group consultation for massage therapists

​Enriching practitioners' relationships to their clients and themselves
“Many ideas grow better when transplanted into another mind than in the one where they sprung up.” 
​~ Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr
Do you long for a space where you can ask other massage therapists...  
How do I say...?    
What would you do if...?    
How do you handle it when...?

In a field that can feel lonely, a this group provides a opportunity to connect with peers in a unique way. 

purpose

Consultation can help create and sustain a practice that prioritizes practitioner well-being and high-quality, ethical client care.

Consultation allows us to pause and engage in essential critical reflection about how and why we do what we do; where we struggle; and how we can best care for ourselves as helping professionals. 
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The group will be a facilitated safe and supportive space to come together with other LMTs to: get support, feedback, and guidance; to strengthen communication skills; increase self-awareness; discuss what is rewarding and challenging about your work; and nourish yourselves with the gift of peer collaboration.

focus 

This group will explore topics related to the therapeutic relationship with clients and the wellness of the massage therapist. 

Group content and process will be shaped by participant needs and preferences, but may include:
  • case consultations: request for feedback or guidance from the group about specific clients or scenarios you're wrestling with in the moment 
  • general discussion about topics many practitioners struggle with (e.g., setting and maintaining boundaries; dual relationships; managing emotions: yours or your clients'; countertransference; clients who make you feel uncomfortable; enforcing financial policies; etc.) 
  • self-reflection (e.g.,noticing and exploring which types of clients or dynamics trip you up, why that might be the case, how to navigate, etc.)
  • practicing skills (e.g.,assertive communication and boundaries; talkative clients; responding to inappropriate requests with grace and professionalism; etc.)
  • ethical dilemmas and utilizing an ethical decision-making process
  • self-care for a sustainable career and healthy work-life balance

details

There isn't a group running at this time. I will start one again when I have a core group of people who are interested and available to make a commitment (i.e., once a month for five months). 

So...if that might be you, or if you have questions about this offering, please  any time!

about the facilitator

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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (OR ).

​I have extensive training and experience in developing and maintaining the therapeutic relationship and teaching others how to do the same.  Since 2012, I have been teaching massage therapy students about the therapeutic relationship. I also served as Dean of Students at East West College from 2010 to 2016 where I supported students individually as they moved through massage school. I currently provide continuing education to massage therapists in ethics, communication, and boundaries.

I am not a Licensed Massage Therapist. Therefore, it is outside of my scope of practice to provide guidance on issues specific to massage or bodywork techniques or to consult about client treatment planning in any way. 

Learn more about my professional experience and training.

individual consultation 

If you prefer one on one to group settings, or you have professional consultations needs right now and don't want to wait until the next group starts, you might want to consider my individual consultation services. 
Explore how professional support can nourish you, your clients, and your practice.