What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

After a professional introduction, I speak with the client about what they're looking for in terms of service. During conversation, I delve deeper into asking about medical history, the last time they had a massage, their experience with massages, and attempt to find out as much information as I can. If the client decides to book a session with me, we set a date and time for appointment, at which a non-refundable deposit will be required to save their desired appointment time. Intake forms will be sent to clients for medical history and creation of a personalized session. During the session, I always check in with my client to ensure that their desired pressure is reached. They are always properly draped, and my clients are allowed to ask any questions about massage or any techniques that I use during the session (effleurage, compression, petrissage, tapotement, trigger point therapy, PNF techniques, tense and relax, etc.). I do my best to help my client understand why certain techniques work for their specific ailments. After the session, I take the time to discuss aftercare and book their next session. 

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I have a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. I have a Professional Certificate in Musical Theatre from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (New York, NY). I have an AOS in Massage Therapy from Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences (New York, NY). I'm also a member of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS), which is awarded to students who are the top of their game.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

Growing up as a dancer in Trinidad and Tobago, I have my share of injuries. When I was 10, I had inflammation in both of my knees and the doctor suggested that I stopped dancing for twelve weeks. I felt as though the doctor had no compassion for my feelings at that young age because he didn't consider dance to be a sport. So, I decided to find a profession that allows me to have empathy to my fellow athletes as well as provide medical assistance.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have worked with cancer patients, the elderly, pregnant women, athletes, and the everyday working adult.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

One of the things that I came to discover through a friend is diamond painting. It is a color by numbers, but for adults. It includes a stylus, glue pad, gem tray, and gems, where depending on the size of the portrait and the number of colors, can span from 10-40 colors. I recently worked on a painting that had 22 colors and it look me about a week to complete. The upside to creating beautiful pictures is the calm that washes over whatever you're going through.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Look for a provider who is very empathetic to whatever your situation or condition. I do my very best to go out of my way to ensure that my clients know that I care about their well-being. I tell my clients that if a service provider does not create a safe space for them, they should find one who will.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

Customers should ask themselves about their budget for the cost of service, additional charges, tip, and taxes. Massage therapy is a service that needs to be on a continuous basis.