set point (n.): the point at which a relatively stable condition is maintained in the face of changing external circumstances.

SETpoint (n.): the point at which we Believe In Our Strengths and Defend What We Value.

We developed the SETpoint Empowerment Self Defense curriculum in 2016 out of a desire to bring inclusive, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered programming to people at high risk of assault, many of whom felt marginalized or traumatized by traditional self-defense training. We are longtime martial artists, feminists, and allies, and we have worked together with community groups and organizations to develop training that is intersectional and empowering, not victim-blaming.

Having over 60 years of combined martial arts training, we understand that martial arts is not for everyone. We strongly believe that Empowerment Self Defense is.

We hope you’ll join us for a session or contact us to learn more so you can experience it for yourself.

Founder and Lead Coach

Lisa Nakamura has been studying and teaching the martial arts and self defense for over 45 years. She is an 8th degree Black Belt, Senior Master, in Shaolin Kung Fu. Lisa completed certification as an Empowerment Self Defense instructor through the National Women’s Martial Arts Federation (NWMAF), and she served on the Self-Defense Committee for the NWMAF. She also completed certification as a Sexual Assault Counselor (SAC) in the Commonwealth of PA, and she participates in ongoing development for diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. In 2015, she received a Jefferson Award for her volunteer work teaching self-defense and empowerment to women in recovery at POWER, among other groups.

In 2023, Lisa and her husband moved to Maine, and she now provides SETpoint coaching in the Greater Portland Area of Maine.

Founder and Lead Coach

Michele L. Montag, Ph.D. has been studying the martial arts and self-defense for nearly 20 years.  She is a 5th degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kempo, and she is Co-Owner and Chief Instructor at Shaolin Studios in Pittsburgh.  Michele is certified as an Empowerment Self Defense instructor through the National Women’s Martial Arts Federation (NWMAF), she has completed certification as a Sexual Assault Counselor (SAC) in the Commonwealth of PA, and she participates in ongoing development for diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. Michele holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from SUNY Binghamton, and provides a unique perspective with regard to understanding the cultural context surrounding the need for self-defense in populations with significant risk factors.