Thanks to her passion and ambition, Kerri Wagensveld’s career as a massage therapist has progressed very quickly. When she graduated from Vicars in 2014, she already knew that she wanted to specialize in sport massage. She is now a Canadian Sport Massage Therapist Association certification candidate and practices alongside renowned Canadian sport massage therapist Kip Petch and several fellow Vicars grads at the Active Life Centre in St Albert. She also teaches at the Vicars Edmonton campus.
Why did you choose massage therapy as a career?
I initially chose this career because I loved receiving massage and providing massage. I knew the benefits were there, and wanted to pursue this. I love sports and knew I would thoroughly enjoy a career in this field. Being able to assist this way is truly an honour and a privilege.
What do you enjoy about being an RMT?
Being able to assist athletes and clients with maintenance or recovery in their sport or at work or home, and providing self-care “tools” that will help them maximize their efforts to meet and exceed their goals.
What are you most proud of in your career so far?
I’m proud that people come back to see me and that they are continually reaching out for advice on what they’re dealing with. I’m also so honored when people trust me to receive their first professional massage and leave feeling happy they came.
What self-care practices do you use to keep fit and healthy for your career?
I work out and run. Making sure I stay very mobile and strong enough to withstand the physical demands of massage therapy. I also ensure that I go for massage at least once per month.
What sets you apart from other RMTs?
Intentionally staying engaged with my work and trying to give each client a treatment that is unique and suitable for them. I love the work I’m in, and clients notice this. They want someone that doesn’t just give them the same routine massage that every other client receives.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career in massage?
I’d tell them to talk to other practicing RMTs and to go visit a school to learn about the program and to view the curriculum. Write down your reasons for being interested as well as your expectations of the schooling experience and your career after graduation. Then compare it to what you learned from therapists and schools.
To learn more about Kerri and to book an appointment at the Active Life Centre, check out their website.
The Vicars Grads at Work blog series shines the spotlight on MH Vicars School alumni through short profiles and extended features. If you or someone you know would like to be featured on our blog, please contact Robin Collum.
