At the New York AMTA chapter, we’re proud to highlight incredible massage therapists who go above and beyond in their dedication to clients, helping their communities, and advancing the art, science, and practice of massage therapy. The AMTA-NY Board is proud to recognize these inspiring members whose passion and commitment embody the highest standards of our profession.

Member Spotlight November 2025

Julie "Jo" Overskei

From the art world to the healing arts, Jo proves that creativity and compassion often go hand in hand.

Nominated by: Samuel North

Written by: Shawn Belles, Membership Engagement Chair

Jo moved to New York City to pursue her passion for art and design after earning her Master of Fine Arts degree from UCLA. As she was building her career in the graphic arts industry, she cultivated her fascination with holistic health and the mind-body connection. Fifteen years ago, that curiosity took center stage, and Jo made the leap into massage therapy.

Celebrating 14 years in business, Jo is the proud owner of JOs Body Shop NY in Peekskill. Her approach to massage, which she calls Deep Tissue Integrative Massage, blends a variety of advanced modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. She’s trained in deep tissue massage, sports massage, craniosacral therapy, somato-emotional release, manual lymphatic drainage, visceral manipulation, medical cupping, and more. 

“When I work with a client,” Jo explains, “ I listen to them, watch them move, and help to assess their specific needs and integrate a variety of modalities into their treatment plan.” “Sometimes people just need to be listened to and thus heard.” Her clients come not only from across the tri-state area but also from the West Coast and abroad, a testament to the trust and reputation she has built over more than a decade. Samuel North, who nominated Jo for our member spotlight, had this to say: “Ask anyone and they will tell you that Jo is an empathetic and highly skilled practitioner with a devoted following.”

JO's Body Shop isn’t just a massage studio; it’s a shop and creative hub. Alongside her treatment rooms, Jo offers a selection of items, including crystals, singing bowls, incense, jewelry, and handmade bath & body products. Additionally, she has an art gallery space that showcases local artists. “Peekskill has a vibrant local arts scene, and we are happy to be able to provide a space where artists can exhibit,” Jo says. She also continues to create art herself, with exhibitions planned throughout 2026 in several local venues.

Jo has been a proud AMTA member since the beginning of her massage career, joining shortly after earning her New York State massage license. She credits the AMTA for continually advancing the profession and offering valuable education and support. “Thank you, AMTA,” she says, “for your belief and dedication to the growth of massage therapy. I thoroughly enjoyed the lymphatic training at last year’s convention in Albany.”

When she’s not working or creating, Jo’s time is all about family and nature. She and her husband recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary, and they’re proud parents to two adult children, ages 18 and 22. Their home is a lively, love-filled space complete with two Border Collies, a lush garden, and even a fish pond. “Life is full,” Jo says. “And I am so thankful.” 

The AMTA-NY chapter is proud to have Julie as a member who continues to advance the art, science, and practice of massage therapy. 

To submit a nominee and explain why you think we should highlight them, contact membershipengagement@amta-ny.org. We’re looking forward to recognizing more amazing AMTA-NY members!

Do you know an outstanding massage educator? You can nominate them for the Teacher of the Year Award! Check out the details below.

Check out these AMTA Awards! Is there anyone you know who fits the description?

At our annual AMTA-NY Convention, we will present awards based on your nominations. Here are the awards:

• Sports Massage Achiever Award: This award is given to honor an AMTA member and acknowledge their accomplishments in sports massage.

• Humanitarian Award: Awarded to acknowledge the “heart” of massage in action. The nominee must be an AMTA member who has volunteered in the larger community, such as a charity, church, or other form of community outreach.

• Meritorious Award: Awarded to acknowledge diligent volunteerism done in an altruistic manner. The nominee must be an active member of AMTA for one year. This is the highest award in the chapter and is recognized at the national level.

If you know anyone you would like to nominate for any of these awards, email our Awards chair, Edward Pacyna, at awards@amta-ny.org.

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AMTA-NY would like to recognize all of its new members. Welcome aboard, and we're happy that you're a part of our community.