About Me
Hello!
My name is Jessica Rossen. I have over 17 years of experience in the spa service industry. After obtaining 750 hours of educational training and passing the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage in 2009, I began my journey working as a Licensed Massage Therapist in Virginia. Since then I have maintained VA licensure requirements through continuing education courses and recently acquired my license for North Carolina as well. I am also professionally insured as a member of the American Massage Therapy Association.
My experience began working as an independent contractor at a chiropractic office, as well as, in a spa in Virginia Beach, VA. In 2010 I was offered a position as a full time Massage Therapist at Sumatra Salon and Spa in Town Center in VA Beach where I stayed for over 7 years learning the ins and outs of working and running a spa. In addition to providing therapeutic massage services I also maintained inventory, performed reception and clerical duties, and maintained proper scheduling for up to 3 therapist.
In 2013 Sumatra became an AVEDA Concepts salon where I was trained with specific AVEDA techniques using the AVEDA product line. I had the privilege of going to Washington DC for technical, hands on training. I took classes and became certified on Acupressure techniques, custom face/scalp and hand/foot rituals, and ayurvedic concepts. I was able to gain knowledge beyond my traditional education on how to utilize essential oil products for specific aliments to enhance a session, the benefits and effects of salt and sugar scrubs, and types of lotions and oils that would have the most benefit on each specific skin type. Knowledge I continue to use and build on in my practice today.
While pregnant with my first child in 2014 I continued to work as a therapist until I was 7 months pregnant and transitioned to the receptionist position until going on maternity leave. Being able to continue my practice through most of my pregnancy was a challenge and a blessing. Opening my eyes to how much pregnancy affects a woman's body and mind. Which, in turn, helped enhance my ability to connect with, empathize, and better treat the needs of my pregnant clients.
A year later, while still working part time at Sumatra Salon, I was lucky enough to began the next chapter of my career as a Massage Therapy Instructor at Centura College in VA Beach in late 2015. Being able to share the skills and educate others on my passion was an experience that will never leave me. Gaining insight into how others learn and reinforcing the need to encourage future therapists to not only massage their clients, but listen to them and their body's to provide lasting relief.
Mid 2020, with a heavy heart, I left my teaching position to give birth to my second child and focus on my family. Soon after having my daughter, my husband and I decided to make the move to Moyock, NC and purchased our home in early 2021. Wanting to continue my passion for providing wellness, I began the process of opening my very own business in the summer of 2022. Hiatus Massage is my new chapter and opportunity to share my knowledge and experience by bringing all the benefits of therapeutic massage straight to you. Giving you the convenience to take the time to unwind without even leaving the comfort of your home.
In all my time as a therapist I've been able to build my technical skills while creating rapport and trust with many of my clients, some regularly for years, simply by listening and providing customized sessions that addressed their specific needs. Throughout the years I have developed a specific style that combines swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point, hot/cold therapy, and energy work in each sessions. I begin by reviewing the needs/goals of each client for every session. Then I follow with an assessment of the body, both visually and by palpating, or feeling, what is happening in the soft tissues. Utilizing my knowledge of anatomy and my training in manual therapy I am able to identify abnormalities in the feel and structure of muscle tissue and take note of any restrictions/adhesions and/or dysfunction. I can then choose specific techniques that will facilitate the desired outcome for my clients.
The intrigue and awe I have for the human body and my nurturing nature has been my driving force for continuing my career as a Licensed Therapist. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to showcase my skill once again and bring relief and relaxation to you.