Welcome! I am Catherine Poland, a dedicated and experienced Neuromuscular Massage Therapist. My journey in the field of Sports Medicine began in high school, where I first discovered my passion while working with fellow students as a sophomore. I pursued a degree in Kinesiology at Cabrillo College with the intention of becoming an Athletic Trainer. However, a significant life event redirected my path toward massage therapy—a decision I'm grateful for every day.
I completed approximately 900 hours of training at the San Jose branch of the National Holistic Institute College of Massage Therapy, where I studied various modalities in both Western and Eastern Medicine, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage, as well as acupressure, Thai massage, and hot stone therapies. My educational journey continued with an advanced neuromuscular course, adding an additional 500 hours of training focused on Neuromuscular and Trigger Point Massage.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, from high school athletes at Harbor High, Santa Cruz High, and Soquel High to college athletes at Cabrillo College, minor league teams such as the Santa Cruz Warriors and San Jose Barracuda, and even professional sports teams like the San Jose Sharks. Two memorable highlights in my experience has been working with the music group Depeche Mode, as well as having the opportunity to provide therapeutic services to the circus community through Cirque, Tumble, and Cheer.
My personal experiences, including a severe car accident that left me unable to walk for several years, have profoundly shaped my approach to therapy. Coupled with the sports-related injuries I have endured over the years, I have developed a distinctive perspective on individualized care. My focus is on assessing each client's unique needs to restore function and alleviate discomfort, whether you are an elite athlete or a weekend warrior.
When I am not at the clinic, I cherish spending quality time with my two beautiful daughters or cheering on the San Jose Sharks at their games with my wonderful husband. Go Sharks!
