about me
This work is sacred to me because it produces real change through real contact.
I have been practicing massage therapy since 2010. I have also taught it, training new therapists in anatomy, technique, and the quieter discipline of showing up fully for another human being.
Over the years, I have worked with thousands of people navigating pain, burnout, and the slow disconnection that happens when the body is asked to carry too much for too long.
What experience has taught me is simple. Healing does not rush.
Touch - when it is skilled, attuned, and honest - can help the body reorganize itself toward wholeness.
Here in my private practice, all that comes to the table.
Clinical insight. Measured pacing. Deep respect for lived experience. And an unwavering belief that care should be effective, not performative.
This is independent, practitioner-led massage. I do not offer gimmicks or scripts. I offer presence, precision, and hands trained to listen and respond. I offer work that that meets you where you are and remembers where you hurt. Work that stays with the problem long enough to change it.
Massage is my craft.
Welcome to my table.
"When you touch one thing with great awareness, you touch everything."
-Lao Tzu
off the table...
from Mblex prep to practice success
Whether you’re studying for the MBLEx, stuck in the weeds of solo practice, or craving strategy that actually fits your life, I offer grounded, personalized guidance drawn from real-world experience.
Far more than generic coaching, I bring hands-on insight for massage therapists, by a massage therapist. I've taught students, trained staff, built a private practice from scratch, and made the mistakes so you don't have to.
You don't need more noise.
You need clarity, tools, and someone who gets it.
let's work the knots out —professionally.
Consultation services are listed under the 'Travel to Me' tab in the booking window.
Qualifications
EDUCATION
& academic achievements
LICENSES
& titles held
CERTIFICATIONS
& Accomplishments
COURSES
I've taught and/or written
A.A. Psychology, Darton College
B.A. Biological Anthropology, Univ. of South Florida
Massage Therapy Diploma, Sunstate Academy
Esthetician/Facial Specialist Diploma, Sunstate Academy
Florida:
Licensed Massage Therapist: MA61870 (inactive), licensed 2011
Licensed Facial Specialist: FB9761649 (inactive)
Oregon:
Licensed Massage Therapist: 26151 (Active)
Owner, David Holden LMT, 2015-present
Massage Therapy Instructor, Sunstate Academy (2015)
Massage Therapy Program Manager, Sunstate Academy (2018)
Dean of Academics, Sunstate Academy (2019)
Massage Therapy Instructor, Oregon School of Massage (2020)
Director of Education, Oregon School of Massage (2021)
Director of Education, Touchpoint Academy, Co-founder (2022)
Prenatal Massage
Myofascial Mobilization for Neck and Shoulder Girdle
Deep Tissue Thai
Orthopedic Massage for Cervical, Low Back, Hip Conditions
Neuromuscular Treatments for Cervical, Low Back, Hip Conditions
Reiki Master - Level 3
FAPSC Educator of the Year 2017-18
Mindful Teaching Pro Certified Educator
NESTA Certified Yoga Instructor
ABMP Professional Member 2011-present
Therapeutic Hot Stone
Sports Massage
Prenatal Massage
Orthopedic Assessment
Postural Assessment
Body Mechanics for LMTs
Social Media Marketing for LMTs