Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Binkley.
Hi Susan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My career as a massage therapist began over 30 years ago. I was working as a day-care assistant and I oversaw a class of about 20 two-three year old children. Anyone with a 2-3 year old can attest that they can be a real handful!
One day, at nap time, my co-worker went to lunch and left me with all the kids. When she returned she found them all sound asleep on their cots. She asked me how on Earth I managed that. I told her, ‘Well, I just put on some soothing music and I rubbed their backs.” She said, “Wow! Well then you should be a massage therapist with that magic touch!”
I thought that sounded like a pretty good idea! So I went to massage school and never looked back. That was over 30 years ago.
Over time, I became a massage instructor which I did for over a decade; while also operating a small business part-time in Detroit, Michigan where I was born and raised.
When the auto-industry failed things got pretty shaky in Detroit. My daughter needed a ride to college in Austin, Tx. So off we went. Like so many before me, I absolutely fell in love with the place, so I took a leap of faith packed up my life and moved here.
I had no clientele per say, so I worked at a popular Austin Spa for another 10 years.
It was convenient and the clients were readily provided. I reached a point where it all started feeling very much like a factory and the true art of what I did was missing. I realized that deep in my soul, I really missed having my own business.
So, once again I jumped off the ‘safe’ cliff and I opened Blissful Escape Massage in Round Rock, TX.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The greatest obstacle I have had to face in my career has been working to establish massage as a both an art and a medicinal and necessary health and wellness modality rather than a luxury or a self-indulgence.
Over time, people have really been catching on to how massage therapy can enhance their wellness and relieve chronic pain, as well as boost overall health and provide a sense of general well being! It’s been exhilarating to watch as the trend changes and knowledge of the many benefits of massage improves.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an intuitive therapist, and I really listen to my clients. I take pride in quality over quantity by not rushing through to get to the next client who is all ready in the lobby before the current client is even off the table, as you often see in the Corporate models of business.
I am super proud to hold the prestigious title of Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB) as well as holding a Texas license to practice.
I enjoy and am fully trained in all the styles of massage, from deep tissue work, lymphatic work, Swedish, Lomi- Lomi, and range of motion techniques as well as many others.
A benefit of having so much experience is definitely the vast knowledge and training in numerous massage techniques I have acquired over time. I am passionate about creating a customized session for every individual by blending those techniques and skills and applying them as needed to address my clients specific concerns. I genuinely CARE about my clients, and I aim to provide a service that will elevate people’s expectations of massage forever!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I’ve been blessed to have had many mentors in my career. Fellow teachers, talented co-workers, and even bosses who have graciously given me advice and guidance along the way. I will always be grateful to those who have guided my path.
I also truly believe that you can learn something from every person you meet, if you listen to them and invest in their point of view.
I’m kind of an introvert, so networking is not really my strongest attribute! However, providing above standard treatments to everyone I work with has led to many referrals and that has been the best assest to growth for me so far.
I warmly welcome new clients and look forward to each and every session.
Pricing:
- 60 Minute Integrated Massage $110
- 90 Minute Integrated Massage $130
- 120 Minute Integrated Massage $180
- Packages and Monthly Specials at various prices.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blissfulescapemassage.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanatblissfulescape
