My name is Monica Skalsky and I have been a practicing massage therapist since 1994. My education began at the American Institute of Massage Therapy under the instruction of world renown, Dr. Myk Hungerford. It was through her relentless effort to educate her students and train them to become knowledgeable, medically-based, sports massage therapists that I am blessed to still be doing what I do today.
Founder
Monica Skalsky
Experience
My career began while I was in school with 400+ hours of volunteer work at various sporting events. I probably saw about 2000 clients within that time and gained so much experience and knowledge pertaining to a multitude of injuries. Our school was one of the very few that was invited to work on the elite athletes of the Iron Man in Hawaii due to massage being a vital part of their performance. We also had the opportunity to work with our Olympic athletes during their pre-trials which was such a rewarding experience.
I spent the first half of my journey working at a wonderful chiropractic office where I was able to assist people in healing through various injuries while also maintaining my private clients on the side. In 2013, I officially opened Balanced in our Whittier location. We have since expanded to Chino Hills and now, Temecula Valley. In addition, I also teach and mentor full time at the National Holistic Institute.
Having the opportunity to pass on my knowledge through teaching and mentoring is so rewarding. I am humbled to be working alongside so many phenomenal, talented therapists. Though I have gained so much knowledge of the human body through the years, there is always so much more to learn.
Passion
My belief is that everyone needs massage therapy. There is no substitute for the human touch. Massage is not a luxury. It is something that every one of us should incorporate into our lifestyle. With that, there is also a big difference between having a massage from a trained professional and someone that is not. I cannot tell you how many people have told me things to the extent of “I don’t like my feet touched” or “I only like light pressure”. In most cases, I can show these individuals that when proper technique is used, it is a whole different experience. This is my reason for creating Balanced.
As a trained therapist, I know how a professional massage should feel. Like the rest of us, I do not want to spend my hard-earned money and be disappointed in the product. Also, I had no idea where to go to find a professional therapist that I trusted, to come into my home for a massage. Like many therapists, I never advertised anywhere and built an entire practice on word of mouth, mostly due to the fact that it took the state of California until late 2009 to finally recognize us as professionals. When that happened, I knew I could do what I was meant to do: educate the public about the benefits of massage therapy and create a professional service that would provide our community with access to in-home massage therapy with trained, certified, ethical therapists. Spas and clinics are wonderful. I appreciate that whole experience. However, to have a massage in the comfort of your own home without having to drive home after makes the experience even more beneficial.
I look forward to serving the people in our communities and expanding our reputation for providing people with therapeutic excellence. I am always open to answer any questions that you may have regarding massage therapy. It is my prayer to always have the heart of a servant and it is an honor to be a part of holding space for healing for all of you.
