About us
About us
We have created a relaxing and therapeutic approach to healing
Meet our therapists
Meet our therapists
Meet our therapists
Amber Defazio, CO–Owner+Founder+LMT+cyt
Amber has been interestedin healing and bodywork since childhood. Her passion grew while studying to get her Associates degree in Occupational Science at New York College of Health Professions. This 2600 hour program opened the door to vast array of modalities for her to include in her massage practice. The extensive knowledge of kinesiology, myology, and pathology taught in this program gives her an exceptional understanding of the human body and the tools to treat each patient in the most unique, productive and healing way. As part of the healing process Amber integrates European (Swedish), Amma (Oriental), Sports, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Myofascial Release, Reiki, Prenatal, Reflexology, and Hot Stone therapies to treat everything from stress and sore muscles to chronic pain and energetic imbalances. When she is not taking the time to heal others her passions include family, nutrition, yoga, art, music, dance, and almost everything outdoors.
James Hainsworth, cO–Owner+LMT+HHP
James has been interested in healing and massage for almost 20 years. After beginning a daily yoga practice in his early teens, he self-experimented with many nutrition, cleansing, and meditation techniques. He began doing massage on friends and family and found he had an intuitive sense as to where people held tension. He later became interested in energy work, and shortly after, received his Reiki I and II certifications. James attended Body Mind College in San Diego and received a 1000 hour Holistic Health Practitioner Certificate. During that time, he learned many modalities including Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, and Myofascial Release. He also gained experience in spiritual and nutritional counseling, as well as pursuing interests in shamanism and Tai Chi.
James tailors each massage session to the client’s needs. His focus is on creating a therapeutic and healing experience for his clients that relieves stress and improves the function and feeling of the body. He blends different styles and techniques to create a very nurturing, relaxing, and effective massage. His attention to detail, ability to go very slowly, and comprehensive knowledge of the body are excellent for post-injury and post-surgery applications.
Heidi brooks, CMT
I begin my Massage career in 1994 in Austin Texas. There I primarily had clients in the tech, service and music industries. I spent 3 years in Hawaii where my love of sports and deep tissue bodywork grew. Since moving to the Sierra's in 1999, I have taken extensive courses in deep tissue and Neuromuscular bodywork. I strongly believe that a deep tissue massage doesn't have to hurt and can be very relaxing. I pride myself in keeping a quiet non-judgmental space for my clients to get the best results. I am also certified in prenatal and Hot Stone
Farida Gipson Burtt, CMT+ChT+cyt
Farida, a native of Kenya, and a Kings Beach resident since 2000, specializes in integrating massage with meditation to bring about transformation and healing. She began doing foot massage for family and friends at the age of 12 and at the age of 15 she discovered Deepak Chopra, Louise Hay, Ayurveda and Bach Flower remedies. This curiosity led her to become certified in Massage, Yoga Therapy, Energy healing, Homeopathy, Aromatherapy, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, and Sound Healing. Her nurturing and compassionate touch is deep enough to effectively alleviate sore muscles and gentle enough to bring about complete relaxation. Her intention for every session is to create a space that is catered to the clients needs and allows the mind and body to return to its natural state of harmony and balance. She is dedicated to personal wellness. Her massage style combines gentle specific stretches with direct focused strokes to release areas of tension and dysfunction. Farida's technique combines the most enjoyable and effective elements of Yoga, Meditation, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Thai Massage, Acupressure, Shiatsu, Hot Stone and Breema. Her intuitive use of gentle stretches, acupressure points and firm, therapeutic pressure, make her massage deeply restorative, and refreshing.
Michele milazzo
Michele began her journey as a massage therapist over 20 years ago.
After surviving a brain tumor, she decided she wanted to get out from behind the computer at the hospital she was working at and do something more hands on to help others.
She graduated from A New You Massage School in Sacramento and then Lake Tahoe Massage School as well in South Lake Tahoe and went on to get her National Certification in Massage and Bodywork. Her massage training and style can best be described as swedish/deep with a Lomi dynamic and is tailored to meet each client's needs. She also does energy work and believes when the body is given time and a supported space, healing can occur. She tailors each session to match the intention of the client and work in partnership for the best outcome of their session together.
Michele also a certified Yoga instructor to seniors, children and beginner adults and her philosophy is massage and yoga for ALL.
SCHUYLER GESMUNDO, CMT
Schuyler is a born and raised Truckee-Tahoe local who has been interested in bodywork and the healing arts since childhood. As a graduate of The Bodhi Tree Center in Carson City, Nevada, he is trained in a variety of modalities including deep tissue, acupressure, swedish massage, fascial freedom style cupping and detox cupping, myofascial release, and energy work. He combines these techniques to customize a unique massage experience tailored to the needs of each client. Whether you are a high-end athlete in need of deep therapeutic work, have chronic occupational related issues you need help alleviating, or wish to relax and zone out for a session, Schuyler is an excellent therapist.
When he is not providing amazing bodywork, Schuyler loves to be outside, and loves to create. He is an avid skier, snowboarder, mountain biker, bassist, and poet.
JAYMI BERBERT
Jaymi is an experienced massage therapist dedicated to helping you feel your best—body, mind, and spirit. With training in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point, Acupressure, and Reiki, she blends different techniques to create a customized session for each client.
She has been working with North Lake Tahoe visitors and locals for over 10 years and has trained at the Napa Valley School of Massage, the Massage Therapy Institute, and the Bodhi Tree Center. As a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, her approach goes beyond relaxation to focus on restoring balance, easing tension, and supporting your overall well-being.
Demitra Carter
Demitra grew up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California as a competitive skier, and rock climber. Her family has always put healthy and adventurous physical activity and being outdoors as a strong priority. She has a love for movement and has been fascinated with the human body and the multiple avenues that can be accessed to facilitate strength, flexibility, and body awareness. This inspiration sparked at a young age, and she continues to explore and grow through the practice of Massage Therapy, Yoga, and Birth and Postpartum Doula work.
She graduated from The Swedish Institute of Health Sciences at the end of 2015, where she received 1300 hours of training and an AA in Occupational Therapy. Her training and experience includes Swedish, Shiatsu, Prenatal,Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, Sports, Cranial Sacral, Lymphatic Drainage and Thai Massage. Her sessions include both an Eastern and Western approach in treatment, honoring and acknowledging the body holistically, while also focusing on localized pain and holding patterns. She moves intuitively and addresses the chief complaint of the client as well as acknowledges any additional patterns present. Working with clients consistently and really tracking the body’s ability to heal and progress is a passion of hers.
Demitra’s interests outside of body work are supporting Mothers, making memories with her family and loved ones, playing in nature, singing, dancing, and exploring this beautiful place she calls home.
WENDY LAUTNER
Wendy Lautner is a Certified Massage Therapist with more than 14 years of experience. After graduating from Phillips School of Massage with a concentration in Swedish and Shiatsu massage techniques in 2001, she completed additional trainings in Reiki (2011), Deep Tissue (2009), and Trigger Point therapy (2009). She is also a Certified Personal Trainer (2006) and Yoga Instructor (2015). Wendy's broad knowledge of the body allows her to tailor every massage to meet her clients' specific needs and goals.
As a new mother (2012 to baby Archer!), she has a special place in her heart for both prenatal and postpartum massage and believes strongly in its benefits for both mom and baby. Sore muscles aside, Wendy believes massage therapy is an integral component of any health & wellness program. Research continues to show that massage is one of the best treatments for stress and untreated stress is one of the biggest risk factors for many of today's deadliest diseases.
Outside of work, Wendy loves enjoying the outdoors with her family. She's an avid cross country skier, telemark skier, runner, mountain biker, and whitewater kayaker.
PATTY ROBERTS
Patricia is a Massage Therapist with a love for helping people heal mind, body, and spirit through bodywork. Immersing herself in a well-rounded 1000+ hour Transformational Psychology degree, majoring in Massage Therapy & Holistic Psychology, and minoring in Yoga Teacher Training from Southwest Institute of Healing Arts in Tempe, Arizona Patty gained a deep understanding of the workings of physical body and how it correlates with the mental body. She couples many well-known modalities including the more traditional Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Trigger Point Therapy with lesser known techniques such as Myofascial Release, Reflexology, and energetic clearing to help you unwind your body and thus, release tension in your entire spirit. In a session with her, you will feel supported to let go of what ails you, leaving you lighter, more relaxed, and ready to embrace the world with a clearer mindset.
Allison Holiday
Allison studied at the Healing Arts Institute in Citrus Heights, CA. She has been practicing massage in Truckee for over 10 years. Her intuitive approach and her studies in deep tissue, sports therapy, and Swedish modalities help her to create a tailored massage to the client’s needs.
Allison is a native of Louisiana and has called Truckee home for over 12 years. She spends her free time with her husband and two dogs enjoying this beautiful area.
SARA JEAN WESTMORELAND “WESTIE”
Sarah's journey with bodywork began when she enrolled at the Santa Barbara Body Therapy Institute, where she honed her skills and graduated in 2016.
Throughout her career, Sarah has immersed herself in various atmospheres within the wellness industry, including chiropractic offices, spas, and general massage centers. It was during this time that she discovered her profound interest in deep tissue, trigger point, and myofascial release work. This passion was ignited by a life-altering event—an unfortunate high-speed head-on car accident in 2018. Sarah personally experienced the transformative power of these modalities during her recovery, which enabled her to regain her strength and return to the activities she loves.
Sarah finds great fulfillment in working with clients who have specific injuries or ailments, as well as those seeking general nervous system relaxation. Her compassionate approach and comprehensive understanding of the human body allow her to tailor each session to meet the unique needs of her clients. Sarah's therapeutic touch, combined with her extensive knowledge and expertise, ensures that you receive a personalized and effective treatment to support your overall well-being.
Sarah's goal is to create a serene and rejuvenating space where clients can experience profound healing and relaxation. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain, want to recover from an injury, or simply desire a moment of tranquility, Sarah is committed to helping others achieve optimal health and balance.
BritNeY plumber
Britney, is a dedicated massage therapist whose passion for wellness started as an athlete studying Exercise Physiology at CSUC. Her knowledge evolved through working with physical therapists, chiropractors, and in cardiac rehabilitation establishing an intuitive foundation for bodywork.
As an accomplished sports nutritionist; Britney's holistic journey led her to the California College of Ayurveda in 2019, studying practices such as Shidoraha and Abhyanga. In 2021, she completed a comprehensive 650-hour program at the Bodhi Tree Healing Center. Here, she mastered modalities like deep tissue, prenatal, acupressure, myofascial release, dynamic cupping, warm stones, sports massage, and energy techniques.
Britney has experience in co-creating healing workshops, and facilitating women's circles. Today, she is a gentle presence with an integrated skill set of modalities that honor the client's dynamic needs. Britney's unique and effective approach nurtures a deeper connection between mind, body, and soul. Empowering clients to transform and transcend on their wellness journey.
ZANNA WISE
Zanna is a compassionate and grounded Massage Therapist prepared to give you a fully customized hands-on healing experience.
She completed her training at The Bodhi Tree Center for Healing Arts in Nevada and offers cupping, hot stone, tuning forks, lomi-lomi style, Swedish, therapeutic and sports massage.
Zanna is passionate about using her knowledge of the body and healing arts to help elevate your health and well being.
Marisa Espinoza
From a young age, I was drawn to the world of healing. Childhood health challenges took me on a journey through doctors’ offices and physical therapy sessions, where I began to develop a passion for the transformative power of touch. At just 12 years old, I experienced the profound impact of massage during a physical therapy session—it wasn’t just about physical recovery; it was a doorway to relaxation, connection, and a sense of well-being that resonated deeply within me.
Inspired, I found my first massage book and began practicing on my family members. I was captivated by how touch could ease pain, shift moods, and create an almost instant sense of peace. After graduating college, in 2010 I followed my calling and enrolled in Pacific Center for Awareness and Bodywork in Kauai, HI setting out on a lifelong journey to learn and integrate a range of healing arts.
Since then, I’ve deepened my practice with the study of herbalism, yoga, meditation, Mayan Abdominal Therapy, and Reiki. As a Karuna Holy Fire® Reiki Master Teacher, I weave this powerful energy into each of my sessions, creating a nurturing and intuitive healing experience that honors the mind, body, and spirit. My approach is gentle yet profound, offering a space for true relaxation, renewal, and transformation.
I am honored to hold space for your healing journey and look forward to connecting with you.
Georgie Tankersley
Georgie is a graduate of the 630-hour massage therapy program at Truckee Meadows Community College, where she trained in Swedish, deep tissue, and neuromuscular techniques. Her work integrates a grounded and intuitive approach with a solid understanding of anatomy and body mechanics. Each session is tailored to address the specific needs of your body—promoting balance, mobility, and overall well-being through intentional and informed touch.
Outside of her practice, Georgie enjoys staying active in the outdoors, whether mountain biking, river guiding, or skiing—activities that deepen her appreciation for movement.
Lydia Wanless
Lydia brings an intuitive touch to every massage. She earned her Massage Therapy certification from The Bodhi Tree, in Carson City, NV, and also has her certificate in Reiki 1.
Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing stress, or simply needing time to reconnect, Lydia offers a range of modalities, including deep tissue, soft tissue, trigger point therapy, Swedish, prenatal massage, and sports massage. She loves to integrate hot stones and/or cupping into her treatments to make an even more amazing experience.
When she's not using her healing hands, she enjoys spending time in the water, hiking, camping and fishing. As a former basketball player, she understands the importance of keeping the body moving and feeling its best.
What makes a great massage therapist?
What makes a great massage therapist?
Knowledge
The base of all talent comes from a broad understanding of human body.
Experience
Strength and sensitivity can only be acquired from years of practice.
Intuition
Being open to the possibility that the healing process sometimes exceeds knowledge and understanding.
A true passion and gratitude for having a career that allows us to help our community lead healthier,
happier lives.
Love
Voted
"best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee" Massage Therapy and Best Massage Therapist
2012, 2013, 2014 and 2017
Testimonials
Testimonials
Our 5-star yelp reviews
What are clients are saying about us
“The staff at Zenergy truly know how to take care of their clients. Every single time I leave feeling renewed, refreshed and reenergized. Amber always hones in on parts of my body I didn’t even know were tight, leavening me feeling more comfortable in my own body. Thank you Amber for always taking the time to customize each massage based on my needs and issues. Already looking forward to my next visit.”
“Bridgette is amazing! As an athlete and a craftsman, I put a lot of demand and strain on my body. Through many years of body work and PT, all of which I’ve found satisfactory thus far, I’ve only just found a truly phenomenal massage therapist in Bridgette. She’s an athlete and powerful intuitive which qualifies her as an amazing body worker. Immediately, my first session, she found a clear communication channel with my body and has helped facilitate so much peace and healing for me this summer, it’s almost baffling. Zenergy’s space was also quite comfortable and welcoming, but after settling in to the table, I hardly noticed where I was anymore. Next level, to be sure.”
“James is awesome! I try to see him every time I come to Truckee. He is highly skilled and sensitive, and has been super in treating my chronic aches and pains. I can’t recommend highly enough!”
“I had a very good experience here. It was my first time coming to this specific massage place and I really enjoyed it. I had an appointment with Emily and she was very sweet and polite. She made small talk at the beginning which was nice, but then the second half of the hour she just let me relax in silence. Very comfortable and really helped loosen my tight muscles. Highly recommend.”
“Tessa did a remarkable job of massaging and stretching my neck, back and legs. My sciatica was so bad I could barely move. Less than 24 hours later the improvement is awesome. Tessa has great knowledge of the body and utilizes that knowledge to truly heal the body. Thank you so much Tessa, you are a truly gifted massage professional.”
“I have been going to Amber for massages for years, and whether she’s helping with an injury or just providing overall relief, I always leave feeling improved, refreshed and relaxed. She has a huge knowledge base, and does a fantastic job to provide whatever it is your body needs. I would recommend Amber and the Zenergy Spa for anyone looking for body work.”
“Patricia was my first therapist and Amber was my second. They were both absolutely amazing! They handled my pain complaints with the utmost knowledge and helped me finally feel some relief. I will absolutely be coming back to Zenergy.”
“First time here, went very last minute while on vacation. I decided I wanted a massage at 8 at night, googled and found this place. It was an easy to use website that let me book a massage for 1045 the next morning. I wasn’t sure what to expect, as last minute as it was, but had a wonderful masseuse named Bridgette. I will return on my next trip!”
“I received an excellent massage from Emily today. I was able to book the appointment the same day with no trouble. Emily was courteous and professional and did an excellent job making me feel totally relaxed. I will definitely be returning next time I am back in Truckee.”
Massage & Wellness Gift Certificates
Have a
question or comment?
CONTACT US
Parnters
Parnters
Our Partners
At Zenergy, we believe that true wellness is a collective effort, built on community and creativity. Our partners are more than just collaborators; they are extensions of who we are. We are proud to feature our incredible partners throughout our space, including, locally crafted art, retail products, cutting-edge wellness technology that deepens your relaxation and beyond.
Artists
Morgan Barry LeVay, Artist
We are thrilled to feature the breathtaking artwork of Morgan Barry LeVay, Mantra Handmade Treasures, who shares our belief that art and elegance are essential for well-being. Morgan’s one-of-a-kind handmade resin art is a tribute to the Earth’s natural majesty, utilizing raw, beautiful elements like geodes, crystals, minerals, and precious metal. Her pieces strike harmony between a lustrous shine and a grounded, rugged appeal, inviting a sense of discovery and adventure into your daily life.
Next time you’re at Zenergy be sure to explore the dynamic artwork that decorates our space.
Amanda-Lynn, Muralist
We are proud to feature local artist and muralist Amanda-Lynn, who began developing her unique street art style alongside the San Francisco graffiti community in 2001. A graduate of the San Francisco Academy of Art, Amanda-Lynn is passionate about sharing her craft, exhibiting fine art globally, creating public murals, and teaching students ranging from preschool to high school.
Her artistic vision is inspired by the feminine in all things, capturing the subtle beauty of nature and humanity through illustrated line work and decorative patterning.
We are thrilled to feature Amanda-Lynn’s talent as the creator of our immersive "Tranquil Forest" mural in our Zensory Lounge. This breathtaking work is designed to transport you to a place of pure calm, serving as a healing backdrop for every wellness session you book.
Be sure to take a closer look as you step into the Zensory Lounge.
Danny Rhodes, Sound artist
We are thrilled to partner with local Sound Therapist and owner of Sonic Mountain, Danny Rhodes, to bring you the VibroLounge, a custom-made, communal healing space that delivers Sound Healing for the Soul.
This hand crafted, locally made, Vibroacoustic Lounge uses cutting-edge technology: transducers embedded in the custom-built couch transmit low-frequency sound waves that gently massage your cells, facilitating profound relaxation and meditation. Frequency Healing benefits include balancing the nervous system, reducing stress hormones, soothing muscle tension, and improving sleep quality.
Available in our new Zensory Lounge the VibroLounge comfortably accommodates 4+ people, is available for powerful group meditations or for a personalized solo deep dive.
Retail Partners
OUR Rustic HEart Candle Co.
Bring the cozy, clean scents of the Sierras into your home. We are happy to carry Our Rustic Heart Candle Co., a Truckee family business, handcrafts non-toxic, eco-friendly, and refillable soy candles and flame-free aromatherapy. Made with 100% US-farmed soy wax and organic cotton wicks, these products offer long-lasting aroma that is safe for both kids and pets.
Jotasana Journals
Elevate your mindfulness practice with Jotasana Designs' unique, eco-kind journals and wellness notebooks. These gorgeous journals are made by hand in the USA, are designed to be refillable, and feature botanical infusions inspired by Ayurvedic wisdom. They are the perfect, mindful tool for daily reflection and self-care. We are thrilled to offer this beautiful line in our retail space at Zenergy.
Audri the Alchemist
Explore ritual wellness with the mindful creations of Audri the Alchemist. Specializing in holistic products for the mind, body, and soul, Audri offers potent herbal salves, ritual oils, and high-vibrational incense designed to enhance meditation and promote peaceful energy.
Brad Henry Pottery
Brad Henry Pottery is created right here in Truckee, CA, representing the rugged beauty and craftsmanship of the Sierra Nevada. From coffee mugs and tea pots to bowls, plates and decorative tableware, each piece is a unique, handmade work of art. We are delighted to display and offer the work of this talented local artist, adding a unique, creative dimension to the Zenergy retail space.
Cultural Threads
Wrap yourself in the ethical warmth of the Andes. Cultural Threads offers slow-fashion knitwear and accessories, handcrafted from 100% alpaca wool. These pieces promote fair trade and cultural preservation while providing ultimate comfort. Zenergy is honored to support Cultural Threads and their mission to empower indigenous women artisans through sustainable, beautiful craft.
Mountain Song
Nourish your body with locally made small-batch seasonal herbal medicines from the Sierras. Mountain Song provides thoughtfully curated supplements, bath & body products, and organic goods designed for an active, healthy life. We are happy to partner with a local brand that focuses on robust health and recovery for our active community members.
Santa Barbara Massage Cream
Experience the difference of a professional-grade lubricant that's 100% natural. Santa Barbara Massage Cream was developed for deep tissue work, offering the perfect resistance and luxurious glide without leaving you feeling oily. Zenergy is pleased to make this beloved therapist-developed product available for your at-home care.
Lawless Botanics
Find subtle, natural support for your emotional well-being. Lawless Botanics specializes in teas, tallows and tinctures - remedies that improve emotional states, reduce stress, and promote profound personal transformation. Safe, gentle, and infused with the pure energy of nature, they support your journey toward inner peace. We believe in offering effective, gentle tools for emotional balance and are happy to provide this natural solution for your self-care practice.
Honor Salve
Discover the power of local herbal healing. Created by a Truckee yoga teacher and massage therapist, Honor Salve is a potent, all-natural herbal cream. Infused with locally sourced organic plants, this salve is cherished for its ability to soothe sore muscles, relieve chronic pain, and reduce stress. We love supporting local creators like Laura Green whose passion directly translates into powerful healing products for our clients.
Anima Mundi Apothecary
Rooted in rainforest tribal herbalism, Ayurveda, and Chinese medicine, Anima Mundi Apothecary bridges ancient, high-vibrational plant medicines with the modern world. Their line includes elixirs, candles, healing tonics, teas & accessories and essential oils, all crafted to support wholeness of the mind, body, and soul. Founded by Adriana Ayales, the company is devoted to sustainable sourcing and creating a genuine "farm to pharmacy" experience.