Our Therapists

Lori works at Soma Studio Salt Spring Island.

Kirsten is passionate and highly enthusiastic about her work in the healing arts. Her career has been dedicated to service, she has been practicing and providing massage for over 20 years as a Licensed Aesthetician and Spa Therapist in Vancouver. Kirsten’s massage clients would often make comments about her calming energy and “magic” hands. The unwavering support over the years gave her confidence in her practical skills and fed her desire to return to school in order to pursue higher education in the field. She recently graduated from the 3000 hour program at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy (2020), then earned the milestone of RMT Certification. By connecting with the science of human anatomy and physiology she has been able to achieve a deeper understanding of her craft. She believes that the treatment room is a sanctuary for compassionate healing and wellbeing. Her treatment philosophy is that massage can feel great and still be therapeutic. Her particular interests are in the science of stress, calm and sleep and how massage therapy can help manage the fundamental functions of our nervous system.

Kirsten uses the the core principles of massage in addition to a wide range of traditional Swedish techniques to achieve results for her patients. She is an intuitive practitioner and a thoughtful communicator, who holds a high emotional intelligence. She is able to articulate how and why certain techniques are helpful, in this way, she contributes to an informed massage experience. Her own life experience, professionalism, care for others, knowledge and positive spirit are her most compelling traits as a therapist. She has a heart-felt happy energy and charisma about her that she shares freely and effortlessly with others, creating a light hearted but soothing atmosphere. She is a self-care advocate and a self-proclaimed massage connoisseur who views massage therapy as the most valuable tool in her own healing toolbox. She is very excited to be joining the team of amazing therapist’s at Soma Studio and she looks forward to treating you!

Ashley is a Craniosacral Therapist, Reiki Practitioner/Teacher and Deep Human Ecologist. Her in clinic practice is based in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. She also works with people from all over the world virtually online.

Ashley has many innate gifts as a facilitator for deep profound healing and positive change.  People come from all over Western Canada to work with Ashley for:

• sustained and successful relief from post concussion symptoms;
• the permanent release from debilitating migraine headaches;
• relief from debilitating stress and tension patterns;
• relief from anxiety and depression;
• relief from insomnia;
• relief from an overstimulated nervous systems;
• restoration and realignment of energy systems; and
• support for anyone who has experienced trauma of all kinds: physical, mental, emotional, sexual or spiritual;

Ashley’s educated touch and presence provides a safe, calm, peaceful container for the release of trauma held within the physical, mental and/or emotional body.

She believes, if given the opportunity,  the body has the wisdom and capacity to heal itself.  Ashley brings this core belief into every session.

Ashley’s gifts also allow her to feel and explain “stuck” or “blocked” energies held in physical environments and people’s energetic structures. Once identified Ashley is able to safely support the release, transformation, or integration of these energies for greater energetic flow and prosperity for her clients.

The tools Ashley uses in her practice stem from her training in the healing arts of Reiki and Upledger Craniosacral Therapy. Ashley holds a Masters of Science from the University of Edinburgh, and is a published academic. Her work and experience as a Scientist and Deep Human Ecologist continues to inform her Craniosacral and Reiki practice. To learn more about Ashley please visit her website at www.growingwhole.ca.

*Please note that Ashley's treatments are not eligible for reimbursement through extended health plans.

Teresa is most dedicated in her practice of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Her deep appreciation for Traditional Chinese Medicine started years ago when she experienced her own health problems resolving through the use of Acupuncture & Herbs. She saw first-hand how Chinese Medicine treated both the root cause and manifestation (symptoms) of a health condition, which was very different from merely covering up symptoms, only to see the original problem worsening or transforming into some other problems in time. Teresa treats various health conditions including: Pain, Injuries, Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, Digestive disorders, Gynecological issues, as well as working in Preventative care to achieve overall balance and maintenance. Besides Acupuncture and Herbs, she also uses Food Cure and Cupping. Teresa’s first priority is her patients’ well-being. She listens carefully to her patients to find out what truly matters to them. Teresa looks forward to meeting you at Soma Studio West, a space and team which she has treasured for many years.

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.