Please call me Lisa. I have spent the last 25 years crafting my skills for this moment! I started my career as a massage therapist, but quickly realized there was so much more education necessary to be able to truly help people. Inspired by my dad, who suggested I be a physical therapist, or a nun…. I chose PT school at the University of Washington. I have a Physical Therapy degree from UW, and my doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from the University of South Dakota.
The many years of clinical work as a Physical Therapist had me constantly seeking knowledge about what really helps people in pain, how to facilitate change, and how to empower people toward their own recovery. I continue to study and learn my craft daily. That’s why they call it “a practice”. The more I have learned, the clearer it has become, that mind and body are intimately connected and need wholistic treatment to achieve the best results. I am a certified cancer rehab professional (less than 5% of therapists have this training), and have worked directly with some of the best oncologists in Pierce County. I am also trained in lymphedema treatment, pain neuroscience, mindfulness meditation, EFT tapping, functional nutrition for chronic pain, yoga, positive psychology, motivational interviewing and so much more.
I consider what I do very much a collaboration with you. It’s all about you. I want to know your story, what makes you happy, sad, inspired, scared, all of it. The most important thing I can do is be quiet and listen to you. I consider it an honor that you let me walk beside you through your recovery.
During my doctorate degree I was exposed to a lot of new research about the benefits of Physical Therapy for people with cancer. I was hooked! Like many people, cancer has deeply impacted my family. I walked this journey with a parent, grandparents, and more. So, my desire to serve you is heartfelt and genuine. And the best thing is, it WORKS! The benefits of cancer rehab are enormous. I have seen the most tremendous changes and improvements in people’s lives with personalized cancer rehab. These improvements are by far greater than I ever saw in other settings. Nothing I have ever done before has been as impactful in clients lives. And ALL of them have said, “I wish I had known this was available in the beginning when I was first diagnosed”. Check out the testimonials .
On a more personal note, I love to connect with people on a real level. I hate small talk and superficial BS. If you make me laugh, we are friends for life! I love everything about being in nature. Hiking, paddle boarding, fishing, scuba diving, cold dips in the Puget Sound, and warm swims with dolphins in Maui. I have bungee jumped in New Zealand, and sky dived with my 82-year-old father-in-law (his idea). You are likely to see me walking with my husband Eric, and my #1 dog Brix, at Point Ruston or in the park at Point Defiance. If you see us, please say hello. I love to eat; therefore, I also love to cook, and I love the Proctor Farmers market. I have such appreciation for the farmers that grow the food that nourishes us. I love to read about all kinds of topics, and usually have 3 or more different books going at the same time. I’m a true introvert, but can wear an extrovert hat when needed. I meditate daily, as it is the single most beneficial habit I have ever added to my life. If you think stress or anxiety is an issue in your life, we should talk. Teaching people how to bring more peace and calm into their lives is my favorite.
I am originally a Maine girl. Born and raised. I moved to Seattle in 1989, right after college (university of Maine), and shortly after my dad passed. The lesson from his passing….. life is short, lean in and be brave. So, I summoned the courage and packed everything I owned into a little 1982 Honda Civic, and with an adventurous friend, drove across the country, with a AAA road atlas, and a case of Costco blueberry muffins. Seattle bound. I didn’t know anyone, I didn’t have a job, or a place to live. My manifest destiny. To this day, it’s one of the best decisions of my life. I still get back to Maine often as my Mom, brother, and lots of extended family live there. It’s still “home” in many ways. Go RedSox!!! But I don’t miss shoveling snow, through their never-ending Winters. I now have a little PNW moss between my toes and plan to keep it that way.
For many years I followed my husband’s military career, but he is now thankfully retired. So here I am, running my own business, trying to lean in and be brave again. All the best things have happened when I listen to my heart and leap. It’s a grand adventure, life. “Feel the fear, and do it anyway,” that’s my motto. Or one of them at least. I have gestated and given birth to Reach Cancer Rehab and Wellness. I’ve carried her in my heart a long time. She is more beautiful than I ever imagined. REACH is a welcoming place for ALL.
My heart’s desire is to serve you, to support you to live the life you deserve, the best life possible, after cancer diagnosis. You have nothing to lose. If you have read this far, my promise to you is a money back guarantee on your first visit. If you don’t find our visit truly valuable, if you don’t think I am the right person to help you, then the visit is free, no questions. And if we are not a perfect fit, no problem, we can still be friends. I mean it. Have you seen that offer anywhere in healthcare? Nope! Will your doctor, dentist, chiropractor or massage therapist give you a money back guarantee? Never. I think it’s time healthcare was more accountable. I feel so extremely confident that I can help you, that this is an easy offer for me. What have you got to lose? Call or email me now to get your first visit on the schedule! Let’s help you start feeling better today. Head on over to the “Services” tab to learn more about all the ways REACH can help you.
Lastly, I must thank my husband for his unwavering belief in me. His steadfast support and love, allow me to share my gifts with you. He is always my best “yes” in life. And to my family and friends, thanks for your support and belief in me. It keeps me pushing to do better, be better. I would be no where without all of you.
Peace and Love,
Lisa
