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Monika M. Gross, M.AmSAT, M.ATI, RSME, BFA (she/her/hers)

Executive Director
The Poise Project
Candler, North Carolina, United States

Monika Gross, BFA, M.AmSAT, M.ATI, RSME is an internationally certified Alexander technique (AT) specialist with over 35 years of experience. Since 2016, Monika has served as Executive Director of The Poise Project, a nonprofit that researches and develops adaptive Alexander-based programs for people living with Parkinson’s disease and other chronic conditions and their family care partners. The Poise Project also delivers postgraduate training to prepare AT specialists to meet the demand for new jobs serving target industries and populations; and continuing education courses to inform health, education, and other industry professionals about AT-based approaches. We initiate research projects to build on existing data concerning the efficacy of AT principle based approaches and to test new curriculum.

Alexander technique is a cognitive embodiment training that can be delivered in a variety of educational and clinical settings. It is well established in performing arts programs to train professional performers how to skillfully manage stressful circumstances, reduce anxiety, avoid injury and musculoskeletal pain, and increase overall functioning and performance. Using an integrated psychomotor approach, AT specialists teach ways of thinking that combine interoception, exteroception, proprioception, and goal awareness to enhance the performance of everyday activities while reducing anxiety and improving overall confidence. Adaptive Alexander-based programs teach clients to actively choose and use functional patterns that promote optimal postural tone and support their ability to become skilled and holistically engaged partners in their own preventative and rehabilitative care.

Ms. Gross is an active member of ACRM and participates in a number of networking groups and task forces, including the Neurodegenerative Diseases NG, Parkinsonism & Related Disorders TF and Alzheimer’s Disease TF, the Athlete Development and Sports Rehab NG, the International NG Refugee Empowerment TF, the Aging Research & Geriatric Rehab NG and Cognition in Aging TF, the Stroke Movement Interventions TF and Aphasia and Communications Disorders TF, and the Arts and Neuroscience NG Movement TF. Monika has presented Alexander technique based research and instructional courses at numerous international conferences, including the 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 ACRM conferences, and the 2019 ACRM Spring Meeting.

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