Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman Named Among Top 25 Women to Watch

EAST LONGMEADOW — Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman, owner of Hand to Paw Reiki, has been named one of the “Top 25 Women to Watch in Western Massachusetts” for 2015-16 by Western Mass Women magazine, a local lifestyle publication.

Hoffman was recognized for her success and innovation with her business, and also because of her commitment to the community. The publication has been presenting the awards in multiple categories for six years running. Winners are selected based on their involvement with the community, their dedication to their careers, overall achievements, and general professionalism.

Hoffman’s unique services at Hand to Paw Reiki use the ancient form of Japanese healing that combines ‘rei’ (spirit) and ‘ki’ (energy) to help people or their pets. She started her business in 2014, focusing on pets originally. She will visit pet patients in their homes and also visits local senior centers on a monthly basis. She has an office in West Springfield located inside Karma Yoga Studio for her non-pet clients.

In addition to her business, Hoffman is deeply involved with the Women Business Owners Alliance and the East Longmeadow Medical Reserve Corps and Local Emergency Planning Committee.

Dee Emery-Ferrero, CEO and publisher of Western Mass Women, noted that Hoffman is doing something “unique and different and that really made her stand out” as a candidate. “Carleen is very innovative and very creative. She loves animals and has an amazing business. She has worked really hard to get where she is. She is an incredible woman, and I am thrilled to see her receive this award.”

Hand to Paw Reiki works to facilitate the body’s healing response through positive, healing energy. Treatments can work for general aches and pains, arthritis, anxiety, or trouble relaxing or sleeping. Reiki can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with cancer treatments, surgery, or other illnesses. Reiki can also help pets with similar symptoms, including fear of thunderstorms.

“Reiki is a great addition to your current medical routine,” Hoffman said. “It is a non-invasive, complementary, and alternative health practice that promotes overall health and well-being.”