Lori Johnson
Owner - RMT
Lori Johnson
Owner - RMT
Healing through massage is Lori’s lifework. In addition to having more than 20 years of experience as a massage therapist, she co-founded her first massage therapy studio in 1993 and opened Soma Studio on her own in 1999.
Lori’s original focus was helping pregnant women, their partners and babies adjust to the changes that happen during the childbearing year. She has now expanded the practice to include clients who suffer from stress-induced pain and overuse conditions, or who are interested in preventative massage.
Lori helps her clients to find ease in their bodies through deep tissue massage, therapeutic exercise, and yoga therapy. In addition to founding three successful massage therapy studios, she has continued her education into alternative techniques that will help her serve her clients.
Besides practicing yoga, she loves cooking slow-food style, spending time outdoors and traveling. A movie buff – especially of foreign films – she has been a faithful Vancouver International Film Festival goer for years.
Lori graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 1989.
Lori works at Soma Studio Salt Spring Island.
Samantha Ingram
Student RMT
Samantha Ingram
Student RMT
Samantha is a paramedic-turned-body worker who is currently furthering her education at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy to become an RMT. She has always found herself in jobs that focus on health & healing and is excited to continue in that journey. She enjoys being a part of the healing process, whether that means relaxation in a safe space or working through pain with the patients she sees. Her focus is to meet her patients where they are day by day and choosing the path of relaxation therapy that fits those needs.
Lucie Tableau
Student RMT
Lucie Tableau
Student RMT
Lucie Tableau began her career as an educator for people with disabilities and as a special needs educator for children with autism. As such, she discovered the incredible power of human connection and the profound impact it can have on someone's life. Since she moved from France to Canada 7 years ago, she wanted to improve her ability to heal people. That led her to the field of massage therapy. In January 2023, she started a program at the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy to become a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) from which she will graduate in August 2024. Her goal is to help her patients to help others find comfort and relief from stress and busyness through relaxation therapy. Her sensitive touch and intuitive sense allow her to personalize her approach, pressure strength and techniques to individual needs.
Timia Gaiser
Student RMT
Timia Gaiser
Student RMT
Hi, I’m Timea, a graduating student at the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy. I’m a bilingual therapist, I speak Hungarian and English. I was drawn to massage because of its multilayered healing ability and how it treats the whole person and not only symptoms of a condition. I’m passionate about creating a connection through healing touch and working together to help restore and improve your quality of life. My main interest is prenatal, pregnancy and postnatal massage, or treatments addressing the symptoms of menopause, but as I find the human body fascinating, I provide treatments for people with various needs . My current experience includes pregnancy and postnatal massage, treating migraines, providing trauma informed treatments for people with chronic conditions, or performing sport massage at the Squamish 50 Ultra Marathon.
When I’m not massaging or studying, I'm walking my lovely dog Chilly or driving my 2 teenage kids to their endless activities. I’m also an avid reader, yoga practitioner or you can find me in a forest or on a paddle board. Thank you for reading about me, I’m excited to meet you at Soma Studio West.
Evangeline Duy
RMT
Evangeline Duy
RMT
With over two decades of experience in massage therapy, Evangeline brings variety and a depth of knowledge to her practice.
She received her Diploma of Massage Therapy in 1997 at Vancouver's own West Coast College of Massage Therapy.
Evangeline's education has continued over the course of her career and includes studies in myofascial, craniosacral, sports and pre/postnatal massage therapy. In her practice, she works with each client to customize each treatment to fit their unique needs, whether it's recovering from an acute or chronic condition or simply to optimize one's wellbeing.
In 2014 Evangeline moved to California with her growing family and established a thriving practice as a licensed CMT in Los Angeles.
Now back in Vancouver, Evangeline is excited to once again share her massage therapy expertise where her career began over twenty years ago.
Jade Farr (TCM)
Jade is a licensed Acupuncturist (R.Ac), her training was obtained at the Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vancouver, BC. She offers a personalised, integrative approach that focuses on building strong connections with clients to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of chronic health concerns.
Jade’s interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) stems from her personal experience with Rheumatoid Arthritis during early childhood and adolescence. Observing the limitations of conventional treatments, as a young adult Jade was encouraged to explore integrated health methods and lifestyle medicine, including TCM. These perspectives underscored the multi-faceted nature of human health and the importance of genuinely understanding one's body to support overall well-being.
Guided by this insight, Jade has developed a profound appreciation for the fusion of Eastern and Western medicine. Recognising the benefits of ancient practices like Acupuncture when used alongside advancements in modern medicine, she believes a comprehensive and balanced approach to healthcare that addresses the root cause can be achieved.
Keen on fostering family-focused care, Jades’ practice naturally gravitates towards women's health - supporting hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, stress-related emotional disorders, and more. Her passion extends to sharing her knowledge and educating younger generations, families, and communities about these practices, creating a supportive environment where everyone can understand and encourage each other's health journey. With a holistic approach and focus on personalised care, Jade strives to empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being, cultivating vitality, self-confidence, and resourcefulness for effective self-management amid their own unique health challenges.
Sarah Tenenbein
RMT
Sarah Tenenbein
RMT
Sarah loves what she does. After completing the program at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2010, Sarah has worked in a variety of clinical settings from Naturopathic Integrated Health Centres to luxury Five Star Spas. From trigger point therapy, muscle energy technique and myofascial release, Sarah seamlessly combines her clinical reasoning and technical skills with an intuitive, holistic and relaxing approach.
Her curiosity to understand the root cause of pain and dysfunction in the body keeps her practice ever-evolving. Sarah looks at the body globally and combines her interest in eastern modalities with western evidence-based techniques for a therapeutic and relaxing experience.
Sarah is passionate about working with chronic pain issues, empowering clients through education by bringing to light subconscious holding patterns in the body and how they are inherently interconnected.
Joanna Wells
RMT
Joanna Wells
RMT
I discovered massage therapy through my own journey to recovery through personal injury. This process has been deeply intertwined with the development of a dedicated yoga practice and studying somatic movement therapy. After completing a yoga teacher training in 2011, it was clear that the next step was entering the health care field through massage therapy. I completed my studies at the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy. I draw on a variety of treatment techniques including Swedish massage, deep tissue, cranio-sacral, myofascial release, neuro muscular therapy, trigger point release, deep tissue, and joint mobilizations. My approach is holistic, integrating mind and body, using breath work to develop awareness and healing. I also enjoy working with women’s health, providing support though out pregnancy and assistance with rebuilding balance after delivery.
Previous to my time in Vancouver I focused on studying fine art in the mediums of metalsmithing, drawing, and design. In addition, I apprenticed and mastered the art of craft cocktail bartending as well as pursued a career in event and restaurant management. I now find balance between my time as therapist, and as a working artist, often finding inspiration while exploring the great outdoors with my wolf friend.
Julia Vanderryst
RMT
Julia Vanderryst
RMT
Julia was born and raised in Kitsilano and graduated from the Registered Massage Therapy program at Langara College.
Growing up she did gymnastics for 14 years followed by other sports such as softball, soccer, fieldhockey, and track & field. Injuries started to accumulate, which sparked her interest in discovering massage therapy where she quickly found benefits to improving her functionality and wellbeing.
Julia studied psychology, sociology, and human geography but she feels most fitted for massage therapy. She enjoys being able to continue learning new techniques and has a special interest in topics such as chronic pain syndromes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, orthopedic conditions, anxiety and stress, as well as headaches.
Her goal for clients is to provide a calm and safe space with a mindful and attentive approach along with building new and positive relationships with their own bodies.
Outside of the clinic, Julia loves cooking, staying active, painting and is a big self care advocate.To book in at the clinic call 604 738 1502 or click the link.Techniques incorporated in treatment:
Swedish Massage
Myofascial Release
Active Release
Joint Mobilizations
Trigger Point
Karli Rushton
RMT
Karli Rushton
RMT
I am here to help you feel at home in your body.
I’ve always held an appreciation and understanding of the human body, what it’s capable of and its innate capacity to heal.
Through breath, self education and practising body awareness we tune in and find our own rhythm which is conducive to healing.
Most of my career has been dedicated to practising in Luxury Spas and Ski Resorts in Colorado, Banff and Valemount working with athletes and those who share a love of the outdoors.
A few things I love — music, laughing, hand written notes, first light, ocean swims and whims of any sort.
Thank You for being here,
Karli
Pamela Higgins
RMT
Pamela Higgins
RMT
Pamela states that “movement and sport will forever be my zen, my teacher, and my passion”. She learned confidence through big mountain skiing, mindfulness through yoga, perseverance through hiking, humility through surfing and invigoration through running. In summary, she states that it is her joie de vivre, and believes pain-free movement to be a crucial element of mental wellbeing.
After enduring multiple sport related injuries, her trust in manual therapy as a sustainable, natural, and educating healing process/maintenance program began to evolve substantially and continues to grow. This curiosity led her to the study and practice of Massage Therapy. She has successfully completed her training at the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy and is now working as part of an integrative health model that aims to enrich wellbeing through holistic health practices. Her curiosity continues to fuel her practice and self-education in regards to pain science, neuromuscular connection, and the need to honour each individual’s unique presentation.
Pamela’s treatment style aims to pair orthopaedic knowledge with the artistry of manual therapy. It is her goal to deliver an effective treatment that empowers individuals with knowledge about their body and how they can maintain a state of play!
Marcus Blissett
RMT
Marcus Blissett
RMT
I was originally interested in a career in massage therapy because I wanted my work to affect positive change in people's lives. I have personally experienced the powerful effects of massage to help reduce pain, increase speed of recovery and encourage deep relaxation. Our bodies have a fantastic capacity to heal themselves, yet alongside therapies such as massage the process can be expedited to help us get back to the quality of life we deserve.
I have always had a passion for movement, I grew up playing many sports and I love to explore the potential our bodies have to interact with the world around us. I graduated from Vancouver College of Massage Therapy where I became fascinated with the intricacies of human anatomy and learning about all the cogs in the machine that make that movement possible.
You can expect my treatments to have a heavy emphasis on rhythmic and relaxing strokes interspersed with deeper, specific techniques to work towards your personal goals. I use a combination of Myofascial release, Trigger point therapy, deep tissue Swedish, Stretching and Joint mobilizations. I am especially interested in treating Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) pain or dysfunction and injury rehab.
Whether you are coming to me for rebab or relaxation, I am excited to be a part of your journey to well-being.
Outside of the clinic you can find me on the tennis courts, taking my bike on long tours and travelling the world to experience new cultures.
Carla Van Elslande
RMT
After graduating from UBC in 2004 with a degree in classical piano, Carla's passion was healing through music. As she was introduced to massage, she realized just as music provided a medium for others to heal, massage too allowed her to use her intuitive nature to help others on their healing journey.
Carla graduated from The Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2012. Through a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilization, stretching and hydrotherapy, Carla treats a variety of conditions which include repetitive strain injuries, headaches, stress & anxiety related conditions and postural dysfunction.
Carla's philosophy towards massage is dedicated towards providing a unique experience for each guest. By taking a full body approach, Carla's goal through her treatments is to guide her clients as active participants in their unique healing journey as well as provide an environment in which her clients can find comfort and safety.
Note from therapist: Pressure is subjective and unique for everyone and the concept of what one may consider deep tissue massage varies from one person to another. With this in mind, I would like to make note that I don't consider my practice to be a deep tissue style. If you find you are looking for a more traditional deep tissue treatment, I will be happy to help find a good fit for your specific goals and needs with a better fitting therapist at Soma.
Carla is available at the Soma West location for treatment.
Jean-Luc Pilliard
RMT
Jean-Luc entered the field of massage therapy in 2007 when he graduated from the Spa Therapy program at the Vancouver School of Bodywork and Massage. It wasn’t long before his passion for massage and holistic wellness led him to complete his training as a Registered Massage Therapist. He is also trained in pregnancy massage, Shiatsu, and Cranial-Sacral therapy.
Drawing on a variety of Swedish and deep-tissue techniques, including myofascial release, joint mobilizations, muscle energy and trigger-point therapy, his treatments are particularly effective for the relief of various postural and stress-related conditions, including tension headaches, low-back pain, Piriformis syndrome, plantar fasciitis and TMJ dysfunction. Whether you are recovering from surgery or an injury, coping with the physical changes of pregnancy, or simply looking for relief from the stress of your busy life, Jean-Luc is able to adapt his technique and depth of pressure in order to address your specific needs. His holistic approach balances strength with softness, and his thorough knowledge of human anatomy combined with his intuitive ability to understand your needs result in a deeply personalized experience.
In his spare time, Jean-Luc enjoys practicing yoga, hiking and playing music. A native of France, Jean-Luc has travelled extensively and speaks English, French, Spanish and Dutch fluently.
Catalina Ip
RMT
Catalina Ip
RMT
Catalina Ip earned a degree in kinesiology at Simon Fraser University in 1999. She graduated from West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 2002. She worked with medical doctors in Edmonton for the first year of her practice, and focused on patients who were involved in Motor Vehicle Accidents.
Upon her return to Vancouver, Catalina had the opportunity to work in the North Shore and Kerrisdale. Many of these clients have a very active lifestyle, so she was able apply her knowledge in kinesiology and massage to aid in their recovery.
Joining the family at Soma Studio, she was able to learn and apply her skills with pre and postnatal women. Returning now after a year’s maternity leave, as a mother of a precious little boy, she has a better comprehension and appreciation of the human condition during pregnancy and post-pregnancy.
Catalina predominantly uses Swedish massage techniques, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, Joint Mobilization and Active Release -like techniques in her practice. She believes that as massage therapists, we can guide the body reach its full potential. Catalina enjoys working with other health care professionals and strongly believes that we can all work together to optimize the health of each individual.
Victoria Rogolino
RMT
Victoria is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated form Vancouver College of Massage Therapy.
She believes massage therapy is a powerful tool in preventative physical and mental healthcare. She
understands no two bodies are the same and tailors each treatment to meet your needs. Victoria
encourages you to listen to your body and acknowledges that pain and stress affects everyone
differently. She considers both the mind and body to help restore balance.
She integrates an intuitive approach while using therapeutic and relaxation techniques to help you
become present and release stress and tension. Victoria uses a variety of techniques depending on your
comfort and treatment goals including Swedish massage, joint mobilizations, and myofascial release.
Victoria has taken continuing education in pregnancy and infant massage, modern management for low
back pain, and trauma informed yoga practice. She is a student of the world and eager to continue her
journey of learning. When not at work Victoria loves travelling, hiking, and exploring delicious eats
around the city.
Brian Wong
RMT
Brian Wong
RMT
Brian is a firm believer that prioritizing your health, both physically and mentally is essential for achieving a better quality of life. He views massage therapy as one of the best tools for stress relief, alleviating tension, managing injury, connecting with our body, and general wellness. Brian’s style incorporates slow swedish massage techniques from light to deep sustained pressure as well as stretching, myofascial release, and joint mobilization. Brian’s goal at the end of each treatment session is for you to feel rejuvenated in both body and mind.
Brian particular areas of interest in treatment:
- Headaches/Migraines
- Chronic Pain
- Stress Management
- TMJD
- Relaxation treatment
Outside of the clinic, Brian loves being in nature and finds it to be a great environment to recharge. He will often spend his free time hiking in the mountains, camping in the woods, and paddleboarding at the beach.
Brian is excited to work with you and to be part of your wellness journey!
Paige Gueldner
RMT
Paige Gueldner
RMT
Paige graduated from West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 2017. She grew up around the medical profession with both of her parents being chiropractors as well as her older brother. She naturally developed a passion for patient centred care as well as being apart of a healthcare team.
She has a wide knowledge of orthopaedic conditions, having worked with the UBC varsity team, pre and postnatal mothers, and patients in GF strong- the largest rehab hospital in British Columbia.
In her treatments, Paige uses a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilization, stretching and hydrotherapy. Paige treats a variety of conditions some including pre and post pregnancy, whiplash, headaches, strains and jaw pain.
Paige is passionate about treating patients with temporal mandibular dysfunctions (TMJD), also known as jaw pain. After she conducted a large case study centered around jaw re-alignment and pain, she continues to strive for more knowledge and solutions for patients.
In her spare time, Paige enjoys being outdoors- hiking the local mountains, snowshoeing and camping. She has a huge passion for traveling and being with family.
Paige is passionate about patient centered care and helping you achieve your rehab and therapeutic goals. She is excited to be apart of the soma team!
Serene Phan
RMT
Serene Phan
RMT
Serene a graduate of Vancouver College of Massage Therapy. She is dedicated in providing welcoming, client-focused therapy and tailoring each treatment with her clients’ needs in mind. Whether clients are looking for relaxation massage or a therapeutic touch, Serene always looks forward to meeting each one of her clients, to listen to their care needs and to take part in empowering each unique health journey.
Natalie Coulter
RMT
Natalie Coulter
RMT
Natalie began her pursuit in healing through yoga in 2006. After
discovering how the basic principles of movement and meditation
brought her body back into balance, she became a Yoga Teacher by
spring 2007, through the Original Hot Yoga Method (26+2). In 2009, she
explored partner yoga coupled with Thai Massage, which peaked her
interest in a more hands-on approach. By 2012, Natalie completed a
200-hour YTT through Semperviva Yoga and unravelled her passion for a
more fluid yoga practice.
As a recent graduate from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy
program, Natalie takes her fascination with the way the body moves and
works, and incorporates it into how she treats her clients. Knowing
that no two bodies have experienced the same path, her approach to
treatment takes on the same understanding. Integrating both a holistic
and intuitive approach, with orthopaedic techniques, she listens to
the body and encourages communication to empower her clients. Her
treatment approaches may include the following: diaphragmatic
breathing, myofascial release, trigger point release, dynamic release,
active and/or passive stretching infused with Swedish relaxation.
Natalie believes that when we are able to connect to and understand
our bodies, we feel more empowered. Through education and remedial
exercises, she aspires to assist her clients to achieve their health
goals and become the best version of themselves.
Book a session with Natalie so you can start feeling and moving to
your full potential.
Sadira Abdiannia
RMT
Sadira Abdiannia
RMT
Born and raised in Vancouver, Sadira has utilized her beautiful province as a space to learn about coexisting with nature through meditative practices as well as used her environment in her fitness routines, such as hiking, cycling and bouldering. Sadira found massage in 2013 by exploring career options and came across a weekend workshop at a massage school, which would be her first exposure to massage. She immediately felt that the time and space to focus on the body and breath provided by a massage treatment was unique and the act of giving massage felt natural to her hands.
Sadira spent a summer in 2016 tree planting in interior British Columbia which was when she suffered a back injury which brought her into a deeply intimate place with her body. By the end of that Summer, she made the decision to start taking steps towards a career in wellness and pursued her yoga teacher training in 2016. She has spent many years volunteering at studios and clinics, and has practiced yoga for over a decade. Through recovering from her own injury, she gained belief and understanding that touch is a very natural and instinctual way of regenerating and connecting that has been somewhat lost. Sadira graduated the 2200-hour program at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in December 2019. She looks forward to meeting you and facilitating your health journey.
Hanna Bebb
RMT
Hanna Bebb
RMT
Hanna graduated from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy with Dean’s List Honours.
One of her favourite topics in school was pain science. Having acquired her own discogenic back injury during the most rigorous of semesters, she’s fully aware how stressful and debilitating this new and anxiety-inducing pain can be. Working through this situation with the support of a compassionate health care professional really made all the difference for her, and she strives to be this support for those who find themselves in similar situations. Hanna actively listens to each client’s particular goal and reason for treatment, and works with them to explore the best possible approach to achieve their desired outcome.
She integrates several different techniques into her treatment style, using a multifaceted approach that fluidly adapts to the client’s specific needs and goals. She is a huge advocate of a hybrid of relaxation and orthopaedic style treatment, fully believing that when we allow the nervous system the opportunity to relax it facilitates the body’s ability to heal itself. Some of her favourite modalities include myofascial release, dynamic release, neuromuscular techniques, Swedish massage, trigger point release, and joint mobilizations.
When she’s not in the clinic, you can find Hanna dreaming up her next big adventure and soaking up all of the natural beauty this province has to offer.
Kayla Verigin
RMT
Kayla Verigin
RMT
Kayla strives to help patients find comfort and ease in movement with every
stage in life. She believes that massage can be an effective support to the body’s
innate ability to find balance and healing, be that in the context of self-care,
relaxation, recovery from activity or rehabilitation from injury.
Her treatments are tailored to help patients reach their therapeutic goals. She
treats the whole person, taking into considerations the nervous system response as well as soft tissue. Her style is fluid and balances deep flowing pressure with calming relaxation, guided breath, body awareness, and specific techniques to address areas of concern. She draws from a variety of Swedish and deep-tissue techniques, including myofascial release, joint mobilizations, muscle energy and trigger-point therapy.
Kayla has always been amazed by the human body and everything that the body allows us to achieve in life. She was drawn to massage as a form of self-care and nervous system support through many years in a high-intensity corporate environment. In 2014 after being hit by a car, massage became the primary modality that supported her recovery. This experience reignited a long-standing interest in the human body and became the catalyst for pursuing a career as an RMT.
She began studying anatomy and movement in 2017 when she entered her first
yoga teacher training program and continuously built on this knowledge through additional yoga training in pain science, anatomy and physiology before completing her diploma in massage therapy at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2021.
When not at work Kayla keeps busy with yoga, kickboxing, and strength and
mobility training. She enjoys travelling, music, cooking vegetarian food while
singing, making up flowy yoga sequences to random playlists, and spending time with family and friends.
Kayla is available at the Soma West location for treatment. Book your
appointment today.
Phil Pike
BBA, RMT
Phil Pike
BBA, RMT
Originally from St. Johns Newfoundland, Phil graduated from the ICT Massage Therapy program in Halifax in 2006 and has spent his career in both Canada and Grand Cayman. Phil has a unique variety of professional experience including spas at the Ritz Carlton and multidisciplinary clinics. This diversity has influenced his treatment approach to combine the relaxing benefits of a spa with the therapeutics of clinical practice.
Phil is known for deeper pressure but prefers to provide a blend of both deep-tissue and relaxation techniques encouraging the maximum benefits for both the mind and body. Some techniques Phil likes to incorporate into his services are:
- Deep tissue
- Myofascial release
- Trigger point therapy
- Swedish techniques
- Pregnancy Massage
Nadine Loeffler
RMT
Nadine Loeffler
RMT
Nadine’s approach to massage therapy uses open conversation, critical thinking and a diverse range of treatment techniques to find the root cause of your complaint. She uses a variety of techniques for both acute and chronic conditions including myofascial release, muscle energy technique, Swedish relaxation massage and integrated breath-work. Incorporating stress reduction and decreasing sympathetic nervous system stimulation are also important to her and therefore common treatment integrations. As a clinician, she welcomes anyone into her treatment space and is excited by working with a wide range of patients but some more specific areas of interest include headaches, post-surgical scar tissue mobilization and patterns associated with chronic strain and postural imbalances. Nadine has a deep acknowledgement of the ancient practice of massage while also keeping up to date on modern therapeutic treatment practices and current clinical studies.
Three Locations: Vancouver, Burnaby & Salt Spring Island
Soma Burnaby
View Details
| 604.568.0048
218 – 3787 CANADA WAY, BURNABY BC
HOURS 8AM – 7PM (BY APPT)
Soma Salt Spring
View Details
| 604.818.0576
447 STARK’S ROAD, SALT SPRING ISLAND
HOURS 8AM – 7PM (BY APPT)