At Kootenay Columbia College (KCC), the success of our students is deeply rooted in the dedication and expertise of our instructors. One such inspiring educator is Wendy Birks, whose extensive experience and unwavering commitment to both teaching and therapeutic work have made her a cornerstone of our Massage Therapy program.
A Career Spanning Over Three Decades
With more than 30 years of experience in massage therapy, Wendy’s journey has been one of growth, self-awareness, and a deep commitment to helping others. She began her teaching career in Toronto, where she quickly discovered her love for the challenges and rewards that come with educating future practitioners. Over time, she realized that teaching not only allowed her to share her knowledge but also encouraged her own personal and professional development.
Wendy joined Kootenay Columbia College in 2016, bringing with her a wealth of
expertise and a passion for mentorship. Initially teaching Law, Ethics, and Professionalism, she soon became one of the most respected instructors in the program. Today, she continues to shape the next generation of massage therapists with her collaborative and participatory teaching style.
A Philosophy of Continuous Growth
One of Wendy’s core beliefs is that true learning never stops—not for students and certainly not for teachers. She approaches education as a two-way street, always striving to become a better teacher by actively listening to her students and welcoming feedback.
“Being open to feedback is a big thing—it helps you improve,” Wendy shares. “Getting your ego in check, owning up to mistakes, and seeing them as opportunities for self-development are all part of being an effective educator.”
The Importance of Self-Care in Helping Others
As a seasoned practitioner, Wendy understands the emotional and physical demands of working in massage therapy. She encourages students to prioritize their own well-being, emphasizing that taking care of oneself is essential when working in a profession dedicated to helping others.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she advises. “If you’re trying to be a helper, you need to help yourself first. This means working on yourself just as much as you work on others.”
Her background in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma has reinforced the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and continuous learning—values she instills in her students.
Words of Wisdom for Future Therapists
Wendy’s advice for students is simple yet profound:
- Embrace the learning process – “Every time you feel like you don’t know something, remind yourself that you’re in the process of learning. You’re not expected to know it all—that’s part of the journey.”
- Stay curious, open, and teachable – “Even when you graduate, the learning continues. The more comfortable you become with ‘not knowing,’ the more successful and fulfilled you’ll be in your career.”
- First impressions matter – “It only takes 18 seconds to make a first impression. Be open, be present, and pay attention to the energy in the room.”
- Compassion is key – “True compassion isn’t just about feeling for others—it’s about understanding where they are and helping them reach their next level.”
A Lasting Impact at Kootenay Columbia College
Throughout her career, Wendy has worked in home-based practices, hospitals, multidisciplinary clinics, and spas. She has also supported patients with cognitive impairments, HIV, and those in senior care settings, experiences that have deeply shaped her approach to teaching and patient care.
For Wendy, Kootenay Columbia College has been the perfect environment to share her eclectic and extensive knowledge. She believes that education is about empowerment—and that the role of a teacher is to “show students the door—it’s up to them to walk through it.”
Her dedication to both her students and her profession continues to inspire those around her, making her an invaluable part of the KCC community.
