Barb Hunter, RMT

I graduated from OVCMT in June 1999 and in December of the same year I opened two massage therapy locations at the Fernie Ski Resort and worked part time at Island Lake Lodge. I have just recently sold my spa after nine successful years of operations. During that time I expanded from two single rooms to a wellness spa. The spa was a wonderful environment in which to evolve my business sense while practicing my massage skills and assisting people in achieving their wellness goals. I was also able to express my creativity through designing the spa treatments and concept. I found this to be an invaluable experience as I was able to receive my income from my business which included employees, sub-contractors, retail and workshops and my hands on practice. I feel that the variety within my practice as has kept me inspired and clear, for the most part, of the common “burn out” syndrome. Due to the seasonal nature of the ski resort I have been blessed with the flexibility to practice my skills in other spas, clinics and schools as a massage therapist, spa consultant and educator while travelling. I have also been to Zanzibar East Africa twice as a volunteer therapist which to date has been one of my richest experiences.
I think it goes without saying that working with people to assist them in achieving their goals, flexibility in work schedule, work environments and endless applications of the skills provided through the education received at OVCMT are what I love most about being a BC RMT.
My OVCMT experience was wonderful! The instructors and staff were professional, knowledgeable and kind. They delivered the information we needed to learn in an effective manner and were willing to give extra assistance when needed. I found the location of the school great as the Okanagan valley is abundant in natural beauty and has a variety of recreational opportunities. The small town atmosphere was warm and welcoming and the cost of living was more affordable than the city locations.
In closing I want to give mention to a few very powerful key elements that my time at OVCMT strengthened and encouraged in me they are known as CONFIDENCE, INTUITION, COMMUNICATION AND MIND/BODY AWARENESS. I have found these strengths to be instrumental in all aspects of my life from business to relationships to connection with myself and fulfilling my dreams.
Barb Hunter, RMT
