My name is Tess Falk. I am the owner of @ Peace Massage & Bodywork in Winter Park, Florida. I am a very proud graduate of the Central Florida School of Massage Therapy. I graduated in August 2010 from the night program, which forever changed the course of my life.
Prior to living my dream, I worked as a manager for Starbucks. I learned so much about customer service and business from this job, which set me up perfectly to create my own company. I have always loved working with and helping people, but I didn't feel fulfilled. I knew something was missing.
My husband, who is also an LMT and my business partner, encouraged me, at the time, to look into the massage field. I toured several campuses in the Orlando area and easily decided on Central Florida School of Massage Therapy. The first person I met was Lindsay Manz. Lindsay makes the entire process so easy. She answered all of my questions and dealt with all of my concerns all-in-one tour. I felt super supported from the minute I walked in. I was thrilled to learn that this School offers a day and night program. This allowed me to continue to work my full-time job at Starbucks while getting this valuable education.
The night program is broken up into two semesters. This really allowed for the perfect learning environment for me. In the first semester we really broke down the fundamentals of the body, the science behind what we're doing, and basic massage. This semester was book heavy but with plenty of hands on fun to keep you focused. Second semester was a blast. We began to delve deeper into more modalities and more in-depth pathologies and contraindications. We also went through student clinic in the second semester which really gives you an idea of what working in the field will be like. I really enjoyed the clinic because it helped me to put all of the things I was learning together.
At the very beginning of my program I got into a car accident. I was left with herniated discs in my neck. I was experiencing chronic nerve pain constantly. All of my teachers and classmates were fabulous. I not only was supported through my education, but also through my injury. I was able to learn so much more about what was going on with me physically and it allowed other students to learn and grow as well. I wasn't sure I would physically ever be able to practice massage, but the education and support I received around this injury was so helpful that it actually made me a better therapist in the long run.
After I graduated I easily passed my board exams. Central Florida school of Massage Therapy not only prepares you for the actual field, but for the board exam beautifully.
After completing my boards I worked for a resort spa, a day spa, and a chiropractor. All for short periods of time, and all very valuable experiences. I easily discovered that working for myself would be the best option for me. That is one of the best things about this field there is a spot for everyone.
I love what I do, I am proud to have the business I have, and I am successful and happy. If not for the wonderful people and the superb education of Central Florida school of Massage Therapy I would not be living my dream.
--Tess F.