Meet your Shiatsu Practitioner, Dereck.

After discovering a passion for helping others, Dereck made the transformative decision to become a Licensed Massage Therapist. Since the year 2000, his journey as a practitioner has been marked by continual growth, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to his clients’ well-being—qualities that have established him as a renowned massage therapist in the greater Seattle area.


In 2005, Dereck met Mike Shimizu and was introduced to Sennin-So Shiatsu. Immersed in this art, Dereck began a dedicated apprenticeship under Mike, learning the nuanced techniques and philosophy that define Sennin-So Shiatsu. This ongoing mentorship has allowed Dereck to seamlessly incorporate the healing art into his massage practice, offering clients a holistic approach that bridges ancient wisdom with modern therapeutic care.


Shiatsu, as Dereck practices it, is more than a technique—it is a dialogue with the body, using precise finger pressure to stimulate circulation, disperse stagnation, and encourage the body’s innate ability to rebalance itself. Dereck’s intuitive understanding of each client’s unique needs guides his hands, ensuring that every session is meticulously tailored to address both chronic and acute pain, reduce muscle tightness, and support the correction of postural distortions caused by tension or imbalance.


Central to Dereck’s philosophy is the belief that true well-being arises from balance—physically, emotionally, and energetically. He works to help each individual move toward this equilibrium, recognizing that resilience and relief are possible when the body’s harmony is restored. Through his expertise, compassion, and ongoing study of the Sennin-So tradition, Dereck invites clients to experience not only relief from discomfort but also a renewed sense of vitality and wholeness in everyday life.


Dereck’s commitment to assisting others is rooted in his personal ambition to lead a fulfilling life. Raised in Utah, he developed a strong appreciation for the outdoors. Upon relocating to the Pacific Northwest at 18, Dereck further cultivated his passion for adventure.


His love for climbing and mountaineering has taken him around the world. He is dedicated to helping clients enrich their own lives while pursuing his goal of achieving excellence both personally and professionally.