Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Ann Foster.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Melissa Ann Foster (aka Missy) is an ITEC Certified Reflexologist, Texas Licensed #MT042825 Massage Therapist, and North Carolina Licensed #17425. Currently mentoring massage therapists in my Brevard, NC, mountains, adding confidence to their new skill and embracing the start of a new career.
I had the opportunity to gain British qualifications from two schools with high standards for all of their students. Derwen Therapies and Montrose Centre of South Wales, United Kingdom, in June 2003, with 340 hours. The 500-hour schooling for massage therapy was obtained in Bryan,TX, through Healing Handz Massage Academy. After training hours had increased in the state of Texas, she was able to attain an additional 200 hours to add to her current 300 hours. Currently on my 23rd year of practicing with clients all over the globe; primarily in North Carolina and Texas, on a six-month basis.
My curiosity on finding a natural way of helping my family was the start for my health journey, ended up finding out more about myself and ways of helping in a gentler way. Being in the medical field in my early 20’s I realized the importance of natural alternatives as well as medical examinations. My journey has been a very joyful and eye opener on many levels.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Finding my niche was a struggle at first; I made sure to update my skills yearly with top providers in the industry, from Upledger, Barnes, Anita J. Shannon and Jill Burynski. I have to admit my therapeutic massages incorporate most of my modalities, especially Reflexology. Massage Medi cupping is the top asked modality due to the immediate relief on body structure.
We’ve been impressed with Missy’s Tender Touch Reflexology and Massage, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business practice has been involved in so many facets of the massage and reflexology industry. From Health Fairs at the Head Quarters on Cameron now Subsea 9, private practice in Austin County for 16 years. to living in the Blueridge Mountains of North Carolina. I am currently in the Blueridge Mountains of North Carolina practicing for a Elk Haven Wellness Center in Brevard. Clients come from nationwide and ask for my services when I am back in Texas. My private practice in Texas has allowed me to have strong clientele with repeated services. Thankfully my services are not an ala carte, if the body needs a certain modality I ask for permission from client and then we proceed as needed.
I am proud to say that due to my view on ethics and the true nature of body work, I can walk away feeling inspired. Every Client is different and not the same in any shape or form. My favorite saying from a Cowboy client in Austin County is now my motto: “You will never work a day in your life if you enjoy what you do!” It’s true if you enjoy what you do you find joy in every aspect. I am now transitioning into mentorship and encourage those that would like to ground themselves and find confidence in their new skill to come to North Carolina and take a hike with me and learn to embrace their true self. My 23 years of practice has taught me so many lessons; so many lessons to share and avoid.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I have learned never to judge a book by its cover or what they say on their advertisement. Being an empath has truly been my advantage. Always stick to the gut feeling on every adventure, job, and interview. Never be afraid to speak your truth with respect on things being done in the workforce unethically; you have earned your license and now it is your responsibility to keep it! Learn to embrace your limitations and network to others that are more capable than your abilities.
Pricing:
- $175 2 Hour Mentoring Session
- $350 2 Day (4 hour Mentoring Session each day)
- $550 (5 Hour Mentoring Session) in USA required 5 therapist to make class
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.missystendertouch.com
- Instagram: missystendertouch
Image Credits
Sofia van der Dys
Photograpy
