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 two 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 West and Soma East. Contact us for her schedule.
Nadine Loeffler
RMT
Nadine Loeffler
RMT
Nadine’s approach to massage therapy is more than just a “quick fix”, but rather a holistic treatment that encourages and emboldens her patients to live in partnership with their body. Using open conversation, careful assessment and critical thinking she strives to find the root cause of pain and dysfunction in an attempt to restore the body’s natural state of wellness. Just as no two bodies are the same, no two treatments are the same. Nadine often uses deep pressure, but with a gentle and empathetic approach. She uses a variety of techniques such as myofascial release, muscle energy technique, trigger point release, breath awareness and swedish relaxation massage. For Nadine, some areas of interest include women's health, pregnancy, headaches, stress-related tension patterns and digestive challenges but she welcomes anyone into her treatment space.
Horseback riding and yoga introduced her to movement therapy and lead her to pursue a career in the healing arts. Massage was introduced to Nadine in Guatemala where she was immediately drawn to it’s grounding approach, and it was not long after that she found herself graduating from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy with honours. Mind-body practices hold a strong presence in Nadine’s life outside of the clinic, as well as actively getting out into the beautiful West Coast outdoors in her van as much as possible.
Sarah Tenebein
RMT
Sarah Tenebein
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.
Ashley Eden
M.Sc, CST, Reiki Teacher
Ashley Eden
M.Sc, CST, Reiki Teacher
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 Lam
Dr. TCM - R.Ac - RMT
Teresa Lam
Dr. TCM - R.Ac - RMT
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.
Koko Brill
Reiki Practitioner
Koko Brill
Reiki Practitioner
Koko's sensitive and empathetic nature led her to discover Reiki where she was able to personally experience healing on mental, physical and emotional levels. Now it is her pleasure to offer this experience of healing to others. Koko's gifts of empathy, compassion and intuition enable her to help others return to their most authentic expression of self by clearing away what is no longer needed in the body's energy systems. This can include but is not limited to the release of stress, anxiety, trauma and energy from others.
Koko is a Level Two Reiki Practitioner initiated into the Usui Reiki Lineage. She continues to train with the Growing Whole Institute (www.growingwhole.ca) under the supervision of Reiki Master and Teacher Ashley Eden. In addition, Koko is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and culinary school graduate. She believes that preventative healthcare through a balanced lifestyle and diet are key to great physical and mental health.
To learn more about Koko please visit her website www.evokemagick.com
Amelia Marchi
RMT
Amelia Marchi
RMT
Amelia is a compassionate and caring Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from the Vancouver
College of Massage Therapy (VCMT). She believes therapeutic touch can bring an open awareness to
feeling various parts of the body. Within this open awareness, body and mind can be integrated and true
healing can take place.
Amelia began her healing journey and exploration of therapeutic touch in 2013 after she graduated
from the Business program at Capilano University. She began studying yoga, meditation, reflexology and
nutritional sciences. This led her to discover the healing benefits of therapeutic touch as a gateway
towards a deeper connection to the self.
During her studies at VCMT, Amelia learned a range of techniques she includes in her treatments
including Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, Neuromuscular Technique, gentle and deep tissue
Swedish Massage, Joint Mobilizations, Diaphragmatic Breathing and Craniosacral Therapy.
Amelia works with a variety of individuals and has experience treating individuals with digestive issues
such as constipation and IBS, menstrual pain and discomfort, breast discomfort or tenderness, chronic
stress, anxiety and depression, headaches, TMJ, back/neck/shoulder pain and women who are pregnant.
To support her healing practice, Amelia is a dedicated and diligent meditation practitioner. You may also
find Amelia recharging her energies by spending time in nature. She enjoys swimming in the ocean,
dancing with her hula hoop and yoga in the park.
Amelia is looking forward to working with and connecting with the Soma community!
“Once you have tasted inner relaxation, your body will be your truest guide”
Tina Luu
RMT
Tina Luu
RMT
Tina is a graduate of the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy. She utilizes her compassion, knowledge, adaptability, intuition, and focused intent to provide treatments to suit each client’s goals.
She uses many different modalities in her treatments but particularly enjoys incorporating deep tissue, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point release and active and passive modalities.
She is very passionate about her clients’ health and places a strong emphasis on education about the body and self-care recommendations such as stretching, strengthening and postural awareness.
Tina will be seeing clients at SOMA West. Book your appointment today!
Christopher Sherman
RMT
Christopher has been a practicing RMT since 2003. Throughout his career he has gained
valuable experience and insight working in both clinics as well as luxury spas. Well rounded
and skillful, Christopher is happy to work with athletes, expecting mothers, relaxation seekers,
and those that are just generally wound tight from the rigours of life and in need of a thorough
working over. His style of massage incorporates a combination of deep tissue, Swedish, range
of motion, and fascial techniques that blend into a strong, yet relaxing flow that coaxes stress
and tension from the body. Experience, education, and a thorough approach lend to an
intuition for being able to hone in on those often seemingly difficult to find sources of pain and
tension. Clients will find Christopher a great listener and conversationalist with a sense of
humour, but one that also knows the value of silence when they just want to zone out and
relax. He sees massage as a valuable tool for allowing one to get back in touch with their body
and enter that blissfully healing state between sleep and consciousness. Strong enough for
the most demanding of deep tissue needs, yet gently firm for relaxation and prenatal purposes,
you can count on Christopher providing just the right amount of pressure to reach your
therapeutic goals.
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!
Jude Torchuk
RMT
Jude Torchuk
RMT
Jude Torchuk, RMT, graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 1997. Her desire to help others began by studying psychology and sociology, but after experiencing severe whiplash when she was 17, she discovered the world of holistic health and massage therapy. Jude deepened her knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and related structures by taking Neuromuscular Therapy, providing deeper and more specific work to the muscles and tendons. Continuing with her post-graduate training, she added Craniosacral Therapy and Lymphatic Drainage Therapy to her skills, learning the same techniques that contributed to her own healing, to share with her clients.
Jude completed her Advanced Craniosacral Therapy with Upledger Institute in 2011. She has experience working with people with head trauma (concussion), neck injuries, whiplash and MVAs, insomnia and an overstimulated nervous system, fatigue, anxiety, stress, headaches, and general overuse and pain and tension within the body.
Providing a safe and compassionate space for her clients, she incorporates her massage therapy skills with techniques that enhance the body's innate wisdom and natural ability to heal itself .
Ali Joy Cross
RMT
Ali Joy Cross
RMT
“A change in the shape of the body creates a change in the state of the soul.” — Aristotle
After a decade of studying traditional massage, Ali Joy dedicated herself to learning the science and anatomy side of massage and recently graduated from the RMT program at Vancouver College of Massage therapy.
Offering soothing Swedish massage, myofascial release, deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, and craniosacral massage for changes in states and shapes.
Tanisha Arsenault
RMT
Tanisha graduated from VCMT (Vancouver College of Massage Therapy). She is passionate about helping people and believes that everyone can benefit from massage therapy. Tanisha’s full body approach includes some of the following techniques: myofascial release, trigger point release, stretching, joint mobilization and hydrotherapy. Her goal is to treat the body as a whole to aid in maintaining balance.
When not at work some of her hobbies include various types of exercise routines including HIIT, Strength training, mobility and yoga. She enjoys spending time outdoors, music, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
She is so grateful to be part of the Soma team!
Tess Halldorson
RMT
Tess Halldorson
RMT
Tess Halldorson is an RMT who graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, where she learned to effectively address a variety of conditions. Tess is proficient in several modalities, including Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and joint mobilizations. Tess believes in keeping up to date on the latest treatment techniques, and obtaining measurable outcomes with thorough before and after treatment assessment. She is passionate about helping her patients reach their therapeutic goals, whether it be injury recovery, stress related, or maintaining general wellness. Tess looks forward to meeting you.
Graeme Muir
RMT
Graeme Muir
RMT
I take a holistic full body approach to massage therapy to provide a deeply relaxing and healing experience. I will focus in on your sore spots and work deeply, but not forget the de-stress and rejuvenation aspect of massage.
I have 9 years of practice as an RMT, with education in osteopathic techniques, craniosacral therapy, end-range loading and tractioning, abdominal organ massage, movement and yoga therapy, sports massage, injury rehabilitation and prevention, pregnancy massage, therapeutic exercise, headache, TMJ and sinus relief techniques among others.
In my free time I like to explore near and far, and have recently returned from a once in a lifetime journey driving through the US and Mexico, spending time in Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Oaxaca, Guadalajara and many amazing places in between.
Carla Van Elslande
RMT
After graduating from UBC in 2004 with a degree in classical piano, Carla’s passion was enriching people’s lives through music and teaching. Carla first connected with massage after a car accident in 2001 and as she received treatment she realized that she wanted to help others with their recoveries as well. Carla realized she was just as passionate about massage as she was about music and massage provided her with another outlet in which she could connect with others. Carla graduated from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2012.
In her treatments, Carla uses a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilization, stretching and hydrotherapy. Carla treats a variety of conditions including pre and post pregnancy, whiplash, repetitive strain injuries, headaches, stress-related conditions and other common issues such as back tension, insomnia and postural dysfunction.
Carla’s philosophy towards massage is dedicated towards providing a unique experience for each guest. Her goal is to provide a sense of balance for each client by addressing their specific short and long term goals. By taking a full body approach, Carla’s goal through her treatments is to guide her clients through recovery and provide a medium in which her clients can find healing.
In her spare time, Carla enjoys music, yoga, traveling and being a tourist in her own city. She is an animal lover and enjoys talking over a cup of tea. She is grateful and happy to be part of the Soma team.
Carla will be seeing clients at SOMA West. Book your appointment today!
Lesley Ormiston
R.TCM.P - R.Ac
Lesley Ormiston
R.TCM.P - R.Ac
Lesley brings 15 years of dedicated study and practice to support her clients towards greater wellness. Her work is inspired by the use of Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and Yoga. The treatments she offers aim to address the complexity of each person’s health challenges so as to effect change at the root of physical, mental and emotional imbalances.
In 2009, she completed a 5 year Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine Program in Victoria, BC, which included a 6 month hospital internship in Sichuan Province, China. She has led Yoga classes and workshops for the past 13 years and was on the teaching staff of the Salt Spring Centre of Yoga’s Annual Yoga Teacher Training Program for a decade.
In her practice, Lesley uses all of her skills to support the varied needs of her clients. She welcomes individuals of all ages and addresses a wide range of issues including: pre and post natal health, gynecology, digestive imbalances, pain and injury, chronic conditions, depression, anxiety and psychosomatic related issues.
Lesley’s empathic approach to care fosters trust from those with whom she works and cultivates a deep possibility for change.
In her spare time she enjoys playing outdoors with her family, practicing Yoga and traveling.
You can find more information about Lesley's work here.
Lesley will be seeing clients on Tuesday afternoons and Friday mornings at SOMA East and Wednesday mornings at SOMA West. Book your appointment now!
Andrea Smith
RMT
Andrea Smith
RMT
Andrea started her journey in massage in 2006 at the Vancouver School of Bodywork and massage. After completing her fifth term at art school, she found massage as her medium to channel her creativity and genuinely make a difference in people’s lives. Once she found her hands in the spa industry, Andrea wanted to broaden her scientific understanding of anatomy and treatment methods, so she returned to school to become a Registered Massage Therapist in 2010.
In her sessions Andrea uses a variety of techniques such as deep flow, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilizations and active resistance techniques. These aid in treating a wide variety of conditions such as headaches, postural dysfunctions, overuse injuries and stress-related conditions.
Andrea is passionate about functional wellness and the body-mind connection. Massage offers an amazing conduit for our bodies to communicate to us through our breath. The mindfulness that arises from being in this parasympathetic state greatly contributes to a person’s healing.
She also loves working with pre and post natal women having seen the benefits of massage therapy while working with high-risk pregnancies at BC Women’s Hospital. She believes the body has a natural wisdom, we just need to listen to it and treat accordingly.
In her free time Andrea enjoys dance, yoga, running and weight lifting. She is a lover of dogs, baking, sunshine and a good sense of humour. She is grateful and thrilled to have found a home with the Soma family.
Erin Hannah
RMT
Erin Hannah
RMT
I love my work as a massage therapist and have had the opportunity to work with a variety of people since graduating in 2001 from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy.
My early interest in childbirth drew me to work with women and families as a Birth Doula and provide pregnancy and postpartum massage. This is an unique time for a woman; her body undergoes many physical changes throughout the months of pregnancy and the year or so after giving birth. I enjoy supporting women through this transition by helping to alleviate any discomforts or dysfunctions that may arise. I believe a woman who feels supported and nurtured will experience her transition into motherhood as positive and empowering.
My treatments integrate myo-fascial and visceral release, craniosacral therapy, trigger point and deep tissue release, along with various Swedish modalities. My personal practice and training in yoga and pilates play an integral role in the therapeutic exercises and lifestyle suggestions I offer. It is my intention to encourage clients in realizing their most optimal health through the use of manual and yoga therapy, and by sharing my knowledge and experience of the body.
My love of yoga, meditation and travel has brought me to various parts of Asia, Europe and Central America over the last 8 years. A special part of traveling for me is to learn and experience other cultures use of massage and body therapies. My meditation practice has been an integral part of my travels, and I spend time each year studying with teachers abroad.
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.
Diane Constantinescu
RMT
A graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, Diane Constantinescu has been in practice for over ten years. Diane is well-versed in a variety of techniques including deep tissue, sport massage, trigger point therapy, myofacial release and joint mobilization. Her goal is to ensure that every client receives a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to their needs.
A firm believer in staying updated on the latest techniques, Diane regularly devotes time to expanding her knowledge base in order to better help those who wish to take an active role in achieving and maintaining optimum health and quality of life.
Diane will be available at Soma East in October 2012.
Susan Macrae
RMT
Susan Macrae
RMT
Sue Macrae has been a Registered Massage Therapist since 1994 and during this time she has worked in various clinical settings as both a registered massage therapist and clinic owner.
For the past 11 years, Sue has worked at Port Moody Integrated Health as one of the founding practitioners. A long-time East Vancouver resident, Sue is extremely excited to bring her practice and patients to the neighbourhood she loves to call home.
Sue earned her degree in physical education from the University of British Columbia, and graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy. Her post-graduate courses and studies have focused on myofascial release, a specialized technique that focuses on the fascia of the body. By treating individual or groups of muscles and fascia concurrently, Sue can effectively release muscle tissue and improve stability, coordination and compensations in posture or movement. Other courses she has taken include core strengthening and stretching, and physioball exercises.
Sue and her family (husband, two daughters, one fuzzy dog) lead an active west coast life. She’s an avid trail runner, cycler, hiker, skier and camper. She also has an extensive background in aquatics. Sue also is an active volunteer in her daughters’ school, and also serves on the board of the Exceleration Triathlon Club operating at Templeton Pool.
Michealla Redeker
RMT
Michealla is a skilled, resourceful, intuitive, and approachable Registered Massage Ther-apist with extensive knowledge and experience in the field. A graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, Michealla obtained her registered status in the fall of 2001 after completing 3000 hours of training.
Michealla has been a dedicated practitioner of Massage Therapy for the past 11 years and has continually upgraded her skills over this period of time. She has advanced study in therapeutic deep tissue massage, Myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, Thai massage, and perinatal. She also is a ded-icated yoga practioner.
Michealla has travelled to various parts of Asia including, Thailand and India, to learn and experience different holistic healing practices. In her practice, Michealla treats a wide spectrum of patients with issues stemming from chronic illness, athletics, pregnancy, work, stress and accident related injuries.
Michealla has recently returned to work after taking some time off to spend with her first child and love of her life. A grounded down to earth mom and professional, Michealla is passionate about travel, foreign culture, music the outdoors and activities including, Yoga, running and hiking.
Angela Havlicek
RMT
Angela Havlicek
RMT
Angela is a loving, friendly and passionate person. She loves connecting with people and guiding them through their unique journeys to wellness. Angela graduated from West Coast collage of Massage Therapy with high enthusiasm to bring health and well-being to her patients. She has worked in various hospitals in Greater Vancouver and has treated people with multiple sclerosis, parkinson’s, spinal chord injuries and high-risk pregnancies.
Angela approaches her practice using relaxing Swedish massage techniques followed by trigger point release and joint mobilizations. She embraces every person’s unique body and health condition, and tailors her treatments to every patient’s needs.
In her free time Angela enjoys yoga, dancing and expressing herself through painting and music.
Angela will be seeing clients at SOMA East. Book your appointment today!
Danielle Evanoff
RMT
Danielle Evanoff
RMT
Danielle is a graduate of the 3000 hour program at The West Coast College of Massage Therapy. During her time at school she had the opportunity to participate in many different training venues of massage, one being high risk pregnancy outreach at BC Women's. It was during her time here that Danielle had the honour of massaging her first woman in labour, and where she had the unique privilege and opportunity to treat many different pregnant women with a spectrum of complications and illnesses. Danielle’s passion for supporting women during the childbearing years was born here.
Since graduating in 2012 Danielle has taken extensive training in pregnancy massage and the various complications that can arise during labour, and she offers labour and delivery massage and post caesarian support. She is a certified pediatric massage therapist through Tina Allen’s Little Kids Foundation and loves working with little ones. Danielle has also completed the Dona Doula training and has been a part time doula for the last 4 years.
Danielle is honoured to be able to provide support and encouragement to women throughout their pregnancy, labour and delivery. She continues to be amazed by the miracle of birth and the strength of women and their partners. These experiences continue to fuel her passion for knowledge and continued learning to better support her clients.
Although her passion is in women's health, Danielle is trained in providing many avenues of registered massage therapy. This includes treating an array of disorders including whiplash, tension headaches, migraines, repetitive strain injuries, stress-related conditions, and other common issues such as postural dysfunction, general back tension, and insomnia. She supports her clients using a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, joint mobilization, stretching and hydrotherapy.
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.
Sophie Sarazin
RMT
Sophie Sarazin
RMT
Sophie, began her career as a body worker in Ontario after graduating from the College of Orthotherapy program in 2005. Since then, she has worked in five star Hotel spas in Ontario, Quebec and here in Vancouver. She loves helping people so she quickly understood how much massage treatments have a positive impact in peoples lives. It is that passion and dedication to the wellness of others that prompted her to expand her knowledge of the physiology and anatomy of the human body, to learn new techniques and deepen her commitment to better the lives of others. So, she returned to school to become a Registered Massage Therapist . She graduated from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy (VCMT) in 2016. Sophie has a relaxation and therapeutic approach to her treatments. She uses a variety of techniques such as Swedish, trigger point release, myofascial , joint mobilization, passive and active stretching. She specializes in treating pre and post natal conditions, postural dysfunctions, headaches, TMJ, over-use injuries and stress related conditions.
In her spare time she enjoys reading, hiking, CrossFit, yoga, dancing and traveling. She is a dog lover and a tea enthusiast. Sophie is excited and grateful to be part of the Soma family.
Sandeep Mehat
RMT
Sandeep Mehat
RMT
Sandeep believes in the use of natural methods to facilitate the body’s intelligence to heal itself. She is passionate about using her human Anatomy & Physiology knowledge to help community members live naturally pain-free lifestyles. A strong believer in the importance of strong therapeutic relationships, she uses active listening, empowerment and strategic application of various massage modalities to achieve treatment goals.
Sandeep is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia, holds a Diploma in Marketing Management, and is currently completing a Bachelor of Health Science.
In her spare time, Sandeep can be found walking and hiking with her puppy, lighting candles, painting, and volunteering in youth outreach programs.
Three Locations: Vancouver East, Vancouver West & Salt Spring Island
Our LoactionsSoma West - South Granville
EMAIL
| 604.738.1502
2460 TRAFALGAR STREET, VANCOUVER BC
HOURS 8AM – 7PM (BY APPT)
Soma East - East Vancouver
EMAIL
| 604.568.0048
1340 NANAIMO STREET, VANCOUVER BC
HOURS 8AM – 7PM (BY APPT)
Soma Salt Spring
EMAIL
| 250.537.1655
447 STARK’S ROAD, SALT SPRING ISLAND
HOURS 8AM – 7PM (BY APPT)