Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/68008
'ROUND THE TABLE "My practice has grown into a highly focused form that provides effective treatment for clients with repetitive-use injuries and chronic pain of many kinds." Jo-Ann I. Crawley Morehead City, North Carolina More than half my clients are mentally challenged adults and children, six of whom I inherited when purchasing the practice. Those first sessions were a learning experience. One client's sessions consisted of me crawling around the floor desperately trying to get 30 seconds of touch. Meanwhile, she pulled off and on clothes. Now, she reaches for me upon arrival. We enter her room, where we spend 20–30 minutes sitting on her bed, rocking while I work her back. She smiles and buries her face in bed covers. The behavior change was so remarkable. A man, frequently and loudly vocalizing, started massage last year. Our get-to-know-one-another- session lasted 15 minutes, as I believed more time would not be tolerated. Our sessions focused on head, neck, and shoulders with lots of hand- holding. He amazed everyone by quietly tolerating our treatments, which recently increased to two half hour sessions per month. Therapeutic touch benefits this population beyond the observable increased range of motion and calming behaviors. However, I consider myself the lucky one. Nothing compares to an acceptable, heartfelt hug at session's end. LINDA MAHER WASECA, MINNESOTA Being nationally certified has increased my massage business tenfold. I have been massaging more than 25 years and decided to go to school to become a nationally certified massage therapist. I started out 32 years ago as a cosmetologist/hairdresser. I went to work for a spa in Indiana, which kickstarted my esthetician and massage work. I have a large, diverse clientele in massage, skin care, and bodywork. What recession? LINDA LEWIS-WEISSINGER BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY 28 massage & bodywork november/december 2008 Our practice is different from those around us, because we focus strictly on wellness. We are fortunate to be in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, with professionals who are focused on clients' health first and foremost. We suggest reading materials, hand out related articles, and refer to other professionals when possible to best help our clients. This has ensured client loyalty, and we continue to increase our business in this uncertain economic time. AMANDA HARPER MOBILE, ALABAMA After 30 years as a registered nurse, I became a massage therapist. I was 52 at the time—the oldest in my class. As an RN, I am familiar with various diseases and their usual treatments. This makes it easier for me to know any contraindications for massage and the best techniques to use, as well as how massage can complement other treatments. After 40 years of working with patients, many of whom were in pain, I have developed excellent communication skills, especially the ability to listen therapeutically. I have been fortunate enough to attend several fine seminars during the last 10 years that have enabled me to acquire a set of specialized skills. My practice has grown into a highly focused form that provides effective treatment for clients with repetitive-use injuries and chronic pain of many kinds. Every experience is an opportunity to learn something new that can be utilized in my practice of massage; education is a vital part of my life and practice. JO-ANN I. CRAWLEY MOREHEAD CITY, NORTH CAROLINA