Our Team

Meet the instructors and staff at Therapeutic Connections School of Massage.

Our Staff

Welcome to TCSM! Your journey matters to us. Our experienced instructors are here to guide you, nurture your abilities, and help you build the knowledge, hands-on experience, and confidence to pursue a rewarding career in massage therapy.

Rebecca Dragseth

Founder/Director/Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Rebecca!

With a bachelor's degree in Education and a background in teaching, athletics, and gymnastics coaching, I have spent much of my career helping others learn, grow, and discover their potential. After becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist in 1999, I fell in love with the profession and knew I wanted to share my knowledge and experience with others.

In 2007, I founded Therapeutic Connections School of Massage with a vision of creating a welcoming environment where students feel at home, know they are heard, and receive a quality education as they begin an exciting new chapter in their lives.

I believe that great teaching, much like great massage therapy, begins with meeting people where they are, understanding their individual needs, and recognizing that everyone learns and grows differently.

What I love most is witnessing the transformation of her students as they build confidence, discover their own abilities, and recognize the power they hold in their hands to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

I look forward to connecting with you and discovering where your professional journey will take you.

Gary Schwander

Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Gary!

I've been practicing massage therapy for over 35 years, and my passion for the profession is still going strong! Teaching at TCSM for over 10 years has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work with athletes at the 1996 Summer Olympics, the 2002 Winter Olympics, and in professional baseball rehabilitation. I'm currently the American Massage Therapy Association's Educational Chair for Washington State and have previously served on its National Sports Massage Education Council.

Since 1992, I've enjoyed teaching massage and sharing my expertise through continuing education, including my structural release courses. I actually thought I was going to retire last year, but quickly realized, "Who wants to retire when you love what you do?" I'm honored to continue sharing my knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm with TCSM students.

Visit www.GarySchwander.com

Gary Schwander, Instructor, Clinical Director, LMT

Leina Walker

Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Leina!

I fell in love with massage therapy in my twenties, and over 26 years later, that passion is still going strong. I continue working with clients through my massage practice in downtown Spokane, where I love helping people feel and function at their best.

When I began teaching at TCSM, I had no idea I was about to discover that I love teaching. I especially enjoy helping students connect their understanding of anatomy with the art of therapeutic touch, while emphasizing the importance of exceptional client communication.

One of my greatest joys is encouraging students to recognize their own potential, believe in their abilities, and grow into confident, skilled professionals. I love being part of those moments when something finally clicks and students realize just how much they're capable of.

Becky Ryan

Instructor, Structural Integration Specialty, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Becky!

I'm a proud graduate of Therapeutic Connections School of Massage, and my fascination with the human body has only grown since I first stepped into the classroom. My passion for anatomy, movement, and connective tissue led me to complete a structural integration program in Seattle.

I especially love exploring how posture, movement, and the body's connective tissues shape how we feel and function. Returning to TCSM as an instructor has been an incredible opportunity to share that knowledge with students beginning their own journeys. The human body is endlessly fascinating, and I love helping students discover just how exciting this work can be.

My next adventure is to share my knowledge and teach continuing education classes.

Becky Ryan, LMT - Licensed Massage Therapist

Tobie Lien

Student Clinic Director, Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Tobie!

I have been a Licensed Massage Therapist and co-owner of The Main Touch Massage & Wellness Center since 2000. In that time, my style has gravitated to a mix of deeper tissue, therapeutic work utilizing hydrotherapies and herbal medicine to help people with their aches, pains, and stressors to achieve a deep sense of relaxation.

When I began teaching at TCSM, I discovered a passion I didn't even know I had, helping students learn, grow, and develop confidence in their abilities. As Student Clinic Director, one of my greatest joys is supporting students. Watching that transformation happen is incredibly rewarding.

Joey Gates

On-Site Massage Team Coordinator, Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist

Hi, I'm Joey!

I'm a proud TCSM graduate, and I have an insatiable curiosity about the human body, especially anatomy, movement, and the incredible connections between the body and mind. As an instructor, I love sharing knowledge and learning so much from my students.

I'm also the school's On-Site Massage Team Coordinator. I organize and coordinate opportunities for licensed massage therapists to provide massage at businesses, hospitals, schools, community events, and other locations throughout our area.

I'm also an entrepreneur. My wife, an esthetician, and I own J&H Wellness, and we're excited to continue growing our business together. I love bringing people and opportunities together, and I'm passionate about helping massage therapists expand their professional experiences while bringing the benefits of massage into our community.

Learn More About Our On-Site Massage Team