How Massage Therapists and Counselors Collaborate for Client Wellness
- Bryn Merida

- Nov 4
- 2 min read

I am passionately focused on holistic health care and the collaboration between massage therapists and counselors in a comprehensive approach to client well-being. I’ve earned my certification in the specialized technique of Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT) and am studying and working toward my certification in Polyvagal Theory. By working together with counselors, we can offer our clients another avenue to feel better.
Understanding MABT and Polyvagal Theory
Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT) focuses on enhancing clients' awareness of their internal bodily experiences. This technique encourages individuals to connect with their bodily sensations, which can lead to deeper emotional insights and healing.
Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, emphasizes the role of the vagus nerve in regulating emotional and physiological states. It highlights how understanding the body's autonomic nervous system can help individuals achieve better emotional regulation and resilience.
The Benefits of Collaboration
Comprehensive Care: By combining the expertise of massage therapists and counselors, clients receive a more holistic treatment plan. Massage therapists help clients become more attuned to their bodies, while counselors address the psychological aspects of their experiences.
Enhanced Emotional Awareness: Through MABT, clients develop skills to notice and interpret bodily sensations. Counselors can then facilitate discussions around these sensations, helping clients explore underlying emotions and psychological patterns.
Improved Stress Management: Massage therapists trained in Polyvagal Theory can use techniques that promote relaxation of the autonomic nervous system. Counselors can support this by helping clients understand their stress responses and develop coping strategies.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Collaboration allows for tailored treatment plans that consider both the physical and emotional dimensions of a client's health. This personalized approach can lead to more effective outcomes and greater client satisfaction.
Cross-disciplinary Learning: Working together provides opportunities for therapists and counselors to learn from each other’s fields, enriching their professional knowledge and improving their practice.
Work with Me to Offer Clients Full-Circle Benefits.
I would love to have a chat about how we can support each other in our respective practices. By working together we can offer clients a pathway to healing that honors both the mind and body. Let’s Chat!




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