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

Content Summary

Rebecca Arce’s “Triple Crown” journey at NHI Santa Ana is a masterclass in professional growth. By completing the full spectrum of NHI’s advanced programs, she has successfully bridged the gap between a skilled therapist and a respected medical professional. Her spotlight features:

• The Triple Crown Achievement: A look at the rare accomplishment of completing the Core Program, the Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy (ANMT) Program, and the AAS Degree.
• Clinical Specialization: How her advanced training led to the co-founding of DuoDragons, specializing in high-stakes pre/post-surgical and oncology care.
• The “Massage Medical Clinician” Title: How her AAS degree shifted the way medical professionals perceive her role, opening doors to advanced healthcare collaborations.

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 Associates 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 Associates 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.

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Common Questions About the Path to Professional Recognition in Massage Therapy

Q: What is the “Triple Crown” at NHI?

A: While not an official title, the “Triple Crown” is a significant educational milestone achieved by students who complete three major programs: the 800-hour Core Massage Therapy Program, the 450-hour Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy (ANMT) Program, and the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree Program.

Q: What does the title “Massage Medical Clinician” signify?

A: This title reflects a therapist’s advanced clinical and academic background. For graduates like Rebecca Arce, it serves as a professional credential that facilitates better collaboration with doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare providers within a clinical environment.

Q: How does completing the AAS degree impact a therapist’s business?

A: As seen in Rebecca’s story, the AAS degree provides the academic rigor necessary to network at a higher professional level. It elevates the therapist’s status in the eyes of both clients and medical peers, often leading to increased referrals and specialized partnership opportunities.