Therapy Team

Get to know our talented team of Certified Massage Therapists and bodyworkers. The Wellness Center MN employs only professionally trained therapists who have skill, talent and experience that will meet our clients expectations for a quality experience.

Kara Motta

Position: Owner & Executive Director of Operations

Education:
Kara completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Journey at The Wellness Center MN:
Kara's journey with The Wellness Center MN began in 2012 when she took on the role of Wellness Coordinator. While working at the center, she simultaneously pursued her passion for dance, performing for local Twin Cities choreographers and collaborating with dance colleagues. Her dual involvement in The Wellness Center MN and the local art communities ignited her passion for organizing and managing teams.

Personal Interests:
Kara has a deep love for movement and dance, coupled with an interest in anatomy and physical health. These passions have not only shaped her personal life but have also influenced her professional aspirations, as she is dedicated to supporting others in their wellness journeys.

Recent Endeavors:
During the pandemic, Kara utilized the time to craft business plans for the future of The Wellness Center MN. In July 2022, she made a triumphant return to the center, taking on a pivotal role in managing the team and overseeing the transition of ownership.

Personal Quote:
"I am thrilled to support such an amazing team of therapists and service providers and to serve The Wellness Center MN’s diverse communities."

Kara
Motta

She/Her

Rachel Garrison

Position: Owner & Director of Outreach and Education

Education & Certification:
Rachel is a Certified Massage Therapist who graduated from the Northwestern School of Massage.

Professional Journey:
Rachel has an impressive 13 years of experience practicing therapeutic massage across various clinics and centers in the Twin Cities. During her academic journey at Northwestern, she collaborated with the Pillsbury House to offer integrative healthcare to the underserved populations of the Twin Cities, including providing massage services to individuals in the program.

Journey at The Wellness Center MN:
Rachel became a part of The Wellness Center MN team in 2016. Over the years, she has successfully built a strong client base and achieved numerous successes. Her experiences at the center have not only enriched her professionally but have also inspired her to assist other therapists. Rachel is dedicated to equipping them with the tools and training necessary to grow their own practices in massage therapy at The Wellness Center MN.

Personal Philosophy:
Rachel is deeply passionate about ensuring that everyone in need of pain relief has access to therapeutic bodywork. She is committed to continuing her massage practice and enhancing her skillset to better serve her clients and contribute positively to the industry.

Rachel Garrison

She/Her

Rylenn

Position: Client Services Specialist

Education:
Rylenn graduated from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2018, earning a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. During her time at the university, she delved into holistic healing, taking several courses through the Center for Spirituality and Healing. Meditation emerged as her favorite subject.

Journey at The Wellness Center MN:
Rylenn joined The Wellness Center MN's front desk staff in January 2020. Despite the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, she showcased resilience and dedication, playing a pivotal role in navigating the center through these trying times.

Personal Interests:
Rylenn is deeply passionate about holistic wellness. She has a keen interest in astrology, movement meditation, and is always eager to expand her knowledge about mind/body healing modalities.

Fun Fact:
If you ever find yourself enjoying a Minnesota Wild game on the club level, keep an eye out for Rylenn! She's a rock star server, so be sure to tip her well for her exceptional service!

Rylenn

She/Her

Raina

Position: Client Services Specialist

Education:
Raina holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and has undergone extensive accredited health coach education.

Professional Journey:
Raina joined The Wellness Center MN team in February 2023, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. Apart from her role at the center, Raina runs her own coaching practice as a holistic health & wellness coach. She specializes in assisting 9-5 professionals in crafting sustainable healthy habits aimed at stress reduction. With 5 years of experience as a Board Certified Health Coach (NBC-HWC), Raina has made significant contributions both in her private practice and primary care clinics.

Additional Ventures:
Raina is also associated with Arbonne as a proud independent health and wellness consultant, further showcasing her dedication to the field of health and wellness.

Raina

She/Her

Jacque

Specialties:

Swedish
Relaxation
Myofascial Release
CranioSacral Therapy
Lymphatic Drainage
Pre & Post Natal
Geriatric
Juvenile

Upgrade: Hot Stone

Education & Career:
Jacque graduated from the Minnesota School of Business in 2009, earning an Associates of Applied Science degree in Massage Therapy. She has been a dedicated member of The Wellness Center MN team since 2009. Currently, Jacque is furthering her education by pursuing a degree to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Additional Experience:
Jacque brings a diverse skill set to her clients, with special expertise in TMJ & headache relief, treatments tailored for Fibromyalgia clients, and massage services for geriatric and special needs populations. She also specializes in abdominal massage.

Personal Tidbit:
Growing up, Jacque was passionate about gymnastics, showcasing her love for movement and physical well-being from an early age.

Jacque

She/Her

Michael

Specialties:

Trigger Point
Deep Tissue
Myofascial Release
Swedish
Relaxation
Lymphatic Drainage
Pre & Post Natal
Geriatric

Upgrades: Cupping and Shiatsu

Education & Career:
Michael completed his studies at the CenterPoint Massage and Shiatsu Therapy School and Clinic in 2006. He has not only been a practitioner but also an educator, having served as an instructor for CenterPoint for several years. Currently, he imparts his knowledge as an instructor for Northwestern Health Sciences University’s Shiatsu program. Michael has been a valuable member of The Wellness Center MN team since 2014.

Additional Experience:
Michael's expertise extends beyond his listed specialties. He is proficient in Japanese Abdominal Massage, Thai Bodywork, Tuina, Active Isolated Stretching, and Korean Hand Reflexology. Additionally, he offers specialized treatments for TMJ & headache relief, Fibromyalgia & Carpal Tunnel clients, post-surgical patients, and massages focusing on the psoas, glutes, and anterior neck.

Personal Tidbit:
Before his journey into massage and shiatsu, Michael was deeply involved in dance and drum corps, showcasing his diverse background and passion for movement.

Michael

He/Him

Julia

Specialties:

Trigger Point
Deep Tissue
Sports
Swedish
Relaxation
Pre & Post Natal
Geriatric
Juvenile
Cupping

Education & Career:
Julia embarked on her journey into massage therapy at the Sarasota School of Natural Healing Arts in Sarasota, FL, graduating in 1998. She has been a dedicated member of The Wellness Center MN team since 2016.

Additional Experience:
Julia's expertise is vast and varied. Beyond her primary specialties, she is skilled in stretching, cupping, migraines, rehabilitation, and athletic recovery. She offers specialized treatments for TMJ & headache relief, Fibromyalgia & Carpal Tunnel clients, cancer patients, and those in need of abdominal, glutes, and anterior neck massage.

Professional Affiliations:
Julia's exceptional skills have led her to work professionally with the MN Timberwolves and MN United, showcasing her reputation in the field.

Julia

She/Her

Julie

Specialties:

Swedish
Relaxation
Myofascial Release
Deep Tissue
Sport
Lymphatic Drainage
Pre & Post Natal
Juvenile

Upgrade: Cupping

Education & Career:
Julie began her professional journey in massage therapy after receiving her Certificate in Therapeutic Massage from CenterPoint in 2014. She has been a valuable member of The Wellness Center MN team since 2019.

Additional Experience:
Julie's expertise extends beyond her primary specialties. She is proficient in Thai Massage, Musculoskeletal Alignment Technique, Hospital Massage, and Assisted Stretching. Additionally, she offers specialized treatments for headache relief, Carpal Tunnel clients, and massages focusing on the glutes and anterior neck.

Personal Tidbit:
Julie has a rich history in the practice of yoga, reflecting her holistic approach to well-being and her deep understanding of body movement and alignment.

Julie

She/Her

Hayley

Specialties:

Trigger Point
Deep Tissue
Sports
Swedish
Relaxation
Pre & Post Natal
Lymphatic Drainage
Juvenile

Upgrade: Hot Stone

Education & Career:
Hayley embarked on her journey in massage therapy after graduating from the Massage Therapy program at Aveda Institute Minneapolis in 2001. She became a valuable member of The Wellness Center MN team in April 2023.

Additional Experience:
Beyond her primary specialties, Hayley is skilled in stretching and offers specialized treatments for TMJ & headache relief, Fibromyalgia & Carpal Tunnel clients. She also provides focused massages on the abdominal, psoas, and scalp areas.

Dual Expertise:
In addition to her prowess in massage therapy, Hayley is also a certified esthetician, showcasing her holistic approach to beauty and well-being.

Hayley

She/Her

Andi

Specialties:

Swedish
Relaxation
Juvenile

Upgrade: Hot Stone

Education & Career:
Andi completed their studies in the Massage Therapy program at Aveda Institute Minneapolis in 2017. They joined The Wellness Center MN team in August 2022, bringing their unique skills and passion to the center.

Additional Experience:
Beyond their primary specialties, Andi is proficient in Reflexology and offers specialized treatments for headache relief and Fibromyalgia clients. They also emphasize scalp massage and place a significant focus on promoting one's mental well-being during sessions.

Personal Advocacy:
Andi is deeply committed to creating inclusive environments. They actively advocate for and prioritize creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, reflecting their dedication to holistic well-being and inclusivity.

Andi

They/Them

Sarah

Specialties:

Trigger Point
Deep Tissue
Sports
Swedish
Relaxation
Myofascial Release
Pre & Post Natal
Geriatric
Juvenile

Upgrade: Cupping

Education & Career:
Sarah completed her studies at Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2009. She joined The Wellness Center MN team in March 2022, bringing her extensive expertise and dedication to the center's clientele.

Additional Experience:
Beyond her primary specialties, Sarah is skilled in stretching and offers specialized treatments for TMJ & headache relief. She also provides focused massages on the abdominal, psoas, glutes, and anterior neck areas. Sarah has a particular interest in assisting Carpal Tunnel clients and those who prioritize self-care in their wellness journey.

Personal Background:
Sarah's diverse background includes achievements as a black belt martial artist, showcasing her discipline and dedication. Additionally, her experience as a life coach further emphasizes her holistic approach to well-being and her commitment to helping others achieve their best selves.

Sarah

She/Her

Colleen

Specialties:

Trigger Point
Deep Tissue
Sports
Swedish
Relaxation
Lymphatic Drainage
Pre & Post Natal
Geriatric
Reiki

Education & Career:
Colleen embarked on her professional journey in massage therapy after receiving her Certificate in Therapeutic Massage from CenterPoint in 2006. She became a valuable member of The Wellness Center MN team in April 2023.

Additional Experience:
Colleen's expertise extends beyond her primary specialties. She is proficient in Reflexology and offers specialized treatments for Headaches & Chronic Migraine Management. Her skills also encompass the Active Release Technique, Graston Technique, and treatments tailored for Fibromyalgia & Carpal Tunnel clients. Additionally, she specializes in abdominal, psoas, glutes, and anterior neck massage.

Personal Interest:
Colleen has a keen interest in foot care, especially focusing on the needs of aging seniors. This passion reflects her holistic approach to well-being and her dedication to addressing the unique needs of her clients.

Colleen

She/Her

Sonya

Specialties:

Reflexology
Trigger Point
Myofascial Release
Swedish
Stretching
Geriatric

Education: Sonya completed her massage training at Scot-Lewis Schools of Cosmetology, which has since been renamed to Empire Beauty School.

Journey at The Wellness Center MN: With an impressive 22 years of experience as a Certified Massage Therapist in Minneapolis and Edina, Minnesota, Sonya became a valuable member of The Wellness Center MN team in September 2023.

Additional Experience: Sonya is proficient in the John Latz method of Structural Integration. Her vast experience includes working with professional sports teams and touring artists, with a special focus on abdominal, psoas, TMJ, and headache treatments.

Fun Fact: Sonya has had the privilege of massaging members of the MN Vikings and the renowned American Folk Singer, Joan Baez.

Sonya

She/Her

About The Wellness Center MN

Our Mission
At The Wellness Center MN, we are a beacon of therapeutic knowledge and expertise. Our mission is to serve our community with personalized care plans, tapping into the transformative power of massage and float therapies to cater to individual needs.

Our Commitment to the Community
The challenges of the pandemic highlighted the incredible support we received from our dedicated staff and loyal clientele. Their trust has been our foundation. In gratitude, we are dedicated to extending our services to the underserved, with a special focus on senior citizens and veterans in the Nokomis neighborhood and surrounding areas.

Our Legacy
Founded in 1986 by Katie Meisner Olson, The Wellness Center MN stands as a testament to personal healing and transformation. Katie's profound experience with massage therapy after a severe car accident inspired her to create this haven. She was ahead of her time, bringing float tank services to the Twin Cities in 1995, long before it became a trend.

Kara Motta and Rachel Garrison now lead The Wellness Center MN, continuing its legacy as a women-owned business in South Minneapolis. They build upon the foundation laid by both Katie and Terri Burks, who, after experiencing a transformative massage at the center in 1996, led the center to new heights, fostering a strong community and a dedicated team of massage therapists.