Instructor & Soft Tissue Practitioner
Christopher Helou-Decos, M.S., B.S., LMT, MMP™, ABMP, iTEC Cert L5 Sports Massage
Experiences
I blend my sports, clinical & spa experiences to exceed your expectations. My journey, crowned with a Master’s in Sport Rehabilitation from Cardiff Metropolitan University, is marked by a robust skill set in sports massage, manual therapy, rehabilitation, and strength & conditioning. My skillset placed no. 12 in the Sports Massage category at the 2023 Massage World Championships in Denmark. My skills have since improved.
Education & Qualifications
Education:
- MSc in Sport Rehabilitation, Cardiff Metropolitan University (2019-2022)
- BSc in Sport Conditioning, Rehabilitation, and Massage, Cardiff Metropolitan University (2016-2019)
Qualifications:
- Licensed Massage Therapist, Texas (2022): #MT137388
- BASRaT Member (2021)
- ITEC Level 5 Sports Massage (2019)
Soft Tissue Therapy Expertise
- Extensive Experience: A rich history in sports massage for athletes and individuals seeking improved mobility.
- Holistic Approach: Influenced by collaboration with chiropractors, osteopaths, and therapists, leading to a unique care blend.
- Manual Therapy Techniques: A wide array of techniques to alleviate pain and enhance range of motion.
Interdisciplinary Expertise
- Rehabilitation Proficiency: Specialized in sports injuries, client assessments, and personalized rehabilitation programs.
- Strength & Conditioning Mastery: Designing and coaching tailored programs, including resistance training, Olympic lifting, and more.
- Interpersonal Skills: Effective communication and coaching for diverse age groups and skill levels, in both clinical and sports settings.
Commitment to Excellence
Dedication defines my practice. Whether it’s meticulously documenting sessions, reflecting deeply on client needs, or staying updated with the latest research, my focus is on delivering exceptional, evidence-based care.
As your instructor and soft tissue practitioner, I am committed to not just sharing knowledge, but also to making a lasting, positive impact on your health and professional growth. Let’s embark on this journey together.
Having studied abroad, I use internationally accredited and advanced orthopedic assessments, clinical reasoning, and manual therapy techniques to identify and address soft tissue dysfunctions. Whilst dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in a clinical setting by creating and delivering continuing education programs, I also offer Massage and Manual Therapy for everybody who wants to feel great moving – from people who work sitting down all day, to elite athletes, and everyone in between! I am here to meet, if not exceed, your expectations, ensuring you receive exceptional care and valuable learning experiences.
I want to see massage and manual therapists embody expertise, compassion, and effectiveness. I envision a community of highly skilled Massage Therapists in Texas committed to reliable and valid principles within a safe and respectful environment. I strive to redefine the massage experience so that it becomes not only effective but also profoundly relaxing. My aim is to be a guiding force for all, providing meaningful continuing education courses and resources as well as therapy to the highest standard possible. I anticipate a day when I can appreciate a massage less-so because I survived, and more-so as a testament to knowledge, skill, and purpose; so that we can be cared for by experts who understand the ‘why’ behind their every move.
Hello, I’m Christopher. Born into a half-Puerto Rican, half-Lebanese family, my life has been a tapestry of cultures, shaped by my upbringing in Puerto Rico, Dubai, Cardiff, and now Texas. This rich blend of experiences has deeply influenced my approach to massage and manual therapy, bringing a unique perspective to my practice.
My journey into this field began unexpectedly, rooted in personal experience. As a young gymnast, I encountered injuries that first introduced me to the transformative power of exercise and massage therapy. This encounter was not just healing; it sparked a passion that has since defined my professional life.
In pursuit of this passion, I delved into academic studies, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Conditioning, Rehabilitation, and Massage (SCRAM) from Cardiff Metropolitan University in 2019, followed by a Master’s degree in Sport Rehabilitation in 2022. My academic journey was enriched by invaluable experiences, from learning under esteemed lecturers to working alongside athletes and physical therapists in dynamic environments like Welsh Triathlon and Hong Kong Rugby to name a few.
These experiences have not only honed my skills but also ingrained in me a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to giving back to the field. In my time in Texas, I’ve observed an opportunity for growth in the professional training of massage therapists. Many local programs offer foundational courses that span a year, focusing on introductory knowledge and skills. While these programs lay a solid groundwork, there’s a vast potential for deeper exploration into advanced techniques, especially in manual therapy. This realization has fueled my passion to contribute to the field, aiming to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive training and mentorship. It’s exciting to think about the possibilities of enhancing the skill set of therapists in Texas, elevating the standards of care and enriching the overall experience for both therapists and clients alike.
Whether you’re seeking relief from discomfort, aspiring for peak physical condition, or a fellow professional eager to grow, my journey has equipped me to guide you on yours. Let’s embark on a path to improved health and professional excellence, informed by a world of experiences and driven by a passion for healing and growth.