Essie Hicks is an award-winning massage therapist and educator with over 25 years of experience in health and wellness. In 2025, she earned a Silver Medal in Sports Massage at the Pacific Northwest Massage Championship.

She is a proud member of the American Massage Therapy Association, Associated Massage and Bodywork Professionals, and the International Association of Structural Integrators. She serves as an elected board member of the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education. Essie is also an NCBTMB-approved provider and NY state-approved instructor, teaching since 2000 after completing her apprenticeship at the Alexandar School of Natural Therapeutics.

Her teaching experience includes, pregnancy massage, clinical sports massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, spa modalities, and manual lymphatic drainage. She has also served on the Washington State Sports Massage Team, trained in martial arts, and volunteered teaching women’s self-defense.

Beyond teaching, Essie has consulted for spas ranging from boutique to destination, supported nonprofits with retreats and trainings, and continues to specialize in treatment of neck, back, and sports injuries, including work with military personnel and accident recovery.

With decades of hands-on practice, teaching, leadership, and consulting, Essie brings students a wealth of practical knowledge and inspiration.

Read more about Essie’s community work in Thurston Talk.

My Teaching Approach

Learning Together
Information becomes knowledge through practice, discussion, and guidance. My goal is to create a learning environment where every student feels safe, supported, and encouraged to participate.

Inclusive & Respectful Space

• Everyone is welcome to show up as their authentic self.

• I respect all learning styles and neurodiversity.

• I use gender-neutral and appropriate pronouns, and I welcome feedback if I miss the mark.

• Cultural sensitivity and kindness guide my teaching.

Classroom Atmosphere

• Small class sizes (10–12 students) for personalized attention. Teacher’s aids are added if class sizes are more than 12.

• Comfortable and flexible environment—you are free to move, fidget, or stand as long as others are not disturbed.

• Conversations are lighthearted yet professional—I aim for an engaging, not boring, classroom.

Participation & Consent

• You are never required to speak; saying “pass” is always fine.

• Being a body model is voluntary. I always ask for consent and check in during demonstrations. You can change your mind at any time.

• Receiving bodywork is encouraged—experiencing techniques firsthand helps you grow as a practitioner.

Teaching Style

• Practical, evidence-based, and directly applicable to your massage practice.

• Clear, everyday language—always within scope of massage therapy.

• Questions are welcome; there are no “dumb” questions.

• I provide references, research, and resources for the techniques I teach. If the topic is more esoteric, I’ll be transparent about that.

• I tell stories to aid memory but do not rely on anecdotes as proof.

Structure & Resources

• Classes begin with introductions—just a brief way to connect with peers.

• Group discussions are encouraged; the classroom is a “brain trust” where peers can learn from each other.

• Workbooks, handouts, and updated video links are included for continued learning.

• Minimal PowerPoint or board writing—I prioritize demonstrations, hands-on practice, and discussion.

Your Experience Matters
I want you to leave each class confident, equipped with skills you can use immediately, and supported by a community of peers. I’ll meet you where you are, and together we’ll make learning both meaningful and enjoyable.

• ZenBodytherapy ® ZenTriggerpoint Anatomy ® ~ Structural Integration 10 session work, and TriggerPoint Myofascial Release

• Craniosacral Therapy: Upledger | Biodynamic and Visionary

• Clinical and Medical Massage | Orthopedic Massage

• Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage

• Neuromuscular Therapy

• Advanced Clinical Sports Massage

• Aromatherapy and AromaPoint®

• Accupressure and Shiatsu

• Hydrotherapy & Spa Modalities

• Relaxation therapies including energy work, touch therapy and meditation

• Forest and Nature Therapy

• Akido, Yoga and Qi Gong