Meet Joan

A native of Decatur, Georgia, I have been in private practice here for more than 14 years.

Certifications, qualifications and memberships

  • New Life School of Massage Excellence, student clinic instructor
  • Atlanta School of Massage graduate
  • Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
  • Nationally Certified Massage Therapist (NCBTMB)
  • Society for Oncology Massage, Charter Member
  • Decatur Business Association member, Decatur, GA

I am certified in several modalities including Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular, TMJ, lymphatic drainage, craniosacral, oncology massage, mastectomy care and Reiki.

Swedish: Most commonly recognized type of massage work. Primarily consists of long gliding and kneading strokes which encourage relaxation, increase of circulation and stress reduction.

Deep Tissue: Firmer pressure than used in Swedish. Slow deep strokes affecting the deeper layers of muscle and fascia for the purpose of pain relief and deeper relaxation.

Neuromuscular (Trigger Point Therapy): Use of deep sustained pressure to release trigger points and alleviate pain. Commonly used for injury rehabilitation purposes. Assists in reducing muscle tension, breaking up adhesions and scar tissue. (www.iahe.com)

Lymphatic Draining*: A specialized therapeutic method using a soft gentle touch to stimulate lymphatic movement. Assists in the circulation of lymph in removing excess fluids, toxins, and other substances from the body. Often used to support the immune system, help with sinus relief, and post surgical swelling. (www.iahe.com)

*For those with active Lymphedema or requiring CDT therapies, please refer to National Lymphedema Network to locate a Certified Lymphedema Therapist

Craniosacral: A gentle hands on method used in restoring and enhancing the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid in order to create optimum functioning of the central nervous system. Great for those suffering with migraine headaches, TMJD and those requiring non-circulatory massage.(www.upledger.com)

Oncology Massage: The adaptation of massage to safely nurture body, mind and spirit of anyone who is dealing with cancer. Cancer and cancer treatment create various complexities within the body. Skilled touch in dealing with the intricacy of this process can be most beneficial to the individual on this particular journey.

Reiki: an ancient Japanese form of light touch (hands on and/or off) therapy with the goal of improving the flow of life force energy. Used to help balance and align the body’s energy field. (www.reiki.org)