Do I need a teacher to learn the technique?
Yes. Habits are unconscious by nature and it takes a highly trained teacher to help you perceive and change your ingrained patterns. Although some individuals have taught themselves the Technique by reading Alexander’s books, it is much more productive to experience the Technique rather than read about it. Alexander wrote his books to describe his discoveries and explain his theories, but they were never intended to serve as instruction manuals.

What qualifications do Alexander Technique teachers have?
Teachers certified by the American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT) train with qualified professionals for at least 1600 hours over a three year period. Teachers study the principals of the technique and learn to accurately observe people's patterns of coordination and identify interfering factors. Training course teachers monitor students as they practice guiding others towards better use. AmSAT is the largest organization of Alexander Technique teachers in the United States, upholds high standards for training teachers and is a member of the international Alexander Technique Affiliated Societies (ATAS).

How many lessons do I need?
Each individual will learn the technique at a different pace. It's best to regard the lessons as a process to enjoy rather than a course to complete. Improvement can often be noticed early on, even after the first lesson. Usually, a minimum of six lessons will be required to establish a new manner to use one’s self. Further lessons may be desired as the Technique applies to issues beyond the student’s initial interest.

How often should I have a lesson?
Frequency of lessons is an important determining factor. As with any skill, practicing a little every day will accelerate the learning process. (Alexander required beginning students to commit to a six week course of five lessons per week.) Initially, students should try to have two or three lessons per week. Having less than one lesson per week is usually not productive. (Imagine trying to learn to ride a bike or dance the tango by having a lesson every other week.) Once a basic understanding of the technique is established and the student is able to practice on his or her own, the frequency of lessons can be adjusted according to need. I offer a special rate for an intense introductory course of three lessons per week within a four week period.

Where can I find additional information about the technique?
In addition to the books written by Alexander himself, there are many other books written by first generation teachers trained by Alexander and many contemporary books, videos and DVDs with specific applications for musicians, expectant mothers, athletes and more. A complete list with descriptions can be viewed on the AmSAT website.

Is the Alexander Technique recommended by medical professionals?
The Technique is offered in many wellness centers and health education programs. Medical professionals of every kind recommend the Technique for chronic back pain, migraines, repetitive strain injuries, poor posture and coordination problems, as well as for depression and anxiety that frequently accompany stressful health issues. The technique is not a substitute for medical attention and does not contradict medical treatment. The technique can lessen the need for medical attention by reducing chronic pain or provide support for treatment such as recovery from surgery.  A list of links to articles providing medical endorsement and scientific research can be found on The Complete Guide to the Alexander Technique site. Most recently, the British Medical Journal has published the results of a major study validating the effectiveness of the technique for chronic and recurrent back pain sufferers. Follow this link if you would like to read the article: www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/337/aug19_2/a884