ALISA POPOVA, LMHCA, LMT, RYT

My lifelong curiosity for the mystery of the body, and a passion for health and well-being led me to attend Cortiva Institute of Massage Therapy, after receiving a Bachelor's degree with a major in Dance from the UW. I graduated Cortiva in 2014. A year later I completed a yoga teacher training at Richmond Beach Yoga. Most recently I completed the third level of Reiki energy healing, and now I am.... a Reiki Master. Sounds fancy doesn't it? Hehe. Don't be fooled, I am still but a humble student of Reiki. :)

​

My goal in my bodywork sessions is to create change in the structure, leading to greater ease of movement, while at the same time soothing the nervous system. To achieve this I work using Myofascial Release, Sports massage and Swedish relaxation techniques. Each of my sessions relies on a client centered approach, because I believe we are a whole new person on each new day and I want to meet folks where they are at as much as possible without assuming they are the same as last time.

​

I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients with different needs, including athletes, dancers, folks with injuries and pain, folks who are passionate about their mind-body-spirit integration, and those who just love taking care of themselves.  I am always honored to work with those who are newer to massage therapy and maybe feel a little unsure about it. I work from a trauma-informed lens and take great care to collaborate and communicate with my clients to ensure they feel safe and at ease at all times.

​

When I am not working, I am most likely practicing dance improvisation for body, mind and soul. I also practice Taiji, and, though less often, engage in weightlifting, running trails, and choreographing performance and dance works. Recently I have developed a passion for pilates, and it is helping me become a stronger and more efficient mover. In the past I have indulged in gyrokinesis and gyrotonics and cannot wait to dive back in. I highly recommend all of the above movement modalities to everyone! (See Erica Badgeley at the Seattle Changing Room for gyrotonics!)

​

Most recently I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Bastyr University, and am setting up to work in private practice with a supervisor. Stay tuned for more info about my therapeutic approach to mental health!

​

​

And meanwhile, reach out! I look forward to meeting you.

​

- Alisa