I studied massage therapy in Kaua’i Hawai’i with the founder of the school, Lee Joseph, at Pacific Center For Awareness and Bodywork. The school focuses on structurally oriented bodywork and Hakomi practices. The psycho-emotional-spiritual approach taught at PCAB greatly influences the work I do.

I completed a 2-years training in Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy with Anna Chitty and have taken training with Alyssa Gillespie, Hugh Milne , and Gail Wetzler. It continues to be one of my biggest excitements in the work I offer and a powerful tool in my practice.

I am a certified 4-Gateways Coach and was trained directly by 4-Gateways creator Tom Daly. The 4-Gateways model offers a unique possibility for self-awareness and change through its foundation in somatic psychology, rites of passage work and ancient healing traditions. I use this training in my bodywork sessions to invite all of the client’s insight into the room to support the deeper healing process.

As a certified birth and postpartum doula through The Matrona - Holistic Doula Program, Whapio’s training offers a family-centered, well rounded approach that incorporates evidence-based studies within a holistic and integrative lens. Whapio training requires a deep listening to the unique needs of each birthing person and doula services that are catered to the family specific requests. 

I have also taken training in pre and perinatal massage, lomi-lomi, visceral manipulation, thai yoga massage and sports massage. I draw on my own experience of embodiment through my meditation practice, running track, dance, yoga and deep love of the outdoors.

I received my Master’s in Somatic Psychology from Naropa University. As a highly regarded program and a pioneer in the field of somatic counseling, Naropa taught a wide range of somatic counseling techniques alongside cutting edge science, and all through a social justice lens.

I look forward to continuing my learning for a lifetime to come!