My first experiences with massage therapy were with children.  I observed how they relaxed when they got a little back rub at nap time, and how they awoke in pleasant moods!  That seemed magical to me at first, but I learned how important safe touch is for children, and for all of us.  

I began my studies in basic Swedish massage in Seattle in 1984 at Acadia School of Healing Arts.  It was a short program that included anatomy, physiology, ethics, reflexology, and basic practice techniques.  I utilized my skills as a hobby for many years, realizing that I needed more information and instruction.  I completed Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees with emphasis on human biology, taking Anatomy and Physiology classes at a pre-med level.  (I was working toward pre-req's for naturopathic college but changed course.)  Gradually I accumulated continuing education credits in massage techniques.  What really convinced me to make massage a career was a growing interest in sports massage.  I studied Basic and Advanced Event Massage and joined the Washington Sports Massage Team, a large and active committee of the American Massage Therapy Association, Washington Chapter.  http://www.amta-wa.org

I found that I enjoyed the faster pace and more vigorous style of sports applications, and it was fun to see new clients at public sports events discovering how effective massage therapy is for optimal performance and recovery from exertion.  I worked with WSMT for many years, directing and co-directing the group for two of those years. WSMT opened up new perspectives on my career, gave me increased confidence as a practitioner, and introduced me to new friends and teachers.

Then I went to work for almost five years at the Doyle Chiropractic Clinic, where the benefits of massage therapy were apparent every day as an integral part of injury treatment, and as a regular part of health maintenance.

For the last eleven years, and currently, in addition to my private practice, I have been employed in a busy day spa in the Seattle area, providing deep tissue, circulatory, relaxation, and pregnancy massage, and for about eight of those years I've also trained new LMP's in the company's massage styles and protocols.  

Also currently, and for the last 2 years, I have been providing medical and wellness massage at Living Lotus Massage Clinic in the Northgate area of Seattle. www.livinglotus.com

I offer massage therapy that is customized for you, to assist you with recovery from injury or illness or chronic conditions, or for your general well-being.  I am skilled in the following types of massage:

• circulatory
• deep tissue
• injury treatment
  
• sports
• Swedish relaxation
  
• pregnancy
  
• myofascial release
  
• neuromuscular release
• orthopedic massage 

My strongest specializations are in sports massage and orthopedic massage.  In 2009 I completed a 100 hour course in orthopedic massage which informs most of my medical massage practice currently.  

When I'm working, I'm a facilitator in your process of receiving the massage.  You can speak up and guide me regarding what is appropriate for you at any time and for any reason during the session.  Massage is very subjective as far as what is best for each individual.  I do not believe in 'no pain, no gain', though you might approach a pain threshhold with deep or more vigorous work.  Sometimes we need to get up to the boundary to know where it is in order to chase it away!  I always work within your tolerance.  From many years in clinical and day spa environments, I believe that 'wellness' or 'relaxation' massage is serious massage on its own, and can also enhance injury recovery.  As well, many people cannot relax unless nagging trouble spots are addressed.  Therefore, I've learned how to blend techniques to obtain the best results;  together we will determine which techniques are most beneficial for you.  See about massage therapy.  I am committed to providing massage therapy that is safe, beneficial, and enjoyable!  Also see my rates and policies page for my own description of the differences between wellness and medical massage.

I will gladly provide a fully clothed massage session if you prefer this option (please wear comfortable clothes).  A clothed session can be very effective and relaxing, and appropriate for sports massage, orthopedic massage, and other techniques.  Otherwise, you may choose to undress in privacy to your level of comfort and be securely draped.  I will always respect your privacy.  Often I will conduct an assessment of posture or range of motion while you are clothed.

I enjoy being a massage therapist, and I'm glad to witness the health benefits it brings to our lives.