The range of experience and specialization among our staff give us the opportunity to meet your individual needs with one or more of our therapists. And many of our therapists are available to bring the benefits of massage to your home and office! or to speak at your special events. Please scroll down or click below to hear from all our therapists.
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Sandy Saldano, Owner
Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Certified in Pregnancy Massage, Certified Lay Minister, St. Mary of the Lake University, Mundelein Illinois, AA Business Administration, August 1986, Certified Chiropractic Assistant
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certifications/licenses
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Pregnancy Massage, Craniosacral, Neuromuscular Therapy, Licensed Massage Therapist, NCTMB, AMTA
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Neck and back pain (disc problems especially), Frozen Shoulders, Headaches, and Fibromyalgia
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types of techniques I use
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Deep Tissue, Swedish, Craniosacral Therapy, Neuromuscular, Body Mobilization, Myofascial Release, Chair Massage
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what is a treatment with me like?
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I start with slow, engaging compressions with slight rocking motion to evaluate tight areas. Undraping, I use slow broad Swedish to warm, and then slowly engage digital/thumb to bring out detail of muscle fibrosity. Alternating palm, forearms, and fingers, I outline the body’s form thoroughly, coloring in for a warm hue of pink using varying pressure and techniques, compression and rocking for a soothing finale.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Going to the park with or reading to my son.
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long-term career goals
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Long term, I would like to bring massage to those who would not otherwise be able to afford it by offering a sliding scale program (“special kneads”). Have a referral service for therapists and to study alternative treatments such as essential oils and energy work that will enhance my years of experience as well as my client’s experience.
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why I like my profession
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The people. The immediate gratification of a smile when you help someone get out of pain is the greatest reward. Being able to picture the body 3-dimensionally, feel things changing at your fingertips and knowing you are honored to be a facilitator in someone’s well being is awesome!
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Andre
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Chicago School of Massage Therapy, 1992; Associates in Engineering
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certifications/licenses
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Advanced Certification program in Sports Massage & Soft Tissue injuries; Physical Rehabilitation Aide State Certification; Neuromuscular Pain Relief Certification; Illinois State Licensed Massage Therapist; AMTA
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Relieving tension and pain in lower back, hips, knees, neck, and shoulder areas. Tingling and numbness, repetitive strain, post surgery, improving flexibility and performance for clients and athletes. Andre has extensive experience working in clinical settings and with professional athletes – including seven years with the Chicago Bulls.
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types of techniques I use
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Body mobilization, Myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, Swedish, sports massage, and stretching techniques.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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I focus on individual needs and work with a client to assess areas to be released. I apply gentle compressions to confirm restrictions. Further selection of pressure and techniques is tailored to address problem areas and achieve noticeable results along with the client’s comfort.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Hiking, skiing, playing guitar, and spending time with my family.
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why I like my profession
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It is very satisfying for me to work with people and help them maintain and improve their well-being.
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long-term career goals
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Grow in areas I already have chosen and become more familiar with assessment methods to treat soft tissue problems with more effectively.
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Carrie
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Massage Therapy Institute, Decatur, Alabama; Bachelor of Fine Arts, Anderson University, Anderson, Indiana
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certifications/licenses
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State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist, 2006; Licensed Massage Therapist, Alabama
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Back (especially disc problems), Sciatica, plantar fascitis, TMJ, Sports Massage, Cervical Spine, Rotor Cuff, Migraine Headaches.
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types of techniques I use
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Deep Tissue, Trigger Point Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, stretching, and range of motion.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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Session begins with moderate compressions as means for determining problem areas and to begin relaxing localized area. Most sessions begin with similar warming up techniques. Typical Deep Tissue sessions begin face down and with the neck/shoulders. The strokes and techniques slowly become more aggressive towards Trigger Point Therapy/Neuromuscular Therapy. All sessions are catered to the needs of every client and discussed in length prior to treatment. Some sessions can include, but not be limited to, stretching, range of motion movements, Trigger Point Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, and Swedish techniques.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Ceramics, painting, sculpture, glass blowing, swimming, and Yoga.
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why I like my profession
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I enjoy using my hands and helping people find treatment plans that meet their needs.
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long-term career goals
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I want to further my education and knowledge pertaining to bodywork. Many of my long-term goals include my love of the arts. I aspire to continue building my body of artwork to supply galleries, and the return to the world of teaching. I will always practice massage as a joint profession with my artwork.
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Chandra
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Lypossage, 2006; Reiki I and II, 2006; Tuning Fork Training, 2006; AMTA, May 2005 Pharmacology for Massage Therapist (CEU); Cross Country University, March 2004 Myofascial Release Tissue Mobilization; First Choice Massage Academy, March 2004; Swedish Massage theory and practice, Business practice, Sports Massage & Stretching, Reflexology therapy and practice, Medical Massage therapy and practice, Kinesiology, Pathology, Anatomy & Physiology clinical practices; Chicago Board of Education Practiced Nursing Program, May 1993; LPN and Pharmacology Diploma; Phillip College at Chicago, March 1992 – Data processing/Accounting diploma; Lane Tech HS, June 1989
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certifications/licenses
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Licensed Practical Nurse; Licensed Massage Therapist
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specialty or areas of expertise
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I enjoy working with all age groups but have a special place in my heart for the geriatric population and patients with Alzheimer’s. Hands and feet are my favorite areas to massage.
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types of techniques I use
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I integrate multiple techniques: holding, stretching, rom exercise and pressure points in conjunction with the basic Swedish massage moves. I use Deep Tissue to specific areas as needed.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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Each treatment is different and customized to the client’s needs. I listen to what the client tells me and my hands listen to the client’s body. My goal is to support the bodies own healing mechanisms to help place the body back to a state of balance.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Giving and receiving massage, reading, writing, walking and meditation yoga. Spending time with family and friends. Traveling.
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long-term career goals
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To continue to learn more about natural forms of care and wellness through more massage techniques and natural remedies. I will eventually become a Holistic Nurse where I can focus more on counseling and teaching clients.
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why I like my profession
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I believe massage is not just an occasional treat to relax oneself; but should be integrated into one’s lifestyle to maintain and restore overall health and wellness naturally. My passion has always been to help others, which is why I became a nurse. Now as a Massage Therapist, I can focus one on one with the individual and help heal with simple touch, not shots.
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Janina
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Academy of Lymphatic Study, 2006, Chattanooga, TN; European Institute of Massage, Houston, TX; Dr. Vodder Manual Lymph Drainage, 2003, Houston, TX; Reiki II, Houston, TX; Reflexology; Small Business Accounting, Chicago, IL; Nutrition and Dietician, Associates degree, Poland
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certifications/licenses
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Manual Lymphatic Drainage & Complete Decongestive Therapy, June 2006; State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist, 2004; Small Business Accounting
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Whole body, elderly, or people with problems, tension, women with Fibromyalgia
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types of techniques I use
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Petrisssage, friction, kneading, skin rolling, lifting muscles and stretching joint cross fiber friction, compression. Manual lymphatic Drainage utilizes a very gentle technique that moves fluids towards the lymph nodes of the body, activating the lymphatic system.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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My approach to massage is to let my hands react to each client’s body. Pressure is moderate to deep with long stretching and smooth rhythmic strokes. Special attention to each client’s needs.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Gardening and reading.
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why I like my profession
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I love helping others. It is the most important part of my healing to make them feel better.
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long-term career goals
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Stay healthy and help other people.
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Jennie
Nationally Certified and Licensed Massage Therapist, Exercise Physiologist
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educational history
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Masters and Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology, Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL; Lakeside School of Natural Therapeutics, Milwaukee, WI, 1994
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certifications/licenses
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State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist, 2004; Member, American Massage Therapy Association; Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Neck and back pain (disc problems especially), Frozen Shoulders, Headaches, and Fibromyalgia
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types of techniques I use
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Due to her previous educational background, Jennifer’s approach to massage is a combination of the 4 R’s: relaxation, rehabilitation, rejuvenation, and re-education. Each principle is tailored to the client’s specific needs.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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Jennifer prefers to call her massages “therapeutic” and uses a wide range of techniques such as: Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR), Trigger Point, Essential oil/Aromatherapy, Acupressure, and P.N.F. Stretching. She has her own practice in Mundelein and primarily sees clients through Therapeutic Kneads, Ltd. for out-calls, both domestic and business, where she does table or seated chair massage.
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personal hobbies, interests
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When not tending to others “kneads”, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, reading, hanging out with friends, traveling, and doing home projects.
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Kelly
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Olympia College, 2005
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certifications/licenses
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State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist; AMTA Member
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specialty or areas of expertise
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My specialty is Trigger Point Therapy, rotator cuff, low back, neck, hip and foot injuries, and energy work. I am very medically oriented and have experience working with Chiropractors. I work regularly with my mentor - an energetic healer.
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types of techniques I use
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My technique with every individual is different, as every client is different. The goal is achieving comfort and healing.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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A treatment with me can vary from slow and focused strokes to rigorous and deep or very focused Trigger Point – holding of knots in the body.
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personal hobbies, interests
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My interests are writing, growing spiritually, developing my intuitive skills and helping others do the same, singing, and performing.
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why I like my profession
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My passion is healing. Healing in body work, spiritual work, healing in writing, speaking with others, and healing through music.
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long-term career goals
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I hope to attend college for psychology and am currently attending writing workshops in Chicago. I plan to use the love I have for understanding the mind in my art, which is Musirt Writing. From there honestly, it can turn into anything as long as I get to help humanity.
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Mary
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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I began my training in 1986, with private instructors and in small classes. I have received training in many modalities, including Esalan, Swedish, Russian Clinical Massage, Pre-natal, Gentle Pressure Release, Tellington Touch and Hair Pulling Scalp Massage, Hot Stone, Lypossage Body Contouring, and Lypossage Face-Lift Plus. I have also been trained in Energy Healing using Reiki I and II since 1993, Magnified Healing since 1996, Healing Touch Therapy since 1997, and Reconnection Healing since 2000.
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certifications/licenses
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AMTA, 1989; NCBTMB, 1993; Illinois State License 2004; I have worked in Highland Park since 1987
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specialty or areas of expertise
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I’m really excited about the profound changes that occur with Lypossage Facelift Plus, so it has become my favorite modality. For Body Massage, my expertise is with pressure sensitive clients who need Massage Therapy but can’t tolerate a lot of pressure. Deeply stressed clients greatly benefit from the progressive relaxation techniques that I use. Fibromyalgia clients require sometimes-light pressure and sometimes-heavier pressure depending on whether they are in a quiet phase or an active phase. I enjoy helping a Fibromyalgia client to feel better during an active phase and to move into a quiet phase and maintain it for longer periods of time.
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types of techniques I use
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I use all previously stated techniques in a unique blend for each client, to reduce pain, restore balance to their system, and to activate the body’s natural healing systems for continued benefits.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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My treatments begin with gentle strokes, and as the tissue responds I work as deeply as the muscles allow. Upon request, Energy Work can be used on a “hot spot” or incorporated into the massage. I’m a big advocate of full body massage because any area of limitation affects the whole system. Full Body Massage reestablishes system-wide balance and healing.
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personal hobbies, interests
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I have been a woodcarver since 1997 and enjoy woodworking of all kinds. I also enjoy making craft items for myself and family and friends. I am an avid History Channel and Science Channel watcher, probably making up for not paying attention in school.
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why I like my profession
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Therapeutic Massage results span the whole spectrum of possibilities – from relaxation to rehabilitation to recovery to lifestyle improvements.
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long-term career goals
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My goals for the immediate future include continuing education with emphasis towards understanding how to help each client to feel the most comfort and ease of movement now and into the future. I’d like to see massage integrated into medical/health/lifestyle programs that help a patient/client to achieve optimum health and strength.
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Navaz
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Texas Massage Institute; 100 Hrs Trigger Point, 100 Hrs Pathology to become Nationally Certified; Certification in Pregnancy Massage
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certifications/licenses
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National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Elderly, cancer patients, anybody in pain
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types of techniques I use
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Deep therapy, Trigger Point, and firm, gentle strokes as desired by the client.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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Start off slowly to warm up muscles and look for knots or tension, then go deeper into muscles to loosen them up.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Acapella singing, French music, and bird watching.
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why I like my profession
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I love my profession because I get instant feedback and feel happy that I helped my client feel better.
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long-term career goals
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To do volunteer work in a hospice or work with seriously ill patients.
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Renee B.
Licensed Massage Therapist, Digestive Health Specialist
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educational history
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Chicago School of Massage Therapy, 1993; Neuro-Muscular Certification, 1995; Graduate: Loomis Institute of Enzyme Nutrition, 2005
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certifications/licenses
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AMTA; Illinois State License
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Low back and neck with a Therapeutic Touch
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types of techniques I use
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Deep Swedish, Trigger Point Therapy, Body Mobilization technique
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what is a treatment with me like?
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My treatments are tailor-made to give the client exactly what they are looking for. If somebody has a specific area they need work on, I ask if they would like the whole treatment spent on the area of concern or if they would like to start there and see how it is feeling through the course of the tissue release. That will dictate how the rest of the treatment goes.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Horses, beaches, and whole foods.
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why I like my profession
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The nutrition work I do is based on muscle contraction; so to be able to incorporate both together, truly allows people to reach their optimal level of wellness.
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long-term career goals
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To increase my knowledge in the field of nutrition and incorporate my special training with the Loomis Institute in order to help clients with digestive disorders ranging from: Irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, acid reflux, gerd, and many other health challenges that are a direct connection to digestion such as headaches, fatigue, insomnia, poor sleep, food cravings, and allergies.
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Renee M.
Professional Office Management
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educational history
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Motorola Project Management Institute, 1994-1996; Dale Carnegie Public Speaking and Professional Development 1994, 1995; Roosevelt University – Finance, 1986; Elgin Community College – Associates in Science, majored in Computer Science, Math and Business, 1984
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Developing and implementing new ways of doing things from day to day processes of business to helping develop new marketing ideas and services. I love the challenge of solving problems and helping people.
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personal hobbies, interests
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I am married with four beautiful children ranging in age from 14-7. My husband and I enjoy spending time with our children and participating in Scouting for all four children as leaders, committee members, and cheerleaders. In my “spare” time, I enjoy reading, crafts, playing and teaching the flute, relaxing with family and friends, and traveling.
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why I like my profession
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My “passion” is learning. The field of massage therapy has allowed me to expand my horizons in many new ways. I enjoy meeting new people and providing support for the Therapists everyday. I love to renew and create new things, and expand my knowledge in different disciplines. I am passionate about creating harmony and beauty from within and sharing it with those around me.
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long-term career goals
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I am looking forward to finishing my college education with a Master’s Degree in the near future. After being “semi-retired” to raise my family, I look forward to blending this role with a career in the Service field.
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Rick
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Chicago School of Massage Therapy, April 2003
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certifications/licenses
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National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP); State of Illinois Licensed Massage Therapist
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Rick specializes in deep tissue muscle therapy. Treating clients who are seeking relief from such ailments as: muscle tension, chronic headaches, limited range of motion, neck and shoulder pain, arthritis, sciatica, overuse injuries, hip and core muscle pain, post surgery affects, and fibromyalgia. He also specializes in working with athletes to maintain optimal performance while training or throughout their session.
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types of techniques I use
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Rick has advanced training in muscle therapy, trigger point therapy, body mobilization and stretching techniques, sports massage, and Swedish massage.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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Rick creates a blend of deep sustained pressure with gentle mobilization and stretching to elongate and relax tight muscle fibers. My composition of techniques is unique for each client, offering an invigorating and relaxing experience.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Rick’s personal hobbies include music and photography.
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why I like my profession
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Rick feels honored to be a massage therapist. His desire and commitment towards working with others to relieve stress and chronic pain is his passion.
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long-term career goals
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Rick’s long-term career goal is to continue to expand his knowledge of the many bodywork modalities such as: Rolfing, myofascial release, Energy work, and Asian forms of massage.
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Sylva
Licensed Massage Therapist
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educational history
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Chicago School of Massage Therapy, 1999; Chiropractor’s Assistant; Oakton Community College, Skokie IL, 1997
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certifications/licenses
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State Licensed and Certified Massage Therapy #227000766; American Massage Therapy Association; International Sports Sciences Association; Reflexology for Massage Therapist; Correcting Postural Pain and Foot Pronation; Clinical Protocols for Overuse Injuries: Biceptal Tendonitis & Suprasinatus Tendonitis; Hot Stone Therapy; Bodywork for the Childbearing years & Infant massage; CPR & First Aid
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specialty or areas of expertise
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A graduate of Chicago’s School of Massage Therapy, Sylva reaches out to individuals by introducing to them the relaxing and comforting techniques of massage therapy. Working in a chiropractic office environment for more than five years, Sylva understands the many muscular aches and pains individuals suffer from day to day activities. She is certified in Hot Stone Therapy, Thai Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Reflexology, Deep Tissue, Myofascial, Pregnancy Massage, and Infant Massage.
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types of techniques I use
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Each session is tailored to the client’s needs, a combination of techniques are utilized to bring about healing, relaxation and comfort.
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what is a treatment with me like?
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I use medium to deep pressure, maintaining connection with the client from start to finish.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Spending time with my daughter, photography, and scrapbooking.
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why I like my profession
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Sylva enjoys helping her clients by focusing on their needs to bring about relaxation and well-being. Sylva is also a member of the American Massage Therapy Association and recognizes the importance of well-being and maintaining good physical health by exercise and nutrition. Sylva’s areas of expertise are specific work, very deep tissue, low back and neck injuries, headaches, and TMJ.
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long-term career goals
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Sylva’s long term career goal is to be the best possible therapist she can be by engaging in continued education, enhancing her skills in all different types of therapies.
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Taina
Aesthetician/Electrologist
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educational history
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Pivot Point 1993; Electrolysis Institute of Illinois 1996
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certifications/licenses
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Esthetic License; Electrolysis License; Laser Hair Removal Tech Certification
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specialty or areas of expertise
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Adult and teen acne, mature skins, people of color, special needs, claustrophobia, vertigo
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types of techniques I use
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Traditional facial massage; Lymphatic Drainage massage; Acupressure massage; Face-lift massage
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what is a treatment with me like?
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You can rest assured that your facial will be an enjoyable experience. Details are important to me. The atmosphere will be ambient and relaxing – a true place to escape. I’m very thorough and I adhere to the highest standards of sanitation. You will get excellent extraction work without a great deal of discomfort and you will not leave the facial room looking like you’ve been in a war. I will pick the very best treatment for your skin condition where your skin will respond positively. There’s a great deal of massage in my facials because one of my main goals is to de-stress you and make you look and feel younger.
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personal hobbies, interests
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Laughter, theatre, walking, movies, camping, art.
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why I like my profession
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My passion is making people happy and I am a caregiver. I feel blessed that I discovered my talents and I’m in a profession where I can utilize them.
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long-term career goals
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To keep getting better and better through education and experience.
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