ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Barbara!
I am a clinically based therapist. My main focus of treatment is Myofascial Release: a very deep, thorough, slow, specific targeted technique that concentrates on a section of the body per treatment.
Qualifications and Ethos of My Practice
Sports & Swedish Massage in Oxford, UK, 600 hour course.
Registered Massage Therapy Vancouver, 2,700 hour full-time program.
My RMT practicums were at the college clinic, two hospitals, and a community HIV Clinic. My Case Study was on the Efficacy of Massage on Chemotherapy Side Effects of Peripheral Neuropathy.
I started practicing in May 2016. I have 3,300 hours of education and 8+ years of practice and educational upgrading.
With a BA in Anthropology (Physical focus) and a minor in Biological Sciences, I am passionate about educating people about their bodies.
I will talk you through your treatment. I am entirely consent based, listen to what you need help with, and respect your limits. Most importantly, I believe you when you tell me about experiencing pain.
I practice Health at Every Size and support Everyone is Safe on My Table, especially those who feel judged for simply being who they are.
I support people in their lived experiences and how their body - all bodies, brought them through life, no matter how they have changed, without judgement.
First Time with an RMT?
If this is your first time to visit an RMT you might wonder why a medical intake form is needed for "just a massage"?
An RMT is different from a masseuse. An RMT requires Government Board Certification as we give medically relevant application of massage to soft tissue. We study full-time at college, both lecture and lab, do practicums, case studies, and sit rigorous Board Exams after finals. We are trained to differentially diagnose and consider your medical history when developing a treatment plan.
Medical history is crucial as some issues may contraindicate certain ways of treating you, therefore a modified approach is needed. Some treatments, when combined with specific medications or conditions can be harmful or less effective. Your medical history helps me tailor a safe and effective treatment plan for you.
Why can't I just get on the table already? Why do I have to have an assessment?
Well, technically, I don't need to. I can just give someone a "safe" massage, good for basic relaxation. However, without this information, I cannot address specific issues like knots or stiffness or help with anything really bothering you (unless you need some sleep or a calming hour which can be therapeutic).
