About Me

My name is Kyong-Mi Dillard, CMT (CAMTC Certificate #3199), and I have been immersed in the world of bodywork, wellness, and spa services for virtually my entire life. I was introduced to the profession at an early age, growing up around the family-owned spas that operated throughout Orange County, California. That early exposure gave me an appreciation for the therapeutic value of touch and ultimately shaped the direction of my career.

I have been a licensed massage therapist since 1998, with experience spanning a wide range of professional environments, including independently owned spas, high-end day spas, national massage franchises, and medical and chiropractic practices. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with people from many different backgrounds and with a variety of therapeutic goals. Massage therapy has been an exceptionally rewarding career, and I continue to value the opportunity to help people feel more comfortable, relaxed, and at ease in their bodies.

I currently practice at a massage boutique in Long Beach, California. For privacy and professional discretion, I do not publicly identify my current workplace on this website. If you are looking for specific information about where I practice, please feel free to contact me directly. I believe it is important to maintain reasonable boundaries between my professional presence and my personal privacy, particularly online.

My Approach and Modalities

My primary areas of practice include Swedish massage, Shiatsu, acupressure, Lomi Lomi, hot stone therapy, and Deep Tissue massage. I am also certified in aromatherapy and Reiki.

While I appreciate the relaxation and therapeutic benefits of Swedish massage, my personal specialty and preference tend toward deeper, more focused bodywork, particularly Eastern modalities and Deep Tissue techniques. I have often been told that I have naturally "heavy hands," which can be an advantage for clients who prefer firm, intentional pressure.

At the same time, I believe that effective massage requires clear communication and appropriate professional boundaries. The type, duration, and pressure of a massage should correspond with the service selected. A Swedish massage is designed differently from a Deep Tissue session, and deeper pressure requires additional physical effort and a different therapeutic approach. I am always happy to work within a client's preferences and comfort level, but I also believe in respecting the value of the therapist's time, training, and physical work.

After nearly three decades in this profession, I have learned that the best massage experiences happen when the client and therapist communicate openly, understand the service being provided, and have realistic expectations of one another. That mutual respect is an important part of my practice.