Therapists

Melissa Cardwell, MAT #8868

Melissa completed her massage apprenticeship at Island Therapeutic Massage in Hilo, HI and received her massage license in 2005. She considers herself an on-going student and, as such, continuously seeks to deepen her massage practice. She offers a wide-range of modalities including Ashiatsu, Deep Tissue, Lomi Lomi, Hawaiian Hot Stones Massage (Pohaku Wela), Pre-Natal Massage, Cranial Sacral and Myofascial Release. Melissa has also received her Level I in Reiki. Her passion is in therapeutic massage and assisting people in improving the quality of their lives. Melissa strongly believes in having an unconditional regard for her clients and seeks to support them by drawing from her deep well of knowledge and compassion. Every session is unique and based on an individual’s particular and distinct needs. Melissa feels tremendously grateful to have found a professional path that is as rewarding as massage therapy and to be a part of the phenomenal team of therapists at Banyan Massage.

Anne Nuttall, MAT #8073

Anne became a certified massage therapist in 2003 after completing massage therapy training at Healing Spirits in Boulder, Colorado. She then completed Hawaiian Lomi Lomi training at Aunty Margaret Machados’ in South Kona, HI in 2004 and became a Licensed Massage Therapist shortly thereafter. Anne is skilled and experienced in many modalities though these days her passion and specialty is in Ashiatsu. She also offers therapeutic massage and incorporates Swedish Massage, Lomi Lomi and Hot Stones, as well as deep therapeutics such as Myofascial Release. Anne also performs specific pain and injury treatment massage and works with clients who seek acute injury rehabilitation as well as chronic pain management. Her sessions are always customized to each individual’s specific needs and she takes great care in providing a personalized experience for every client. She has a kind and nurturing presence and an open heart. With a deep passion for massage and bodywork Anne feels very fortunate to be a professional in the field and to be an integral part of the team at Banyan Massage.

Kristen Burkhart, MAT #17383

Kristen began studying massage at Hokulani Massage Academy on the Big Island in 2021. Her training focused on a blend of sports and Swedish massage. Since becoming licensed, she has learned techniques in the styles of Lomi Lomi, Thai, Trigger Point, and Deep Tissue. She has worked in a variety of settings including a resort spa, a clinic, and for various retreats. During a session, she tends to work slow and deep to allow full release of muscle tension. Kristen is also a Reiki practitioner, and enjoys blending energetic sensitivity and intuition with her physical practice. She is passionate about offering her care and presence to her clients.

Jarica Barr, MAT# 10249

Jarica came to bodywork while searching on her own healing path. She feels that massage therapy is how she can help care for humanity. Jarica began her studies as a massage therapist at the Heartwood Institute in Northern California. As a Holistic Healthcare Practitioner, she graduated in 2005, receiving training in Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue, Polarity Therapy, Cranial Sacral techniques, Myofascial Release, Shiatsu and Hot Stones. She continued her studies with Ayurvedic bodywork therapies, and Chinese medicine. During a session, Jarica may combine various techniques to suit the needs of the individual. She has a passion for classical Yoga, breath, and awareness practices and intends to bring mindfulness to each session.

Ann Marie Lofgreen, MAT #9197

Ann Marie has been a practitioner of Massage Therapy since 2000. She graduated from South West Institute Of Healing Arts in 1999 in Scottsdale, AZ. Ann Marie moved to the Big Island of Hawaii in 2005 where she completed continuing education at Big Island Academy Of Massage. She has a diverse and complimentary style of massage that incorporates many modalities including Deep Tissue, Lomi Lomi, Acupressure, Cranial Sacral, Reflexology, Myofascial Release, Prenatal, Infant massage and more. Over the course of her career she has worked in spas, salons, pain clinics, Chiropractor offices, retreats, events and in homes. Ann Marie loves learning and strives to continuously improve and fine tune her techniques. With her wealth of skill and experience she tailors every massage session to the specific needs and goals of each individual.

Reina Irving, MAT #17325

Reina brings a nurturing and intuitive touch to every session, drawing from a diverse background in healing modalities and a deep respect for the mind-body connection. Trained at Hokulani Massage Academy in Waimea, their bodywork integrates Lomi Lomi, Swedish, deep tissue, Balinese, restorative massage, reflexology, prenatal care, hot stone therapy, and aromatherapy, with her favorite modality being Lomi Lomi.

In addition to their work in massage, Reina is currently pursuing a master’s degree in mental health counseling and has a strong interest in naturopathic and holistic healing. Their approach is grounded in the belief that true wellness includes the body, mind, and spirit—they feel honored to support clients on their path.

Stacey Gray, MAT #17461

Stacey’s passion for massage therapy began in 2000, when she received massage training at Cascade Institute of Massage and Body Therapies in Eugene, Oregon- studying techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue, sports massage, and hydrotherapy, these foundational skills became the bedrock of her practice. In 2004-2005, Stacey trained in traditional Thai massage and Thai herbal medicine in Changi Mai. This transformative experience deepened her understanding of bodywork and introduced her to the rich healing traditions of Thai culture. In 2008, Stacey began studies in Ayurveda at Kerala Ayurveda Academy in Seattle, Washington. Upon completion of this practicum she worked as a Panahakarma technician as well as providing Ayurvedic therapies, teaching workshops and assisting in retreats.

In 2022, Stacey moved to the Big Island where she interned with Kumu Suzanne Kamaluhia Wooley at Hale Ho’ola Spa in Volcano and learned the sacred art of Lomi Lomi massage. This deeply spiritual practice added yet another layer to her diverse healing practice.

With a passion for healing and a commitment to meeting her clients where they are, Stacey believes in tailoring each session to fit your individual needs and feels very grateful for the opportunity to be part of your healing journey.

Compassionate, Individualized Care

in a peaceful, professional setting