What led you to become a Licensed Massage Therapist?

In 2008, my mother-in-law suffered a stroke. She was someone that was admired and loved by many for her strength, independence, and kindness. A stoic Irish woman who raised six children on her own after the death of her husband had been dealt a card that now limited her mobility and took away her independence. It was my first experience spending time in a hospital and rehabilitation facilities. Once she was back in her home, she was confied to a life that revolved around her motorized recliner chair, a wheelchair, or her hospital bed. Around the same time, I saw a news segment about a Rutgers University football player who had been paralized and was miraculously gaining back his mobility through physical therapy and other modalities. These two events ignited a desire to learn about how I could contribute to the healing process of individuals who have had to endure obstacles to their health and mobility. I wanted to make a difference in their lives and help improve their quality of life through massage therapy. I knew I made the right choice the day that I went to visit my mother-in-law during a class break. We sat in the living room watching television. I asked her if I could practice what I had learned in school that week. She said yes and I proceeded to work on her legs. To my amazement, after a few minutes of work, she began to tap her affected foot. It was a moment that changed my life forever.

What is your educational background?

I completed my massage therapy education at the New York College of Health Professions in 2013. The length of the program was 24 months and included courses in public health, neurlogy, kinesiology, myology, traditional chinese medicine and acupressure, reflexology, Swedish, medical, and prenatal massage, deep tissue, and assisted stretching techniques to name a few. I also completed an associates degree that included other science courses like chemistry, anatomy & phisiology (my favorite!), microbiology, and genetics. I then received a masters degree in communications with a concetration in health communications.

What has your professional experience been like?

After completing my AOS in massage therapy and obtaining my NYS professional licence, I began to book in-home sessions for clients that I met during my clinicals. Simultaneously, I began working for a physiatrist as part of the pain management team. After that, I offered additional coverage for a colleague during her maternity leave. Upon her return, I became a part of the Elements Therapeutic Massage Smithtown, NY franchise. It was during my time there I expanded my skillset, and fostered relationships with new colleagues which helped to shape my massage philosophy and style. This experience also afforded me the opportunity to work with cancer survivors, professional atheletes, Ironman competitors, and seniors who aimed to maintain their mobility.

During a hiatus from 2016 to 2019, I split my time between New York and New Orleans. I obtained my Louisiana LMT license and took on a handful of private clients. I also volunteered my MT services to The New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic & Assistance Foundation during their spring team fundraiser in the Crescent City Classic. I went on to become a part of their outreach team, working to raise awarenes about their mission which is to keep local musicians healthy through education, access to healthcare, and grow their support base in order to expand programs.

Over the last eight years since launching my massage therapy career, I’ve also expanded my knowledge through continuing education that has included Massage Therapy as a tool to help PTSD, Fascial Release for Structural Balance, to name a few. I am grateful for every opportunity to learn and grow.

Why should someone book a massage with you?

Every ounce of my energy goes into addressing my clients’ troubled spots, making every effort to bring respite and healing. When someone books with me, I ensure they know their needs are heard, valued, and most importantly, I work towards ensuring they know they are my number one priority during a session. After all, it is their time and every effort is made to get them results. I believe clients and LMTs are a team and communication is key. Everything from considering their experience level with massage thereapy, individual pain threshhold, understanding pressure preference before and during the massage are taken into account. Each session is tailored to create a customized experience that can include stretching, trigger point release, and every resource availabe in my healing skillset to ensure a successful massage therapy experience.

What is your philosophy when it comes to massage therapy and overall wellness?

Take a breath, be in the moment, it’s ok to make YOU a priority. Turn your focus towards what you are grateful for. A deep breath is a pause button in our daily lives. My favorite quote is, "Massage is not just a luxury, it’s a way to a healthier, happy life.”

What type of modalities do you specialize in?

Swedish, medical/therapeutic, pre- and post-event sports, trigger point release, myofascial release, prenatal, reflexology.

Why did you decide to establish your practice in Mayfield, NY?

After working in different settings in the healthcare and massage industry, I made the most of every experience. Observing what worked, what didn’t, and listening to what patients and clients liked, or needed contributed to my decision to start my own practice. Why Mayfield? Well, because I LOVE my friends, family, and close-knit community. I wanted to contribute to their overall well-being by being a healthcare partner that helps address their aches, pains, and reduce their stress in a calming, beautiful, and safe environment. I also want to do my part in improving the community’s overall health and wellness.

Favorite health and wellness advice you’ve received?

• Drink water - you need more than you think.

• Be mindful of what you eat - You don’t have to live a life of deprivation. It all comes down to one bite, one meal, one choice at a time.

• A stretch and physical activity any time, anywhere are worth their weight in gold - Time and energy are precious commodities. You don’t have to spend hours at the gym, doing Yoga all morning, or run a marathon. Stretch your calves while brushing your teeth, do neck stretches while waiting in line or sitting in traffic. Dance to your favorite song, or park further away from the entrance. Grabbing canned goods while prepping dinner? use them as weights while items are defrosting in the microwave or waiting for the water to boil. ANY type of movement can help your body keep going. Use it, or lose it as they say.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m a creative person who loves all things color and craft. Some would call it ADD, I call it multi-interest focused. Over the years, I’ve become proficient in lampworking (making glass beads from color rods and melt them in a torch), crochet, knitting, sewing, abstract acrylic and ink painting, have dabbled in jewelry making and resin creations. My latest passion is my Cricut cutting machine. When I’m not creating, I enjoy meeting up with friends, traveling, and taking advantage of our natural surroundings here in the Adirondacks. I’m also a “pretty nails” enthusiast and have recently become a Color Street Nail Stylist.