About Institute for Medical Aesthetics & Laser in Fort Myers, FL
The Future of Beauty & Wellness Education
At the Institute for Medical Aesthetics and Laser (IMAGE), we’re not just educators—we’re industry experts who have built a thriving business in the world of medical aesthetics. We strive to be the best beauty school in Florida by bringing real-world experience to the classroom. As the founders of Skin Spot Laser Club, SWFL’s premier med spa known for cutting-edge treatments and client transformations, we have first-hand insight into what it takes to succeed in this competitive industry.
Now, we’re unlocking the secrets to success and sharing them with the next generation of beauty professionals.
As the only beauty school in Southwest Florida specializing in medical aesthetics training, we prepare students with the technical expertise, practical training, and business skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Our medical aesthetics training programs in Florida focus on real-world experience, industry relevance, and professional excellence, ensuring graduates are career-ready from day one.
At IMAGE beauty school in Florida , we believe in training beyond the basics—our students don’t just learn techniques, they learn how to succeed.
Meet the Founders: Emily & Michael Tichy
Emily Tichy
Full Specialist, Electrologist & Laser Technician
Emily began her career in the beauty industry at 19 as a Nail Technician, using her skills to help finance her college education. Over the past 30 years, she has witnessed the industry’s transformation and continues to adapt to its ever-evolving trends and technologies. She holds a degree in Mass Communications & Speech Communications and built a 16-year career in pharmaceutical sales, specializing in medical education, client relations, and industry insights.
Today, Emily balances her passion for beauty and business as the owner of a medical spa, a licensed beauty school, and Florida Babe, her professional skincare line. Her hands-on expertise in nails, skincare, and advanced laser technology, combined with her entrepreneurial leadership, provides students and clients alike with a well-rounded approach to aesthetics. Beyond her professional endeavors, Emily is also a proud mother of four, bringing the same dedication, balance, and vision to her family as she does to her businesses.
Michael Tichy
CRNA, Master Injector
With over 25 years of nursing experience, Michael is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and an expert in injectables and laser treatments. His deep medical knowledge, precision, and artistry in facial aesthetics, advanced injectables, and laser technology provide students with a high-level understanding of medical aesthetics and patient care. Michael is excited to teach the Neurotoxin Essentials course, as it provides comprehensive training in the safe and effective administration of wrinkle relaxers in a professional setting.
IMAGE Team
Angelica
Director of Admissions
Angelica is a dedicated professional with a background in healthcare, business, and fitness. She holds a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration and has over a decade of experience as a Certified Medical Assistant, primarily in dermatology. She worked alongside Michael, Co-founder of IMAGE and The Skin Spot Laser Club assisting in various medical and aesthetic procedures.
An entrepreneur, she also runs a baking business known for its beautiful and tasty treats. As a dance fitness instructor, she inspires others to stay active. Trilingual in English, Spanish, and Croatian, Angelica combines her passion for beauty, wellness, and creativity to positively impact those around her.
Nikki
Cometologist & Nail Instructor
Nikki has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. She began her career as a Full Specialist in 2010, working in a high-end spa at just 18, where she was trained in professional standards and client care. She later returned to school to earn her Cosmetology license, expanding her expertise across hair, skin, and nail services. Nikki worked five years at Profiles Nail Spa, where she cultivated strong professional relationships that she continues to maintain—offering our students valuable connections and opportunities to prepare for direct career paths after graduation.
With a strong background in the arts, Nikki brings creativity into everything she does—from intricate nail design to inspiring students in the classroom. She enjoys teaching the Nail Specialist program and takes pride in helping students build their confidence, master their craft, and pursue successful careers in the beauty industry. Outside of teaching, Nikki creates and sells original artwork through her Etsy shop.
Jennifer
Nail Specialist & Nail Instructor
Jennifer brings over 25 years of experience as a Nail Specialist, with a career rooted in excellence and a passion for client care. She began her journey in high-end spas, where she honed her skills and developed an eye for detail and luxury service. For the past 18 years, she has owned and operated Jennifer’s Nail Spa, a private Fort Myers salon suite known for providing clients with relaxation, elegance, and thoughtful attention to detail.
Jennifer’s love for the industry naturally led her to share her artistry, expertise, and commitment to integrity with aspiring nail professionals. Known for her calm presence, supportive nature, and dedication to excellence, she inspires others to build both confidence and skill as they grow in their careers.
Leslie
Nail Specialist & Bilingual Spanish Nail Instructor
Leslie is a dedicated professional with 10 years of experience in the nail industry, committed to perfecting techniques, creating artistry, and delivering exceptional service. In recent years, she has shared her expertise with students, teaching and guiding new nail technicians with a professional, detailed, and up-to-date approach.
Her mission as an instructor is to provide strong education rooted in quality, hygiene, and best practices, helping every student build confidence, develop technical mastery, and pursue a successful career in the beauty industry. In addition to owning her own salon, Leslie is also a member of the Image Institute team, where she collaborates to grow, inspire, and provide high-level training to future professionals.
Tori
Esthetician & Medical Aesthetics Instructor
Tori is a Licensed Esthetician, Certified Acne Expert, and Medical Assistant who brings a compassionate, results-driven approach to skincare education. Originally from Ludlow, Massachusetts, she moved to Florida to pursue her dream of working in aesthetics. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from St. Bonaventure University, Tori blends business savvy with clinical knowledge to help students build confidence and competence in the beauty and wellness industry. She is especially passionate about acne treatments and corrective skincare, guiding students through advanced facial protocols and product knowledge with a focus on achieving clear, healthy skin.
When she’s not teaching at IMAGE, Tori works as an esthetician at Skin Spot Laser Club, where she continues to provide customized skincare treatments and stay on the cutting edge of medical aesthetics. Her favorite treatments to teach include acne facials, VI Peel, and Hydrafacial. Known for her warmth, professionalism, and supportive teaching style, Tori creates an inclusive and empowering learning environment where students feel seen, capable, and career-ready.
Liz
Esthetician & Lash Extension Instructor
Liz is a Licensed Esthetician and certified Lash Extension Instructor who brings a calm, detail-oriented approach to both the treatment room and the classroom. After owning and operating her own successful beauty studio, she joined the IMAGE team to share her expertise and passion for lash artistry and education.
Originally from Washington state, Liz relocated to Southwest Florida in 2019 to continue her journey in the beauty industry. She holds dual AAS degrees in Administrative Office Management and Administrative Assisting, combining strong organizational skills with a deep love for skincare. Liz is especially passionate about lashes and is dedicated to helping students master techniques that elevate both their confidence and careers. She is known for her kindness, professionalism, and ability to make clients and students feel supported, empowered, and seen.
When she’s not teaching, Liz operates Flutter Aesthetics, her own successful beauty studio specializing in luxury lash extensions.
Jenny
Esthetician & Electrology/Laser Instructor
Jenny is a Licensed Esthetician, Electrologist, and Laser Technician with a strong foundation in advanced skincare and laser technologies. She began her career at just 16, managing high-volume Med Spas in the Palm Beach area and gaining hands-on experience alongside estheticians, electrologists, nurse practitioners, and physicians.
Her early exposure to clinical skincare inspired her to pursue licensure and deepen her technical expertise. Today, Jenny brings that experience into the classroom—mentoring students, sharing industry insights, and helping them build confidence in their skills. She is passionate about education, results-driven treatments, and preparing the next generation of beauty professionals for success.
Keturah
Full Specialist & Licensed Massage Therapist
Keturah is a Licensed Massage Therapist with nearly 20 years of hands-on experience in the wellness industry. She began her career in 2006 after completing her massage therapy training at La’James International School of Cosmetology and obtaining her state licensure.
She launched her practice at Williams Wellness Center in Oelwein, Iowa, before relocating to Cape Coral, Florida in 2011. There, she continued to grow professionally, spending two years at Heart and Soul Massage Therapy and later launching her own successful business offering both massage and skincare services.
In 2025, Keturah joined the Institute for Medical Aesthetics and Laser (IMAGE) as a Massage Therapy Instructor. Known for her expertise, professionalism, and dedication to client care, Keturah now shares her knowledge and techniques with the next generation of skincare and massage professionals.
Mya
Front Desk Coordinator
Born in New York and raised in Southwest Florida, Mya proudly calls the Sunshine State home. Her love for beauty began early, but it was her personal skincare journey—overcoming acne and rebuilding her confidence—that sparked a deeper passion for the industry.
Before joining IMAGE, Mya spent many years working in medical office settings, where she developed exceptional communication skills and a strong sense of professionalism. Bubbly, bilingual, and naturally welcoming, she brings warmth and positive energy to the front desk—making every student and guest feel right at home. A proud graduate of Riverdale High School, Mya believes confidence is the most beautiful thing you can wear.