Susan McIntosh
Susan McIntosh’s story, from her days as a Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) graduate to becoming a distinguished practitioner and entrepreneur, epitomizes perseverance, inspiration, and a deep-seated passion for integrative health. Her journey commenced with a Master in Acupuncture from MUIH (formerly Tai Sophia Institute) in 1999, leading her from a foundational practice in Mt. Washington to the helm of Satori Wellness Center.
In the initial phase of her career, Susan, alongside a colleague, established a small center in Mt. Washington, housing a massage therapist and an acupuncturist. This venture was crucial in shaping her unique style and approach. Her solo practice in Hampstead, MD, in northern Baltimore County, further honed her skills and deepened her understanding of patient care.
A pivotal turn in Susan’s career occurred at Carroll Hospital’s Tevis Center for Wellness, where she contributed to community acupuncture and addiction programs and gained significant experience in the emergency department. This period was transformative, bolstering her patient communication skills and ability to provide comprehensive care.
Susan’s journey with Satori Wellness Center in Towson, MD is a significant milestone. After years of dedicated service, she embraced the opportunity to own the practice in September 2022. The ethos of Satori Wellness Center, initially founded by Kathy Crosland and Leslie Bridges, profoundly resonates with Susan. The name, symbolizing ‘bliss,’ and the center’s philosophy, reflect a journey towards holistic health and life balance, aligning closely with Susan’s personal and professional values.
As a leader, Susan values kindness, patience, skill, and deep listening in her team. She emphasizes continuous learning and a shared passion for the craft, fostering a collaborative and evolving space for practitioners and clients. Her career was significantly influenced by the mentorship and teachings of several key figures in the field of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Among the most influential mentors for Susan were the founders of Tai Sophia Institute, Bob Duggan and Dianne Connelly. Bob Duggan, a figure renowned for his profound insights and compassionate approach to healing, left an indelible mark on Susan’s professional outlook. His teachings and philosophy helped shape her understanding of patient care, infusing it with a blend of empathy and practical wisdom. Dianne Connelly’s contributions to the field, through her work and teachings, also played a significant role in Susan’s development, offering her a broadened perspective on holistic health and patient interaction.
Another notable influence was Alex Tiberi, a celebrated practitioner whose work and teachings have left a lasting legacy in the field of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Tiberi’s approach, characterized by innovation and a deep understanding of the traditional roots of the practice, offered Susan invaluable insights into the intricacies of her craft.
Perhaps the most personal and profound influence on Susan came from her first practitioner, Mary Phelps. Phelps, described by Susan as a true healer, played a seminal role in her decision to pursue a career in acupuncture. Her unique combination of strength and gentleness made her not only an effective healer but also a great teacher.
An integral part of Susan’s journey at Satori Wellness Center includes mentorship from the original owners, MUIH alumni Leslie Lloyd and Kathy Crosland. Leslie’s brother, contributing to the center’s legacy, designed the distinctive logo of Satori Wellness Center. The logo, featuring a gate within a circle, embodies Leslie’s vision, representing the movement of life’s energy and the awakening to the whole self, encompassing the essence of ‘Satori’ or ‘moment of awakening.’ Susan’s addition of the slogan ‘where east meets bliss’ further encapsulates the center’s ethos, blending traditional practices with a sense of joy and discovery.
Facing the challenges and rewards of being a business owner, Susan’s first year was demanding yet fulfilling. Her practice of gratitude, resilience, and the unwavering support of her team have been pivotal in her success.
Looking to the future, Susan aspires to expand Satori Wellness Center’s services, maintaining her commitment to learning and growth. Her story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of integrative health and the enduring influence of her MUIH roots, symbolized in the very essence of Satori Wellness Center – a place of awakening, healing, and bliss.