With one of the highest standards of training for the profession in the world, BC Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) can do so much more than relaxation massage. We are trained in everything from human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and kinesiology to pathology, neurology, basic pharmacology, nutrition and research. We are certified and overseen by the College of Complementary Health Professionals of British Columbia and regulated by the same legislation that governs the administration of most other healthcare professions in the province such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy and more.

Massage therapy can be effective in treating dysfunction related to back pain, muscle aches, whiplash, sprains and strains, as well as digestive issues, respiratory conditions, circulatory problems, joint disorders, swelling, menstrual pain, discomfort related to pregnancy and just plain old stress. It has been proven in scientific, peer-reviewed research to be one of the most effective forms of chronic back pain management and to play a critical role in the management of mental health and improving immune function.

As a massage therapist I believe that every time I treat someone I am working with all the body’s systems: the muscles and connective tissues, yes, but also the circulatory, digestive, respiratory, lymphatic and nervous systems. 

Practically speaking in my clinic room, this might look like incorporating breathing techniques into pain management, neurological techniques to reduce muscles spasms, or addressing stress and rapid breathing as a key part of reducing pain.

While I treat most conditions that present themselves in my practice, I find it particularly rewarding working with people during major life events, transitions or illnesses that are manifesting in physical discomfort and affecting their ability to cope and function every day. I enjoy helping people find comfort and relief within the boundaries of what is possible for their bodies during those times. I also believe that massage therapy plays a role in managing mental health and focus much of my private study on understanding the link between mental health and the body. 

Alongside the common complaints treated by massage therapists such as muscle tension, nerve compressions and joint pain, I have experience treating pregnancy-related discomfort, reduced range of motion due to surgical and other scar tissue, lasting neurological effects of early HIV

medications, stress related to addictions treatment/detoxification, lung congestion, and other systemic conditions. My hope is to expand my patients’ view of how massage therapy can fit into their healthcare and self care regime and help them live their lives in as much comfort as possible.

My practice is rooted in science and research, because those are the systems of knowledge I’m trained in. And they’re good ones. But they have their limitations and are not the only systems of knowledge that exist. I strive to make room for others, especially those my patients value.

Enabling people to have access to massage therapy care if and when they need it is important to me. This means doing my best to create a space that is safe and welcoming for people of all races, cultures, genders, body types, levels of comfort with physical touch, and other backgrounds and demographics. It also means accepting help along the way in that process as I learn. I am flexible in the way I treat and the positions or techniques I use depending on the patient’s comfort level. Please don’t hesitate to ask. I also aim to find ways to make care affordable to people for whom massage therapy care would otherwise be financially out of reach. For more on this or on referring patients in need please visit the “All Walks” portion of my website.