Kimyetta (Kim) Brown Graduated in May 2022
Irene’s – Why did you choose massage therapy as a career?
Kim – I’m a Licensed Practical Nurse and I choose Massage School because I was looking for a new career path.
Irene’s – Where do you practice massage therapy?
Kim – I currently practice massage out of my home. I’m working as an Independent Contractor, and I participate in events around the city. I’ve currently done a lot of work with other fellow Irene Alumni.
Irene’s – What is the most rewarding part of your massage career?
Kim – So far, the most rewarding part of my massage career is making my own hours and coming out of my comfort zone. Networking with fellow Alumni Graduates has been a lot of fun. Doing massage events around the city is what I love the most. I get to choose which jobs I’ll take, and I have fun doing it as well.
Irene’s – Do you have a favorite memory from massage school?
Kim – I have so many fond memories of school. Bil Bitz was the best. I’m hearing impaired and although all the instructors accommodated me Bil is the instructor who stood out the most and went out of his way to make sure I heard everything that was going on. I had night classes so the massages we received at the end of the night were amazing. There were times I didn’t think I’d make it through the program. I was still working my Nursing job during the day, and I’d be so tired, but the instructors all wanted us to succeed, and they really pushed us and encouraged us to do our best
Irene’s – What was the best class you took at Irene’s massage school?
Kim – I’d say the best classes I took were Sound Vibration and Chakra clearing with Lisa. She is amazing.
Irene’s – What bodywork modalities or massage techniques do you find most effective?
Kim – I found all aspects of massage to be important. While I had a hard time learning trigger point therapy in school, I now understand how important it is. Now that I’m on my own I specialize in relaxation and sound energy healing.
Irene’s – What was your greatest success with a massage client?
Kim – My greatest success with my clients so far is when they don’t want to get up from the table. ☺️
Irene’s – Where is the first place you worked after you graduated from massage school or how did you get started on your path?
Kim – I didn’t go the traditional route of working in a spa although I have picked up jobs in various Chiropractic offices where there was a need. I set up shop right away in my home and I participate in events around the city and network with fellow therapists who may need help. I currently still work my Nursing job during the day as of current.
Irene’s – What do you do for self-care to provide longevity for your massage career?
Kim – I get regular massages for self-care to keep my body healthy. I’m also in the process of learning yoga to eventually teach it myself. I meditate daily to keep my energy flowing.
Irene’s – To what do you attribute your success as a massage therapist?
Kim – I had good home base support. My boyfriend was my biggest cheerleader. Along with the amazing instructors, he pushed me when I wanted to give up, and believe me, I had plenty of days I felt like giving up.
Irene’s – What marketing do you feel has worked best to promote your massage practice?
Kim – So far, I believe Instagram to be the best marketing that has worked for me, and definitely a lot of word of mouth. I network a lot with other therapists. I record a lot of my work and post it on Facebook. I make flyers and business cards. And I buy t-shirts with my logo so whenever I’m out I’m always advertising. Along with the massage decal on my vehicle, I believe all these things help to stay in the public eye.
Irene’s – What do you feel was the biggest mistake you made as a massage therapist and how did you address it?
Kim – Probably for me the biggest mistake is not working in a spa. You get more clientele that way. But because I’m also a Nurse that isn’t an option for me right now. So, I work very hard at marketing myself as an Independent Contractor. It’s hard work building a clientele that way but eventually, I believe it’ll pay off for me. You have to do what’s right for you.
Irene’s – Do you have any advice for new massage therapists?
Kim – Massage School was hard. Very hard. The Mblex was even harder. So, take advantage of all the study material that’s at your disposal but don’t give up. Take a break from studying to give your brain a break. I completed Massage School with a hearing deficit while working full-time at my Nursing job during the day. It’s hard but doable. The reward at the end is amazing. I know I made the right decision.
Irene’s – What is the best way for massage clients to contact you?
Kim – I can be reached at 248 636 8421 (text is best). I’m also on Facebook as Kim Brown and on Instagram as “The Massage Girl”.
Irene’s Myomassology Institute is a nationally accredited massage therapy school located in Southfield, Michigan. Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for qualified students to help them pay school tuition. Students graduate with a state license prepared for a successful career as massage therapists. For more information call 248-350-1400 or visit Irenes.edu.