All our therapists have advanced bodywork training
and are licensed and certified in their fields.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Garnet has been in practice since 1989.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy; lymphatic massage; pre- natal massage; deep tissue
massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 1989. In her career as a professional bodyworker,
Garnet has taken over 1000 hours of continuing education classes
in hands-on massage techniques, ethics and communication skills.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I wanted to help facilitate clients in their recovery and stress
reduction.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
My intent is to approach all aspects of my life with integrity.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Ken has been in practice since 1999.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including very specific deep tissue, trigger point work,
and myofascial release; Neuromuscular Therapy techniques.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 1999. In his career as a professional bodyworker,
Ken has taken 165 hours of education classes in hands-on massage
techniques, and in 2009, he will become certified in Neuromuscular
Therapy (NMT) - St. John Method.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I’d been unsatisfied working factories and office cubicles.
I needed to connect with others while still enjoying an artistic
outlet. The massage therapy profession has offered this in spades.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I am not a healer. I am merely a facilitator. I believe the body
has innate intelligence and knows how to heal itself. As a bodyworker,
all I need to do is listen to what the client’s body is
telling me and act accordingly.
I hadn’t always taken this philosophy
to heart. I used to see each body as a blank canvas for me to
create on, whereas now I see each person I work with as would
a sculptor beholding a new piece of granite. That is, that the
true form lies dormant within and I merely have to recognize that
form and help it see and be the light.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Dennie has been in practice since 1992.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including deep tissue and trigger point work.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 1992. BS in Rehabilitation/Psychology from the
University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. In her career as a professional
bodyworker, Dennie has taken many continuing education classes
including those in reflexology, lymphatic massage and Jin Shin
Jyutsu (energy work).
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
Prior to my massage therapy profession I had worked in many medical
settings (dental and hospital), as well as Hughes Aircraft Company.
The work there wasn’t what I was looking for. Since becoming
a bodyworker, I’ve taken the opportunity to work with people
in such a unique and special way, and have been able to combine
massage with management in several spa settings.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
After all my years of massaging, I’m still in awe
of the human body and all it can achieve on its own. I love being
able to, with the help of my clients, increase the mind, body
and spirit potential.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. David has been in practice since 1994.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre-natal massage; senior massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 1994. In his career as a professional bodyworker,
David has taken over 600 hours of continuing education classes in
hands-on massage techniques, ethics and communication skills.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I had been a farmer, diesel mechanic and parts salesman for almost
20 years. I was growing tired of the high-pressure, work-intensive
lifestyle I was living and started looking for something more meaningful. When I started receiving massage therapy, I realized that this could
be a way for me to really help make a difference for other people
as well as myself.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I think my job as a bodyworker is to help those who are in need. They can be someone with a busy, 9 to 5 job, a person recovering
from an accident, a pregnant client, a retiree, or an athlete with
sore muscles. Their session treatment with me can be for anything
from a time of relaxation to deep tissue rehabilitation.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Shiatsu Practitioner. Certified Thai
Massage Practitioner. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Sandra has been in practice since 1991.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre-natal massage; senior massage. Zen shiatsu including
pre-natal shiatsu. Zen stretching. Thai massage. Ten Zo.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 1991. 650 hour certification in zen shiatsu from the
Desert Institute of the Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 1999. 100
hour certification in Thai massage from the Desert Institute of
the Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 2002. BA in biology, with a minor
in writing, from Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY in 1983. In her career
as a professional bodyworker, Sandra has taken over 300 hours of
continuing education classes in hands-on massage and shiatsu techniques,
ethics and communication skills.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After having a series of jobs in which I became increasingly unhappy,
I realized the missing element was a lack of connection with people. Upon discovering the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts in Tucson,
AZ, I knew immediately that a career in massage therapy, and Asian
bodywork, was for me. While the science behind bodywork appeals
to me, it is the wellness and healthcare aspect that means the most.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Human to human contact in a mindful, caring manner is one of the
most important aspects of wellness. I believe that bodywork provides
a connection vital to the well-being of each person.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Jill has been in practice since 2009.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including general relaxation techniques, deep
tissue, and myofascial release. Chair massage.
Education: Associate of Applied
Science degree (includes 1000+ hours certification) in therapeutic
massage from Pima Community College in Tucson, AZ in 2009. Specialized
areas of study include facilitated stretching, sports massage,
and foot reflexology. AA degree in paralegal studies in 1997.
Jill has donated many hours of chair massage as part of her volunteer
work.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I have enjoyed many years of a volunteer work. Most recently I
have worked with the elderly and disabled through a local charity.
My career path did not match until I discovered massage therapy
as a way to help heal the body, mind and spirit. I am truly thankful
to be able to put my helping energy into a career that I love.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Through education, compassion and unconditional acceptance
I hope to facilitate the healing process in each individual according
to his or her needs
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Shiatsu Practitioner. Nationally Certified
in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Dana has been in practice since
2004.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre-natal massage. Zen shiatsu. Zen stretching
Education: 1200 hour certification
in massage therapy and zen shiatsu from the Providence Institute
in Tucson, AZ in 2004. Strong emphasis in anatomy, physiology,
Asian Medical Theory. Introductory level training in Chi Nei Tsang,
hydrotherapy and deep tissue sports massage. Since graduating
from Providence Institute, Dana has taken over 200 hours of continuing
education classes including Cranial Sacral Therapy, Neuromuscular
Therapy and Orthopedic Massage.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I have the desire to be of service and to help others. I also have a strong passion for the body, mind and spirit connection.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement: My intention as a bodyworker is to create a safe and sacred space for my clients to connect with their bodies and spirits and feel empowered to take control of their health. .
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Sarah has been in practice since 1999.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre-natal massage; senior massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 1999. Various forms of continuing education over
the past 10 years including Medical Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy
training for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD), Cranial
Sacral 1, Ten Zo and Five Element Theory.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After dealing with chronic pain due to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder my whole early childhood
into my late teens, I discovered alternative therapies in my early
twenties. The shift of awareness in my body, the relief I felt
and the compassion I learned as a result led me to pursue this
career. There is nothing I would rather be doing.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
It is important to me that all people experience themselves as a
whole being. It is important that as a result of receiving bodywork
the client feels a sense of relief, balance and the desire to be
an active participant in his or her health.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Shiatsu Practitioner. Jessica has
been in practice since 2004.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including medical massage, neuromuscular therapy,
deep tissue, trigger point work, myofascial release; chair pre-
and post-natal massage. Focuses on neck, shoulder joint and upper
torso issues, and TMJ disorder. Hot stone therapy. Shiatsu.
Education: 1008 hour certification
in massage therapy and shiatsu from the Desert Institute of the
Healing Arts, Tucson, AZ in 2006. Medical Massage/Myosymmetrics
for Cervical Vertebral Dysfunction, Shoulder Joint Complex, Torso,
Thoracic Spine and Upper Extremities (36 hours in 2010); Receptor
Techniques for Painful Neck and Headaches (2 hours, 2008); Sciatic
Relief (2 hours, 2009); Headache Release and Repatterning (4 hours,
2009); Neuromuscular Therapy for Pelvic Stabilization, Shoulder
Girdle and Upper Extremities (40 hours, 2008 and 2009). MA in
Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago in
2002; BS in psychology from Northern Arizona University in 1999.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After spending most of my life being educated on how to help people
emotionally by pursuing a career in social work, I was introduced
to therapeutic massage by accident - literally. While pursuing
my education, unfortunately I was in several car accidents. These
led me down my own path of rehabilitation. I first became interested
in pursuing massage therapy as a career when I experienced incredible
relief from pain through massage. I fell instantly in love with
massage when I took a workshop in 2004 and realized massage therapy
actually ignited a spirituality inside me that I did not know
was there. It is amazing to help facilitate change in the body
on a physical level. Every since I chose to pursue this career
it has felt completely right for me in my mind, body and soul.
I am truly honored to be part of this profession.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I absolutely love to help facilitate change in my clients' bodies. I think my best quality as a bodywork professional is understanding
how to work with headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and jaw pain. My focus with my clients is to help them experience body awareness,
rehabilitation, pain relief and true healing.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Cathy has been in practice since 1990.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point
work, and myofascial release; pre-natal massage; senior massage. Acupressure. Hot stone therapy.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the
Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 1990. 260 hour certification in shiatsu
from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 1992. Continuing education includes classes in Asian Five Element Theory;
Ohashiatsu I; Cranial Sacral I and Spinal Release; Sacred Stone
Massage Therapy - Hot stones and Healing chakra stones. As a lifetime
learner, Cathy is currently pursuing two degrees in both Fine Arts
and Digital Arts – Multimedia and Animation.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
Simply, there is nothing more rewarding than doing work that makes
people feel good. In the beginning, my motivation was to give compassionate
healing touch to a relative who had a rare neurological disorder
called Shy-Drager Syndrome (also know as Multiple System Atrophy). It is then that this journey began and later evolved into a career.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Through compassionate touch, the therapist’s hands become
mirrors of self-awareness for the receiver. I believe that through
touch, the body, mind and spirit engage in an integrated synergy. My goal is to assist the client in that self-awareness, with a sense
of deep relaxation and aid in management of chronic pain.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Dan has been in practice for since 2002.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release. Hot stone therapy. Dan’s focus is injury management
blended with a nurturing well-grounded touch.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 2002.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I love connecting deeply with people on a one-to-one basis, and
feel honored to help them with their healing process. I have always
listened through my hands to the needs of people and nature, and
know that I am supposed to use my hands to help better the world.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Most of my clients tell me after their bodywork treatment that they
feel centered, their muscles feel well-treated, and they are invigorated
to continue deepening their own body/mind awareness. I feel honored
to help them on their journey.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Zen Shiatsu Practitioner. Nationally
Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Joanna has been
in practice since 2005.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre natal massage; lymphatic massage; oncology massage.
Zen Stretching. Ten Zo.
Education: 650-hour certification
in massage therapy, and 650-hour certification in Zen Shiatsu
from the Providence Institute, Tucson, Arizona, in 2005. Additional
training in lymphatic massage, oncology massage and Biodynamic
Craniosacral Therapy. Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies
from Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY in 1999.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
This is just such an engaging field to be in. I get to help people
and I’ll never get stop learning… what’s not
to love?
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I’ve found bodywork to be such an effective tool
in achieving wellness. I think it’s amazing, so of course
I want to share it with the world!
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Mary has been in practice since 1994.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release. Reflexology.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the
Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 1994. Reflexology training in 2001. AA in electronics from IBM.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I had been looking for a job that would involve working with my
mind, my hands and with people. It took the death of a close friend
to prompt me to leave a job I hated (I was a programmer at IBM)
and journey back to the desert to go to school for massage therapy.
I’ve had a wonderful time all these years, and I’m
hoping for at least another twenty more in this profession.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Get massaged! Be happy!
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Certified Shiatsu practitioner. Certified Reiki
practitioner. Kelli has been in practice since 2002.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre natal massage; senior massage. Shiatsu. Ten Zo. Zen
stretching. Reiki.
Education: 1000 hour certification
massage therapy and shiatsu from the Desert Institute of The Healing
Arts in Tucson, AZ in 2002. Earned an additional 26 hours. BA in
a double major – Spanish, and International and Latin American
Studies, from Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, MI in 1992.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
Having worked for eight years as an administrator in a massage
school, and having been a recipient of weekly bodywork for six
years, I was distinctly aware of the benefits bodywork has to
offer. Not only was I curious about increasing my understanding
of anatomy, our health, and complementary therapies, I wanted
to have the skills to provide bodywork benefits to others. My
own experience with bodywork’s benefits include increased
body awareness; increased sense of wellness; increased range of
motion, especially in my neck and hips; injury rehabilitation
(ankle sprain, tendonitis); joyfulness in my body; and injury
prevention, which kept me doing the activities I love (active
parenting, running, yoga, hiking).
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
As a therapist, I hope to meet each individual’s needs through
the use of appropriate techniques, providing the opportunity to
experience her/his body in new ways. It brings me great joy to see
a client’s sense of wellness improved and I am always thankful
for the clients who share this work with me.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Annie has been in practice since 1991.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy using moderately firm pressure for general relaxation.
Pre-natal massage. Senior massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 1991. In her career as a professional bodyworker,
Annie has taken over 1000 hours of continuing education classes
in hands-on massage techniques, ethics and energy work. MFA in
Weaving and Textiles, from the School for American Craftsmen at
Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY in 1981. BS
in Library Science from the State University of New York at Geneseo,
Geneseo, NY in 1970.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After moving to Tucson for the weather and the beauty of the desert,
I was looking for a new career direction. I was drawn to massage
therapy as a way to combine my "helping" side with my
"artistic" side. This career has served both sides well.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Touch and human connection are very important parts of a healthy
life. All too often we remain separate from each other and disconnected
from our own bodies. Using my healing skills and quiet energy,
I give my clients a time and space to enjoy safe touch, let go
of daily stress, reconnect with their bodies and heal themselves.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Neuromuscular Therapist - St. John
Method. Certified Yamuna® Bodyrolling Instructor. Certified
in Kinesiotaping. Barbara has been in practice since 1986.
Specializes in: Neuromuscular
Therapy (NMT) - St. John Method, Kinesiotaping and Yamuna®
Bodyrolling.
Education: 1250 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 1986. Certified in Sportsmassage in 1986, and has
participated in two Olympic Games and the 1990 Seattle Goodwill
Games as a member of the National Sportsmassage Team. Certified
as a Neuromuscular Therapist - St. John Method in 1995, and from
1996 - 1998 she was trained by Paul St. John to teach NMT continuing
education seminars. Certified as a Yamuna® Bodyrolling Instructor
in 2007, and certified in Kinesiotaping in 2008.
In her career as a professional bodyworker,
Barbara has taken over 400 hours of continuing education classes
in hands-on massage techniques, ethics and communication skills.
Barbara also has an A.S. degree in respiratory therapy she received
in 1974, and an A.S. degree in biology she received in 1966.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After 19 years of working in hospitals, I was looking for another
career. The Desert Institute of the Healing Arts was offering
a professional training program in massage therapy. I discovered
I had both a talent and a deep affinity for bodywork. I find the
neuromuscular therapy applications to be mentally stimulating,
and I derive a great deal of emotional fulfillment in being able
to help people relieve the pain in their bodies.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I believe that our bodies are created with a natural predisposition
towards health and toward the fluidity of movement. I view my
role not as a healer, but as a teacher/facilitator to help to
remove obstacles that may be blocking the path to healthy function.
I also believe that laughter is the best medicine. Bringing joy
and a sense of “lightness of being” enhances the path
to wellness and is essential to my work.
Certified
Healing Touch and CranioSacral Therapist, LPN, BS, MAEd. Member
of the American Holistic Nurses Association. Member of Healing
Touch International. Claudia has been in private practice since
2002.
Specializes in: Healing Touch
and CranioSacral Therapies. In addition to providing treatments
at Tucson Touch Therapies, she provides Healing Touch sessions
at Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort.
Education: Certification in
Healing Touch in 2003. 120 core hours; 163 continuing education
hours; 136 hours coordinating and assisting with classes. Certification
in CranioSacral Therapy in 2006 (119 core hours plus 24 continuing
education hours). BS in Therapeutic Recreation in 1977. Licensed
Practical Nursing in 1986 (current license). MA in Education 1992.
Adult and continuing education with a focus of health and wellness
education.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I have had an interest in healthcare, and a fascination with electromagnetism
related to the human body, since I was 17 years old. Throughout
my healthcare career, I focused on wellness and prevention, and
kept an open mind about human potentials for impacting and optimizing
health. As our culture became more accepting of complementary
and alternative modalities (CAM), I studied Healing Touch. I especially
liked the fact that the training for Healing Touch is in a continuing
education program format, based on the nursing process and endorsed
by the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA). CranioSacral
Therapy was a nice expansion of my energy work.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
It is a privilege to be part of a person's process of change for
a more peaceful and joyful life, whether their goal is relief
from pain/anxiety/grief, healing relationships with self and other,
or otherwise optimizing their wellness. I assess for energetic
disturbances and fascial restrictions and then select appropriate
techniques to release, clear, energize and balance them. Self-healing
is facilitated not only on the physical level but mental, emotional
and spiritual levels as well. As a part of Healing Touch and CranioSacral
Therapies, I also enjoy teaching skills to clients for maintaining
balance in their energy bodies and in their lives.
Certified
Zen Shiatsu Practitioner. Certified Usui Reiki Level II. Sara has
been in practice since 2002.
Specializes in: Zen shiatsu. Zen stretching. Reiki, Level II.
Education: 650 hour certification
in zen shiatsu from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts in
Tucson, AZ in 2002. Certification in Usual Reiki, Levels I and II
in 2002. 16 hours Eastern Facial Analysis in 2002. 14 hours Chi
Nei Tsang in 2002. 6 hours Moxage in 2003.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I had a friend who went through the shiatsu program at the Desert
Institute of the Healing Arts the year before I decided to attend. I became his “guinea pig” for many of the techniques
he was learning and fell in love with shiatsu. It seems that there
are two types of people that receive bodywork – those that
become major proponents of it, and those who become therapists. I chose the latter and it has enriched my life in ways I never thought
possible.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
The focus of my work is to bring recipients better awareness of
their bodies and promote health and well-being through touch.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Janna has been in private practice since 2009.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, myofascial
release, and for general relaxation.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from Cortiva Institute-Tucson in Tucson, Arizona
in 2009. Specialized areas of study included hydrotherapy, hot
stone therapy and sports massage.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
As a cancer survivor, I have an understanding of health and wellness
from the perspective of being seriously ill. Along with traditional
cancer treatments, I received massage therapy which really helped
me through this difficult experience. It made me want to give
to others what I have been given, and the best way I can do this
is through being a massage therapist.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I enjoy being around people, and it feels good to help people
reduce their stress and feel better in their bodies. Bodywork
is the right thing for me to do.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Certified Shiatsu Practitioner. CranioSacral
Therapy Practitioner. Michaela has been in practice since 2002.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release. Shiatsu. Ten Zo. Zen Stretching. CranioSacral Therapy
and Somato-Emotional Release. Individualized treatment plans using
one or more of these modalities to address the client’s
needs as effectively as possible.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy and shiatsu from the Desert Institute of the
Healing Arts, Tucson, AZ in 2002. Forty-two hours Integrative
Shiatsu Techniques and 7 hours Advanced Shiatsu Techniques in
2003. From the Upledger Institute: CranioSacral Therapy I (28
hours, 2004); CranioSacral Therapy II (28 hours, 2005); Somato-Emotional
Release I (28 hours, 2006). Deep Massage: The Lauterstein Method,
Level 1 (20 hours, 2008). Other continuing education classes focusing
on deep tissue and advanced myofascial techniques, and meridian
and somatoemotional work. BA in English with an emphasis in creative
writing from the University of Iowa in 1974.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I’d been wanting to make a career change for several years
(I was a legal assistant) but couldn’t decide on a new direction. Then one day on Mt. Lemmon, my hiking buddy told me about a new
evening program offered by the Desert Institute combining massage
and shiatsu. Suddenly I knew: this was it. That sense of rightness
carried me through school and into practice. And along the way I
realized that what I’ve always wanted is work that is compassionate
and fosters healing and wholeness. Touch therapy is a perfect fit
for me.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I believe that we are all self-healing beings, always seeking
balance. My intention when I place hands on a client’s body
is to encourage the restoration of movement, because movement
equals health. In massage, I invite tissue to release stress points
and tension, to unwind, elongate, and relax. With shiatsu, the
intent is similar, while the focus is on the meridians, or channels,
of energy that flow through the body. I encourage empty places
to fill, and congested areas to unblock and flow again. CranioSacral
therapy has taught me to listen ever more deeply to the body,
to become aware of the patterns of tension, and the leverage points
to address. As tension releases, the effect is an overall feeling
of centeredness and balance. And the more at ease we are in our
bodies, the more at ease we are in all areas of our lives.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Marta has been in practice since 1994.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre natal massage; senior massage; Thai massage; Chi Nei
Tsang; Reiki.
Education:1000-hour certification in massage therapy from the Desert Institute
of the Healing Arts, Tucson, Arizona, in 1994; 60 hours of training in Thai Massage in 2001, and an additional 60
hours in 2005. Marta is also trained in Chi Nei Tsang at level one, and Reiki at level three.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
The desire to work with people in a safe, healthy manner. Also, to be in a profession that has a positive impact on me,
the individual receiving, and the world.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I have received many modalities of professional bodywork -- massage, yoga, Zero Balancing, shiatsu, Thai massage, chi nei
tsang, Reiki, acupuncture, chiropractic, Zen body therapy, Rolfing, and water massage. I enjoy receiving all types of bodywork. Each one brings a new perspective to the healing of body, mind, spirit, and soul.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Susan has been in practice since 2000.
Specializes in: Integrated massage therapy including deep tissue, trigger point
work, and myofascial release; pre natal massage; Senior massage; Hot Stone Massage; Medical Massage
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
in Tucson, AZ, in 2000. Ongoing continuing education in Medical
Massage/Myosymmetrics.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker: I
wanted a career that made me feel I was contributing to the well
being of people, as well as bringing more peace into my life and
into the world.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
In all my massage treatments I try to incorporate pain relief and relaxation. My goal is to always truly listen to my clients and hear what their needs are,
whether it's with deep tissue and medical massage for people who want true pain relief, or a nurturing relaxation treatment for those who want to relieve stress.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Certified in Orthopedic Massage. Certified in Kinesiotaping.
Michele has been in practice since 2002, a Doula since 2003, has
worked with the University of Arizona Women’s Gymnastics
team since 2005, and was an instructor at the Desert Institute
of the Healing Arts for 5 years.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, myofascial
release; pre-natal massage; Orthopedic Massage, focusing on injury
management and rehabilitation. Chi Nei Tsang. Hot stone therapy.
Kinesiotaping.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 2002. 100 hour certification in Orthopedic Massage
in 2005, focusing on assessments and treatment of injuries to
the upper and lower extremities, head, neck and pelvis. Michele
also has specialized training to release constriction and holding
patterns in the anterior trunk as well as disorders of the jaw.
300+ hours of training in Chi Nei Tsang - Taoist Abdominal Massage.
Sport physiology - learning and understanding the way the body
moves during different sports. Kinesiotaping, focusing on Muscle
and Neurokinetic Therapy. Upledger CranioSacral Therapy Level
1.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
When I was 15 years old I would give my friends massage and one in particular would tell me, "You should do this for a living." My life took me on a different path but during some intensive martial arts training, massage came back
into my life and an old dream was awakened. I once again began giving massage to friends and discovered a passion for healing and a thirst for knowledge about the body. More than 15 years have passed since I gave my first massage
and I hope that more than 15 pass before I give my last one.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
If the knowledge I have gained through my training and practice can be shared and enhance the lives and health of others, then my life and health will be enhanced as well.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Jenny has been in practice since 1999.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including deep tissue and relaxation massage techniques.
Jenny’s signature treatment is an integrated stone treatment
(Stone Touch Massage) in which she uses hot stones along with
deep tissue massage techniques. Also, for four years Jenny worked
with children living with cancer and their families.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, Arizona in 1999. Jenny has taken a variety of continuing
education classes throughout the years, and readily incorporates
chi nei tsang, Thai massage stretches, aromatherapy, Reiki, and
myofascial techniques into her treatments.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker: Becoming
a massage therapist was an unplanned blessing. However, looking
back at my childhood, this is what I was always meant to do. Becoming
a massage therapist has empowered me with the knowledge to help
my clients decrease their physical, mental and spiritual stresses.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
For myself, I feel bodywork/energy work is imperative to make it
through everyday life. Touch is so important and yet our society
isn’t very comfortable with it. I guess that’s why there’s
such a need for us therapists – so people can get the safe
touch and therapy they need.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Lisa has been in practice since 2000.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including deep tissue; relaxation massage; pre-natal
massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 2000. In her career as a professional bodyworker,
Lisa has taken various continuing education courses.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
After experiencing some life changing events I decided I needed
to heal myself and look within. That’s when I discovered
massage school. My thoughts were that I could take this journey
to help myself, and learn how to help others.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Within ourselves lie all the answers. Sometimes we just need help
to hear.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Dave has been in practice since 2002.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release. Hot stones.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts,
Tucson, AZ in 2002. LaStone Therapy in 2003.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I had been doing some massage on friends and acquaintances and they
told me I was good at it. When I decided to become a bodyworker,
I wanted to go through a credentialed program of massage study so
I chose the Desert Institute. This was so I could really understand
how the body works. This understanding is the basis for the best
way for me to help people.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
My treatments are based on understanding clients’ wellness
issues and treating them accordingly to help them be more aware
of their bodies. Spending a focused hour with a client really helps
me understand his or her wellness needs and how I can help them.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage
and Bodywork. Zen Shiatsu practitioner. Claire has been in practice
since 2003.
Specializes in: Integrated massage therapy including deep tissue and pre natal massage; Zen Shiatsu;
Zen stretching; Acupressure; and pursuing studies in Cranial Sacral Therapy.
Education: First year Masters
Degree student in Acupuncture, Tui Na (Chinese Medical Massage),
and Chinese Medicine at the Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental
Medicine (2004-2005). 1200-hour certification in massage therapy
and Zen Shiatsu from the Providence Institute: Tucson, Arizona,
in 2003. Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology: University of
Arizona, 1997.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
My motivation to pursue a professional practice in bodywork has come from a myriad of
life and work experiences of feeling, seeing and bearing witness to the suffering of humanity. Knowing innately we have the ability to feel wellness in all aspects of lives begins with individual,
physical, emotional and psychic comfort. After being on a team of "helpers" (advocates) after the
September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in NYC, it became strikingly clear to me that my life force was meant to pursue and participate in healing, wellness, beauty and truth as a career and life path.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Everybody has the innate ability to heal. I am someone with the tools and skills to facilitate the healing process in the bodies and lives that I touch.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Christine has been in practice since 2002.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release; pre-natal massage. Craniosacral Therapy. Christine has
the ability to do deep work at a gentle pace which allows the
body to relax and open up naturally.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the
Healing Arts in Tucson, AZ in 2002. Craniosacral Therapy Levels
I, II and III in 2004. BA in Special Education from Arizona State
University in 1998.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I have always wanted to be a bodyworker and knew one day I would.
As a child I would work on my siblings when they had headaches
or back tension. It is the best feeling to help someone in pain
or discomfort. As I got older I realized I could create a profession
around my natural gifts. Learning anatomy and physiology has allowed
me to have the best job in the world. I feel lucky to do what
I love on a daily basis in a setting that promotes healing.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
It is so important to find self-care techniques that work with
your body. Receiving professional work can only enhance your body’s
natural ability to heal itself. My mantra is, “You have
to fill up the tea pot before you fill the cups.” Taking
care of yourself is the best gift you can give to yourself and
the people you love.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Adam has been in practice since 1995.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, myofascial
release; sports massage. Hot stone therapy.
Education: 1000 hour certification in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts, Tucson, AZ in 1995. In his career as a
professional bodyworker, Adam has taken over 500 hours of continuing education classes in hands-on massage techniques such as myofascial release, sports massage and orthopedic
massage including assessments, ethics and communication skills.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
As a competitive runner massage therapy has had a positive impact
on my training and racing. I am happy to be able to share what
I have experienced with others.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I enjoy being able to help others move with more freedom.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Rachel has been in practice since 1999.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including relaxation techniques, deep tissue,
trigger point work, and myofascial release; pre-natal massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy from the Desert Institute of the Healing Arts
in Tucson, AZ in 1999. In her career as a professional bodyworker,
Rachel has taken continuing education classes in hand reflexology,
Ten Zo, shoulder manipulation techniques, and core opening techniques
to reduce low back and hip pain, and treatment solutions for temporomandibular
joint (TMJ) disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia and
plantarfasciitis. She looks forward to beginning her Neuromuscular
Therapy training in 2009.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
I’m fascinated with the systems and functions of our bodies.
I fully support natural/holistic remedies and lifestyles, and
enjoy being around people more when the focus in life is relaxation
and positive perspectives. I endured a severe motor vehicle accident
in 1995 and received chiropractic treatments, physical therapy
and massage therapy. I would be much worse off without the rehabilitation
and the spiritual connection it brought to my awareness and life.
I welcome the opportunity to help others with that connection.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
I realize in practicing massage therapy my body is essentially
a tool so my focus is maintaining health and vitality within myself.
I can only hope at least some of that energy transfers to my clients.
My goal for the clients’ health is an overall reconnection
with one’s self. I want them to leave rejuvenated, relaxed
and open to exploring their own self health plan. I look forward
to each treatment as a learning experience and as a growing connection
with people.
Licensed Massage Therapist. Second Degree Reiki Practitioner.
Bertha has been in practice since 1998.
Specializes in: Integrated massage
therapy including deep tissue, trigger point work, and myofascial
release. Hawaiian massage. Ashiatsu. Reiki. Chair massage.
Education: 1000 hour certification
in massage therapy and holistic health from The Academy of Health
Professions in San Diego in 1998. Usui Method of Reiki Training
- First Degree in 1998, Second Degree in 2002. AA in General Studies
and AA in Liberal Arts from Pima Community College in Tucson,
AZ in 1992 - 1995.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
Growing up in a medical family, I was always very interested in
how the body works and how best to heal it. As a teenager, I would
massage my family when they were experiencing back pain. It came
quite naturally to me to be in tune with the person on whom I was
working. In finding this intuitive side to healing, I felt massage
and energy therapies would be the perfect way for me to help heal
and continue the family practice of healing in a more natural form.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
My goal is to be open to my clients’ needs, whether they
be a therapeutic massage to relieve pain, a relaxation massage
to relieve stress, or a Reiki treatment for balance. In doing
this with unconditional love and compassion, I hope to enable
my clients to feel better physically and emotionally, which will
help them through their everyday lives.
Licensed
Massage Therapist. Aly has been in practice since 2005.
Specializes in: Integrated
massage therapy including general relaxation techniques, specific
massage, deep tissue, and trigger point work. Aquatic massage.
Education: Graduated from the
Providence Institute 650 hour Holistic Body Therapy program in
2005. Emphasis on anatomy and physiology, introduction to sports
massage, shiatsu and hydrotherapy. Completed Aquatic Massage certification
training program (120 hours) in 2007. Additional training in Craniosacral
Therapy (Level I) and myofascial release.
Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from
Taylor University, Upland, Indiana in 2000. Master of Arts in
Language, Reading and Culture from the University of Arizona,
Tucson, AZ in 2007.
Motivation to Become a Bodyworker:
My background and work experience is in social services and teaching
English as a foreign language. I went to massage school just for
fun when I had moved to Tucson one year before starting grad school.
Through the massage program, instructors and fellow students,
I was introduced to a way of viewing the body, health and wellness
that radically shifted my perspective and lifestyle. As a result,
what started as a curiosity has become a major part of my life.
I love that this is my job!
The benefits of bodywork seem to be endless,
and I am very interested in doing research that could help to
make bodywork more accessible to more people. I trained as an
Aquatic massage practitioner in 2007 and offer aquatic massage
to clients in heated therapy pools. Please see www.Adriatictherapies.com
for more information.
Personal Bodywork/Energy Therapy Statement:
Bodywork is a powerful and very direct tool for facilitating
awareness of how mental/emotional stress affects the body. With
this awareness comes the opportunity to care for the body by shifting
holding patterns and bringing more movement and/or stillness to
the system. I consider it a gift to be able to support clients
who choose to use bodywork for integration, relaxation, and self
care.
