Who are you? My name is Shannon Doher. I am a CPMT/CIMT and director/founder of Touch Institute Los Angeles Inc. located in family-friendly El Segundo, California.
“Tina is one of the most energetic and compassionate individuals I have had the pleasure of meeting. Her global efforts on behalf of all children, and especially those with special needs, has inspired me to pursue my dream of opening a clinic where children and their families can benefit from nurturing touch in a peaceful, outpatient setting. Tina's positive outlook is contagious. Her support is sincere and never ending. I am very happy to call her my mentor and my friend.“
Share a memorable moment from an infant massage class: In one of my classes, a toddler was not too excited about getting a massage. His mom later informed me that after they went home and her son had eaten his lunch, he told her, “Mommy me ready for myssage now!”
What have you learned from a family (or baby) in your classes? One of the families I work with is struggling with the challenges of divorce and has told me that massage therapy has really helped both her and her children relax during times of stress.
What makes you happy? I’m happiest spending simple times with family and friends, especially my two terrific teenagers, Shanelle and Zander.
What makes you sad? My mom passed away 3 years ago. She was my best friend and I miss her very much. Living so far away from my father, and my three sisters and their families makes me sad sometimes. They all live in Ontario, Canada.
If not yourself, who would you be? There is no one I would rather be. I’m still evolving!
If you were to invite any three people for dinner, who would they be? U. S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton whom in addition to her political achievements is an advocate for children and families and the empowerment of women worldwide. Author Paulo Coelho whose novel the Alchemist inspires me to follow my dreams. Pattie Mallette, a single mother and fellow Canadian who struggled financially but never gave up and helped her son, Justin Bieber, achieve his dream. My kids would be thrilled if she brought Justin along too!
What is your idea of happiness? Happiness is a state of mind. I try to look on the bright side in challenging times, be thankful, and find pleasure in simple things. This outlook helps me be happy most of the time!
What is your main fault? I’m detail oriented which is both a blessing and a curse!
What’s your favorite color? People who know me would say BLACK, to which I reply, true, but black is really a hue!
What’s your favorite food? That’s a tough one. There is virtually nothing I won’t eat. Japanese, Lebanese, and Italian, are my favorites!
What’s your favorite motto? Don't give up on your dream.
What do you like to do for fun and relaxation? I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, leisurely dinners, listening to music, dancing, playing tennis, skiing, walks with my dog Lillie, beach days, sunsets, and a great game of scrabble!
Mission Statement
Touch Institute Los Angeles Inc. (TILA) is committed to providing comprehensive, research based touch therapy, massage therapy, skin therapy and wellness programs for the entire family.
All populations, whether infant or senior citizen, athlete, or weekend warrior, special needs child or adult, can benefit from the positive effects of compassionate touch on overall health and well being.
Please visit Shannon Doher’s website: www.touchinstitutela.com
Finally, comprehensive infant massage and pediatric massage certification programs for professionals, caregivers and those wanting to enhance their career or begin a new one! As a CIMT you can enhance your existing career, or begin a new career in the wonderful world of infant massage. As a CPMT you can enhance your career as a professional massage therapist, bodyworker or other healthcare provider who wishes to provide massage therapy for pediatric clients. The Liddle Kidz® Foundation Certification courses are intense, fun and an effective way to master the core skills of infant and pediatric massage.
Founded by pediatric massage master teacher and philanthropist Tina Allen, the Liddle Kidz® Foundation offers new, comprehensive, research based training courses and teaches students what they really need to know to become infant and pediatric massage professionals.
Any experienced infant massage teacher or pediatric massage therapist will tell you that there is a world of difference between learning how to massage a baby or child from a book or DVD, and knowing how to provide the best care to meet a child's and families needs. However, there are few opportunities to learn the skills you really need from a working healthcare professional who has provided infant and pediatric massage education throughout the world. This is that rare opportunity!
As a CIMT or CPMT, you have the special opportunity to impact a child and their family for a lifetime. Take the first step and get started today.
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