enjoyed this course. I feel that it has increased my abilities as a therapist and opened a new world for me for dysphasia therapy. I appreciated that both speakers were not SLP's. I feel that it helped build that relationship between Physical Therapy and Speech Therapy related to modalities. "
- Louisville, KY / Jan 2022
"Exceeded my expectations!"
- Irvine, CA / Aug 2021
"Very informative and useful to assist in facilitating and improving swallow function."
- Irvine, CA / Aug 2021
"This course was engaging, educational, and fun! I feel more equipped to tackle dysphagia therapy as a new clinician."
- Irvine, CA / Aug 2021
"Karen and Julie were phenomenal speakers and educators, course was very informative and had many components (visual and practice) that allowed for wonderful carryover. "
- Irvine, CA / Aug 2021
"I loved the course! It has made me significantly more confident in my abilities all around for dysphagia! "
- Charlotte, NC / Jul 2021
"Wonderful course. Detailed, straight to the point, took time to help and explain, friendly. Highly recommend this course. "
- Charlotte, NC / Jul 2021
"The anatomy portion was definitely a refresher. I gain new information that will aid in more effective tx. "
- Houston, TX / Jul 2021
"Coming into the course I was nervous over my lack of knowledge. The presenters were so positive and helpful! Thank you so much for the confidence I have gained! :)"
- Jackson, MS / Jul 2021
"Recertification really helpful to renew skills!"
- Pittsburgh, PA / Jun 2021
"Awesome course!! I wish I would have taken this course sooner. This course will make me a better clinician to treat dysphagia, whether or not NMES is utilized. I feel like I will be able to come up with better treatment plans."
- Pittsburgh, PA / Jun 2021
"Information was detailed and well presented."
- Kansas City , MO / May 2021
"Great class! This was better than my dysphagia class in graduate school!"
- Kansas City , MO / May 2021
"I have found it very helpful to come in person for recertification. I was able to hone my skills especially with regard to dysfunction and impairment for determination of muscle groups to benefit and electrode placement. "
- Philadelphia, PA / Apr 2021
"Excellent presenters, materials, information, and clinical lab info."
- Orlando, FL / Apr 2021
"Most I've learned about dysphagia treatment in a very long time. "
- New Orleans, LA / Mar 2021
"The presenters were very informative. Answered all questions. Overall a great experience!"
- Boston , MA / Mar 2021
"Excellent course! I really enjoyed the hands-on experience and practical application."
- Boston , MA / Mar 2021
"Easy to follow, such good base information to work up from. Loved the hands on experience. So willing to answer all questions!"
- Las Vegas, NV / Feb 2021
"Friendly and helpful instructors. Enjoyed collaborating with fellow peers and peds/adult case studies."
- Las Vegas, NV / Feb 2021
"This was for recertification. I'm so glad I came in person vs. online. I learned additional techniques using VitalStim Plus."
- Las Vegas, NV / Feb 2021
"Presentation was thorough and presenters were excellent! I will definitely consider CIAO in the future!"
- Nashville, TN / Jan 2021
"Awesome presenters and course structure. Thank you. Excited to implement into sessions."
- Houston , TX / Jan 2021
"great course, excellent review of neuro/anatomy for tx rationale."
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2020
"Excellent course, tremendous, highly knowledgeable instructors! I enjoy continuing education, but certainly appreciate walking away with FUNCTIONAL application. This course exceeded my expectations. This might be "my" point in my SLP career where it will change the way I approach my therapy."
- Phoenix , AZ / Dec 2020
"Loved that this course targeted critical thinking, options for treatment modalities and addressed concerns associated with the current and older research."
- Denver , CO / Sep 2020
"Speakers' expertisewas above & beyond expectations - just a wealth of information and able to address every single question. Live course was invaluable (I took the day 1 covid livestream) I learned so much from the interaction, Q&A, live dynamic. * I especially appreciated case studies/exercise applications (Sunday post lunch! the best)"
- Denver , CO / Sep 2020
"I am so thrilled that I am now CERTIFIED and no longer have to refer my patietns who would benefit from NMES to other clinicials. YAY!!! Thank you!"
- Orlando , FL / Sep 2020
"Loved the depth of information taught in this course. I learned an immense amount about swallowing and am excited about implementing this in my practice."
- Dallas, TX / Sep 2020
"Great refresher for recertification on new utal stim plus. I feel confident to to treat w/ nmes after course after being away from dyphagia tx for 3 years."
- Biloxi, MS / Aug 2020
"I recommend your ability to make changes to accommodate "Social Distancing" to allow is to still become certified in the midst of the Pandemic!"
- Philadelphia, PA / Aug 2020
"This was an amazing course! I learned so much about not only NMES but MBS interpretations and muscles of swallowing. Thank you."
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2020
"I feel like I understand dysphagia and the physiology component so well now. This course was wonderful!!"
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2020
"This course was AWESOME! I was really nervous prior to taking the course and the instructors really put me at ease and truly prepared me to use NMES on my patients. "
- Houston, TX / Jan 2020
"I appreciate the additional test taking time; I really needed to have some decompress and quite time to absorv info, reread, and check my answers - very fair for the amount and intensity of this course! Some questions on test were not discussed or found. ____ to last course no ___/manual. Added bonus, electrode placement with presenter spot-check & feedback/correction appreciated."
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2019
"Kelly & Joe were outstanding presenters. They made the course fun & interactive."
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2019
"Lesley is like a NMES MOM! She's fantastic. Gina and Julie were amazing. And the binder of knowledge and continued online resources are great! Thank ya'll"
- Birmingham, AL / Nov 2019
"Great course. I have been doing swallowing for 2+ years and learned so much about dysphagia and NSMES. THANK YOU!"
- Birmingham, AL / Nov 2019
"Maddie- excellent demeanor, very warm and friendly. Kelly- I want to be like her when I grow up, so knowledgable and well spoken. Joe- excellent teacher, unassuming, takes nothing for granted, explains/demonstrates well with his examples."
- Columbus, OH / Nov 2019
"I enjoyed the time for hand on portion where the educators checked on everyone and gave feedback on placement."
- Newark, NJ / Nov 2019
"This course went above and beyond my expectations! I absolutely feel prepared to implement this treatment in my practice. "
- Oklahoma City, OK / Oct 2019
"Amazing course! A must-take course for all SLP's seeking to expand their knowledgable in the area of dysphagia and NMES with incredible professors. I LOVED this educational experience. "
- Houston, TX / Jul 2019
"Awesome! This course is marvelous. The presenters did a wonderful job in delivering the subject matter. Lesley and Maddie are very assistive and heart-warming. More power to CIAO. Thank you Dayna."
- Jackson, MS / Jul 2019
"I was on the edge of my seat to hear the information. Please come back to Jackson, MS and do a PED's course! Y'all rock!! MS <3's y'all!"
- Jackson, MS / Jul 2019
"Great course! The instructors were very knowledgable and I feel comfortable implementing course information in my clinical practice. "
- Pittsburgh, PA / Jun 2019
"I retained even more information this time as a renewal course. I was able to focus on the theory and reasoning behind placement overall use because I had prior experience with the unit."
- Detroit, MI / Jun 2019
"Great course! Appreciate the realism and honesty. Also, love all of the visual descriptions. "
- Dallas, TX / May 2019
"The BEST course I have ever taken. The presentation of material was fantastic. I really enjoyed the practical application."
- Chicago, IL / May 2019
"This course was EXCELLENT! I really feel confident to use Vitalstim and this has greatly increased my knowledge."
- Orlando, FL / Apr 2019
"Presenters were engaging and knowledgeable. They were able to answer all questions and very approachable."
- Orlando, FL / Apr 2019
"Thank you for the great book/manual, references an article summary of articles."
- Orlando, FL / Apr 2019
"Both presenters were great! Very knowledgeable & helpful. I especially was inspired by Jon's ability to teach this class & relate to SLPs given his background was PT. It's not always easy to code switch between PT/SLP!"
- Columbus, OH / Mar 2019
"The explanations of anatomy and physiology were explained very well. I very much enjoyed every single one of the analogies explained, the information just made sense after the explanation of analogy. The test questions could be revamped. Course binder and hands on labs were great!"
- Columbus, OH / Mar 2019
"This is going to dramatically impact the quality of care I give my dysphagia patients!!!"
- San Diego, CA / Feb 2019
"Absolutely awesome instructors! I learned so much and was so impressed with the knowledge this course provided! Thank you CIAO!"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2019
"Utilize previous vitalstim unit for facilities w/old unit. Amazing course! Best dysphagia course since grad school."
- Houston, TX / Jan 2019
"Excellent review and I really enjoyed the hands on and new outlined agenda. A great review and I loved the new VitalStim machine. Course was very organized. Thank you so much!!"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2019
"Very comprehensive. I am also trained in Ampcare - I like this protocol much more and am excited to apply to my caseload."
- Houston, TX / Jan 2019
"Awesome course! I could not be more satisfied with the knowledge that I gained! "
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2018
"Instructors had great collaboration to the presentation, knowledgeable on their presented information and good experience. Instructors provided adequate hands-on training to enhance learning."
- Columbus, OH / Nov 2018
"Wonderful, much needed refresher for swallow anatomy that made it functional and beyond the classroom "origin and intention" that isn't very functional. I feel I look at swallow in a new and improved way that will better serve my patients. "
- Dallas, TX / Oct 2018
"AWESOME COURSE! I feel like I learned more than my grad school course (smiley face) Thank you!"
- Atlanta, GA / Oct 2018
"I've been an SLP for 13 years. By far, this is the best continuing ed/certification course I have ever participated in. Outstanding job!"
- Atlanta, GA / Oct 2018
"Loved Tammy!!! CIAO presented the information with a cohesive learning experience.Loved the hands on component."
- Newark, NJ / Aug 2018
"The presenters did a fantastic job with teaching complicated course content in an understandable manner! Wonderful teachers!"
- St Louis, MO / Aug 2018
"Excited to take what I learned back to my facility and patients! Feel as if I have doubled my knowledge of dysphagia in one weekend!"
- St Louis, MO / Aug 2018
"Appreciated the increased palpation techniques, review of placement strategies impacting specific muscles."
- Houston, TX / Jul 2018
"Instructors were able to present information in a practical and fun way. It only took two days to learn and review what would have taken a full semester of school with this awesome team. Will be coming back for more CIAO corses. Oh, Maddie is GREAT! Keep her forever!"
- Houston, TX / Jul 2018
"Maybe another break or two. The days are so long!"
- Houston, TX / Jul 2018
"Wish I had completed this this LONG ago! Clarifies swallowing function so well! Love the motivation to heal patients!"
- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2018
"Amazing course! I feel completely capable to begin using this Monday! Far exceeded my expectations!"
- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2018
"Awesome! Best swallowing conference I’ve attended in a long time! Thank you!!"
- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2018
"I would recommend this course to my co-workers. My knowledge base regarding VS has improved as well as my confidence in implementing VS during therapy sessions. The instructors were phenomenal. "
- Dallas, TX / May 2018
"Wow! Talk about passionate presenters. I loved this course and I feel I got prepared to take on dysphagia therapy with the use of vitalstim "
- Dallas, TX / May 2018
"Course was very thorough and provided great materials with information applicable for all dysphagia tx. This course exceeded my expectations."
- Baltimore, MD / Apr 2018
"The muscle training and electrical stim portion was highly informative and drove home the importance of NMES."
- Baltimore, MD / Apr 2018
"Presenters were highly educated and clearly conveyed information in an interesting manner!"
- Philadelphia, PA / Mar 2018
"Wonderful course that not only helped me understand NMES but increased my knowledge of the swallow and dysphagia in general."
- Philadelphia, PA / Mar 2018
"Excellent class! Thank you for your patience and willingness to answer all our questions! Great review of anatomy/physiology also!"
- Irvine, CA / Feb 2018
"Very thoughtfully covered material. Good exchange of questions and answers throughout presentation; excellent examples with videos. Adequate supplies, excellent feedback to students. Would be less confusion if lecture handouts matched sequences of slides presented. (I think some new slides added.) Would love to take additional courses from him. Yes, would recommend to others without hesitation."
- Irvine, CA / Feb 2018
"Although my head feels like it is going to explode, I'm super excited to utilize this new knowledge. I've enjoyed all the speakers (including Ann Marie). What a great class!"
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2018
"Kelly, Ann Marie and Penny were all very approachable, knowledgeable and helpful. They provided the information, tools and resources to help me feel competent as a clinician using this program."
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2018
"It was an intensive program but the instructors did a great job of reviewing the material every so often and checking to make sure we understood everything. Loved the labs. "
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2018
"I feel like many clinicians still have reservations about using carbonated beverages because of the controversy so maybe providing alternative options besides carbonation. "
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"1) Would love to see a video (case study) of a patient actually receiving treatment t see it all come together, from case HX-> Targeting Decision Making-> TX Video -> Results 2) give us time to independently (or small group) process a case study from start to finish, then review the case with the whole group"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Instructors were great. Provided very knowledgable information w/ personal experiences tied in! Also thought the course did a good job alternating hands on/book learning"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Great course! I enjoyed the in-depth discussion of dysphagia/review of anatomy of the swallowing muscles. "
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Excellent conference with practical application. Presenters were highly knowledgable and info was well organized."
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Loved this course! I can't wait to get back to work and apply what I've learned."
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Maddie did a great job of making us feel welcomed; gave clear instructions. I appreciate the hands-on aspect of training and feel much more confident in my ability"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Great Course! Very informative, easy to follow along and presenters did a great job in teaching how to apply all the knowledge/info. "
- Houston, TX / Jan 2018
"Both presenters were available for all questions, provide very good examples, atmosphere in hotel very good, Thank you!"
- Charlotte, NC / Dec 2017
"So glad that I took my first renewal course live. This would be recommended for all first time renewal. There should be a no cell phone usage policy during this course. It was so much great information. I feel sorry for SLP who used her cell phone throughout this course. "
- Charlotte, NC / Dec 2017
"Great course/Awesome Instructors!"
- Charlotte, NC / Dec 2017
"Very knowledgable and experienced instructors, personalized instruction, well organized and good pacing/use of time. Attentive and answered all questions."
- Tampa, FL / Nov 2017
"Great course! I felt that I gained so much knowledge regarding dysphagia tx as well as NMES. "
- Tampa, FL / Nov 2017
"Excellent course! Jen and Tom did a great covering a lot of complex information in a short period of time. Materials were well organized and helpful"
- Tampa, FL / Nov 2017
"Thorough explanation and hands-on training was wonderful."
- Tampa, FL / Nov 2017
"The best course I've ever taken. Highly interesting & informative! Wonderful presenters!!"
- Louisville, KY / Aug 2017
"This is a spectacular program. I've been doing this a long time (6 years), but my practice will greatly improve after this renewal!"
- Louisville, KY / Aug 2017
"Very engaging & educational. Was very beneficial."
- Louisville, KY / Aug 2017
"The overall lectures were delivered very well (each and every word was understood) The best part was the hand-on clinical practice which boost up the confidence to apply NMES directly to pts after this course. I would like to request CIAO Seminars to visit my country (Pakistan) for their courses. Looking forward! (R. B. S.)"
- Houston, TX / Jul 2017
"Both presenters were fantastic- highly knowledgeable and equally as approachable with questions/ guidance. Truly enjoyed this course! "
- Boston, MA / Jun 2017
"Teaching of both instructors throughout the course had a synergistic effect on your learning the material. "
- Boston, MA / Jun 2017
"I feel guilty that I have not been trained for NMES before now to have helped the many dysphagia pts I've had in the past! Amazing teaching speakers! Incredible simplified explanations - THANK YOU!!! You're both gifts to our field!!!!"
- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2017
"Excellent course. All of the analogies used will be helpful in explaining medical concepts to my patients/families."
- Pittsburgh, PA / May 2017
"Best CEU I've taken so far, hands on was so helpful to the learning! Presenters were highly knowledgable and engaging. Thank you."
- Irving, TX / Apr 2017
"Very informative-great presenters-can't wait to start providing the service to my population!!"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2017
"This course was wonderful and very informative/entertaining. Will be recommending. I feel as though I can begin using these skills immediately."
- Houston, TX / Jan 2017
"The hands-on labs for VitalStim were really helpful. I gained a better sense of how it feels and I think it helps me to understand my patient's perspectives."
- Columbus, OH / Dec 2016
"Very good information! Made me think about dysphagia treatment "upside down". I wonder why this wasn't taught in graduate school."
- Charlotte, NC / Dec 2016
"Amazing course not just for vitalstim but for dysphagia in general! Wonderful instructors, organized & in-depth presentation!"
- Newark, NJ / Nov 2016
"This was a wonderful seminar that not only educated us on VitalStim but also provided so much additional education on evaluation; treatment for patients with dysphagia."
- Romulus, MI / May 2015
"The course was fantastic! I can not wait to benefit my pts at a greater level with this new information."
- Metairie, LA / Feb 2015
"Amazing! I gained not only more infor/knowledge about NMES but greater understanding of Dysphagia."
- Metairie, LA / Feb 2015
"Phenomenal course! I learned so much!! Can't wait to apply what I have learned!!"
- San Antonio, TX / Feb 2015
"Amazing course! I would recommend the course to anyone even those who remain skeptical of NMES in treating dysphagia. There was a wealth of info!!"
- Atlanta, GA / Feb 2015
"This course was excellent! I learned so much and will use this knowledge everyday in my practice to better my patients lives."
- Nashville, TN / Jan 2015
"I came to this seminar quite apprehensive and a bit stressed. Upon completion, I am now equipped with new knowledge and confidence - ready and eager to apply these skills! Loved this course! Excellent presenters."
- Tampa, FL / Nov 2014
"Especially liked cranial nerve review. Great info. Switching of speakers was helpful. Presenters answered all questions. Nice hotel/location."
- Nashville, TN / Feb 2014
"Jodie rocked! Jodie for President! :) Love & appreciated how Jodie used her arms & hands as visual aids to help us learn structurs concepts for anatomy. Was blown away by both Jodie's & John's vast applied knowledge & how well they taught us. Liked having PT perspective. Lynus has the best contagious smile & energy! Thank you!!!"
- Houston, TX / Jan 2014
"I can apply what I've learned immediately in therapy."
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2013
"Great class! Fun, interesting, thorough and functionally applicable. Thank you!"
- Tampa, FL / Dec 2013
"A Lot of material in a very short amount time."
- St Louis, MO / Oct 2013
"Fantastic diagrams that helped facilitate a greater knowledge of muscles and placements!"
- Richmond, VA / Sep 2013
"Course was very informative. I liked that case studies were presented as well as hypothetical patient cases - to help w/ application"
- Minneapolis, MN / Apr 2013
"Enjoyed the course. Presenters with excellent knowledge and teaching methods. Ready to put the VitalStim to use with patients."
- Little Rock, AR / Mar 2013
"Excellent course- the best CEU course I have taken. I can’t wait to start using VitalStim in my practice."
- Columbus, OH / Mar 2013