Meet Althea Smith, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy Graduate and Owner of Theapeutic Massage Therapy
“You are the change you’ve always wanted,” says Althea Smith, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy graduate and owner of Theapeutic Massage Therapy.
“It’s important to be aware of your family history,” Althea says. “When there is awareness of family history, you can make wise health choices, such as being aware of changes in your body, reducing stress, exercising regularly, eating properly, and choosing complementary alternative medicine.”
Althea credits her childhood with the early inspiration to pursue a career in wellness. As a young girl growing up in Detroit, Michigan, her “getaway” was the local recreation center where she would swim, play basketball, and take advantage of the planned activities. This instilled in her a sincere enjoyment of physical fitness and proper nutrition.
As an adult, Althea still enjoys physical fitness and sharing information about the benefits of proper nutrition. In addition to massage and aromatherapy, Theapeutic Massage Therapy offers a weekly walking group called Talk and Tennies and the facility’s reading area is stocked with health and wellness books for clients to enjoy.
“My family health history has diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension,” Althea says. “Since I know I am predisposed to these illnesses, I follow a healthy lifestyle of exercising regularly and watching my food intake.”
Althea was attracted to the online curriculum ACHS offers because she believes there are several benefits to integrating use of essential oils with her massage practice.
“It has changed my business,” Althea says. “I use essential oils for tight muscles, relaxation and cold congestion, and clients are asking to purchase different kinds of blends.”
In addition, “ACHS prepared me to successfully pass my aromatherapy test to become a Registered Aromatherapist,” Althea says. “Whenever I have a question about aromatherapy or legal concerns, ACHS has the answers. I attended the 2008 summer course in Greece. I learned so much about distillation, herbs and the appreciation for blending oils. I use this knowledge to educate my clients.”
“I am in a good place in my life,” Althea says. “My adult children support my business and enthusiasm to follow my health and wellness passion. My excitement is exuded and my clients feel connected with my love for good health. After a massage session, I tell my clients they are healthy, happy and free.”
In addition to her ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy, Althea holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Science Education, and owns and operates Theapeutic Massage Therapy, where she offers massage therapy, blended essential oils, workshops, walking outings, and handmade therapeutic flaxseed-filled pillows, carried by ACHS in the Apothecary Shoppe College Store.
For more information about studying with ACHS and the ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy, click here.
