Tour the Lounge

Welcome!  I spent over 20 years as a PT assistant in various orthopedic outpatient clinics.  Peers and clients have told me I bring a unique personal touch that cannot be taught.  ”Healer",  "gifted" and  someone they "trust",  are  just several descriptions.

While I served in the  USAF,  as a PT assistant,  I sustained severe injuries that ended my tour of active duty. After breaking many bones in my  lower legs and feet, I reluctantly yielded to a life of chronic pain and loss of recreational activities.  I endured multiple surgeries, but the relentless pain continued . Many health professionals did not seem to understand or acknowledge the chronic pain, limited mobility and depression that sets in when you lose your autonomy.   I  was told to live with it,  to rely on prescription medication,  and eventually,  face surgery again.

Fifteen years after the accident, I met my  mentor, Rich Pike, a Physical Therapist of 42 years who specializes in the management of chronic pain. Rich studied and co-treated with John Barnes, the father of MFR.  With his techniques, experience and education, I no longer needed to use a cane!  Guess  what?  For the first time in 15 years, my pain was no longer the first thing on  my mind!  I’m not  100%, but I’m 90 % better!  That's when I knew I needed to change my focus to helping people manage their chronic pain. I could no longer accept my clients having to hear,  from other medical professionals, "you just have to live with it" . 

Another aspect of chronic pain that is not addressed enough in the medical community is the negative influence of scars and fascial adhesions in your body. 

Scars from accidents and surgeries can change  your  alignment, limit your  function and prolong chronic pain.  As an LMT, I’m able to integrate these techniques into massage as appropriate. 

Originally from Evansville, IN, I've lived in Spokane for a total of 17 years. I’m  also a graduate of  Purdue University with  a  Bachelor’s degree in business. Later, through the USAF, I received my Associates in PT. I’m now an LMT, specializing in caring for people. 

As  a  Certified  Personal  Trainer,  I  can  teach  you  how  to  functionally  use  your  core  throughout  your  daily  activities.  Learning  how  to  effectively  use  your  core  can  help  prevent  falls,  maintain  proper  alignment ,  and  improve  strength  as  we  age.  

Glad you’re here! My name is Carla and I was brought to bodywork through my role at an outpatient pediatric clinic as an occupational therapy assistant. The techniques we used focus on the brain and body connection. I wanted to learn more, so I enrolled in Therapeutic Connections Massage School to further my knowledge and increase my ability to treat across the lifespan.  

I’ve treated individuals from 6 months to 96 years of age with varying goals and diagnoses. I'm so happy to be part of your self-care journey and I look forward to meeting you.