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.

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Rachel Garrison

Position: Owner & Director of Outreach and Education

Education & Certification:
Rachel Garrison 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

She/Her

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Damian

Specialties:

  • Deep Tissue
  • Sports
  • Swedish
  • Relaxation
  • Pre & Post Natal
  • Geriatric
  • Juvenile
  • Reiki

Upgrade: Hot Stone

Education & Career:
Damian embarked on his journey in massage therapy at The Wisconsin Institute of Natural Wellness in Racine, Wisconsin in 1998. He has been practicing massage professionally since then and became a dedicated member of The Wellness Center MN team in 2024.

Additional Experience:
Damian's expertise extends beyond his listed specialties. He will occasionally use Traditional Chinese Modalities including Guasha and Tui Na techniques to address tight and bound muscles. Additionally, he has experience treating TMJ & headaches, Fibromyalgia & Carpal Tunnel clients, and massages focusing on the psoas, glutes, and anterior neck. 

Damian takes time to warm superficial muscles before going deeper in and may do some "micro-fascia stretching" as he calls it. He performs a balancing massage to desired depth, gently and firmly stripping away the layers that the body uses to protect itself from stressors of daily life.

Damian

He/Him

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Julie

Specialties:

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

Upgrade: Cupping and Hot Stone

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.

What to expect:
Julie typically does a Swedish based massage with some focused therapeutic work as she finds it, or where the client has directed and may integrate Musculoskeletal Alignment Technique when needed.

Additional Experience:
Julie's expertise extends beyond her primary specialties. She has massage experience with headache relief, Carpal Tunnel clients, and massages focusing on the glutes and anterior neck. Additionally, she previously practiced Thai Massage, Hospital Massage, and Assisted Stretching. 

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

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Sarah

Specialties:

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

Upgrade: Cupping and Hot Stone

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 treatments for TMJ & headache and Carpal Tunnel pain relief. She also provides focused massages on the abdominal, psoas, glutes, and anterior neck areas. Sarah has a particular interest in assisting 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

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

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Bill

Specialties:

  • Deep Tissue
  • Swedish
  • Relaxation
  • Stretching
  • Geriatric
  • Juvenile

Upgrade: Thai and Shiatsu

Education & Career:

Bill, a Licensed Massage Therapist, graduated from East-West Healing Arts Institute (Madison, WI)  in 2022 with a certificate in Asian Bodywork and Therapeutic Massage. He completed a 200 hour Thai Massage program in 2024 with Blue Lotus Thai Healing Studios (Chicago, IL). Before choosing a career path in body work he received his BS in Biological Sciences with a pre-health concentration. Bill joined The Wellness Center MN team in August, 2025.
 

Additional Experience:

Although Bill doesn't have the tools needed to practice at The Wellness Center MN, he is trained in Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy. He is also trained in lymphatic drainage and is capable of integrating this technique into regular table massage. He has experience treating TMJ & headaches, Carpal Tunnel clients, and massages focusing on the psoas, abdominals, glutes & anterior neck.

Bill is deeply passionate about performing Thai massage and brings this technical perspective into his table massage, including using acupressure and his body weight to give clients the pressure they may need for muscle relief. While he performs effective therapeutic massage he also enjoys pampering clients and helps them find ease and pleasure in their bodies.

Personal Interests:

Bill tends to his mind and spirit by focusing on movement practices in his daily life. These forms of physical expressions include Qi Gong, Iyengar Yoga, Square dancing, Buddhist meditation, biking, hiking and gardening.

Bill

He/Him

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Julia

Specialties:

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

Upgrades: Cupping and Hot Stone

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

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Sonya

Specialties:

  • Reflexology
  • Trigger Point
  • Myofascial Release
  • Swedish
  • Stretching
  • Pre & Post Natal
  • 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

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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

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Kara

Position: Owner & Executive Director of Operations

Education:
Kara Motta 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 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

She/Her

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Rylenn

Position: Assistant Manager of Operations

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.

Rylenn

She/Her

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Samantha

Position: Client Services Specialist

Samantha recently joined our team! Bio coming soon.

Samantha

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 to serving our local community with consistent and quality care for generations to come.  We strive to be an inclusive therapy center, serving citizens of all backgrounds and cultures. While our services are sold primarily as individual experiences, we look for opportunities to participate in community activities and offer free chair massage during summer festivals including Pride, Juneteenth and Nokomis Days.

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. As former long-term employees they build upon the foundation laid by both Katie and Terri Burks, who also, 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.