Sherri Sulkowski, Support Services Manager
Michelle Kinsey, Lead Massage Therapist
"I like to educate my clients in the type of massage they’re receiving – and to remind them that not every massage is the same.”
A certified massage therapist, Michelle has been in practice for seven years. She became interested in massage therapy when she found it helped her minimize pain from chronic headaches. She specializes in therapeutic massage, using a wide range of techniques including Swedish, trigger point, deep tissue, hot stone, neuromuscular and reflexology, to help clients relax and heal their minds and bodies.
“With new clients, I conduct a simple postural assessment first so I can see where in their body they’re holding pain and tension, and which massage modality suits them best,” she said.
In addition to massage, Michelle’s other forms of relaxation include hiking, fly-fishing and sewing.
Julie Booth, Massage Therapist
"I enjoy discovering the personality of my clients and adapting the massage to fit them."
Julie has been helping clients feel better through massage therapy for 15 years. "By focusing my full attention on what someone's body and spirit needs is one of my things I like best about massage," Julie noted. Her favorite technique is Swedish massage because it's so therapeutic and relaxing.
A graduate of the Pittsburgh School of Massage, Julie also is a yoga instructor, a Level I Reiki practitioner, and a mother of three children ranging in age from 10 to 17. When she's not teaching or spending time with her children, she enjoys her person yoga practice, meditating and playing piano.
Darrell Elms, Massage Therapist
“I like that I can help clients enjoy better quality of life through massage.”
A graduate of the Sarasota School of Natural Healing Arts, Darrell has been practicing massage therapy since 1996. He also has earned certification in neuromuscular massage, and his professional experience includes working in a neuromuscular clinic.
“Neuromuscular is a deeper tissue massage,
which is very effective if there is a build-up of tension,” he said. “I incorporate all types of massage in my work, depending on where clients need relief.”
Originally from greater Chicago, Darrell and his family recently moved to the Washington area from Florida. His favorite activities include spending time with his three children and fishing.
Jessica Masciarelli, Massage Therapist
“I wouldn’t trade my job or clients for anything in
the world.”
Jessica earned her certification inmassage therapy,
with high honors, from the Laurel Business Institute
in Uniontown, Pa.. “I absolutely love what I do. I love knowing that in anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, I can make a positive difference for people,” said Jessica, whose favorite treatments are deep-tissue and pre-natal massage.
Jessica noted that massage is not a one-time quick fix, but rather a lifelong process of helping your body reach a state of balance known as homeostasis. “Getting regular massages — at least once a month — is the best way to achieve homeostasis,” she said.
Among Jessica’s favorite non-work activities are hiking in the mountains and long walks with her dog.
Jessica Salko, Massage Therapist
"I love to help people feel better and enjoy releasing the tension and stress of every day life through massage therapy."
Jessica recently rejoined Spa Harmony after pursuing a career in personal training. She completed her massage training in 2004, and enjoys using the education from both fields to help clients maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In Jessica's spare time, she likes to ride her Harley with friends, work out, take walks with her dog and spend time with friends for Steeler games or other sporting events.
Peggy Zinsser, Massage Therapist
Linda Andrews, Reiki Master
“Life’s mysteries and miracles are happening all around. Open your heart and eyes, and prepare to be delighted!”
Since becoming a Reiki Master in 2001, Linda has
treated people with a broad range of problems, including headaches, stress, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, side effects from chemotherapy and muscle stiffness. “It’s a wonderful way to deal with stress without medication, and it can enhance any other treatment you’re getting,” she said, explaining that Reiki promotes deep relaxation as well as pain relief.
Noting that each person’s experience with Reiki is unique, Linda encourages everyone to try it, especially if they have a chronic condition. “Reiki deals with healing on a different level,” she said.
Linda has studied Reiki with Cynthia A. Lawson, RMT, and also learned Usui Shiki Ryoho (Usui System of Natural Healing) with Sister Elaine Wellinger, H.M., at the Villa Maria Retreat Center in Villa Maria, Pa. When she’s not practicing Reiki, she enjoys designing greeting cards, teaching, painting
and writing.
Lisa Wang, O.M.D. (China), Dipl. Ac. ROM
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine
“My patients say that acupuncture is like a miracle.
They feel relaxed, more energetic and more positive.”
A key component of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) system, acupuncture is based on the belief that health depends on maintaining a proper balance of qi, or internal energy. “When this flow is blocked or stagnates, it causes pain or disease,” Lisa explained.
Lisa earned her Doctor of Oriental Medicine (O.M.D.) degree from the Chinese Medical School of Beijing United University in 1986. Following graduation, she worked as an assistant professor at the medical school and practiced Chinese medicine at Beijing Chinese Medical Hospital. Since moving to the United States in 1997, she has practiced acupuncture in southern California and the Pittsburgh area.
“Acupuncture is natural and very effective. Many doctors refer patients to me because
they don’t want to introduce chemicals that might interfere with other medication,” according to Lisa, who is licensed by the Pennsylvania Medical Board and certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Melissa Murtha, LAc, MA, Acupuncturist
“Acupuncture can treat just about everything – not just pain and weight loss.”
Melissa earned a master in science degree from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago and is licensed by the Pennsylvania Medical Board as well as certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Murtha first became interested in the ancient Chinese healing art when she was in high school in Uniontown. I saw a need for an alternative when people don’t want to take pills or have surgery for certain conditions. I wanted to offer another option in healthcare,” she said. “For example, acupuncture can be very helpful for people with insomnia. We look at the problem from different angles and try to understand their specific pattern of insomnia so we can treat it effectively.”
Although acupuncture is frequently viewed as a treatment of last resort in the U.S., Murtha noted that some physicians are now recognizing the value of acupuncture and recommending that patients integrate it into their treatment plan when appropriate. “People going through chemotherapy, for instance, have had wonderful results with the addition of acupuncture to their regimen,” Murtha said. “It can help them stay healthy and strong through chemotherapy.” She also noted that acupuncture can be a smart choice for people who want to quit smoking. “The results are better and recidivism is lower,” she said.
Jamie Gainer, Lead Esthetician
“I enjoy helping guests, who may not otherwise get a chance, to fully relax and forget their worries.”
A graduate of the Empire Beauty School of Cosmetology, Jamie previously worked as a magazine hair and make-up artist. One of her favorite Spa Harmony treatments is Herbology Body
Softening. “I love the fact that it’s like a Swedish massage, but it also includes an exfoliant and a
detoxification of the entire body,” she said. “The slow and soothing application of the oils is so relaxing, and the scent of the herbs is wonderful.”
In addition to working, she enjoys dancing, exercising, shopping, singing and trying new restaurants.
Amanda Grimes, Spa Esthetician
Ruthie Martin, Spa Esthetician
Jennifer Taylor, Nail Technician
“Allow time for yourself to relax and feel good.”
Trained as a manicurist at the Pittsburgh Beauty Academy, Jennifer has more than 10 years of
experience providing nail services, including
owning her own nail salon for four years. “I love meeting people, talking to them, and making them feel good. You wouldn’t believe how many people say ‘I have ugly feet and nails,’ yet when they leave they feel so pretty,” she said. “It’s a nice service to provide.”
An expert in manicures, pedicures, acrylics, gels and silk wraps, Jennifer strongly believes that her enthusiasm for her work helps her make it an enjoyable experience for her clients. “I treat everyone like I would like to be treated myself,” she explained. “I try to make people feel relaxed and comfortable for the hour I have them.”
Jennifer juggles working with parenting her three children and finding time for her daily six-mile jog.
