I have been asked many times, “why did you decide to become a Massage Therapist?” My main reason is I felt the effectiveness of it for my own shoulder and back problems, and secondary I wanted to work with my hands in an environment that’s peaceful and calming. I wanted to make people feel better. This means more than just rubbing away aches and pains- not only can massage make your body feel better, it can make you feel better about your body There is something very rewarding about the tangibility of massage- its immediate effectiveness, the feeling of tissues changing under my fingers, that makes someone feel better, has a satisfying end feel for me.

I graduated from the Augusta School of Massage on their full time program. This 600- hour training program included classes not only in massage techniques, but also anatomy, physiology, pathology, and business. Part of our course hours are fieldwork hours, where I was able to get into community events, working with Senior Living homes as well as the local Ronald McDonald house. I will continue to volunteer my time with local charities and anywhere I can bring some relief to those in need.

While in school, I took it upon myself to begin my certification as a Rossiter coach. The first level is a 16 hour Continuing Education classes offered to therapists and student therapists to expand and maintain their skills (both state and national massage therapy boards require a number of continuing education hours to maintain licensure). I plan on taking my next Rossiter class to up my skills to level 2.

Mid-point through school, I decided I was going to open my own Day Spa. The demographics were perfect; there isn’t another one around for over 30 miles if not more. I combined another need in the town, a tanning salon, and “Ready.Set.Relaxx’ was born. I went to school during the day, and we built the spa at night. I finished school July 23, and our grand opening was July 25.. Going to work for myself has allowed me a great deal of flexibility, which is essential for my life, but more importantly it has also given me the opportunity to work in an environment where I get to set my standards high and stick to them.

I graduated University of Illinois with an associated in business administration. Prior to this, I worked in the retail environment for 25 years. It was there I tore my rotator cuff, and the endless standing and bending did the number to my back. It was time for a career change.