Scope of practice

In Washington massage therapists are licensed health care professionals, and use the title licenced massage therapist or LMT. We are trained in massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, business practices and ethics, and we are required to ensure our continued competency through continuing education. We follow rules from the Washington Board of Massage, and adhere to the ethical codes of our professional associations. The word "massage" is sometimes used to describe non-therapeutic services, which makes it important to state that LMTs do not provide any romantic or sexual services.

Licensed massage therapists provide therapeutic treatment directed at the soft tissues of the body, i.e. muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments. Treatment may be given in the form of massage, which is pressure typically applied by fingers, hands, or forearms, other manual therapy techniques, or a combination. LMTs may specialize in the treatment of certain populations or ailments, and may favor certain techniques in the care they provide.

Treatment philosophy

My sessions are delivered skillfully and are attuned to your specific needs.

Treatment style

I have a preferred style of massage that incorporates myofascial technique, compressions, petrissage, rocking, joint mobilizations (not joint manipulation) and dermo neuro modulation. I use an emollient with a lot of grip to engage tissue and pull it slowly in different directions.  My understanding it that my contact feels gentle and consistent, and that the depth of my pressure feels medium.

I like to work in ways that create a pleasant sensory experience, rather than an intense, rigorous, or painful one. I aim to build confidence and trust so that you can experience the massage in a positive way, and feel that you can communicate openly with me.

I may use my knowledge and clinical experience to help my clients understand what they are experiencing, and to help them identify contributing factors when those are important to the care they receive from me.

If you need diagnosis of a musculoskeletal issue you'll need the help of your physician, physical therapist or chiropractor.

Expected benefits

Physical touch is a basic human need with potential for physical, mental and emotional benefit.