Serena Schneider Graduated in September 2018
Irene’s – When did you graduate from Irene’s massage school?
Serena – I graduated from Irene’s in September of 2018 and I’ve been massaging ever since!
Irene’s – Why did you choose massage therapy as a career?
Serena – I’ve always been drawn to helping others but I never knew how I wanted to achieve that. After receiving my first massage, which happened to be in Irene’s student clinic, I was amazed at how I felt mentally, physically, and energetically. I knew after that this was the way I could make a difference in someones’ life.
Irene’s – Where do you practice massage therapy?
Serena – I practice out of a shared office space called Pro Therapeutic Myomassology in Southfield, as well as in the comfort of my client’s homes.
Irene’s – What is the most rewarding part of your massage career?
Serena – The most rewarding part is definitely seeing the change in my client’s condition once they come out of the room. It is so validating knowing I created a change in a client’s mental and physical state.
Irene’s – Do you have a favorite memory from massage school?
Serena – Most of my favorite memories come from my hands-on class. We only had roughly 15 students in that class so we all became pretty close to each other. We would always have snacks and enjoy our break before massaging, talking, and eating together. My favorite was our very last day where we had a potluck and brought homemade food. It was so wonderful to share one final meal together before we all ventured out on our own.
Irene’s – What was the best class you took at Irene’s massage school?
Serena – It is so hard to pick just one class! My top two were definitely Hot Rocks with Randy and Foot Reflexology with Larissa. I took almost all of Larissa’s classes and loved every single one.
Irene’s – What bodywork modalities or massage techniques do you find most effective?
Serena – All bodies are different and require different modalities but I use trigger point therapy as well as some myofascial release in almost all of my massages. In my more therapeutic sessions, I do utilize a lot of muscle mechanics as well.
Irene’s – Where is the first place you worked after you graduated from massage school?
Serena – The first place I worked was at a spa called Much Kneaded in Farmington Hills. It has unfortunately since closed but it was a great learning experience for my first job right out of school.
Irene’s – What do you do for self-care to provide longevity for your massage career?
Serena – I like to practice yoga a few times a week and I try to receive a massage twice a month. I also use a variety of self-care tools like foam rollers and massage therapy balls.
Irene’s – To what do you attribute your success as a massage therapist?
Serena – The guidance and education I received at Irene’s were very well-rounded and set me up to thrive. As well as, how much care and attention I give to my clients the entire time I see them. During the initial intake to set our intentions and expectations for the session, during the massage by staying focused and intuitively listening to their body, and after providing self-care suggestions and making sure I met their session goals.
Irene’s – What do you feel was the biggest mistake you made as a massage therapist and how did you address it?
Serena – I feel like my biggest mistake was not advocating for myself and setting clear boundaries with the first couple of spas I worked for. It is so easy to overwork and burn yourself out and some employers will take more than you can give.
Irene’s – Do you have any advice for new massage therapists?
Serena – Make sure to set clear boundaries with employers and clients. As well as making sure to take care of your mental and physical health first. You have to take care of yourself before you are able to help your clients.
Irene’s – What is the best way for massage clients to contact you?
Serena – I can be reached by phone, email, or through social media (248)-955-5225, serenehandsmi@gmail.com Facebook – www.facebook.com/serenehandsmi Instagram – @serenehandsmi