NHI - Key Persons
Akilah Tutt graduated from the Petaluma campus of NHI in 2010. She began her massage career at the Silverado Resort & Spa in Napa, CA. She enjoyed the foot reflexology modality and loved performing Meyer Lemon Salt Scrubs. Incorporating Myofascial Therapy's technical aspect of pain reduction proved to be another joyous benefit of her sessions. She is currently serving as an Instructor/Mentor for the Emeryville campus. Her favorite quote is, "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
Alex graduated from NHI in 2009. Intrigued by the diversity of the Eastern and Western segments she went on to take massage courses in New Zealand, Thailand, India and Hawaii. Upon returning from her travels, she got right to work in Los Angeles and worked in spas around the city for 14 years before making her way back to NHI as an Instructor in 2023. Her goal as an instructor is to inspire perseverance in her students even when faced with adversity. "Good morning. Eyes up. Hearts up. Minds sharp. Compassion on full blast. Okay, let's go." Lin-Manuel Miranda
Alicia had a hope to help others years before finding her way to massage therapy as a career. She is a graduate from National Holistic Institute, completing the core and ANMT program. After school, she found a passion working with athletes and chronic pain sufferers, helping them manage their injuries and pain with a holistic approach. Her hope to help people quickly turned into a passion, as she watched people reduce pain medications, walk with ease and get back to living their lives without pain! She is excited to help share her passion with others looking for work they love!
"Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'! " - Audrey Hepburn
Amy is a 1995 graduate of NHI's Core Program. Since graduating from NHI, Amy has worked in chiropractic offices, salons and in private practice. Most recently, Amy's focus has been on Transformational Bodywork, Energy Work and Shamanic Practices, even traveling to Ireland to complete an Advanced Shamanic Certification Course in 2017. Amy also has an MA in Counseling Psychology and has worked with children with Autism since 1990. Amy is thrilled to have returned ‘home' to NHI as a teacher and mentor. "In all of my experience, I have come to realize that my life's purpose is to help others find theirs. To me, being a teacher is one of the best ways of helping others find Purpose and Direction in their lives. I believe that doing what you love, what you're passionate about, is the only way to truly live one's life Authentically, and helping people find work they love is what being a teacher at NHI is all about."
Amy is a graduate of Marion Technical College, formerly Community Technical and Adult Education, in Ocala Florida. Amy has been practicing Massage Therapy since 2005. She has practiced a variety of modalities including Myofascial Therapy, Deep Tissue, Sports, Hot Stone, Warm Bamboo Fusion, and DeepFeet Bar Therapy, Ashiatsu Massage. She has worked in a variety of massage settings, including Luxury Spas, Acupuncture, and Chiropractic Clinics. She is extremely passionate about massage therapy, and enhancing the lives of those she touches through her practice. Teaching is her most recent chapter in the field, and she is continually challenged by, and deeply rewarded by her experiences through it. She loves helping her students tap into who they are as therapists in their time at NHI and loves to keep up with their progress, after they have started down their career path. NHI is the perfect place to share her skills. She has found her home among the staff, and students.
Anithea Welch is a Certified Massage Therapist since 2010. Anithea grauated from InterCoast College in Orange, California in 2005. She began her career in Chiropractic Massage in Redondo Beach and independently grew a "one woman" Mobile Massage Practice in the South Bay. Anithea was Employed with Burke Williams Day Spa in Torrance 2006-2010 as the head of the Lymphatic Team and Trainer of Wet Room Services. She continued on to become a Certified Physical Therapy Aide 2011, then worked in the world of Womens Sports Massage until 2019. Her Massage teaching journey began in 2018 in Koreatown at Palace Beauty College, first as a substitute Massage Instructor and then fulltime during the height of COVID until 2022. Anithea then went on to teach Massage California Healing Arts in Carson. Anithea is now here, at NHI, to share her love for all of the different modalities of Massage. She intends for her passion to help others to become infectious to those that share a strong desire to be of service. Anithea believes that, "we CAN change the world, one massage a time"
Job Titles:
- Career & Compliance Support Manager
Ariane graduated from Western Career College, now known as Carrington College, in 2007. Since then, she has been immersed in the Spa industry. Her passion for massage has led her to not only practice the craft, with Swedish as her specialty, but also learn the ropes of the industry in her most recent role of Spa Manager. With the enthusiasm to "help people find work they love", Ariane is excited to share her knowledge and experience with NHI students! "I am deeply humbled to be a part of a team that leads the way for future massage therapists to immerse themselves in a world that will directly affect change in people's lives."
Job Titles:
- Student Life & Career Coordinator
From an early age Ashley knew she liked helping others. Prior to her joining NHI, she spent the last 13 years in the memory care field doing just that. For Ashley, there's something so special about connecting with people and helping them shine or nurturing their passion and facilitating growth in another. She loved bringing moments of joy to seniors with Alzheimer's and Dementia. Working with them and their families made her heart swell and developed a really strong skill set that she is overjoyed to bring to NHI. Ashley is looking forward to doing what she loves with an entirely new demographic. Helping people find work they love in the beginning stage of their lives is a wonderfully new challenge. Nhi has given her a completely new opportunity to do the work that fills her well. To be a part of a company with such an amazingly supportive culture is truly inspiring. The best part is, this is only the beginning!
Breanna Christenson came to NHI in 2011 as a student to the Petaluma (now Santa Rosa Campus), with a thirst and devotion for a deeper understanding of the body. After completing the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program, life took her into acupuncture, spa, and chiropractic environments until she eventually landed in her own practice in Santa Rosa. Breanna made her way back to NHI in 2016 when she started teaching in the Core Program on the Santa Rosa Campus and then was asked to mentor in the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program in 2023. Through her positive and lively teaching style both in person and in online classes, Breanna believes that massage is much more than therapeutically laying hands on the client. The first step toward caring for others, is being able to care for ourselves!
Candus Platt graduated from National Holistic Institute in 2008. She has worked in several spas and eventually became owner and proprietor of her own mobile massage business. She enjoys learning all aspects of massage and bodywork. Candus has additional certification in Guided Meditation, Reiki, Cupping Therapy and Aroma Therapy. She is happy to be back at NHI to continue her journey, now as a Massage Instructor.
Job Titles:
- Instructor / Student Retention Specialist
Casey Murphy was born and raised in Rochester, NY where he left and returned many times before finding his true calling to become a massage therapist. He completed his massage licensure in New York in 2013 before becoming Reiki attuned and eventually traveling to study in Thailand before joining us here in Los Angeles. He has worked in a variety of massage settings and currently works at an independently owned spa and maintains a small private practice. Aside from teaching, Casey also supports our students providing various resources and support on and across campuses. He's very excited to bring his experience and voice to NHI. "Life is like free pizza, even when it's bad it's still pretty good."
Cat Carmichael graduated with honors from NHI Clovis in 2017. After graduating she returned to campus as a teaching assistant while also starting her practice in a chiropractic office. She decided she wanted a change of environment and pursued a career in a spa where she thrived. She always knew she wanted to return to NHI as a teacher to share her love and knowledge of massage therapy with future massage therapists. Cat is honored and excited to return to the campus where she developed her skills and a deep love for massage therapy. "One of the greatest honors is to help someone find their calling in life and have work they love."
Cheryl graduated from NHI in Emeryville in 1992 embarking in private practice. With a sports injury rehab specialty, she worked with many different clients including those in the NFL. Cheryl brings her passionate knowledge of strategic bodywork to teach at NHI. "Massage therapy chose me. It has taken me places allowing me to work with clients beyond my imagination."
Chontelle graduated from the NHI Emeryville campus in 2000. She has been practicing as a massage therapist over the years working with chiropractors, spas, a private practice, and massage clinics specializing in chronic/persistent pain. She was a Teacher's Assistant for the San Jose campus and completed the ANMT program at the NHI San Jose campus.
Christine began studying massage therapy in 2007 and has never stopped. She passionately believes massage therapy can improve quality of life for everyone, especially individuals with medical complexities, and respects the breadth of NHI's curriculum to introduce tomorrow's massage therapists to their own passions. "How you do anything is how you do everything."
Job Titles:
- ANMT Founder & Education Development
Cynthia came to the United States from Brazil, where she had attained a degree in Physical Education and studied Surgical Nursing. In the U.S., she graduated from two massage schools, and now specializes in Neuromuscular Therapy and Orthopedic Massage. A highly dynamic teacher, she has taught advanced anatomy and injury rehabilitation skills since 1988. Her Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy workshops are in high demand throughout U.S. and Canada, and Cynthia frequently presents at state and national massage therapy conventions. As founder and owner of Western Institute of Neuromuscular Massage Therapy (WIN) in Southern California, Cynthia developed highly effective therapeutic bodywork, and has brought that material to NHI for the 450 hour program in Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy. In March 2008 she was elected Vice President of the National Board of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), and in 2011 became President-Elect for the AMTA. Cynthia took her seat as acting president in March 2012 and continues to influence the industry today. A continual inspiration to her students, she nevertheless says, "I am always a student myself, and I strongly believe in lifelong learning."
Job Titles:
- Campus Manager / Instructor
David is a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist. He is a graduate of NHI's Advanced Neuromuscular Program and Core Program. As a full time massage therapist, he has utilized advanced neuromucular techniques to perform rehabilitative massage for people experiencing post-injury pain or limitations. He also has experience as a massage therapist in the chiropractic and corporate environments. In addition to his education at NHI, David also assists his clients with his extensive experience as a student of metaphysical science. "What I love about teaching massage at NHI is the opportunity it offers students to constantly challenge themselves and to experience themselves in a powerful and transformative way."
Eamon is a graduate of the National Holistic Institute and has been practicing massage therapy since 2019, specializing in pain management and trauma awareness. Prior to massage, he was a self-defense instructor, and got to see first-hand how helping people get back in touch with their bodies could be a healing and transformative experience. He has a passion for education and brings that enthusiasm and curiosity to the classroom -- teaching is his favorite part of the day. "The best way to learn is to teach."
Eliboria graduated from Milan Institute in 2010 and began her career immediately after, since graduating she has worked in the spa industry for over twelve years all while running her own mobile business at the same time. She has been working in the education field since 2016, working in positions such as Paraeducator, Translator, and Instructional Aide with elementary aged students and their families. Her strong work ethic and determination comes from seeing her immigrant mother working multiple jobs to sustain her family. When asked why massage? She replied "Because, what other career allows you to meet other people and immediately have a big impact in their lives like we do everyday as massage therapists? No other career provides immediate help, relief, and ease to physical and emotion strain. NHI has given me the opportunity to continue doing just that by combining holistic care and therapy all in one fantastic program. I have always wanted to become a teacher, it has been my passion and gift since I was little. I get to pass on everything I have learned in the field to others and that has been the greatest gift and blessing. Things that I hope students can learn from me are strong work ethic and empathy for others."
Emily became a certified Massage Therapist and Holistic Health Practitioner in 2005. Since then she has worked in clinical and spa settings, while building her private practice around the treatment of severe and chronic pain. Providing safe, knowledgeable, and effective services are her passion; one Emily strives to share with the students of NHI.
Esko's 10 years of experience in the massage therapy field have been fed by very eclectic knowledge, ranging from fitness training and working with professional athletes to being a Reiki master teacher. One of his best strengths is his unique approach and ability to explain a lesson many different ways. He encompasses massage as an art form and can draw from over ten different modalities during any given session. "I am always learning. NHI has given me a job that I love, in the field of massage therapy, and continues to give me an education ten years later."
Evangeline Dean graduated with honors from NHI Clovis in 2020. After graduating she started her private practice which included working alongside a chiropractor and returning to NHI as a teacher assistant. She has continued to attain trainings and knowledge on various subjects as she is an avid lover of learning. When asked why massage? She replied, "Because, I love helping people and prefer hands-on work, so massage is a win-win for me." As a teacher her goal is to provide students with the tools and resources to be successful in life as well as the world of massage. "What I want students to learn from me the most is that everything they need to be happy and healthy is already within themselves." Evie believes that finding balance between work and life is critical and having work that you love is a great way to achieve that.
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Program Manager
Fred graduated from the Swedish Institute in New York in 2002. While thriving in the spa industry, he also focused on medical and myofascial massage working with chiropractors, acupuncturists and physical therapists. Fred also specializes in shiatsu and has had much success helping folks through the healing process with that method of bodywork. He is also a reiki practitioner, certified in facelift massage (lymph drainage for the face), hot bamboo massage and has a few other tools in his tool belt to benefit to assist in achieving client-centered work. After all these years he's still in love with profession and is excited to share his knowledge and skills with future massage therapists.
Gabriel left his previous career as a grocer to become a massage therapist. It wasn't that he didn't enjoy his job, the only thing about it he found fulfilling were his customers: building relationships and bringing a relaxed, grounded, nurturing presence to his interactions. Massage felt like a natural fit, allowing him to do what he truly loved, helping people feel a sense of wholeness and self-worth. After he graduated in January 2012 he worked in day spas, destination spas, as an independent contractor, and in his own private practice. While he was a student at NHI he rediscovered his love of teaching, leading him here, to share his love of the art and people with his students. "The great teacher is not the man who supplies the most facts, but the one in whose presence we become different people." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Gabrielle began her massage career in 2008 when she graduated from NHI's Core Program. She enjoyed the muscular anatomy education she had received as a student, so she also completed the Advanced Neuromuscular Massage Therapy program when it debuted in 2010. In her massage practice, she utilized a number of modalities, particularly deep tissue and trigger point therapy, to help meet her clients' needs for each session. As an instructor, she draws on her personal experience in the field and her love of learning to help students find their own niche as bodyworkers. "Every body tells a story, and as massage therapists, we have the privilege of helping our clients write their next chapter."
Garion is a massage therapist who enjoys leveraging his many years of technical and administrative support experience to help find students and grads work they love. As a California Bay Area native, Garion finds fulfillment and equity in supporting all those who strive to walk their own path to success and wellness, and who do-so with the intention of uplifting their families and communities along the way. Massage is a life-long practice for Garion, and he is committed to furthering his knowledge of the art and industry NHI students are shaping every day.
Genevieve is a certified Massage Therapist and a graduate of NHI! She has been in practice since 2008 working in spas, and with private practice clientele. Massage is a profession that she was quickly drawn into and loves. Genevieve believes massage is not only about pampering, but also offers therapeutic healing. "The art of massage is a rewarding career. It offers a way to relax the mind, body and soul, which helps create balance from within."
As a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist (NCTMB) with a background in Physical Therapy, Gracia naturally combines a scientific and intuitive awareness of the body. She specializes in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, myofascial work and advanced therapeutic techniques. As a massage professional (currently also working at Google), Gracia's highly intuitive and skillful touch is infused with a sense of wholeness in a profound way. "I relish the opportunity to share my skills and knowledge with students on the path to being bodywork professionals."
Prior to joining the massage field, Jackie got her Bachelors of Science degree in Exercise Physiology from CSU, Chico. After graduation, she wanted to find a way to combine her love for the body and caring for people in a therapeutic way. She attended NHI San Jose in fall of 2013 and jumped into the spa industry immediately after graduating in May of 2014. During her time in the spa industry, she gained experience in all aspects of the field by working not only as a massage therapist, but as a front desk agent, body scrub technician, and manager as well. Jackie relocated to the Sacramento area in summer of 2014 and is excited to give back to the organization that truly gave her a career she loves! "I feel lucky and excited that I get to bring my journey in massage full circle by returning to NHI to teach future generations of massage therapists!"
Jamere Dailey began his journey in massage therapy in 2014. He's a Neuromuscular massage therapist who enjoys providing positive results for the most challenging of muscle related issues. Jamere's goal is to raise the aspirations of the next generation of massage therapist, and witness how they will take massage therapy to a new level. He's in a perfect position to do so as an instructor at National Holistic Institute. "I can massage really well, I'll prove that you can too!"
Jen Tobin originally hails from the greater Boston area where she completed a bachelor's degree in dance and started her career in massage therapy. Massaging since 2002, she moved to the Los Angeles area 12 years ago and has worked in various massage environments including spas, offices, beaches and on television and commercial sets. Her preferred modalities are prenatal and deep tissue, but she has a great appreciation for the variety massage brings in its range of modalities. Her love of the sciences and passion for learning brought her to the classrooms of NHI in 2011 and she continues to enjoy the process of imparting knowledge, while also maintaining a small private practice of outcall clients. "My hope, still, is to leave the world a little bit better than when I got here." -Jim Henson
Being the very first Massage Therapy Ambassador for National Holistic Institute's Ontario Campus, shortly after being part of the first group to graduate from there, Jennifer is excited to continue building & growing along with her mentors, now colleagues! After spending over 11 years in the customer service industry, Jennifer knew it was time to transition into soulful therapeutic work by applying the knowledge & quality of touch as she developed her own steady private mobile practice. Along with her vast comprehension of both eastern & western modalities, the experience she had at Kneadz Work & Massage Green Spa has allowed Jennifer to blossom both personally & professionally. Jennifer brings a raw energy that shows her consistent willingness to assist students with polishing their purpose for this rewarding profession.
Jessica Murphy has been in the field of massage therapy since 2009, and is a graduate of National Holistic Institute. Her philosophy is, "With balance comes healing" and believes that massage is a vital contributor in creating a path of wellness. In addition to massage therapy, Jessica is a professional performing artist, and has been dancing through life since early childhood. She is also a mother, and enthusiast of all that can be transformed into art, self-expression, and the facilitation of healing. Since completing the massage therapy training program, Jessica's ambition was to one day return to the institution that helped pave her path, and served as a platform for discovery and success. Having attained her design, she is delighted to help others discover within themselves their own gifts, strengths, and success.
After a lifelong pursuit of knowledge in meditation, yoga, energetic healing, and other holistic health modalities, Jim came to National Holistic Institute in 2015 to take the next steps on his journey of learning. He graduated a year later and immediately became certified and went to work with the Silicon Valley Massage Therapy Group. There he worked with a variety of clients, but staying true to his family's deep roots in the medical field his passions became focused on working with clients who were recovering from injuries, athletes who needed care and recovery from rigorous training regimens, and others who were just looking for relief from aches and pains to achieve a better quality of life. In this capacity, he worked with his clients and their Physical Therapists, Chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals to create individual plans to help them reach their recovery goals. He also became a key member of their corporate on-site massage team and worked with them acquiring and supervising clients for on-site therapy for college students, corporate staff, and other groups of working professionals to improve their productivity and general level of wellness in their work environment.
Joey's path as a massage therapist began shortly after being laid off from Yahoo! in 2008. His desire to help people hands-on from a wellness perspective eventually led him to enrolling at NHI. Upon graduating in 2009, he worked at a few Los Angeles-area day spas, volunteered as a massage therapist for several charity events (i.e. Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, Lupus Awareness Walk) and also worked for a mobile massage company. Throughout most of that time, he also volunteered as a teaching assistant at NHI which is where his desire to teach began. In 2011, he was hired to the NHI-Los Angeles staff. Over his 5 total years on staff, he has been a part-time instructor, Student Life & Career Coordinator and full-time instructor/mentor. At the end of 2015, Joey left NHI to pursue a career in voiceovers but, in summer of 2016, he was invited back to work as a part-time instructor while he continues to pursue voice work. Joey finds the human anatomy infinitely fascinating and feels very connected to eastern massage modalities, especially shiatsu. His massage motto is: "An investment in massage therapy is an investment in your health."
Job Titles:
- Campus Manager / Instructor
Having graduated both from Massage School and Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Clown College, John is a perfect fit for National Holistic Institute. His knowledge and entertaining teaching style combine for a unique learning experience. Before moving to California, John practiced massage in his native state of Florida working with the Florida Marlins, chiropractors, spas, clinics, and in a private practice since 1996. His favorite quote about massage, and how he tries to operate as a body worker is: "I'm not a healer and I'm not a doctor, I'm just a mechanic." (by Lauren Berry)
Job Titles:
- Student Life & Career Services Manager
Jonna graduated from Sacramento State University. Prior to working at NHI, Jonna has been working in the field of education for almost 8 years. She provided assistance to young children and their families and ensured that they had an environment that made them feel safe and successful. Jonna is passionate in helping others and a firm believer that success and happiness in all aspects of life comes from doing what you love. She is excited for what this new path and adventure will bring!
Job Titles:
- Campus Manager / Instructor
- Campus Manager, NHI San Jose
Josh is a Central California native where he completed his massage education, with honors, at Milan Institute in Visalia, CA in 2007. Upon his graduation, Josh moved to Santa Cruz and began his career working to build and grow his own business. Josh eventually found Massage Envy Monterey and was hired as a Massage Therapist. He quickly gained a strong client base and was voted the most requested therapist within his South San Francisco region. Josh was voted by his fellow massage therapist at Massage Envy Monterey to take the Lead Therapist position and quickly moved into managing the Monterey Location. Josh's passion lies in sports and rehabilitative massage. Josh enjoys working alongside other medical professionals to create plans for his clients that promote healing and a better quality of life. "We have the privilege of working with the future of our industry. If we can create well-educated and passionate massage therapists, the effects will be phenomenal."
Joushclyn has been an active massage therapist for 14 years. She began her career in the cruise line industry in 2010. After receiving her education at Everest College, San Bernardino and Steiner Academy, London, England, Joushclyn sailed the seas while working in the on board Elemis Spa for 6 years. Once her feet hit dry land her passion took her to some of the top spas in Southern California. Such as Pechanga Resort & Casino, Burke Williams and The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. she is fueled but helping others, which has led her to NHI as a Teacher/Mentor.
Justin is a graduate of the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy and Core Massage Therapy programs at National Holistic Institute in Sacramento. After practicing massage therapy in California since 2019, Justin brings his expertise in clinical and spa settings, as well as his jovial personality, to the classroom. Having taken advance courses in Medical Massage, Advanced Sports Massage and Geriatric Massage, Justin's approach to bodywork is that of a curious scientist, getting to the truth of the problem and finding ways around the problem. What brings Justin back to doing massage every day is the interactions with clients, seeing the small changes of the client before and after the massage session, and how those small changes bring big results to over wellness to the client. What brought Justin back to National Holistic Institute after years of working in the massage therapy industry is the camaraderie and the "family-like" feeling NHI brings. All Staff members are treated like siblings and take care of each other regardless of which department they work in or campus they are from. "The world belongs to those who let go" - Lao Tzu
Kam has lived in several states (Midwest, Pacific, Western and Eastern) and Europe, and has had many careers prior to massage therapy. He graduated from the NHI Petaluma Campus' Core Program in 2015 and from the Emeryville ANMT program in 2016. He has been a massage therapist since his CAMTC Certification in 2015, working at different storefront massage businesses in Napa and Sonoma Counties and developing a small private practice in the SF Bay Area. In addition to working in massage, he has continued his massage education since graduating from NHI and has had workshops in a number of different modalities including Lomi Lomi and Abhyanga (an Ayurvedic massage modality). In addition to massage education, Kam has attended Mount Madonna Institute where he learned (and has been certified in) teaching yoga (YTT200 & YTT300 trainings), practicing Ayurvedic Medicine (AHC Certification) and most recently practicing Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy (certified by both NAMA and IAYT). He is also currently certified as a Professional Ski Instructor (PSIA). His background teaching yoga, skiing, and teaching undergrads while pursuing his masters in geology helps inform his current teaching style - however massage is much more deeply felt by him and he loves teaching it: massage is important in assisting people to heal. We are always learning from each other: teach to learn - Baba Hari Dass
Kim Koga is a graduate of NHI, completing both the Core and ANMT programs. She combined her knowledge as a Personal Trainer with the skills she learned at NHI to work specifically with athletes in her private practice. Certifications in Cupping, Kinesiology taping, and IASTM helped her focus on those client's unique needs as well as any chronic pain. Kim started with the San Jose team in 2021 and she loves being able to provide the guidance and support necessary to turn a passion into a journey.
Job Titles:
- Director of Training & Program Development
Kirsten began her journey with NHI as a student in 2004. While nurturing a growing love for massage therapy, she realized that she naturally also gravitated toward a skill set built in her previous career: training and education for adult learners. As a student tutor at NHI, and later as a Teaching Assistant post-graduation, Kirsten was able to explore a variety of approaches to teaching and learning while honing her massage skills. When NHI approached her in 2006 to invite her to merge her loves of education and massage by becoming a teacher, she jumped at the chance. While growing a robust and diverse massage practice, Kirsten also began to grow with NHI. Kirsten focused strongly on understanding the Core Program curriculum and how to effectively deliver it to a wide-variety of students. Over the years, Kirsten became a key member of the curriculum and faculty training teams, teacher and trainer of the ANMT Program, Co-Manager of the ANMT Program and now currently is the Director of Training and Program Development for all NHI programs and campuses. "My passion is to create educational experiences that make teachers excited to teach and students excited to learn."
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Student Life & Career Coordinator
With a natural passion for helping people enjoy a better quality of life, Kristine was instinctively drawn to healing arts. She first attended Massage School in 2005 which laid the foundation for a continual quest for more knowledge about the art of massage and other healing modalities. In 2007 she enrolled at Twin Lakes College of the Healing Arts in Santa Cruz, Ca where she completed certification as a Natural Health Practitioner and Certified Hypnotherapist. Kristine brings her years of industry experience, passion for knowledge and desire to help people live their dream to the NHI team. "Knowledge comes from learning. Wisdom comes from living"...do both.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President
An athlete all her life-All American Springboard Diver, first female in her college Athletic Hall of Fame-Linda came to National Holistic Institute and the field of massage therapy with a rich understanding of the human form, function and spirit. An undergraduate degree in Physical Education and a Master's in Education Administration provided the academic springboard for her work as a teacher, director of a community-based wellness commission, National Director for U.S. Department of Labor Job Corps contracts, senior business-management consultant, and now NHI's Director of Education. "I see myself as an ‘environmental protection agent,' with the responsibility of creating and supporting an environment of success for students, teachers and staff alike." Her managerial philosophy is one of collaboration, and communication, with a focus on teamwork and idea generation at all levels of the organization.
Lisa is a 1996 Graduate of NHI's Core Massage Therapist & Health Educator Program and has been a dedicated NHI employee for over 15 years. Her contributions to NHI's mission of "Helping People Have Work They Love" have come through numerous roles held, which include Student Life & Career Coordinator, Mentor, Campus Manager, as well as her current role of Instructor. Lisa is passionate in establishing connections with each individual who passes through NHI's doors and looks to provide each Student and Graduate with a balance of support and motivation, tailored to their specific needs. Lisa invites any opportunity to share knowledge about the benefits of massage with others and loves to share mini massage facts with children and youth. I guess one might say that she enjoys "planting the seeds of self-awareness, self-care, and a life-long practice and love of receiving massage."
Liz graduated from NHI's Core massage program in 2018. Much of her professional experience has been highlighted by sharing her love of supportive healing work with others. In her practice, she most enjoys bringing relief through deep tissue massage, while also adding in elements of energy work. Liz is grateful and inspired to have the opportunity to empower and educate others as they strive towards securing a job they love.
A native to the Bay Area, Natalie graduated from the massage therapy program at Bryman College in 2013. Working in the field as a massage therapist at co-op clinics, Elements Massage, chiropractor's offices, luxury spas and maintained a successful private practice studio. Natalie's passion and love for bodywork has manifested into a unique craft by marrying spa life and wellness with sports and deep tissue work. She also has a history of caring for pre/post-natal individuals, cancer patients, and hospice patients. As a former ballet dancer, Natalie encourages students to think outside box and learn from different perspectives. She cares deeply for students and enjoys continually learning with them and from them.
As a graduate from NHI core program in 2022, Navi was certified with CAMTC before graduation. Was hired before finishing school at a chiropractor office. In the short time that she has been in the massage therapy industry, she has worked with car and work accident clients, in chiropractic environment, sports massage helping roller skaters and roller derby athletes. Owns her own massage business and does pop up chair massages at events. Clinic Spa settings working at Massage Envy and Elements Massage. Energy work and Reiki training and practice. Taking CE classes. Specializes with neck pain and help improve Range of Motion. Gaining knowledge from all aspects of massage therapy in different settings. Always continuing to evolve and grow, Navi is excited to share the knowledge and love for Massage Therapy to future Health Educators and Massage Therapist. "Sometimes when things are falling apart, they may actually be falling into place." - Unknown
After leaving the Army, Nicole started her career in massage therapy back in 2013 and hasn't looked back. She has worked in just about every facet of the industry, including luxury spas, medical specialty offices, clinic franchises, and gyms. She also runs her own successful private practice, specializing in neuromuscular facilitation and soft tissue dysfunction. In 2021, Nicole graduated from CSULB with her Bachelor's in Communications Studies with a specialty in conflict resolution and mediation. In coming to teach at NHI, Nicole has come full circle, having graduated from both the Core and ANMT programs here in Santa Ana. Her goal as a teacher is to inspire others to live their lives with truth and authenticity; all while sharing the work they love with those who need it. "What does massage do? It has the power to give you back control of your own life. This is what I do and what we, as massage therapists, do. We have the ability to help our clients get their lives back." - Nicole Wheatley
Patrick was a sprinter at the NCAA D1 level and saw the value and benefit of massage. Looking for a career change he remembered how much he appreciated massage and enrolled at the NHI Emeryville campus where he ended up tutoring students on his way to graduating with honors from the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program. Patrick went on to work in private practice that led to various gigs from working in tech companies, backstage at the Outside Lands Music festival and consulting with an orthopedic acupuncturist. During this time Patrick continued to visit campus as a teacher's assistant until eventually accepting a full time teacher's position at the Emeryville campus teaching in the ANMT as well as Core program. Patrick grew up in a military household attending 9 different schools from K-12 on 3 different continents and enjoys being able to interact with NHI's diverse student body.
Pattie Meier has been working in the healing arts in Northern California since 1998 and in private practice for 23 years. Passionate about continuing education in this field, Pattie has studied and utilizes a variety of modalities to assist people in wellness for the body, mind and spirit, including Swedish, CranioSacral Therapy, Bowen, Therapy, Thai Yoga Massage, Reiki, Biofield Tuning and sound healing. Pattie has been teaching Vinyasa, Yin and Kundalini yoga since 2015, as well as offering sound healing events and retreats in Northern California and Washington. Her focus now is to give back to the industry that afforded her a fulfilling career by teaching others to follow their passion in service of others. With an open heart and flexible mind she creates a welcoming space for all and aspires to elevate, inspire and empower others in and out of the classroom. Her intuitive nature and approach to life will give the student or client an empowering, nurturing and inspirational experience. "The most important thing you take to a massage is your intention." - Pattie
Paul graduated from The Touch Therapy Institute in Encino, CA in 1999 and received his Reiki Master Certification in 2001. Paul's passion for teaching began in when taught rafting, kayaking, and backpacking to youth at risk; it continues today as he instructs students in massage therapy. Throughout the years Paul has worked in spas and private practice. "I love that I am able to educate people about loving, compassionate touch, and know that they will be able to help others with this knowledge and skill."
Penny is a graduate of Bryan College and carries an AOS degree in Advanced Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. She has been practicing massage since 2008 and has spent over a decade as a practitioner, trainer, and manager at luxury spas in Silicon Valley. She is passionate about self care and is an ardent believer in learning as its own reward. Penny strives to discover something new every day and impart that knowledge to her students in a fun and engaging way which will help them develop their love of massage therapy. "The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice." -Brian Herbert
Job Titles:
- Senior ANMT Instructor, Curriculum & Marketing Specialist
Philip graduated from NHI Emeryville in 2002 and began working as a therapist immediately afterwards. Philip has focused his practice within the health and fitness industry, working with the Western Athletic Club franchise and Club One Fitness. Additionally, he has had the opportunity to work with athletes of every level and currently works with NFL, NHL, and MLB professionals. He hopes this experience can be beneficial to prepare students for the realities of the massage/spa industry. "We have the privilege of working with the future of our industry. If we can create well-educated and passionate massage therapists, the effects will be phenomenal."
Raquel has been a certified massage therapist for almost three years; working at National Holistic Institute and the spa in Lodi. She completed her core training at NHI Modesto in October 2019 where she rekindled her passion with the human body. She fell in love with all that is NHI; the campus with all the natural beauty and its heart "the people". Raquel graduated from NHI Sacramento Campus's Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program in March 2020. While attending ANMT she thrived under the support of her mentors and pursued her newfound purpose to understand pain and how it affects the body, mind and a person's social life. She learned how to assess and help improve her own and other's quality of life. Raquel's background varies from home healthcare, medical billing, human services work and oddly enough auto garage (everyone needs basic auto survival skills). While at NHI she plans on continuing to expand her knowledge and self-growth in hopes of being a positive presence in others' lives. "Touch seems to be as essential as sunlight" - Diane Ackerman
Job Titles:
- Campus Manager / Instructor
Rebecca has been a massage therapist since 2003. Since then, she has performed massage in day spas, chiropractic offices and acupuncture clinics. Rebecca has maintained a private clientele and teaches infant and couples massage classes. Rebecca teaches in both the Core and the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Programs with the National Holistic Institute. "If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you." - Zig Ziglar
Becky graduated from massage school in 2005 and subsequently opened her mobile massage therapy business, which she still actively runs. She went on to get Associate degrees in Business, Kinesiology and Social/Behavioral Sciences as well as her Bachelor's degree in Integrative Health from ASU in 2021. Her passion in the industry is the integration and application of both Eastern and Western modalities for total body health and wellness. She has a variety of experience in both spa and chiropractic settings and has always felt honored at the trust her clients put in her, and feels her true calling is in the education and advocacy of the massage industry. Becky is also your current AMTA California Chapter Board Secretary.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Dean of Faculty
Renee has been in the field of massage since 1993. As a student at National Holistic Institute, she felt she had found a perfect fit with a career in massage in the school of massage therapists' environment. "When I walked through the door at NHI I felt like Dorothy coming home to Kansas! I had tried so many other crazy jobs (Land of Oz) that didn't fit. Finding a career that filled my heart and served others was a dream come true." She enjoyed her experience at National Holistic Institute so much that she continued on to be a Teacher Assistant, and a core Teacher for seven years; then she put her skills into supporting the Faculty. When asked what Renee loves most about massage "Definitely the variety! With the variety of techniques and clientele, It is impossible to get bored….and there are always new things to learn!"
RozLyn graduated from the National Holistic Institute in Emeryville, CA, in 2009, and has been actively practicing massage therapy ever since. In her 13 year career as a therapist, she has worked in a variety of different fields of massage including spas, chiropractic facilities, and wellness centers. RozLyn has become an Instructor at NHI to express and teach her love for massage to the next generation of therapists, and also for her love and care for people. "To be in a position that allows me to interact with people AND teach them something I'm passionate about... sign me up any day! If you don't love what you do, you won't do it with much conviction or passion."
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Program Manager
Having been a successful massage therapist since 2005, Samantha brings real-world, sustainable massage application to NHI's classroom. Graduating from Chandler-Gilbert Community College with an Associates in Therapeutic Massage in 2006, she later expanded into teaching yoga and personal training. As a self-proclaimed "nerd," Samantha loves the natural convergence of bodywork and teaching. When asked why she chose massage she simply says, "massage chose me, I never had a chance!" Nevertheless, the world of massage is her passion and she can't wait to share what has so profoundly sustained and enriched her life with others.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Director of Faculty & Students
Sara has been practicing massage therapy since 2003 and loves the variety of opportunities that a massage career can offer. A graduate of NHI, with a previous kinesiology focus, she is certified by the California Massage Therapy Council, and has worked in diverse environments, including a chiropractic office, day spas, and wellness clinics. She has also cultivated a thriving private practice that she still maintains today. Sara developed a deep love and passion for massage while working in the field, and carried that into the classroom as an instructor at NHI. She's been teaching massage since 2011 and continues to be a presence in the classroom. While her office is in Sacramento she travels Northern California to support NHI Students and Staff on their journeys. Her motivation and goal is to see all students reach their full potential and have careers that they love. "Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel." - Socrates
Sarah Stroup is a 2019 graduate of NHI Redding campus. She spent the first two years of her career in the spa industry, working for Glamorous Day Spa. After the spa closed due to COVID-19, she expanded into working fully in her private practice. She is now an exclusively mobile massage therapist. Sarah has a passion for understanding anatomy and kinesiology, and intuitively applying it to her work, to see clients set free from pain. She is excited to be back on the Redding campus as a teacher and mentor. "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."
Scott knew the moment he walked through the door that he wanted to be at NHI forever. He fell in love with massage when he saw how he could assist in relieving peoples pain through ethical touch, which lead him to graduating the ANMT program. Scott has been a certified massage therapist since 2021 and is now an advanced neuromuscular therapist specializing in non- pharmaceutical pain relief working mostly with other massage therapists. As the light bearer of his group he learned to carry his light into every aspect of his life and will continue to pass that on to his students while they're on their way to having work they love. " all of the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.- St.Francis of Assis
A lifelong musician, Sequoyah developed a fascination with the human body while studying viola at the Juilliard School. Inspired by his teacher's understanding of anatomy, kinesiology, and qigong, Sequoyah continued his education at NHI where he graduated with honors from 1250-hour program. He began working in a spa before opening his private practice to focus on a more comprehensive, therapeutic approach to massage. Teaching has been an integral part of Sequoyah's life since taking on his first private viola student at age 13. Sequoyah believes that a teacher's role is to help the student realize their own capacity for growth. This attitude has colored his perspective on massage and the possibilities therein bordering on the alchemical. "Even a slight increase in a previously inhibited range of motion will, in the practice of daily life, manifest as an incalculable increase in the possibilities of how the patient can interact with the world. Their body senses this phenomenon and, from it, can extrapolate a far more profound reality: that the body itself is the agent of change, and, intuiting the symbolic weight of its manifold possibilities of movement, within it lies the capacity to make the world a bigger place, time and time again."
After graduating from NHI Clovis in 2017, Theo entered the field of Massage Therapy immediately. Working with a whole host of clientele, from competitive athletes to retirees to those with serious illnesses. Prior to entering the field of massage therapy he studied as a sculptor and worked as a theatrical costumer. As such, his knowledge of anatomy and adeptness with working with his hands were extremely beneficial to his becoming a massage therapist. Returning to NHI was something he knew he wanted to do to help other future therapists leave their education becoming the best CMTs possible. As an instructor his goal is to emphasize that the way you behave in class is a pathway to build habits that will benefit you when you join the workforce, from how you dress to how you take care of yourself. Becoming a massage therapist taught Theo so much about self care and how to properly train. Proper stretching and health are something he brings to class as a way to help students remain in this career for as long as they wish.
Timothy started his massage career in 2016. He continued his education in Thailand and became certified in Thai Massage, and Thai Acupressure techniques. In 2020, he became certified in ANMT at the NHI Studio City Campus. Timothy has experience working in the Spa at Equinox, and experience working with private clients under his own LLC. Timothy loves how dynamic the muscles in the body are and is excited to facilitate a learning experience for the ANMT students. He is thankful that NHI has given him the opportunity to share knowledge and to help students have a career that they love! "Everyone deserves to have a deeper understanding of their bodies and to work towards a life that is more pain free." - Timothy Hoffman
Job Titles:
- Campus Manager / Instructor
Tracy began her career in the Spa industry as a Cosmetologist in 1997 in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. After relocating to California in 2001 she decided to continue her education in Massage Therapy at Bryman College in San Bernardino, CA. In April, 2009 she has pursued her passion in working with professional athletes. She currently works with the WNBA LA Sparks Women's Basketball League Sports Medicine Department and the NFLPA- National Football League's Professional Association.
After high school, Trena followed her passion for the body into a career as a massage therapist. She is a 2004 graduate of Bryan College School of Massage. Since then, she has worked at various places, including a massage clinic for 7 years and most recently a local spa, all while maintaining a regular clientele at a busy chiropractic office, and managing her private clients. She loves the beauty of the "city of trees" and spends her spare time exploring Sacramento. She joined NHI in May of 2016 and is really enthusiastic to be able to share her wealth of knowledge and years of experience to help people find work they love. "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."
Tyler is a graduate of the Core and ANMT programs at NHI and has been in practice consistently since even before his graduation in 2014. He has worked in private practice, wellness centers, chiropractic offices and high profile day spas. Tyler finds his motivation to massage in helping people to manage their pain and minimize the impact it has on their lives; He is passionate about constantly expanding his understanding of the body and it's structures and hopes to impart to successive generations of massage therapists the value of specific anatomical knowledge and informed touch. "Receive without conceit; Release without struggle."-Marcus Aurelius
Vincent has been a Neuromuscular & Massage Therapist since 2019, since graduating from NHI's Core and Advanced programs he's dedicated his practice to not only facilitating health for a large demographic of disabled & injured clients but working with those struggling with chronic pain while educating them on how to build upon that work and improve their quality of life. "The trick to life is to have the courage to walk down the path that's lit up your heart." - Atticus