I entered the field of bodywork as a massage therapist after earning my bachelors degree from Ithaca College, a small liberal arts school in upstate NY. I began my studies at the Finger Lakes School of Massage. As I progressed through the anatomy, physiology, and massage modalities I discovered my love and passion for working with the human body. I continued working in the field for over 20 years, specializing in deep tissue, sports and orthopedic massage. I found the work rewarding but was perplexed with many of the issues that my clients presented. Massage was not permanently addressing many of the issues that they presented. The massage sessions would provide temporary relief but they would return within a week or two with the same issue. I felt limited in my ability to adequately help them. This prompted me to pursue a more dynamic approach, treating the body using movement as well.

Through my studies and work in personal training I have learned that many of the issues (pain, tendonitis, trigger points etc.) I had previously been perplexed about, are often effectively treated using several different approaches depending on the issue. Not every issue responds only to massage or stretching or strength work. One of theses approaches may be part of the treatment necessary for healing, but oftentimes not the only answer. For my personal training certification I attended a unique program designed for massage therapists who were studying to be personal trainers. This introduction inspired me to pursue a corrective exercise specialization. This specialization has enabled me to identify and correct many of the issues that interfere with efficient movement. (Including my own!) The corrective exercise specialization has enabled me to teach and help others move more efficiently. This is what led me to work in the field of massage, a desire to help others feel and function better in their daily lives.