About Me

Clinically grounded and holistically oriented, I bring over 27 years of massage therapy experience in private practice and hospital-based work as well as lived experienced as a cancer patient and caregiver.

I came to healthcare from the nonprofit sector.  Drawn to massage therapy for its ability to address bodily pain and discomfort through a blend of hands-on work and and creative problem-solving, I graduated from Seattle Massage School's Professional Training Program in 1995.

After an initial stint at Seattle Athletic Club, I went into private practice and was drawn toward oncology massage and manual therapy for people with complex medical histories. I added oncology massage specialization in 2003 through coursework with Tracy Walton, and in 2008 I earned my designation as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist through Dr. Vodder School International, a rigorous and internationally recognized training program in Manual Lymphatic Drainage.  

Additional trainings include advanced oncology rehab for breast, pelvic (male and female) and head/neck cancers; care and rehab for medically complex patients (including autoimmune, connective tissue and lymphatic conditions); post-surgical treatment and scar techniques; lipoedema treatment and management; somatic awareness and mindfulness approaches to pain; trauma training; and cultural competence.  I also regularly attend CLT recertification courses and interdisciplinary conferences to keep up to date on standards of care, best practices, and treatment protocols.  

Past medical training includes certificates in Clinical Medical Assisting (North Seattle College) and Opticianry (Seattle Central College), both of which inform my clinical filter when approaching patient-centered care.

In addition to my private practice, I have seen patients at Swedish Cancer Institute (First Hill) since 2010 (with some interruptions, most notably COVID-19).  I am currently there one day a week, where I enjoy being onsite and working in concert with other care team members.

A proud "third-culture kid', I grew up in a military family which gave me a love of travel and experiencing different places and people.  In my spare time I enjoy being in nature, attending as many arts performances as I can, and spending time in my fibre arts studio.