My Story and Why I Love Massage Therapy

Just out of high school, I needed time to gather and build intention for my future career choice. I took a gap year in Atlanta where I did a lot of contemplating. I wanted a career that allowed me to leave a positive impact and was somewhat cerebral/involved problem-solving. Inevitably, I decided on massage therapy! So, I went to massage school in 2017 to gain my 640+ hours of education and training in Anatomy, Physiology, Business, Ethics, hands on techniques, etc.

After I graduated, I told myself I'd study for two weeks and take the MBLEx (licensure exam). I thought it'd be no problem since I did so well in school. However, painful life-events were fated for me instead. Over the next few years, I went through many big and small traumatic events and subsequently continued to struggle deeply with substance abuse. These issues resulted in me suffering from chronic pain.

After a particularly traumatic event, I decided to quit drinking in October of 2021. I have been sober since. Sobriety gifted me with a great sense of agency, clarity, and drive. After the fog lifted, I decided to retake Anatomy and Physiology classes in the Summer of 2022 to help me prepare for the MBLEx. I committed to studying more than I've committed to anything, and in February of 2023, I took the MBLEx for the first time and PASSED!!! The following month I got my first job as a massage therapist and have remained only in this field.

Through my healing from trauma, regaining the agency that was taken from me, substance abuse, and chronic pain, massage therapy took on an even greater meaning for me. I trade services with colleagues regularly and am able to reap the benefits of this craft. My aim is to give others what massage has given me. It has helped me reclaim my body and the power of my voice to protect myself, I'm managing my chronic pain issues much better now (yes I'm okay to work, please don't feel bad for me!), and it is an integral part my mental health maintenance. Where I once felt like my body did not belong to me anymore, I now make efforts every day to renounce that belief! Every massage, glass of water, nap on the couch, walk in the woods, favorite song sung is reclamation of my body, joy, and gratitude and is a reminder that it is worth it to give these gifts to myself again and again.

I hope that through working with you, you can feel safe in our sessions and come back home to your body. And remember that massage is just one piece in the intricate, personalized well of habits in place that help you feel whole. That being said, I will always meet you where you are and offer gentle encouragement/problem-solving to facilitate your figuring-out-of what to add to your regimen next.

Please reach out if you have any questions and I look forward to working with you :)