Today we’d like to introduce you to Abbey Touchette.
Abbey, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been practicing massage, really since I was a teenager. I was the go to person for family and friends when they needed a “fix me” massage. Growing up in a Christian home, and having a pastor for a grandfather, helping one another and loving each other as Jesus did is what he really focused on in his teachings and I guess I’ve always held on to that. I truly believe God has given everyone a gift, and I feel very blessed to have found my “calling” so to speak and started putting it to use in 2003. That is when my mom and a few of my friend’s really encouraged me to go back to school and I started attending Baker College, in Clinton Twp.Mi, where I would earn my associate’s degree in Therapeutic Massage. During My first semester my back went out and I could barely walk.( This used to happen a couple times a year, my l4 and l5 are naturally fused and has caused lower back issues since I was 12). My professor had me stay after class to see if she could give me some relief, and I was amazed when I got off the table, pain free! The immediate relief and what turned into lasting relief was more beneficial than the years I spent at the chiropractor. It was then when I knew I wanted to focus on medical massage and focus on pain management for orthopedic conditions. My first case study, which turned into my first client suffered from migraines due to a traumatic heady injury from a car accident. Within 4 months of weekly treatments, all migraines stopped and after 6 months she was taken off the medications she had been taking for nearly 2 years. I love doing all types of massages but my passion lies with folks who suffer from chronic pain and want to do pain management in a natural, effective way. My ideal client is the lady who just wants to brush her hair without her shoulder feeling like it’s going to break of if it raises any higher, or the fella who can finally bend over without that “catch” in his back since he got home from serving in Afghanistan. Neck problems, rotator cuff injuries, sciatic pain, and plantar fasciitis are just a few conditions I treat. And focusing on those kinds of needs really is how I got where I am today. I started my business here in Texas in 2012 by word of mouth home visits and offering free chair massages at nail spas, and Dr’s offices in the hopes of getting them to do a full massage and grew my base from there. My success relies on word of mouth and repeat clientele and it’s because of folks coming to me year after year and referring friends, family, and sometimes even strangers I’ve been able to be independent and provide the level of services at prices you can’t find anywhere else. Types of massages I offer are deep tissue, sports and neuromuscular therapy for pain management, as well as Swedish, hot stone, and prenatal massages for relaxation, and lymphatic massage for detoxing purposes and for post facial and body cosmetic procedures like Lipo and facelifts. I also offer detoxifying and hydrating scrubs and body wraps, at prices any budget can afford.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Ha- ha, well, we have 5 sons, 4 of them live at home, 7, 9 and 22 yr. old twins, with one of them having autism and cerebral palsy, and I’m self-employed, the roads are never smooth! My husband, my strongest supporter, stays home to take care of our special needs son, so the one income has been challenging at times. Finding professional people to work with and who respect your space has made for some uncomfortable conversations and exits, but when one door closes another opens and I’ve learned to roll with the punches.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a licensed massage therapist in the state of Texas. I specialize in neuromuscular therapy for people who suffer from chronic pain. I am known for my incredible low pricing considering the level of service and professionalism that I provide. I’m also known for my cupping services and Raindrop Therapy. I am most proud of the fact that I have been able to retain clients for years and that they keep sending people who have been struggling with pain and I’m able to help with that. What sets me apart is my pricing. My prices are set at bottom barrel, because I believe massage is a necessity and not a luxury, and everyone deserves an affordable massage no matter your economic status.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit Mi. with my mom, dad and younger brother. I was a very out spoken and friendly girl. Always wanted to be center of attention. We spent our summer and winter vacations on the west side of the state along Lake Michigan, where they have the most beautiful cross country ski trails in the winter, and gorgeous sunsets off the pier in the summers. I loved playing basketball and played center position all thru middle and high school and was in modern dance since I can remember. It was when I was 13 and started combining the two activities, when I started suffering from low back pain and started augmenting my activities. It was also when I spent more time in the chiropractors office and realized the deep pressure from the mechanical rollers were like a massage and I would imitate those motions when I would work on my friends or family.
Pricing:
- $59 60 min custom massage for First time clients
- $30 reflexology
- Spot treatment $25 (20 mins. focused on one problem area.
Contact Info:
- Address: 105 Houston Street
- Website: www.massageandbodyworksbyabbey.com
- Phone: 2817999626
- Facebook: Www.facebook.com/massage&bodysworksbyabbey
Image Credit:
Heather Burman
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
