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AlexanderTechLA

Burbank, CA, Los Angeles

(36)
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About

I am an AmSat-certified Alexander Technique instructor specializing in pain, performance, performance anxiety, presentation skills, and charisma. Basically, I help people do any human activity with less pain/discomfort and more ease, power, and poise.

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Reviews (36)

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5/5

36 customer reviews

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30 August 2019

Brett has been a lifesaver! I was experiencing a sharp pain in my hip and had been struggling to get a proper diagnosis and treatment from my doctor. Brett helped me pinpoint the source of my pain and has helped tremendously to improve my movement! We've also been working on my posture, and after a few sessions with Brett, I'm standing and walking like a whole different person.Highly recommend Brett--he's the real deal. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

25 June 2019

I did ten sessions with Brett in May-June 2019, so I don't know why Yelpers are reporting this location is closed-- he's definitely still seeing clients. And I highly recommend him!Brett's expert eye identified several important fixes for my posture and body mechanics that were contributing to my back and knee pain. During the course of the sessions he imparted essentials of the AT approach to spinal integrity, supplemented by several emails each week.A delightful part of each session is massage table time, a gentle, therapeutic repositioning of the body that I found more relaxing and invigorating than any massage I've had.Brett is positive, enthusiastic, and eclectic. His wonderful home studio has several pieces of Pilates equipment which he introduced me to, mirrors, cushions, foam rollers, a variety of chairs to practice getting into, off of, and sitting on. (Remember, sitting is the new smoking...) We also did bits of Tai Chi, Chi Gong, and Brett made references to ballet and tango.Not only is my body in better shape now, but I feel I have the knowledge to help protect it in the future--what Brett refers to as "the AT toolkit." Can't say enough about AT with Brett! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

27 March 2019

This review is long over due.. But, Right off the bat, I want to thank the art form that is the Alexander Technique itself. It's a beautiful and life changing experience. If you're a performer like I am, this will be your secret weapon.Brett is a great and passionate man. He lives and breathes the AT. He is a true life changer in this crazy changing world today.I took 10 sessions from Sept 2018 - Dec 2018. My posture improved, the way I present myself to people, the kind of confidence I have when walking and owning myself. Aligning everything. If I am feeling in a rut in life, I will remember what I learned from Brett and push through it and use the AT to get me back on my feet. With anything.Brett knows exactly what you need to help you. You won't be disappointed.Thanks Brett. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

15 July 2018

In 5 sessions, my whole life changed; no exaggeration. I've struggled with alignment since childhood & I thought it'd take years to get me to where I stand today, but it only took 5 sessions. Brett's like an omnipotent overlord LOL. He's super passionate & very receptive to your individual needs. Everything he's taught me resonated and has become part of my everyday life. I took years to seek Alexander Technique lessons & I regret that. If you're thinking about it, just do it & I recommend Brett Hershey with every fiber of my lengthened spine! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

14 March 2018

So far I've had nine sessions with Brett, and I have one more to go.  I have to say it has had the biggest effect on the resonance and power of my voice.  I don't have to strain anymore.  My voice can carry across the stage without pressure and strain which is amazing because I am a theatre performer.  I've learned that warming up my body, meditating, stretching, massaging, along with some of the Alexander Technique exercises before a show automatically preps my voice.  Therefore, I warm up by body first because then I don't have to spend as much time prepping my voice.  The Alexander Technique has made clear to me the mind, body, soul connection.For years I've had tension in my upper body.  I would walk around sometimes with my shoulders hunch and not even realize it until I actually realize it.  The tension is gone, and if it happens to appear I recognize it right away, and I get rid of it.   I am more relaxed on stage when performing and auditioning.  I believe that the AT took me to the next level.  I am so glad that I invested in it.   To anyone reading this review, invest in yourself.  You will be amazed at how much better you feel.  It's not just for actors; it's for anyone who wants to be him or her best self. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

3 February 2018

Brett is passionate, knowledgeable, kind and approachable. I'm always nervous working with a new instructor especially with something as vulnerable as my body and movement but working with Brett is like working with a movement guru. He's perceptive, kind and efficient and in such a short time span I'm already seeing incredible improvement. I've been in multiple different acting  studios where I've heard the importance of Alexander technique and I whole heartedly agree it doesn't just change your acting it changes your life More...

Reviewed on Yelp

5 October 2017

My school (Relativity School) had us take Alexander Technique for movement first semester, and Brett was our instructor. I wasn't expecting much, but after a semester I was hooked. Brett made my transition from theatre to film MUCH easier, and I enjoyed the class so much I continued taking them outside of school. This is one of those things where the enjoyment/understanding is based on the instructor. Brett made it easy to understand, fun to do, and is a great example of the technique itself. Highly recommend taking a class under his instruction!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

1 June 2017

I love working with Brett! For starters, he is a great person and presence to be around. I've worked with him weekly for eight months now and the physical change in my body and movement is really incredible. What I wasn't fully expecting when I started Alexander with Brett was how much that would change me mentally as well. I feel like a new person in so many ways, more confident, more present and much more emotionally available. I didn't even realize I had anxiety until it started to melt away through working with Brett. He has ignited a curiosity and excitement for AT that grows stronger each week. Simply put, working with Brett has been a fantastic investment in myself and it pays dividends every day. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

25 May 2017

Mr. Hershey has been my AT teacher for about 8 months now. I haven't found anything that better helps me to find my good form than his teaching and Alexander technique. Can't recommend him enough!!

Reviewed on Yelp

30 January 2017

Before working with Brett, I was dealing with persistent back pain that limited my physical activities. I had been forced to give up running, spinning, and other high energy activities because of this pain. I had visited orthopedic doctors and physical therapists and tried yoga, acupuncture, and pilates. Almost immediately, I found that Alexander Technique helped reduce my pain and improve my mobility. Brett is an expert in using the technique and a thoughtful and kind teacher, which helped me feel comfortable and confident in applying what I was learning. By incorporating what Brett is teaching me into running, spinning, and pilates, I now have even greater success and enjoyment in these workouts. If you are struggling with pain, I encourage you to incorporate Alexander Technique into your recovery plans. It is a gentle yet very effective system and Brett is a wonderful teacher. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

25 January 2017

As I write this review, I am being very mindful of the way I'm sitting.  This is one of the many things Brett has taught my wife and I; to be aware of how we use our bodies.  Having practiced martial arts for half my life, I came to Brett for a better understanding of how I move.  My wife came for everyday use for practical applications (ie sitting/standing for long periods of time).Brett reminds me of my first martial arts sensei 23 years ago, in that they share some of the same concepts and ideals; that we should always train our body to move with thought and intent.  If you are always moving correctly in your everyday activities, then you are always training.  He has made moving fun again.As my wife and I start up our tai chi again next week, we look forward to our new perspectives on motion and mindfulness. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

25 September 2016

So grateful that I found Brett.....as a dancer with scoliosis, I was unable to have full range of movement on my right side.  He worked with me once a week for ten months, unraveling the bad habits that I had accumulated over the years.  Brett is extremely knowledgeable, gentle, and skilled in Alexander Technique, dance movement and acting techniques (body presentation). He taught me to be mindful of how I stand, speak, sit and bend.  For example, he asked me why I always stand on one leg, leaning to the side.  I had never noticed that, but it was true.  He taught me that leaning is a less powerful position, not to mention, stressful to one side of the body.  I'm more conscious of being easy on my joints, and slowing down.  As my body got less congested, my emotions have loosened up also.  I highly recommend Brett and Alexander Technique as a way to unlock your highest potential. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

30 July 2016

Brett is a fantastic teacher, and human being!! After going through his Alexander Technique Training Intensive of 10 straight days of 1-hour sessions, I can truly say my awareness of my habits is so helpful. Not only in my acting, but through my everyday life, I am able to see how some psychological triggers have developed into poor body usage/habits over the years. By being open to Brett's extensive knowledge, I was really able to dig through those awful habits. I sleep better, I am more confident in everyday life (especially auditions!) and I truly feel this practice has made my entire life BETTER. My lower back pain has completely left, and tension that I had been holding disappeared. It was such a blessing to meet Brett, and I am SO glad I took the leap to study with him. I will be going back to Brett for years, I am certain of that!!  Take the leap - you will NOT regret it :) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

1 June 2016

Loved learning this method. Bret's a great, chill teacher. He answers any questions you have. I had to stop for a while due to a severe medical condition and I didn't get to go as much as I hoped; but the bit I learned has been a serious help to my wellness. Aligning yourself and being aware of your body's habits relieves so much pressure in the back, legs and shoulders. This method is invaluable. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

1 February 2016

One of the most important tools you can have for life is Alexander Training. Though the Alexander Technique is highly used by artists, musicians and presenters, I have found it PROFOUNDLY IMPACTFUL in all areas of my life from corporate settings to personal communication. The basic concept of returning to good use and freedom in your body, is so simple and foundational in all areas of life. As well, Brett is an extremely strong and skilled teacher. He guides you through the practice and you leave feeling changed. If you are looking for Alexander training, I could not recommend Brett more. And if you are seeking to grow or break your patterns in life, I also could not recommend the Alexander Technique enough! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

19 January 2016

Brett is fantastic! It's amazing to me how quickly he can "diagnose" you -- then give such helpful corrections. He is so knowledgable and gifted in the Alexander Technique, and a wonderful person to boot!  His ability to articulate and help me visualize alignment helped me to finally be able to let go of chronic tension in my neck. If you are on the fence, do it. This technique and Brett are invaluable! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

8 January 2016

Working with Brett has been phenomenal.  He is an absolute master and anyone who is looking to study the Alexander Technique would benefit immensely from working with him.  The Alexander Technique has been a terrific asset to harness not just as an actor and artist, but in daily life in general.  It has literally been a life changing investment.  Anyone looking to study Alexander, for whatever reason, should absolutely look into the private sessions with Brett.  Two thumbs way up! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

14 October 2015

VERY FORTUNATE to have found Brett and AT.  I have been taking private lessons with Brett once a week for the last couple months, and SERIOUSLY, it is one of the best investments I've made for my life and my career.  Learning basic things such as walking, sitting, texting, reading, doing day to day errands with a good posture, all these help so much even when you don't think you need improvements.  I feel free.  It's empowering to get to know your own body, your breathing, your movements.  Gives me confidence within.I am also learning from Brett about how to cultivate good habits in life and at work, by habits I mean thoughts habits and movement habits.  Sometimes I feel stress or nervous at my job, and Brett helped me how to understand what they are,  and quickly and easily find ways for me to feel better and feel good. It's hard to explain in words, you gotta try his class at least once to know his value.  You will love him and his knowledge.  He is also positive and creative  teacher.Oh, and here's some fun stuff, in my new job, I have to walk in high heels, and I've never done that before much.  Brett taught me how to do this, it may sound like you can learn this from your girlfriends who know how,  but learning it the proper way make walking in heels fun and painless.  He introduced me to his wife, who is a superwoman beauty and she walks in heels like a goddess.  I get to learn from her too, and I feel so hopeful now. AWESOME CLASS! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

25 September 2015

Having not knowing anything about it but heard the name Alexander Technique and then attended a brief seminar about it, I was very much interested in signing up for classes.  I've always had back and neck pain off and on for years since college and now it's been a constant due to being on a computer all day and sitting for most of the day.  I took one look at my mom's curve in her upper back and became determined to watch out and improve my posture and learn however way I could.  She already shrunk an inch in height and my upper spine was beginning to curve too. And as cells phones abound, our posture is hurting and in time our spine will curve unnaturally. This is the best thing I did. It was not easy because old habits die hard.  But with Brett's guidance, great real life examples and lots of practice and informative videos, a whole new way of moving was revealed to me! And it's all about the mind, body and soul and these techniques although simple, require you to think and be in touch with your body.  Brett's soothing voice and relaxing and gentle touch helps you ease into practice.  He is so caring, patient, and understanding. He has many ways to help you learn and get through the stiffness and the light bulb will turn on! This class is highly recommended for every single human being I know! I would like to take refresher classes in case I feel myself slipping back into bad form.  Thanks Brett and keep up the good work! His little assistant who came once was brilliant too! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

9 September 2015

All the 5 star ratings are there for a reason...working with Brett has been one of the best investments I've made on my health. ..Brett not only helps correct posture but teaches you how to be aware of your posture and to improve on it yourself...however much you advance in his lessons will last a lifetime...the fact that he's a great guy is only a cherry on top of the pie...if you have any postural problems or are looking to improve your posture look no further... More...

Reviewed on Yelp

4 September 2015

I have been taking an Alexander Technique class from Brett at UCLA and have been really impressed.  He's a great teacher, he makes things easy to understand, and in the short time that I've been taking his class, the persistent upper back pain that I've had off and on for years has pretty much gone away because I've been doing the things that Brett has taught in the class.  He has great energy and enthusiasm for what he's teaching and it's obvious that he likes and cares for people and wants them to be able to enjoy the benefits of the Alexander Technique. He has provided us with a lot of additional information via e-mail and links to videos he made which illustrate what he's teaching us which has been really helpful. When I was thinking of taking Brett's class I looked him up on Yelp and was really impressed by how many 5 start ratings he had.  I could tell that the reviews were real (not just posted by friends or family) but I still wondered "Is he really that good?".  Well, I can now say that "Yes, Brett really is that good".  He's a really good teacher and definitely deserves a 5 star review. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

19 May 2015

Alexander technique with Brett has changed my life! I highly recommend learning AT with Brett. He is an awesome and fun instructor. Learning AT with Brett has made me a better person in terms of posture and health/fitness in general and I also feel more confident in my daily activities. I also learned an amazing relaxation and breathing technique with Brett so if you are reading this review then I would suggest for you to contact him right away to schedule an appointment to learn the amazing AT with the best AT instructor! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

13 May 2015

I've had a really great experience in Brett's Alexander Technique class.  I'm an actor, but much of what we've worked on together is how I use my body in day-today activities, which has allowed me to identify unhealthy habits and begin to remedy them.  Brett is very passionate, knowledgeable, and understanding.  It's clear to me that Alexander Technique has been a really positive influence in his life, and I believe because of that, there's so much vitality in his teaching of it.  I highly recommend taking his class, even if it's just a one-time drop-in to experience what he has to offer. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

16 April 2015

How refreshing and renewing to discover the unlearning of postural habits with Brett!I am in his Alexander/ Tai Chi class at UCLA and highly recommend it! ! Insightful,affirming, and transforming!!! (Gladly doing the homework) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

10 April 2015

I had been exposed to Alexander Technique in short bursts i.e. one day in rehearsal for a show, one day in an ongoing drama program, a YWCA class, etc. .. but I decided to make a commitment to starting an ongoing AT class. My body has been asking for growth in this area for my entire adult life.I read the reviews on a handful of teachers on Yelp and the web, and ended up trying Brett out. I have had 6 sessions so far, and am committed to sticking with it for the rest of the year. He is a really supportive, patient teacher with a good sense of feeling out his students' boundaries and needs. He is affordable and has a great energy, and his two ongoing drop in classes provide flexibility, as well as being able to accommodate private sessions. My fiance (non-actor) just did his first session together with me in a semi-private, and is also going to start taking class on an ongoing basis with him.Definitely would recommend Brett to actors and non-actors alike, for those who are on a path of improved health and balance in all areas of their life - from the inside out, or the outside in. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

14 January 2015

I LOVE Alexander Techinique and LOVE class with Brett. Brett is very passionate, positive, encouraging and knowledgeable about Alexander Technique. He is everything thing you would want in a teacher. I leave every class feeling grounded, revitalized, encouraged and transformed.....I know....that sounds a bit over the top but it is true. In performance (and life basically) I always knew there was something that was inhibiting me but I just couldn't put my finger on it nor could anyone else. After taking Alexander Techinique with Brett all the dots are finally starting to connect. (There is a reason that all the top Performing Arts Universities have Alexander Technique classes)I started with his 6 week course for actors and then I was hooked. Not only has it helped me with performance but, with day to day life. I've been taking the ongoing class to dig even deeper.  I am always amazed with the growth within myself and fellow classmates.Thank you Brett for being a phenomenal teacher. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

2 October 2014

I had sciatic pain that was becoming more frequent and I had scheduled an appointment with my doctor until a coworker urged me to try Alexander Technique first.  I signed up for a 10-week course with Brett and the pain quickly disappeared and has not returned.  Brett quickly discovered the source of my sciatic pain was kyphosis. Brett is a great teacher and he does a great job of explaining the biological rationale for Alexander Technique.  He does an excellent job of tailoring his classes to your own individual needs and he paces his lessons effectively. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

16 September 2014

I couldn't be more pleased with Brett and the Alexander Technique.  I friend introduced me to him and i am so glad he is close by because he was exactly what i was looking for. I was looking for someone to show me the proper way to move my body.  As a massage therapist that is increasingly important to me, and subsequently to my clients.   Brett not only shows you, but teaches you in the process and keeps you aware of your spine in all things.  I thank him too much already, but i'll do it again...  THANK YOU BRETT!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

9 June 2014

Brett really helps you become comfortable in your own skin and hold more confidence in your movement and I was surprised in my speech as well. Brett is very easy going and approachable and has a great eye to see exactly where the issues that you have that can be helped with Alexander Technique. Always leave feeling I've accomplished a lot. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

28 May 2014

I've taken both group and private classes with Brett and he's great at working with all kinds of people. I'm so impressed with how he tunes into each person, making suggestions and small corrections that make a huge difference. By applying Alexander Technique with his guidance, I am gradually letting go of tension. It's helping me in my regular life--exercising, driving, moving through the world--and in my acting life--helping to free my body and my voice that crucial bit more. I've particularly gotten a lot out of private sessions, where you get the full focus of Brett's expertise. Thanks, Brett! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

23 May 2014

I thought Alexander work was mostly for actors & performers, but it turns out it's for me too! I've had two lessons with Brett, and already I find myself moving and resting more consciously, with more freedom and less pain. Brett is articulate, fun, energetic, and practical. He cued in immediately to the kinds of work that would be most useful to me - picking up my kids, working at my desk, etc. - and helped me find ways to do those activities without causing pain.I'm going back for more lessons soon & really looking forward to it. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

30 April 2014

I thought I already knew enough about ergonomics, but I was wrong. I have had 20 years of back pain due to scoliosis, and seen at least 2 dozen different practitioners for help. Having had surgery, too, I know the limitations of that costly choice as well. Brett uses an approach that is different from anyone I have seen. It is very subtle, which usually causes me to doubt its validity. However, the minor adjustments that he has taught me, and continues to teach me, have literally transformed my daily life. I am now able to use the same activities that would historically aggravate my back and turn them into therapy. That is quite surprising to me, because I thought I already knew enough to do that, but couldn't because I needed to rest or have deep tissue massage, ice, etc. The training is only half of what Brett does. The other half of the hour is spent on a massage table while he assists me in letting go of my tension. This is another example of the subtlety of the Alexander Technique. Rather than being painfully prodded, poked and manipulated, I am pleasantly healed by a unique process of letting go. While I noticed results after the first session, I have become much more of a believer after working at it for several sessions. I strongly encourage working on this for at least a season. More and more I am reconsidering the previous ways I have treated my back. The unnecessary strain that I inflict upon it with the intention of getting stronger and fitter, may be a thing of the past. Right now, I am focusing more on increasing endurance with More...

Reviewed on Yelp

20 January 2014

I've trained with Brett doing Alexander Technique (AT) with multiple applications.  First working on traditional AT exercises, as well applying the technique to dance, performance, Tai Chi as well my day to day activities.  I love his ability to apply the technique to every aspect of movement.  From sitting to standing to walking, how a character moves and communicates through the body, and  how to efficiently use your body to support your voice to name a few.   Working with Brett has taught me a much greater awareness of how I move, physical habits I've learned, and a whole new comprehension of how I use by body in every way.   What is also wonderful about Brett's practice is his willingness to work on any material or activity you bring in.   He always takes the time to answer any questions asked to ensure you understand the work you're doing to apply it outside of class.I cannot recommend Brett more highly! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

9 December 2013

Since going studying/ training with Brett I've had positive changes in nearly every area of my life. I think more clearly, I digest my food better, I don't have chronic pain anymore, I don't plateau in athletics anymore, I feel confident and I'm getting out of my own way. Without a doubt Alexander Technique can change anyone's life in a positive way. Brett's teaching is very valuable and no review can quite do it justice. Anyone reading this review would have absolutely nothing to lose and yet everything to gain by reaching out. It's your choice ; ) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

4 April 2013

I have taken several lessons in the Alexander Technique with Brett Hershey.  Brett is an excellent teacher of AT.  He has a diverse background and can both speak to and assist with movement in many arenas.  He can help students apply Alexander technique to various contexts from athletics to dance to sedentary environments.  He is generous in offering exercises and insights that help reinforce awareness, freedom of movement, and stress relief.  I have found the lessons quite helpful for pain management, recovery from injury, improving balance, posture, awareness, poise, and athletic performance. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

21 January 2013

I was introduced to Brett through tango and came to him for help,  I was frustrated with my technique, my ability to connect, and was generally feeling stuck. But I  realized that postural alignment would aid my balance and thus dancing.  It quickly became apparent how many other issues I was having because of how I carried myself: not just back pain, but hip pain, knee pain, ankle pain... all things I'd made excuses for given my physical job.   I knew I didn't want to live my life in chronic pain and risk further injuries, so we delved into fixing and changing my body through the awareness, relaxation, and retraining of muscles that the Alexander Technique promotes.  Brett has been a tremendous reason my dancing has improved and furthermore helping my professional life as well--The changes my body made has improved my riding and training techniques in dressage horses.  It's incredible how applicable AT is to any activity one wants to pursue!  I am so grateful for someone so knowledgable about the human body and educated in finding a better way to exist!! And the exciting part is that it continues to get better!  Every time we have a session, there's improvement in some way that I can incorporate into my life.  It's so exciting to feel progression!  I will forever be grateful to Brett. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Q&As

I love helping people become aware of and dissolving their negative psycho-physical-emotional habits so that they can return to the original design of the body and maximize their genetic range and potential.

I experienced debilitating pain twenty years ago from postural misuse as well as athletic and dance injuries. My first Alexander Technique teacher said that "your back isn't hurting you, you're hurting your back." That statement allowed me to rethink my entire existence and several years later I enrolled in the 3-year, 1600 hour instructor training. course. I find the greatest joy and fulfillment teaching others how they are causing their own pain, how to stop doing it and how to maximize the quality of their movement and activities.

I meet the client where they are at without judgment and design exercises and activities in which they become aware of the habits that are holding them back, as well as improve their range of movement, power, health, and charisma. What I DON'T do is force them into a particular work level, form or number of repetitions to where they are hurting themselves. I also have a beautiful detached studio designed for what I do, plenty of free street parking and a sense of humor ; ) Finally, I absolutely love what I do!

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