I came to massage therapy in 1987 as a person concerned about the lack of touch that people with AIDS were experiencing in the early days of the epidemic. I was certified in 1987 and worked with people who were affected by the disease. After practicing for a few years, and seeing so many people die, I reached a point of exhaustion and stopped practicing massage. In the ensuing years I pursued a career as an educator.

I’ve returned to the field of massage with a renewed focus and a renewed certification. My current work focusses on specific issues and utilizes deep tissue techniques, myofascial opening, stretching, and joint mobilization to achieve the goals of a session.

Trained in the following techniques; Swedish, clinical massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, stretching and mobilization, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point release, pre-natal, and lymphatic massage, I offer a firm, confident, nurturing touch with a focus on pain reduction and increased range of motion. The most rewarding work comes from looking at specific issues and working with the client to find ways to problem solve. Sessions that involve assessing posture, work habits, recreational activities and holding patterns, as well as clear communication and feedback from clients can be of great benefit.

I'm available days, early evenings and weekends. I also do out calls. Feel free to e-mail me from this site or directly to or call………

A strong belief in the importance of physical and emotional health led me to practicing massage. As an avid outdoorsman and a very physically active person, I know what it is to feel the stress, tension and pain from working, playing and living a rich, full life.

I spent many years as an educator, both outdoors (Colorado Outward Bound School) and in the classrrom (4th, 5th and 6th grade). Solid evironmental ethics and a committment to the natural world remain central to my core values. I still spend time outdoors, hiking, mt biking, trail running, and sea kayaking.

A variety of different jobs: working at a spa doing massage, substitute teaching, driving for Lyft, Guiding for a sea kayaking company at Point Reyes, keep me plugged into various communities and allow me to enjoy life on many levels.

MEMBERSHIPS AND CERTIFICATIONS

CAMTC - Massage Therapist Certification # 16644

ABMP member

EDUCATION

San Francisco School of Massage, SF, CA Certified Massage Therapist: 500 hours of training in: Swedish massage, clinical massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, stretching and mobilization, pregnancy massage, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point release and lymphatic massage

New College of California, San Francisco, CA Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Prescott College, Prescott, AZ Bachelor's Degree: Education/Counseling

The Body Electric School of Massage, Oakland, CA Certified Massage Therapist: 100 hours of training in Swedish, 80 hours training in Shiatsu

John Donohie

Swedish Massage