A Message from Dr. Deanine Picciano
Director of Education, Institute of Somatic Therapy

Hello, I’m Dr. Deanine Picciano AP, LMT, and I’m honored to step into the role of Director of Education at the Institute of Somatic Therapy.For more than 30 years, my passion has been helping people live healthier, more connected, and empowered lives — and I’m excited to continue that mission by supporting you, our students, as you grow in your practice and impact the lives of others.

My journey into integrative healing has been a lifelong dedication to exploring and learning holistic healing traditions from around the world — including Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Massage Therapy, Craniosacral therapy, Classical Homeopathy and Herbal medicine, CranioSacral therapy, Yoga, Functional Medicine, and Integrative Women's health.

Alongside my private practice in Sarasota, Florida, where I specialize in women’s and children’s health, I’ve had the privilege of teaching and training practitioners for more than two decades. Through Integrative Touch Seminars, I’ve developed and delivered hands on continuing education classes in Integrative Pregnancy Massage, Meridian Fascial Cupping therapy, Shiatsu, Spa Essentials for the LMT and other innovative modalities— training professionals from diverse disciplines, including massage therapists, acupuncturists, midwives, physical therapists, both nationally and internationally.

What inspires me most about leading the Institute of Somatic Therapy is the opportunity to continue its founding vision: empowering massage therapists and healthcare providers with practical, evidence-based skills that make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re enhancing your expertise, discovering a new specialty, or seeking to reignite your passion for this work, my goal is to ensure that every course we offer helps you transform both your practice and your clients’ wellbeing.

As the Director of Education, I commit to continuing to provide you with the level of quality education you have come to expect from the Institute of Somatic Therapy. I’m thrilled to continue the Institute’s legacy and to walk alongside you as you grow in your skills, confidence, and calling. Together, we’ll continue to touch lives in ways that ripple far beyond the treatment room.

With warmth and gratitude,
Dr. Deanine Picciano, AP, LMT
Director of Education
Institute of Somatic Therapy

From the Founder
By Judith Koch Stapleton

As I step into retirement after nearly 35 years in this amazing profession, I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought me here and the thousands of students and clients who have touched my life along the way.

In the early 1990s, I made a bold decision to leave an unsatisfying career and follow my passion for helping others. I still remember the day I walked away from my old job to enroll in massage school, guided by nothing more than a natural instinct to ease pain and bring comfort. I couldn’t have imagined then how that simple decision would change the course of my life.

When students in remote areas began asking for training they couldn’t access locally, I started offering courses by video. The Institute of Somatic Therapy became what it is today — a place where massage therapists could continue their education, on their own schedule, from anywhere in the world.

Looking back, the greatest joy of my career has been walking alongside you — my students — on your journeys. Hearing your stories has been the heartbeat of my work: mothers whose births were easier than they dreamed possible, fibromyalgia patient who regained mobility and comfort, therapists who discovered renewed passion for their careers after learning a new specialty. Together, through the hands and hearts of my graduates, we have touched millions of lives. This is a legacy I will cherish the rest of my days.

My heart is full of gratitude. To every student who has trusted me to be part of your growth: thank you. You are the reason this company has thrived, and it has been the honor of my life to serve you.

As I hand the reins of the Institute of Somatic Therapy to Dr. Deanine Picciano, I am confident that she will continue my legacy. She shares my passion for women’s health, and I know that she will help you all to continue to invest in your skills, honor the gift of touch, and keep changing lives — one client at a time.

With deepest gratitude,
Judith Koch Stapleton
Founder, Institute of Somatic Therapy