When I first met Robin Godfrey, she was still in massage school, excited about the future but unsure of where the profession would take her. Like many students, she questioned whether she was truly ready.
Today, just four years later, she's one of our massage trainers, performs Burke Williams wet room services, continues to pursue advanced education, and has become the confident therapist she once hoped she could be.
I recently sat down with her to reflect on her journey.
Name: Robin Godfrey
Title: Massage Therapist/Trainer
Location: Burke Williams - Orange
How long with Burke Williams: 3 years
Looking Back
We first met while you were still in massage school. Did you ever imagine your career would look like it does today?
I hoped it would, but I honestly never knew if it would.
Before massage school, I had never even been to a spa. One of my instructors spoke highly of Burke Williams, but I really didn’t know what to expect until I experienced it for myself during my graduation massage. That’s when I realized how life-changing this work could be.
I've always been someone who says yes to opportunities. Looking back, I never imagined massage therapy would help me become the person I've always wanted to be.
Before becoming a massage therapist, I worked as a nurse. I loved caring for people, but it became emotionally draining. Now, if someone comes in stressed or frustrated, they usually leave relaxed, smiling, and grateful. Being able to help people in that way is incredibly rewarding.
Today, I perform wet room services, I'm a trainer, and I'm constantly seeking new education because I know there's always something new to learn. Social media has even become part of my education. I regularly watch Two Hearts Bodywork to learn new techniques and continue improving my craft.
You stayed in nursing for about a year after graduating before making massage therapy your full-time career. What helped you know it was finally the right time?
I realized I dreaded going to work. I found myself looking for reasons to call out, and one day it hit me that I had lost my passion for nursing.
Now I actually look forward to going to work. Even walking into Burke Williams and smelling the spa puts me in a good mood. If someone needs help, my answer is almost always "yes." I genuinely love what I do, and I go home happy knowing I helped someone feel better.
Growth
Since joining Burke Williams, you've continued to take on new opportunities, from advanced training to becoming a trainer yourself. What has surprised you most about your own growth?
Honestly...how much I actually know.
I'm a perfectionist, and I always want to keep learning. I've struggled with imposter syndrome, but working alongside experienced therapists has helped me realize I know more than I give myself credit for.
I don't question the power of my touch the way I used to. Every day I become more confident that what I do truly makes a difference.
Was there a moment when you realized, "I'm becoming the therapist I hoped to be"?
Absolutely.
Within the last six months, I've really become confident in my abilities. I've developed specialties like lymphatic work, energy work, and deeply relaxing therapeutic massage.
One guest couldn't even stand long enough to wash her dishes because of her pain. After working together for a couple of sessions, she told me she was finally able to do them again. She looked at me and said, "Your hands are magic."
Moments like that remind me that what we do truly changes people's lives.
You recently completed wet room training. What did learning something completely new teach you about yourself?
It reminded me how much I love learning.
When I'm passionate about something, learning comes naturally. I love watching new techniques, trying them myself, and understanding why they work. I get excited thinking about how each new skill can help someone heal.
I definitely nerd out when it comes to learning.
Human Connection
Massage therapy is such a hands-on profession. What do you think guests remember most after a session?
Sometimes they don't remember much because they fell asleep!
But they always remember how they felt. They remember feeling relaxed, comfortable, and cared for.
I really listen—not just to what guests tell me, but to what their bodies are telling me. I want to understand what's causing the pain, not just where it hurts. I check in throughout the service, then let the body relax while I work. Sometimes guests are surprised when I find an area they didn't even realize was contributing to their discomfort.
I also trust my intuition and incorporate energy work when it's appropriate. Every guest is different, and I enjoy figuring out exactly what their body needs.
What makes a truly great massage therapist beyond technical skill?
Energy, communication, and confidence.
You can have incredible technical skills, but if you're not confident, your guest will feel that.
Communication is just as important. Guests won't always tell you if the pressure, temperature, or headrest isn't right unless you ask. Making someone feel comfortable physically and emotionally is what creates a truly exceptional experience.
Advice
If a student or recent graduate is wondering whether they're "ready," what would you tell them?
Being ready is a decision, not a feeling.
There will always be more to learn. If you're waiting until you feel like you know everything, you could miss incredible opportunities.
When I graduated, I didn't think I was good enough for Burke Williams. I actually worked at Massage Envy for two months just to gain confidence before applying.
Looking back, I wish I had trusted myself sooner.
Looking back at the person you were when we first met, what advice would you give yourself?
Trust yourself.
There's a reason you chose this profession.
Believe in yourself, even before you feel completely confident. Sometimes confidence comes from taking the leap first.
Rapid Fire
- Swedish or Deep Tissue? Swedish
- Favorite enhancement? The Burke Williams Enhancement
- Morning or evening shift? Both
- Music or silence? Music
- Coffee or tea? Coffee
- Favorite self-care ritual? Being in the water (a lake or the ocean)
Interested in finding out more about Burke Williams?
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