In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Becky Kuehn, founder of Oncology Spa Solutions, to delve into the field of oncology aesthetics. Becky, a licensed master aesthetician, shares her inspiring journey from her personal cancer diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate and educator in the field of oncology aesthetics. With over 40 hospitals now providing oncology-trained aesthetic services, Becky's vision of ensuring that every cancer patient receives compassionate care is becoming a reality.

Listeners will gain insight into the specialized training and skills required for aestheticians to provide safe and personalized spa treatments for clients undergoing cancer treatments. From managing medically reactive skin to the impact of touch and personalized care, Becky highlights the vital role played by oncology-trained aestheticians in enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Additionally, she shares her dream of universal access to supportive care for all individuals navigating cancer, regardless of their background or means.

Topics discussed:

More About Becky Kuehn

Visit Oncology Spa Solutions website to learn more

I started this journey in 1978 when I was diagnosed with cancer.  I will never forget the day I received the call from my doctor – the sense of fear was overwhelming, as I was faced with uncertainty about my future.

I noticed the way the nurses and staff cared for me and saw the impact it had on my husband and family as they traveled the journey with me.

A cancer diagnosis changes a person forever – forming me into the person I am today.  I found solace in God and my favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13 (I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me) in order to get through this part of my life’s journey.

I love to share with each class the life lessons I learned throughout my personal cancer experience and the things I’ve learned from the many clients whose lives have touched mine. We have the opportunity to use the talents and gifts that we as Spa professionals have, to care for those that are facing cancer.

I have been working with clients now since 2008 – while working both with and directing two local hospital programs and helping grads get into cancer centers or hospitals in their area.  I am so happy to share that we now have over 46 different locations in the US with oncology-trained Estheticians that are offering skincare and wig services to cancer patients.

I am so passionate about patient care and all the wonderful things that we as oncology-trained estheticians can do to help and assist in the healing process.  I will continue to learn and add more to the training as the industry moves and changes, you will have all the up-to-date and current information.  That way you can also become a valued and beneficial part of the circle of care.  I hope you join us in changing the world for a client going through the cancer journey.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

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Lymphedema can be a challenging condition to live with, and it's important for clinicians to help their clients access their inner wisdom and find a sense of peace. The following meditation, recommended by Kathleen Lisson, can help your clients feel more centered and calm when they come to your office for a massage or treatment.

By incorporating this simple meditation into your intake process, you can help your clients feel more relaxed and open to the healing power of massage. Remember that lymphedema can be a challenging condition, but with a little bit of self-compassion and kindness, your clients can learn to find peace and acceptance within themselves.

More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen ([email protected]) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (only valid during December 2023)

Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

Stress can be debilitating, and it's essential to find ways to manage it effectively. In this bonus episode, Kathleen Lisson, walks us through a breathing technique known as "five, five breathing." This technique will involve inhaling for five seconds and then exhaling for five seconds, repeated for a total of five breaths.

Practicing breathing techniques like the "five, five breathing" technique can help you reduce stress quickly. It's simple, easy, and requires no expensive equipment. You can practice this exercise anywhere and share it with your clients to foster a collective sense of relaxation. Start practicing conscious breathing techniques today and experience how they can transform your physical and mental well-being.

More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen ([email protected]) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (only valid during December 2023)

Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton is joined by guest Kathleen Lisson, a board-certified massage therapist, lymphedema therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor. Kathleen shares her insightful expertise on the impact of stress on chronic illness, focusing on guided meditation and stress reduction techniques for clients with lymphedema and cancer history. Together, they delve into the importance of treating the whole person, integrating massage therapy, and stress reduction practices for optimal care. Their conversation also touches on the distinctions between certified lymphedema therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, as well as addressing the differences between lymphedema and lipedema. With personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Kathleen Lisson and Ericka Clinton deliver an informative and inspiring discussion geared towards empowering healthcare providers in their support of clients with chronic illnesses.

Topics discussed:

More About Kathleen Lisson, LMD, CLT

Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction

Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema

Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/

Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail dot com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (S4OM Preferred praactitioners only, only valid during December 2023)

Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

ABOUT THIS EPISODE:

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton sits down with special guest Davonna Willis, founder of 419 Education and Training. Davonna shares her journey as a massage therapist and discusses her role in organizing the first-ever Black Massage Therapist conference, which took place in October 2023. They delve into the importance of creating a sense of community and support for black massage therapists, addressing issues such as discrimination and isolation. Join us as we explore the goals and vision behind this groundbreaking conference and how it aims to uplift and empower black massage therapists.

Topics discussed:

More About Davonna Willis

Learn more about the Black Massage Therapist Conference

419 Training and Education, www.blackmassagetherapist.com,

Follow @4nineteeneducation

As a respected health and wellness practitioner, an acclaimed entrepreneur, and educator, Davonna Willis is a passionate advocate for her clients and students. She has a masters in health education and bachelor’s in athletic training. Davonna has over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness field. Starting in the Bronx and moving her way west, Davonna is a well rounded business professional especially accomplished in the area of holistic physical rehabilitation therapy. As the Owner of two businesses, Blue Skyes Massage & Wellness Center and 4 Nineteen Education & Training, Davonna is committed to establishing and sustaining high quality standards of care in the industry.

As the leader of an award winning practice, Davonna is widely known as someone who cares deeply about client relationships and practitioner integrity. 4 Nineteen Education & Training is a nationally accredited CEU school for massage Therapist and Athletic trainers through the NCBTMB & BOC. Davonna facilitates a variety of massage curricula and also offers consulting on marketing and strategy to new business enterprises. Davonna is committed to the health and recovery of her clients and to the development of her colleagues and students. She is an advocate in elevating the way massage is perceived in society so that people fully recognize the power of healing in an expert’s human touch. She recently received a Certificate of Excellence from MT Banquets in. Davonna is Founder of the Black Massage Therapist Conference in which the inaugural event took place on October 14, 2023 in Charlotte, NC. Last, but not least she is a alumni of the Swedish Institute class 2003.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, we dive into the world of CBD and its potential health benefits. Our guest, Brock Freisen, Carpe Diem Rep, shares his journey of bringing high-quality CBD products to the market and collaborating with health professionals to spread awareness about the endocannabinoid system. We explore the personal experiences that led to the creation of Carpe Diem and the impact of CBD on chronic illness, physical discomfort, and joint pain. Join us as we discuss the therapeutic benefits of CBD, including its role in massage therapy and its potential to complement natural therapies like chiropractic work. We also touch on the difference between full spectrum and CBD isolate products and their implications for drug testing. Tune in to gain valuable insights on CBD, its applications, and the efforts made to make health accessible to all.

Topics discussed:

More About Brock Freisen and Carpe Diem

Vist Carpe Diem’s website

My name is Brock Friesen the Director of Sales and Education at Carpe Diem CBD. I have a business back ground with an exercise science sports studies addition. I have seen first hand how hemp or CBD have helped many people around me including myself. I believe health should not be a luxury and everyone should have access to quality products that empower them to Seize The Day!

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Carolyn Tague, a certified massage therapist in California. Carolyn joins us to share her experiences working in infusion centers within a hospital setting. We delve into how she got the opportunity to work in infusion centers, the focus of her work, and the benefits it brings to patients. Carolyn also touches on the importance of connection and the positive outcomes that can be achieved through oncology massage therapy.

Topics discussed:

More About Carlolyn Tague

RE: CIPN and Massage: Izgu, Nur et al. “Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy with Classical Massage in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Paclitaxel: An Assessor-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.” Eur J Oncol Nurs 40 (2019): 36–43. Web.

Website for Tague Consulting: http://www.tagueconsulting.com/default.html

Website for Osher, UCSF: https://osher.ucsf.edu/education/massage-therapy

Carolyn Tague is a California certified massage therapist and has been doing massage therapy in hospitals since 2006, including the UCSF Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, the UCSF Mt. Zion Infusion Center, California Pacific Medical Center, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, and Laguna Honda Hospital’s Pain and Healing Clinic. She specializes in massage therapy for patients with cancer, neurological challenges, and complex chronic pain. She is proficient in a range of massage modalities, including Swedish massage, craniosacral therapy, and somatic bodywork.

She is a preferred practitioner and member of the Educators Forum subcommittee with the Society for Oncology Massage, an international organization for massage therapists working in the field of oncology. She presents at many national conferences and teaches internationally, including in Japan and Mexico. Carolyn currently works at The Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of California, San Francisco where she has a clinic practice and is program manager and lead instructor of their year-long Hospital-based massage therapy fellowship program.

In addition, Ms. Tague is the founder of Tague Consulting, which offers education for massage therapists on working with medically complex clients and consultation with medical centers on developing or growing massage therapy services. Publications Ms. Tague co-authored with Gayle MacDonald the textbook “Hands in Healthcare: Massage Therapy for the Adult Hospital Patient” published by Handspring Publishing in 2021. Ms. Tague has published research and numerous articles that can be found in Massage Magazine, Journal for Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, and Global Advances in Health & Medicine.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In today's episode, we have a very special guest, Julie Olson, who will be sharing her experience and insights from the prestigious Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) Collaborative Connections event.

Julie takes us on her journey, starting from her early days as a massage therapist in the integrative medicine department at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut. She shares how her path led her to discover the Society for Oncology Massage and the transformative impact it had on her profession.

As we dive into the episode, Julie recounts attending her first in-person conference in 2018 and the amazing connections she made with like-minded individuals, like Xerlan Deery, who encouraged her to become a regional champ. She highlights the joy of networking and meeting new faces in the S4OM community, as well as the immense gratitude she feels towards the pioneers who laid the foundation for her work.

In this episode, we will also hear about Julie's experience at the recent Oncology Massage Healing Summit held in Minneapolis, in partnership with Northwestern Health Sciences University. She discusses the incredible energy and sense of community that filled the event, emphasizing the value of physical interaction and connection in fostering personal and professional growth.

Join us as we delve into Julie Olson's journey with S4OM and her inspiring experience at the Oncology Massage Healing Summit. It's a conversation that highlights the power of community, collaboration, and investing in oneself.

Topics discussed:

More About Julie Olson

For 21 years Julie has worked in the field of wellness and integrative medicine and believes that therapeutic massage is an integral part of balancing mind and body. Degreed in social work and aging studies, Julie is an alumna of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy and a professional member of the AMTA as well as a preferred practitioner/regional champion in Connecticut. Julie brings experience in infusion centers, hospital and community center settings.

Holistichealthoptionsllc.janeapp.com

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Collaborative Connections podcast, host Ericka Clinton welcomes Gayle MacDonald and Stacy Barden to discuss the S4OM Preferred Practitioner Grant Program.

Gayle and Stacy share their personal inspirations for the program, highlighting the importance of supporting community projects that offer massage to those who may not be able to afford it. They also discuss the potential impact of the program in communities and the role of funding in initiating these projects.

Tune in to learn more about this exciting grant program and how it supports S4OM Preferred Practitioners.

Topics discussed:

Resources:

Link to Grant Application

Learn more about the Grant Program

Contact Grant Program: [email protected]

More About Gayle MacDonald and Stacy Barden

Gayle MacDonald is a founding member of S4OM. She has been dedicated to oncology massage as an educator and therapist for 30 years.

Stacy Barden, BS, LMT, BCTMB specializes in the care of you. She graduated from University of Illinois. She has been a massage therapist since 1996 and graduated from the Chicago School of Massage Therapy. Her focus is in oncology massage therapy, manual lymphatic drainage therapy, relaxation massage therapy, therapeutic massage and vibrational sound therapy. She completed advanced certification program in oncology massage at the Peregrine Institute of Oncology Massage in Santa Fe, New Mexico. At PIOMT she studied Oncology Massage with Gayle MacDonald, MS, LMT, author of Medicine Hands, Massage Therapy for People with Cancer and Eastern medical massage with Dr. Sandy Canzone. Additionally she has studied with Tracy Walton, MS, LMT researcher, educator, and author of the pathology textbook, Medical Conditions and Massage Therapy: A Decision Tree Approach, Isabel Adkins of Oncology Massage Matters, instructor at the Massage Therapy Institute in Davis, California and Clinical Oncology Massage at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak Michigan. She completed her vibrational sound therapy certification/licensing with VSA. She uses therapeutic singing bowls to provide a deep relaxation. Stacy is state licensed in Wisconsin. She is a member of AMTA, Vibrational Sound Association, National Lymphedema Network, and Society for Oncology Massage. She has an Oncology Massage Specialty Certification and Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork from NCBTMB, She was the owner and lead therapist at Harmony Falls Massage Clinic in Woodstock, IL from 1996 until May 2020. She sold the business and moved to northern WI where she is presently practicing massage therapy at a physical therapy office and at a Salon/Spa. Stacy's unique style of massage blends techniques from Eastern and Western approaches. Each massage session is unique and designed to assist the client on their healing journey.

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Collaborative Connections podcast, host Ericka Clinton interviews Mary Aguilera-Titus, a licensed massage therapist and instructor who teaches oncology massage therapy to other therapists. Mary is also a charter member of the Society for Oncology Massage and currently serves as the head of the Education Committee.

In this captivating conversation, Mary and Ericka discuss the foundational courses of S4OM.They also delve into the various opportunities students have after completing these courses, emphasizing the significance of continuing education. Mary shares her experience teaching virtual courses and how they have increased accessibility to education, as well as discussing the instructor standards and the clear set of education standards that have been built in. Don't miss this insightful episode where Mary and Ericka uncover the exciting new initiatives S4OM is taking on in the world of oncology massage education.

Topics discussed:

More About Mary

Mary Aguilera-Titus, BA, LMT, CLT, BCTMB Since 2002, Mary has been a licensed massage therapist in both DC and MD and nationally certified by NCBTMB. Knowing that skilled touch can be a powerful support to people impacted by a diagnosis of cancer, Mary has focused much of her work in the field of oncology massage. From 2009-2019, Mary was part of the interdisciplinary team of the Palliative Care Service at Suburban Hospital, providing massage therapy and skilled touch to people in the inpatient setting. She also served as Lead Massage Therapist with the Integrative Medicine Service at Sibley Memorial Hospital until April 2020, working collaboratively with other health care providers to optimize health and wellness for patients in the outpatient setting. Mary was an instructor with Oncology Massage Education Associates, from 2015 – 2022, where she taught oncology massage therapy to other massage therapists. Starting in 2023 she expanded her business, Full Circle Health and Wellness LLC, to include educational opportunities. Her clinical practice in Bethesda, MD includes providing support to a wide variety of clients, including those wanting oncology massage therapy and manual lymph drainage (MLD).

To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org

Follow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!

Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)

Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videos

Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter

LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn