Make
a Difference in Someone's By:
Kristin Snellback David
Ho of Waipahu recently took a mid-life career turn and began training as a
massage therapist. He began an internship with Massage Professionals, a
full-service therapeutic clinic in Kailua with a desire to help others and
six months of training. Ho continues to receive advanced massage training
in the evenings and on weekends while completing his internship. Intern
massage therapists are unpaid, and as a critical part of their on- going
training they provide massage therapy to the public at a special reduced
rate. The valuable feedback from their clients plays an integral part in
their overall training. Ho explained, Even though we are well trained
and very prepared prior to entering the clinic it was challenging in the
beginning, this is the real world, real people with real challenges, not
just my classmates. However, after a short time (at the clinic) I began to
find my rhythm. Ho
said he learned the value of building a trusting relationship with his
clients. A great percentage of my clients have returned for further
sessions. I feel invested in offering comfort and assisting the healing
process. In
a typical School of Massage Therapy clinic there are several intern
therapists at different stages of training and clinical experience. All
interns are proficient in therapeutic massage, and many have begun to
assist their clients in finding resolution for specific areas of
discomfort. Often a client will discover a future massage therapist while
they are in their internship, and they will then continue as a client once
the student becomes licensed. Ho
credits his success in the clinic to his instructors. He believes they
gave him the specifics he needed in class, and the opportunity to gain
personal confidence as a therapist. I was able to apply what I learned
in class with my clients in the clinic. I saw the results immediately. The
best part of giving a massage is seeing the happy faces after our session.
It is very gratifying to be able to contribute, said Ho. Ho
knows that it will soon be time for the next level graduation and
state boards. As my time as an intern therapist is coming to an end I
feel a little bit sad. I have so enjoyed sharing with the staff, my
clients and fellow students. It has been a great opportunity to learn in
this environment. |