• Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program
• Amazing Alumni
• Associates of Applied Science Degree Program
• Core Massage Therapy Training Program
• NHI Life

Rebecca Arce’s journey at National Holistic Institute (NHI) is nothing short of remarkable. Not only is she a graduate of the Core Massage Therapy Program and the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy (ANMT) Program, but she’s also one of the first to complete NHI’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree Program.

This “triple crown” achievement has propelled her career to new heights, transforming her into a sought-after medical clinician and empowering her to make a profound impact on her clients’ lives.

Read more about Rebecca’s remarkable journey below.

From Core to ANMT: Building a Foundation of Expertise

“I started the core program in September of 2016 and continued on to the ANMT program, finishing in December of 2017,” Rebecca recalls. Her dedication to mastering her craft quickly became evident. “I started my massage career at Massage Heights in Irvine, where my skills were sought out by many clients, and I became known as the ‘muscle whisperer!'”

Rebecca’s thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. She pursued additional modalities like oncology and infant massage, along with numerous AMTA courses, demonstrating her commitment to holistic care.

The Birth of DuoDragons: A Mission Born from Personal Experience

In 2018, a pivotal moment occurred when Rebecca’s sister was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. This experience led to the formation of DuoDragons, a business co-founded with fellow ANMT graduate, Jonathan Bill Adkins. “During my sister’s cancer journey and our growing clientele, we focused on pre/post spinal surgery patients, cancer patients, pre/post pregnancy, and injured patients,” Rebecca explains. “We built most of our clientele by word of mouth. We even became a verb, with clients saying, ‘Have you been dragoned?'”

Tragically, Rebecca’s sister passed away in 2022. However, Rebecca finds solace in knowing her sister enjoyed a pain-free remission and fulfilled her bucket list, thanks to the skills Rebecca acquired at NHI.

Elevating Her Practice: The Power of the AAS Degree

“We continue to grow our business, and now that I’ve acquired my Associate’s of Applied Science Degree, I’m looking forward to networking and collaborating with professionals,” Rebecca says. The AAS Degree Program has opened new doors, elevating her status from a skilled therapist to a respected medical clinician.

“My business has been growing, and I’ve already been collaborating with some professionals,” she explains. “But now, with my added title of Massage Medical Clinician, it will definitely have professionals view me differently and open even more doors so our patients have a successful healing journey together.”

The NHI Difference: Education and Empowerment

Rebecca attributes her success to the comprehensive education she received at NHI. “They provided a wealth of knowledge and skills for me to be the best neuromuscular therapist!” she exclaims. “The ANMT program really showed when working on clients. They noticed the difference between a regular spa massage to what I provided, which was results in pain relief and the pain not returning.”

The AAS Degree Program further enhanced her ability to serve her clients. “All my clients are proud of my continual education, and they see, feel, and experience the difference,” Rebecca says. “They love my curiosity to continue learning because they receive the benefits in their service of care.”

Advice for Aspiring Therapists | Trust the Process

For those considering a career in massage therapy, Rebecca offers simple yet powerful advice: “You have chosen the best school in NHI, trust the process and yourself!”

Rebecca’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the dedication to lifelong learning. Her journey from “muscle whisperer” to medical clinician showcases the immense potential for NHI graduates to make a lasting impact in the field of holistic health.

Follow Rebecca’s journey and learn more about DuoDragons on Instagram: @theduodragons

Meet more Amazing Alumni and read about their journeys toward work they love.

Get the details on how to pursue a career in massage therapy and neuromuscular therapy with National Holistic Institute. Complete this form to connect with an admissions representative today.