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melissa R. Mckenzy-Shaw
EDUCATION & WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me.
I am a Licensed Massage Therapist in independent private practice, as well as a partner at the Massage Therapy Training Institute (MTTI), where I serve as an instructor and co-director, and American Heart Association CPR First Aid and AED instructor. I am a woman of strong faith with a belief that all beings possess inherent worth and dignity. I strive to live my core values and believe in the power of kindness. As a mother of five, a lover of animals, and a survivor of domestic violence, I understand that healing often involves helping others. I established the Mckenzy Domestic Violence Fund as a program within ABW Living Tree, a 501(c)(3) community wellness center that my partner founded and which we both direct. I am passionate about supporting the homeless and being of service to my community.
I have a background in Kinesiology and Coaching, which provides a strong foundation for my work as a Massage Therapist and Instructor. I was a professional athlete on a path to the Olympics as a member of the Youth World Championship Quarter Horse Reining team when I suffered a traumatic brain injury. This life-altering experience led me down a different path. Years later, feeling hopeless and desperate to regain control of my life, I enrolled in massage school, got back on a horse, fled a 20 year violent marriage, and found the love of my life. I am now creating the life I want and deserve, and I feel honored and blessed to have the ability and support to pay it forward by helping others.
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Teaching, Advanced Medical & Sport Massage
I became involved in massage and bodywork to help others and make a positive difference in their lives. My passion for this field inspired me to become a state-licensed instructor and co-director of the local Las Cruces Massage Therapy Training Institute (MTTI). As part of my journey, I co-wrote the Advanced Medical and Sports Massage Program, which has been implemented in local hospitals, rehabilitation programs, hospice care, assisted living facilities, and at New Mexico State University (NMSU). Additionally, this program benefits individual athletes ranging from high school to semi-professional levels. Currently, I am expanding the curriculum to include Animal Massage and Spa Therapies. I also provide licensed professionals with opportunities to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and certifications in specialized areas. These offerings are tailored to align with the providers' specialties and interests.
ALTERNATIVE, SPA & ANIMAL THERAPIES
My practice includes working with holistic alternative therapies. Some of these therapies are considered pampering and are often offered in spa environments, while others encompass alternative Eastern Asian modalities, including hot stone and cryotherapy, Reiki, chakra balancing, sound bathing, and essential oil therapy. I have a deep love for animals and their ability to offer unconditional love and healing. Massage and bodywork are somatic therapies. As an advanced medical provider, I work with trauma survivors to bring balance to their minds and bodies. In moments of difficulty or intense emotions, animals have an instinct to support and nurture humans. They can even sense impending danger or illness, such as detecting cancer or sensing a diabetic crash or seizure. Sequoia is my registered therapy dog and works with me in my practice. Oreo and Bella are also part of our team, and you can read about them in the next section.
OUR RESD SUPPORT CREW
SEQUOIA
SEQUOIA
SEQUOIA
Sequoia is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) that provides animal-assisted therapy. She came to us by walking in our clinic's back door. We worked to find her owner who said she was too much to handle and released her to us. Her training is a bit higher level and is still ongoing. She works primarily doing somatic integration sess
Sequoia is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) that provides animal-assisted therapy. She came to us by walking in our clinic's back door. We worked to find her owner who said she was too much to handle and released her to us. Her training is a bit higher level and is still ongoing. She works primarily doing somatic integration sessions. Comforts clients during somatic bodywork. Sometimes she will nudge you to say "I'm here, pet me to feel better" and other times she will gently lay across, lean into, or lay beside you offering support. She is our gentle giant with a fierce protective loyalty. She loves to join the YOGA class and play fetch the ball. She will ask you to play sometimes if she thinks it will help you feel happy. If you are interested in working with her just let me know.
BELLA
SEQUOIA
SEQUOIA
Bella is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) and our resident diva. She primarily works with the elderly, in hospice care, and with MTTI students in the classroom. Learning bodywork can sometimes bring up unresolved issues or discomfort, and Bella provides comfort and comic relief during these times. While she doesn't participate in
Bella is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) and our resident diva. She primarily works with the elderly, in hospice care, and with MTTI students in the classroom. Learning bodywork can sometimes bring up unresolved issues or discomfort, and Bella provides comfort and comic relief during these times. While she doesn't participate in the sessions, she is often around on my teaching days if you’d like to sneak in a snuggle or a pet. Bella loves yoga time and enjoys making the rounds to visit everyone.
OREO
SEQUOIA
OREO
Oreo is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) who provides animal-assisted therapy. She joined my family as a young puppy and recently achieved her service dog registration in 2024. While she still has some learning to do in terms of managing her enthusiasm, she has a sweet and gentle spirit, with a touch of mischief. Oreo primarily w
Oreo is a registered emotional support dog (RESD) who provides animal-assisted therapy. She joined my family as a young puppy and recently achieved her service dog registration in 2024. While she still has some learning to do in terms of managing her enthusiasm, she has a sweet and gentle spirit, with a touch of mischief. Oreo primarily works in individual counseling sessions but is beginning to participate in somatic and bodywork therapies. She loves to be petted and and play. Once she knows you, she will meet you at the door happy and wagging her tail ready to work. If you are interested in working with her just let me know.