How did you discover the massage therapy profession?
I first found massage in my early 20’s when a family friend went to massage school. Back then, massage was strictly thought of for pampering purposes only. We would give each other gift certificates for birthdays or holidays, so we could have an hour of rest and relaxation.
Later, when I was in my mid 20’s, I was diagnosed with Lyme disease and Fibromyalgia. Someone recommended that I should see this amazing massage therapist they knew to see if she could help me. This was the first time I was introduced to massage being used to help manage and heal medical problems.
How did you develop your passion into a career?
I talked with my new therapist to see if she thought she could help, and she was positive that I would see some good results. I had no idea that this would be not only a game changer for my illnesses, but a life changer on where I would now begin a new journey. I started seeing my new therapist on a regular basis to get the most optimal results. I learned that not only was she a Licensed Massage Therapist, but she was also a Reiki Master. This was my first introduction to learning how to heal the body on many different levels.
Through massage and Reiki, I was not only able to feel better physically, but mentally as well. I hadn’t realized how depressed and anxious I had become being sick all the time. Slowly, my aches and pains began to lessen and my anxiety about being ill began to become more manageable. Suddenly, there was hope at regaining my life again. With my therapists’ help and support, I learned that I could start to live a more normal and healthy life.
As I became a healthier and happier person, I realized that I wanted to be able to give people the same gift that my therapist had given to me. I first began to study Reiki and became a Reiki Master Teacher and enjoyed sharing that gift with others that I worked on. I realized though, that there was so much more to healing the body. I wanted to be able to help people heal- mind, body and soul. So, off I went to massage school to become a Licensed Massage Therapist.
Once I began my new journey , I realized this is where I was meant to be. I was able to flourish and become my true authentic self.
How has your career evolved?
I have been a practicing Reiki Master Teacher for over 20 years and a Licensed Massage Therapist for over 16 years. I am also Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. Throughout my career, I have worked in top spas, chiropractic offices, pain management centers, and for myself. All of these jobs have taught me how to work with people from all walks of life. I quickly learned that while I loved the spa atmosphere, my true passion really lied with being able to make a difference in people’s lives.
Several years ago I opened my own studio where I could cater to my ideal client. I now specialize in therapeutic massage, Reiki, and teaching. I truly make a difference in my clients lives and that brings me great joy. I have found that I have been able to give to others the gift that was given to me. That makes my heart smile.
What does Board Certification mean to you?
Board Certification to me means that I hold the highest credentials attainable within this profession. I am proud that I am able to tell my clients the education I have, as well as the licensing and certifications that I hold. I believe this helps to set me apart from others. It means that I have gone the extra mile, and hold myself to the highest standards I can.
What does the future hold for you?
I see myself continuing to help heal others on their journey to a healthier life. I would also like to expand on the classes I am already teaching now . If I can share the things I have learned over the last 20 years with other therapists and help to inspire something within them, that would be amazing.
How do you hope to see the massage therapy and bodywork profession evolve?
I would like to see the future of bodyworkers change to a more positive way we are viewed, within our own communities as well as how the public sees us. I would like to see bodyworkers continue to become part of the health care system, and be treated with the respect we deserve. This would include the same regulations and licensing requirements across each state. I would like to see bodyworkers continue to support each other, and not view each other as competition. If we raise the standards in our profession, then we raise each other up as well.