About Us
Our Belief & Business
At Pivotal Pathway, you can expect to meet an educated, experienced, licensed therapist who has a professional approach to your wellbeing. Our consultative approach to your wellness objectives is why we have been in business for ten years and voted as one of the top providers in therapeutic massage therapy and alternative wellness. We use our skills and knowledge to help you achieve your goals to balance your mind and body. This is a local Waco native, woman-owned business, and we value our relationships with each and every client.
We believe our purpose is to assist you with a safe space to calm your central nervous system down and disconnect while receiving proven physical benefits. When you can relax your mind and body, you can recharge yourself to be a presence and power in your own life and the lives of others.
We are supporters of Midway ISD, members of the Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce and members of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). We have been winners in LOCALS LOVE US each year since 2016 and have donated to the Humane Society and other local charities because we love our community. All licensing for our establishment and therapists remain current, we follow the CDC guidelines regarding COVID, and we always pass TDLR visits. You can feel confident knowing we have your best interest in mind and go through great lengths to ensure safety, cleanliness, and peace.
Wendy Noriskin, Founder/Owner
Founder of Pivotal Pathway LLC, Licensed Massage Instructor (MI3436), Licensed Massage Therapist (License# MT122870)
Wendy Noriskin, M.A., founder and owner of Pivotal Pathway LLC, embarked on a significant career shift in 2015, leaving the corporate world of training and development. This transition was deeply personal, spurred by the passing of her sister and a powerful desire to create a haven for highly stressed individuals seeking solace and healing. Although initially unfamiliar with massage therapy beyond its personal benefits, Wendy envisioned a professional space in Waco where clients could find genuine bodywork and a renewed sense of centeredness. Driven by this vision, she quickly obtained her massage therapy license in 2015, followed by instructor and establishment licenses, determined to become a wellness leader who would introduce innovative and less conventional therapies to the local community, far beyond the typical spa setting.
Wendy’s rich and varied educational background includes a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Texas State University, a Master’s degree in Organizational Development from the University of Incarnate Word, 18 hours of study towards a Masters in Mental Health Counseling, and certifications in Lean Six Sigma, Texas Secondary Education, and Adult Instructional Design.
Her comprehensive massage therapy education includes the completion of a 500-hour Texas-accredited program and over 2000 hours of practical experience as a certified instructor. Wendy has also pursued extensive continuing education in specialized areas such as Deep Tissue Massage, Stretching, Sports Massage, Water Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, and Raindrop Therapy. Her commitment to holistic well-being extends to her studies in Qigong, Myofascial Release, Quantum Touch, Reiki, and Water Massage Therapy. As a mother of two, Wendy’s personal journey fueled her passion to establish this nurturing and transformative practice.
Jacquetta Malcom, LMT, LMI
Licensed Massage Therapist (MT#136648)
Jacquetta’s passion for wellness is ever present during her interactions with clients, friends and family. Her caring and patient demeanor exemplify her commitment to helping others adopt a healthy lifestyle. Fitness has been a constant in Jacquetta’s life starting with her formidable years as a military brat. She graduated with a B.S. in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from the University of Houston where she simultaneously began her fitness career as a personal trainer and group exercise teacher. In 2014, Jacquetta completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training, as well as the Balanced Athlete ® Level 1 training. She is also a trained Reiki practitioner, and after almost 7 years of teaching yoga and serving as faculty at her yoga school, Jacquetta added Licensed Massage Therapist (MT136648) to her body of work in wellness. Jacquetta is also certifited in Lymphatic Drainage. She is thrilled to leverage her skills to provide clients with an experience that is both relaxing and healing. She is passionate about myofascial release, functional breathing, movement therapy, cupping and a holistic approach to wellness. When she isn’t at the center, Jacquetta enjoys getting outside with her family, cheering at a sports event, hiking or finding a new adventure of nature-loving fun.
Franci Carter, Senior LMT
Licensed Senior Massage Therapist (MT#137013)
Franci Carter, a licensed Massage Therapist (MT#137013), graduated from East West College of Healing Arts in 2015 with a certificate of massage. She has a passion for structural bodywork and a dedication to use her skills to help others. Franci focuses on deep tissue, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, as well as providing your body space to rest, relax and heal.
Aaron Barboza, Senior LMT
Licensed Senior Massage Instructor (MI3388), Licensed Senior Massage Therapist (MT03538)
Aaron Barboza, a senior licensed Massage Therapist (MT03538) and Massage Instructor (MI3388), has over 20 years experience in wellness and massage therapy, both in a medical and spa capacity. His training has primarily been in a physical therapy setting where he learned effective stretches, body positioning and Myofascial Release Techniques. He also has training and experience in lymphatic massage, Thai massage and Reflexology. In addition to massage therapy, he is a certified personal trainer and pursuing other certifications within nutrition. His passion is in helping others discover healthful ways of living, eating and moving. Aaron enjoys swimming and spending time with is wife and kids.
Ruzica Norwood (pronounced Roo-Jit-Zah )
Licensed Senior Massage Therapist (MT142334)
As an avid learner and former educator, Ruzica found a new passion for learning anatomy and physiology. She obtained her massage therapy license and prefers to focus on pain management and therapeutic massage. She is active in her community and enjoys spending time with her husband and dog. She is ready to assist you on your wellness journey.