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Bio and Philosophy

Jennifer Whitaker, LMT, BA (Psychology)

NYS license #026298

  • 14+ years in practice
  • NYS LMT #026298
  • Trauma-informed
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • LGBTQ+ safe space
AMTA Certification
Organic Products
Jennifer Whitaker
Licensed Massage Therapist
Since 2012, I have dedicated my practice to providing comprehensive pain relief through the lens of holistic healing. My approach centers on the belief that true relief from physical and emotional pain is possible through the integration of body, mind, and support system—a perspective shaped by the bio-psycho-social model of care. My specialization in TMD began because my sister had severe TMD, and I wanted to help her. Through that journey, I learned how deeply connected emotional and physical pain are, which has profoundly influenced my work.
From my early experiences as an athlete, I discovered the profound impact massage has on both performance and recovery. This inspired my focus on pain relief massage, alongside extensive experience aiding those with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and fibromyalgia.
The completion of my BA in Psychology at SUNY Empire in December 2024 further refined my understanding of the intricate connections between the nervous and immune systems. My trauma-informed practice is designed to foster nervous system regulation, and I am committed to crafting personalized therapeutic experiences that cater to your unique needs.
Continual education has expanded my capabilities with the latest techniques, including TMD and anterior neck therapies, fibromyalgia treatments, and cupping—ensuring a foundation of services that support your journey to wellness.
I invite you to partner with me in mapping out healing through regular sessions, focusing on sustainable health and recovery. It's taken months or years to wind up into the place you're at with pain, and it will take some time to unwind it. Together, we will navigate your path to holistic well-being, addressing your physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs.

Conditions Treated

Pain & Tension

  • • TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)
  • • Headaches and Migraines
  • • Neck Pain and Tension
  • • Back Pain
  • • Sciatica

Injuries & Recovery

  • • Whiplash and Injury Recovery
  • • Frozen Shoulder
  • • Athletic Overuse Injuries
  • • Work-Related Ergonomic Strain

Chronic Conditions

  • • Nerve Compression & Impingements
  • • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • • Fibromyalgia
  • • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
  • • Depression, Anxiety, PTSD
  • I work synergistically with dentists, oral surgeons, physical therapists, chiropractic and mental health providers to offer a holistic approach to TMD that looks for the root cause of TMD and not just to manage the symptoms.
  • Handicap accessible office
  • Trauma informed therapist
  • 🏳️‍🌈 My office is a safe place for anyone, including the LGBTQ community!

Continuing Education:

  • • TMJD Course with Ron Floyd in 2013
  • • Neck Specialty by Tammi Sweet, 2014
  • • Deep Bodywork with Perry & Johana at Esalen Institute, 2018
  • • NAT (Trigger Point Therapy), 2019
  • • 30+ hours of in-person CE in 2022 including training for joint restriction release, assessment of sports injuries and therapies, hip/pelvic release techniques, and complex knee and pelvic myofascial patterns.

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?

TMD Massage Therapeutic Massage

Our Peaceful Office

Massage Ithaca new office reception area at South Hill Business Campus - welcoming entrance
Professional massage treatment room at Massage Ithaca - clean, peaceful healing space
Massage Ithaca office space interior - comfortable waiting area and treatment facilities
TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder) information and jaw pain treatment explanation
TMD massage therapy techniques demonstration - specialized jaw and facial treatment

What Clients Are Saying

5.0 out of 5
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"I came to see Jennifer because I was experiencing pretty severe pain in my jaw while chewing. After one session with her, the tension was dissipated and the pain has been gone ever since (about 2 months ago). I had 5 sessions with her and the relief has been lasting."

TMDjaw pain

— Alyssa Welty

2 months ago

"I have been seeing Jennifer for about 7 months for TMD massages and it has done so much to relieve my neck/jaw pain and headaches. Although the process of a TMD massage can be intense, Jennifer always checks in throughout the massage to ensure I am comfortable, and each time I leave her space I feel relaxed and revived. 10/10 would recommend to anyone experiencing TMD problems!"

TMDneck

— Zachary Batterman

1 month ago

"To find someone who may be able to help relieve me of the chronic pain, discomfort and fatigue TMD has caused - I only wish I had made the phone call months earlier. Jen is not only professional, she is kind, compassionate, considerate, respectful, understanding, and truly empathetic to what has been happening to my jaw. Her place of business is quiet and clean; the music beautifully picked, volume set to the correct level. She is quiet and concentrated, when focused and necessary. My only negative is I wish I had started therapy sooner."

TMDchronic pain

— Deb Scott

1 year ago