About

I am Erskine Melville; known as E. to some, and EM to many. What is unique about me as a visually impaired licensed massage therapist, is that I rely on visceral feelings rather than my five senses. A lot of clients refer to me as intuitive or a healer. The truth is, if I had to explain what I do as a massage therapist, I really cannot other than to say it is a part of me like breathing. Visceral instinct along with years of experience are contributing factors to what my practice is today.

The idea of massage therapy was first introduced to me when an old girlfriend of mine said, you would make a great massage therapist. I never entertained the idea because I honestly felt that massage therapy was a woman’s job. A few years later, my mentor also felt that it was an excellent career path for me and was extremely disappointed with my initial decision not to become a massage therapist. It wasn’t until I was placed in an awkward position dependent on my family with no money to take care of my basic needs, quickly reawakened my survival instinct. My need for survival and independence, along with my old girlfriend and mentor greatly influenced my decision to pursue a career as a massage therapist. I am forever indebted to them. I then started my journey at the Swedish Institute of Health Sciences.

My journey at the Institute did not go by without challenges. When I started, the Institute was not very accommodating for students with visual disabilities. However, I was fortunate enough to have a great mentor who ensured I had access to everything I needed to succeed. Many of my classmates saw those accommodations as having an advantage. They did not consider that as a visually impaired student, my learning process was different – I had to learn everything through memorization – class notes, reading assignments, exams, and homework. But overall, my experience was great.

Throughout my journey as an Integrative Massage Therapist, I’ve encountered many obstacles and challenges, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I genuinely love what I do in spite of those obstacles and challenges. So in conclusion, I take nothing for granted, and celebrate all of the friendships, accomplishments, and victories I’ve gained along the way on my journey to become an Integrative Licensed Massage Therapist.

Click the link and let me know how I can help you! Also, check out some free resources on the free resource page to help you grow your business.