Meet Dena

My pup and I are recent Vermont transplants and have absolutely fallen in love with this state—even the winters. Well, he is still getting used to the snow, but to be fair, he’s from Texas.

My journey to massage therapy began as a client seeking relief from chronic stress and pain. After careers in education, labor, and social services, I found massage therapy to be a meaningful way to continue serving my community.

The experience I have gained supporting individuals living with PTSD, depression, and grief taught me the profound impact that compassionate touch can have on the nervous system and how our bodies experience and process pain. This is one of the reasons why I approach every session with safety, respect, and compassion at the forefront. And why I’m continuing my education in both trauma-informed care and restorative practices.

Studying in New Zealand, South Korea, Morocco, and Southeast Asia gave me a deeper appreciation for how culture influences our understanding of wellness. Those experiences reinforced my belief that effective bodywork is about more than technique—it also requires presence, trust, and connection. Each session is individualized because everyone I see is unique and in a different place on their wellness journey.

Currently, I’m enrolled at Wellness Massage Center and Institute in St. Albans. My massage training has also given me the opportunity to study a wide range of techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, and deep feet. With plans to add Shiatsu and Thai massage to the list of services I can provide by the end of Fall. I’m incredibly grateful that these opportunities have allowed me to develop a truly integrative approach to how I practice as a massage therapist.

My practice is built on creating a welcoming, inclusive space where every client feels respected, heard, and comfortable being themselves. I especially enjoy working with healthcare professionals, educators, caregivers, and others whose work focuses on caring for others. After more than a decade in education and social services, I understand the physical and emotional demands these roles can bring and am passionate about helping people find relief, restore balance, and prioritize their own well-being. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, navigating stress, or simply reconnecting with yourself, my goal is to help you feel your best—in mind, body, and spirit.