Testimonials & Reviews
June 12, 2012
Chagrin Valley Wellness Center has changed my life- positively. When I first decided to do Pilates, I checked the area for the various centers, CVWC was highly recommened.
The classes are very personal and geared to each individual.
I am stronger, have almost no pain and feel energized and relaxed after each session.
The instructors I work with know me and work with me to meet my goals!
Kudos to Chagrin Valley Wellness Center.
-Harriette Belkin
July 19, 2011
"Chagrin Valley Wellness Center,
Tanya has been my therapist in the Pilates class since February 16, 2010. I have attended on a weekly basis having some fears and doubts. Wondering if it is really working and are we doing any damage to the muscles that I had polio in. I had decided to give it a year and see how I was feeling at that time. I had seen many good things happening, I learned to walk properly, I learned how to get up from a kneeling position without the help of a chair or something to hold on to. Again I felt as I would leave the class, is this the best we can do without going too far? Every week was different; the movements were never quite the same week to week, and some movements we may never do again. I noticed Tanya never took notes, but she was always on top of things after seeing so many different clients over the week. The next visit it seemed she knew who I was and what I needed to help strengthen different muscles. How she remembers what I need is amazing to me.
Last visit on July 12, something happened that I had not felt in the last year and a half. I had never seen Tanya so zoned in the way she was last week. Everything she had me do it was like my body was saying yes to, yes this is what I need at this time. I felt like it was coming together and she knew exactly what I needed. I said to myself WOW! I think maybe she does know what she is doing.
You have a great staff working there and I find everyone so uplifting. As I grow older I know my quality of life will be better because of your help. A special thanks to you, Tanya.
Thanks again and I'll see you soon."
Rob Burkholder
Click here to read the 3-part testimonial of a Canadian client who came to see Dennis one time!
Reiki is tough to explain to another person, but it's FABULOUS! It's very relaxing and you can feel things happening to your body. I've seen white lights. After an hour of Reiki I'm so relaxed. It really calms and opens your mind. It's just amazing!
~Linda D.
Dennis, thanks so much for seeing Nate today. He walked out of your office, amazed, and saying that you are "evil" to be able to manipulate the body so much! (evil in a nice way!) He was shocked to find out he no longer fit in my car on the way home. He got into the car and his head hit the ceiling, as well as his sight out the window blocked by the roof! So he drove home with the seat reclined! Thanks so much. To amaze a young guy so much takes a lot, and obviously you have done it! It was great to see you again, as well as everyone in the office. You all couldn't be kinder. Frustrating as it can be, your explanations today, helped to put more of the body together for me. And I am looking forward to the Plantar Fasciitis talk, as well as the book you're working on. ~S.Novak, client since 2008
A letter from a renewed rider & runner with a 12 year old chronic IT-Band injury
Click here to read another letter from one of our clients
It's not what does CVWC do for me, BUT how does it help me! First of all it is very relaxing from the moment one walks in; second the massage therapy loosens and relaxes the muscles and mind; third the welcoming, courtesy and respect that is shown is outstanding. I look forward to the day when I go to CVWC.
~ SAM
I LOVE this work. Dennis worked and worked and worked till he traced my back spasms to trauma from spreading my palet 20 years prior when I had braces as an adult. He started the work and Melissa continued to work with me for about a year till I was free of the spasms. New lease on life. I now can do heavy lifting, work all day, etc. with the same body stiffness that everyone experiences. I love you guys and I look forward to the few times I can get back to Cleveland to get a tune up. It's still a mystery how little ol' Melissa can barely move me and completely wipe me out. Dennis is the best, likes pain a little too much, but still the best.
~Jim Welsh- as posted on Chagrin Valley Wellness Center's facebook group page.
Click here to read an actual letter from one of our clients.
"Over the years, I have tried various forms of treatment in various countries, but the muscles in both my leg and neck have continued to be a source of discomfort, pain & limitation. The Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® has, to my relief and surprise, reduced the stiffness and discomfort I have felt for many years in a significant way. Additionally, my posture and general movement have improved, and I am, dare I say, feeling rather hopeful. I am feeling incrementally better, with muscles in a more relaxed state, and also walking with a more natural gait. {reason for appointment: lower back, leg and neck difficulties...two previous surgeries for spondelothesis-lamenectomy & stenosis}
~David Farrah, Japan
"The attention to detail with the instructors and environment encourages correct movement patterns throughout. The Pilates offered here would definitely help other athletes improve their performance, in any sport, by giving them a solid foundation in functional movement, balance, body awareness, flexibilty and injury prevention. I highly recommend CVWC's Pilates for junior athletes as well"
~Tony James (Professional Sqaush Player, client since January 2008)
"Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® may not be what most people would expect, but it works. This combined with a weekly Pilates class, has made me stronger and my back pain is gone."
~Leslie Mapes (client since 2000)
"To treat a TMJD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) patient without postural balancing is like building on an unstable foundation; possible but compromised and ultimately prone to failure at some level."
~Dr. John White DDS (Specialist in Orthodontics Hudson/Aurora, Ohio)
"I just wanted to thank you for taking such good care of my daughter yesterday. From scheduling through the session itself your service was outstanding. Dennis, I can't thank you enough for taking the time to discuss her situation with me, offering your thoughts and expediting the appointment. Hayley, thank you for your expertise in the session. She definitely felt much better last night and was very impressed with what you did and how you did it. Ashleigh, thank you for the many back and forth phone calls to discuss the situation with Dennis and get the appointment scheduled. Thanks again to all."
~Dr. Tom Allison, Chagrin Falls
“I came to Dennis in 1991 with Achilles tendonitis and two surgeons recommended surgery, but I felt there was a better approach. It took quite a few sessions, but Dennis cured the tendonitis (a large lump on my t Achilles tendon) and I avoided surgery. Then I started coming when I would get running injuries, and eventually realized that the best way to cure and prevent serious injuries was to come on a regular basis. For the past 8 years, I have been coming once a month and I feel that this has prevented serious injuries from developing and also helped me feel better and work out problems that have developed over the course of my athletic career.”
~Bob Bruch (client since 1991)
"I injured my ankle 45 years ago. The result was trauma to my knee and chronic neck and shoulder pain. Anyone I spoke to recommended surgery. Over time, my theripist has corrected my posture - today my ankle is strong and I am free of pain."
~Peter Cerar (client since 1993)
"My hands are connected to my heart. Since one of my "Love Languages" is Acts of Service, my hands are vital to the acts which I express my love. Cooking traditional meals, sewing Halloween constumes, turning the pages of a book as I read to our grandchildren, stroking the face of my husband of 38 years, all require action of my hands. When the pain of arthritis inflames the joints, loving acts become painful. Quite simply, Dennis's healing hands have enabled mine to act freely and without pain."
~Joy from Aurora, Ohio
"Since coming to CV Wellness for postural balancing and pilates classes-I feel 150% better than I used to- back issues etc.-the entire staff at CV Wellness is so friendly, helpful, supportive all the time! Questions & concerns are always regarding the aches and pains of life-how to improve posture for specific movments. Very professional groups of people! The size of the classes are perfect! I've learned so much about "movement" and how to apply it correctly to my daily routine."
~Lynne Lofton from Chagrin Falls, Ohio
"Since I first came to Chagrin Valley Wellness Center in 2004, my body has changed in many beneficial ways. I am stronger and more able to move myself through space. Before, I reacted to the pain or limitation my body was experiencing. Now I feel more in charge of what happens. I recognize when I feel a weakness, and I can combat it with what I have learned from my treatment (MRTh®) and Fundamental Movement with Pilates(sm). An example is driving. I have come to understand that I have to support my own body weight when doing a lot of driving, instead of sinking into the driver’s seat. Functional Movement with Pilates has strengthened my core to the point where I can actually do this, and the result is a much more comfortable experience in the car and less pressure on my back and neck. Now when I walk I understand that I have to lift up from my center and use my knees and ankles for movement. Again, over time Functional Movement with Pilates has afforded me the strength to make this adjustment, and now I can walk for miles every day. When I feel pain these days, I am surprised, because for the first time in years I am without constant pain. Pain has become not a way of life but a warning signal that I need to explore what is happening. When I see a fellow fibromyalgia sufferer, I am almost embarrassed to admit to fibromyalgia, because I feel so healthy. While I will always have to be mindful of my sleep, my exercise level, and my pain level, Chagrin Valley Wellness and my own commitment to manage this disease has freed me from misery. For that I owe Dennis Gibbons and Chagrin Valley Wellness my deepest thanks."
~D. Joseph from Moreland Hills, Ohio
"I do not feel that a massage therapist or chiropractor can offer the same relief that I get from a Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® at Chagrin Valley Wellness Center. I've done both. It make so much sense to me to release the muscle, it is the root of the problem, and therefore, releases pain so I can be on the road to Wellness; feeling so much better quickly."
~Rosie Giancola (client since 2005)
"I wanted Dennis to know how wonderful the treatment worked that he gave me before my return to Florida. It was a gift from Heaven. It took away 98% of the pain and I will forever be grateful!! please let him know how much I appreciate his help. Those truly are the hands of God working through a gifted man."
~Joan Jenkins from Novelty, Ohio
"I had back pain for 20 years and tried many different things. The only time I am completely pain free is when I am attending pilates sessions regularly along with postural adjustments. So thank you."
~Toni C. from Solon, Ohio
"Dennis has literally saved me from having surgery on both wrists. I believe so fully in his methods, that I refer many of my personal training clients to him so that they can more fully benefit from their workouts."
~Melani Polk (client since 1999)
"Dennis is a genius. I feel like I have a body that is finally in line."
~Anonymous
"For years I had neck pain and tightness. After one session with Dennis, my muscles felt much more relaxed. I continued to see Dennis for Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® sessions and continued to improve tremendously. Dennis Gibbons is not just a therapist who makes you feel good during a massage session in the office. His release therapy helped me to heal long term. My chiropractor was amazed at how well my chiropractic adjustments went after I began working with Dennis. I am truly fortunate to have found someone who could give me this much relief!"
~Brenda B. Bainbridge (client since 2006)
“When my running injuries would not go away under tried and true home remedies, I shared my dilemma with some members of the Northeast Running Club. Listening carefully to the advice given, I found myself at the Wellness Center then located in Solon, Ohio (now in Beachwood, Ohio).
Greeting me at the desk was Cassy, the receptionist at the time and current Director of Comfort Control. In no time, I met Dennis Gibbons, LMT. It didn’t take long to find out what “deep muscle massage” (Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh®) meant. Dennis laid into my body the same way an asphalt roller would on a highway paving project. No mercy was shown that day as he “effortlessly” released all of my kinks, worked on any pulled muscles and just plainly realigned my body as it was found by the doctors and nurses over 50 years ago. Upon completion, Dennis had me stand up and asked how I felt. I told him I wouldn’t know until I went running again. He said to do just that and drop him a line and let him know. He stated that when I came in I was out of alignment…a phrase I would revisit many times over the next 15 years.
Two years ago (@2005) on another visit for realignment, Dennis suggested “Pilates.” I talked it over with my son and he said it wouldn’t hurt. I enrolled in the early AM program and I feel this has helped in my running as I have been able to strengthen some of my weaker body components along with proper movements. I am not the swiftest bulb in the package, but Dennis and his instructors took the time to see that I learned how to do the program correctly.
Give Chagrin Valley Wellness Center a call…you will be helped with your challenge.”
~The Chagrin Valley Wellness Center Experience as Lived By Carl Schneider
“After my first session with Dennis last year I noticed an incredible difference not only with posture but pain and discomfort relief. This morning Hayley was able to help me with what I thought was an IT band issue or possibly a pelvic issue which all turned out to be my neck. If I didn't have the expertise of the therapists at CVWC I would have been treating an issue that was nonexistent resulting not only in very little relief but lost training time.”
~Tracie Zamiska (Tri-Athlete & Member of Cleveland Triathlon Club)
Chagrin Valley Wellness Center has changed my life- positively. When I first decided to do Pilates, I checked the area for the various centers, CVWC was highly recommened.
The classes are very personal and geared to each individual.
I am stronger, have almost no pain and feel energized and relaxed after each session.
The instructors I work with know me and work with me to meet my goals!
Kudos to Chagrin Valley Wellness Center.
-Harriette Belkin
July 19, 2011
"Chagrin Valley Wellness Center,
Tanya has been my therapist in the Pilates class since February 16, 2010. I have attended on a weekly basis having some fears and doubts. Wondering if it is really working and are we doing any damage to the muscles that I had polio in. I had decided to give it a year and see how I was feeling at that time. I had seen many good things happening, I learned to walk properly, I learned how to get up from a kneeling position without the help of a chair or something to hold on to. Again I felt as I would leave the class, is this the best we can do without going too far? Every week was different; the movements were never quite the same week to week, and some movements we may never do again. I noticed Tanya never took notes, but she was always on top of things after seeing so many different clients over the week. The next visit it seemed she knew who I was and what I needed to help strengthen different muscles. How she remembers what I need is amazing to me.
Last visit on July 12, something happened that I had not felt in the last year and a half. I had never seen Tanya so zoned in the way she was last week. Everything she had me do it was like my body was saying yes to, yes this is what I need at this time. I felt like it was coming together and she knew exactly what I needed. I said to myself WOW! I think maybe she does know what she is doing.
You have a great staff working there and I find everyone so uplifting. As I grow older I know my quality of life will be better because of your help. A special thanks to you, Tanya.
Thanks again and I'll see you soon."
Rob Burkholder
Click here to read the 3-part testimonial of a Canadian client who came to see Dennis one time!
Reiki is tough to explain to another person, but it's FABULOUS! It's very relaxing and you can feel things happening to your body. I've seen white lights. After an hour of Reiki I'm so relaxed. It really calms and opens your mind. It's just amazing!
~Linda D.
Dennis, thanks so much for seeing Nate today. He walked out of your office, amazed, and saying that you are "evil" to be able to manipulate the body so much! (evil in a nice way!) He was shocked to find out he no longer fit in my car on the way home. He got into the car and his head hit the ceiling, as well as his sight out the window blocked by the roof! So he drove home with the seat reclined! Thanks so much. To amaze a young guy so much takes a lot, and obviously you have done it! It was great to see you again, as well as everyone in the office. You all couldn't be kinder. Frustrating as it can be, your explanations today, helped to put more of the body together for me. And I am looking forward to the Plantar Fasciitis talk, as well as the book you're working on. ~S.Novak, client since 2008
A letter from a renewed rider & runner with a 12 year old chronic IT-Band injury
Click here to read another letter from one of our clients
It's not what does CVWC do for me, BUT how does it help me! First of all it is very relaxing from the moment one walks in; second the massage therapy loosens and relaxes the muscles and mind; third the welcoming, courtesy and respect that is shown is outstanding. I look forward to the day when I go to CVWC.
~ SAM
I LOVE this work. Dennis worked and worked and worked till he traced my back spasms to trauma from spreading my palet 20 years prior when I had braces as an adult. He started the work and Melissa continued to work with me for about a year till I was free of the spasms. New lease on life. I now can do heavy lifting, work all day, etc. with the same body stiffness that everyone experiences. I love you guys and I look forward to the few times I can get back to Cleveland to get a tune up. It's still a mystery how little ol' Melissa can barely move me and completely wipe me out. Dennis is the best, likes pain a little too much, but still the best.
~Jim Welsh- as posted on Chagrin Valley Wellness Center's facebook group page.
Click here to read an actual letter from one of our clients.
"Over the years, I have tried various forms of treatment in various countries, but the muscles in both my leg and neck have continued to be a source of discomfort, pain & limitation. The Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® has, to my relief and surprise, reduced the stiffness and discomfort I have felt for many years in a significant way. Additionally, my posture and general movement have improved, and I am, dare I say, feeling rather hopeful. I am feeling incrementally better, with muscles in a more relaxed state, and also walking with a more natural gait. {reason for appointment: lower back, leg and neck difficulties...two previous surgeries for spondelothesis-lamenectomy & stenosis}
~David Farrah, Japan
"The attention to detail with the instructors and environment encourages correct movement patterns throughout. The Pilates offered here would definitely help other athletes improve their performance, in any sport, by giving them a solid foundation in functional movement, balance, body awareness, flexibilty and injury prevention. I highly recommend CVWC's Pilates for junior athletes as well"
~Tony James (Professional Sqaush Player, client since January 2008)
"Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® may not be what most people would expect, but it works. This combined with a weekly Pilates class, has made me stronger and my back pain is gone."
~Leslie Mapes (client since 2000)
"To treat a TMJD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) patient without postural balancing is like building on an unstable foundation; possible but compromised and ultimately prone to failure at some level."
~Dr. John White DDS (Specialist in Orthodontics Hudson/Aurora, Ohio)
"I just wanted to thank you for taking such good care of my daughter yesterday. From scheduling through the session itself your service was outstanding. Dennis, I can't thank you enough for taking the time to discuss her situation with me, offering your thoughts and expediting the appointment. Hayley, thank you for your expertise in the session. She definitely felt much better last night and was very impressed with what you did and how you did it. Ashleigh, thank you for the many back and forth phone calls to discuss the situation with Dennis and get the appointment scheduled. Thanks again to all."
~Dr. Tom Allison, Chagrin Falls
“I came to Dennis in 1991 with Achilles tendonitis and two surgeons recommended surgery, but I felt there was a better approach. It took quite a few sessions, but Dennis cured the tendonitis (a large lump on my t Achilles tendon) and I avoided surgery. Then I started coming when I would get running injuries, and eventually realized that the best way to cure and prevent serious injuries was to come on a regular basis. For the past 8 years, I have been coming once a month and I feel that this has prevented serious injuries from developing and also helped me feel better and work out problems that have developed over the course of my athletic career.”
~Bob Bruch (client since 1991)
"I injured my ankle 45 years ago. The result was trauma to my knee and chronic neck and shoulder pain. Anyone I spoke to recommended surgery. Over time, my theripist has corrected my posture - today my ankle is strong and I am free of pain."
~Peter Cerar (client since 1993)
"My hands are connected to my heart. Since one of my "Love Languages" is Acts of Service, my hands are vital to the acts which I express my love. Cooking traditional meals, sewing Halloween constumes, turning the pages of a book as I read to our grandchildren, stroking the face of my husband of 38 years, all require action of my hands. When the pain of arthritis inflames the joints, loving acts become painful. Quite simply, Dennis's healing hands have enabled mine to act freely and without pain."
~Joy from Aurora, Ohio
"Since coming to CV Wellness for postural balancing and pilates classes-I feel 150% better than I used to- back issues etc.-the entire staff at CV Wellness is so friendly, helpful, supportive all the time! Questions & concerns are always regarding the aches and pains of life-how to improve posture for specific movments. Very professional groups of people! The size of the classes are perfect! I've learned so much about "movement" and how to apply it correctly to my daily routine."
~Lynne Lofton from Chagrin Falls, Ohio
"Since I first came to Chagrin Valley Wellness Center in 2004, my body has changed in many beneficial ways. I am stronger and more able to move myself through space. Before, I reacted to the pain or limitation my body was experiencing. Now I feel more in charge of what happens. I recognize when I feel a weakness, and I can combat it with what I have learned from my treatment (MRTh®) and Fundamental Movement with Pilates(sm). An example is driving. I have come to understand that I have to support my own body weight when doing a lot of driving, instead of sinking into the driver’s seat. Functional Movement with Pilates has strengthened my core to the point where I can actually do this, and the result is a much more comfortable experience in the car and less pressure on my back and neck. Now when I walk I understand that I have to lift up from my center and use my knees and ankles for movement. Again, over time Functional Movement with Pilates has afforded me the strength to make this adjustment, and now I can walk for miles every day. When I feel pain these days, I am surprised, because for the first time in years I am without constant pain. Pain has become not a way of life but a warning signal that I need to explore what is happening. When I see a fellow fibromyalgia sufferer, I am almost embarrassed to admit to fibromyalgia, because I feel so healthy. While I will always have to be mindful of my sleep, my exercise level, and my pain level, Chagrin Valley Wellness and my own commitment to manage this disease has freed me from misery. For that I owe Dennis Gibbons and Chagrin Valley Wellness my deepest thanks."
~D. Joseph from Moreland Hills, Ohio
"I do not feel that a massage therapist or chiropractor can offer the same relief that I get from a Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® at Chagrin Valley Wellness Center. I've done both. It make so much sense to me to release the muscle, it is the root of the problem, and therefore, releases pain so I can be on the road to Wellness; feeling so much better quickly."
~Rosie Giancola (client since 2005)
"I wanted Dennis to know how wonderful the treatment worked that he gave me before my return to Florida. It was a gift from Heaven. It took away 98% of the pain and I will forever be grateful!! please let him know how much I appreciate his help. Those truly are the hands of God working through a gifted man."
~Joan Jenkins from Novelty, Ohio
"I had back pain for 20 years and tried many different things. The only time I am completely pain free is when I am attending pilates sessions regularly along with postural adjustments. So thank you."
~Toni C. from Solon, Ohio
"Dennis has literally saved me from having surgery on both wrists. I believe so fully in his methods, that I refer many of my personal training clients to him so that they can more fully benefit from their workouts."
~Melani Polk (client since 1999)
"Dennis is a genius. I feel like I have a body that is finally in line."
~Anonymous
"For years I had neck pain and tightness. After one session with Dennis, my muscles felt much more relaxed. I continued to see Dennis for Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh® sessions and continued to improve tremendously. Dennis Gibbons is not just a therapist who makes you feel good during a massage session in the office. His release therapy helped me to heal long term. My chiropractor was amazed at how well my chiropractic adjustments went after I began working with Dennis. I am truly fortunate to have found someone who could give me this much relief!"
~Brenda B. Bainbridge (client since 2006)
“When my running injuries would not go away under tried and true home remedies, I shared my dilemma with some members of the Northeast Running Club. Listening carefully to the advice given, I found myself at the Wellness Center then located in Solon, Ohio (now in Beachwood, Ohio).
Greeting me at the desk was Cassy, the receptionist at the time and current Director of Comfort Control. In no time, I met Dennis Gibbons, LMT. It didn’t take long to find out what “deep muscle massage” (Muscle Release Therapy, MRTh®) meant. Dennis laid into my body the same way an asphalt roller would on a highway paving project. No mercy was shown that day as he “effortlessly” released all of my kinks, worked on any pulled muscles and just plainly realigned my body as it was found by the doctors and nurses over 50 years ago. Upon completion, Dennis had me stand up and asked how I felt. I told him I wouldn’t know until I went running again. He said to do just that and drop him a line and let him know. He stated that when I came in I was out of alignment…a phrase I would revisit many times over the next 15 years.
Two years ago (@2005) on another visit for realignment, Dennis suggested “Pilates.” I talked it over with my son and he said it wouldn’t hurt. I enrolled in the early AM program and I feel this has helped in my running as I have been able to strengthen some of my weaker body components along with proper movements. I am not the swiftest bulb in the package, but Dennis and his instructors took the time to see that I learned how to do the program correctly.
Give Chagrin Valley Wellness Center a call…you will be helped with your challenge.”
~The Chagrin Valley Wellness Center Experience as Lived By Carl Schneider
“After my first session with Dennis last year I noticed an incredible difference not only with posture but pain and discomfort relief. This morning Hayley was able to help me with what I thought was an IT band issue or possibly a pelvic issue which all turned out to be my neck. If I didn't have the expertise of the therapists at CVWC I would have been treating an issue that was nonexistent resulting not only in very little relief but lost training time.”
~Tracie Zamiska (Tri-Athlete & Member of Cleveland Triathlon Club)