Who is Essence Wellness Spa?
OUR STORY
Essence Wellness Spa is family owned, community rooted, and built on one simple belief: wellness should feel personal.
We’re not a chain. We’re not a franchise. We’re your neighbors. The same people you see at local events, school functions, and navigating long Maine winters right alongside you. We understand the stress, the busy schedules, the physical wear and tear, and the quiet moments when you realize you’ve been putting yourself last.
That’s why we created a space that feels less like a transaction and more like a home away from home. Warm rooms. Welcoming energy. Licensed professionals who listen before they begin. Every service is customized because no two bodies, schedules, or stress levels are the same.
-
Our massage therapy helps release tension and calm the nervous system.
-
Our facials restore glow while supporting real skin health.
-
Our infrared sauna sessions provide deep warmth and recovery.
-
Our body treatments and wellness services are designed to help you reset physically and mentally.
We understand what you’re carrying. And we’re here to help you put some of it down.
Whether you visit once a year or once a month, our goal is simple: you leave feeling lighter, calmer, and more like yourself.


Kirsten Rose
Essence Wellness Spa Business Owner
With over a decade in the wellness industry, the heart behind Essence Wellness Spa has built this space on experience, care, and genuine connection. She graduated from Spa Tech Institute for Massage Therapy in 2013 and returned to complete her Aesthetics training in 2015, combining hands-on bodywork with advanced skincare knowledge.
Her massage style is moderate in pressure with thoughtful deeper techniques woven in when needed. Relaxation is always the foundation, but she listens closely to what your body is asking for and gives extra attention where it counts. Whether it’s stubborn shoulder tension or stress that’s settled in quietly, her goal is simple: you leave feeling better than when you walked in.
Skincare is another passion. She believes confidence starts with feeling comfortable in your own skin, and she loves helping clients build routines and treatments that actually work for their lifestyle.
Outside the spa, she’s a proud mom of three and spends her free time with her kids and family. Community and connection are everything to her, which is exactly why Essence feels less like a business and more like a welcoming space to land.
She looks forward to getting to know each client and supporting their wellness and self-care goals every step of the way.

Daniel Bandelt
Massage Therapist
Dan went to New Hampshire Institute for Therapeutic Arts. He uses light effleurage and moderate deep tissue in his massage technique. Finding a remedy for aches and pains got him interested in massage therapy. Clients looking for stress relief are his niche. His hobbies outside of work include walking and swimming. He previously worked as a construction worker.

Deanna Raihl
Massage Therapist
Deanna is a board-certified drugless practitioner specializing in structural therapy, myofascial release, chronic pain relief, and pre- and postpartum massage. With certifications in massage therapy, holistic health coaching, and Shambhala energy work, she helps realign the body while supporting overall balance and well-being.

Malysa Jackson
Licensed Esthetician
Malysa graduated from Aveda Institute this July and is passionate about helping clients feel confident in their own skin. She loves performing anti-aging facials and recommends Skin Script’s Green Tea Cleanser for all skin types. Her go-to skincare tips are double cleansing and washing pillowcases weekly. Outside the spa, you’ll find her at the gym, outdoors, or relaxing with her cat, Zeke.

Kyla MacDonald
Licensed Esthetician
Kyla has been an esthetician for 3 years. After gaining years of waxing and skincare experience at other salons, she has come to join our team. She specializes in quick, and easy waxing, especially Brazilians. As well as lashes, facials, and body treatments. She loves making you feel comfortable in your skin and confident!

Emily Barkhouse
Massage Therapist
Emily graduated from Spa Tech Institute’s massage program in October 2025 after discovering her own passion for healing through massage. She is a medium to deep pressure therapist who blends deep tissue, myofascial work, cupping, stretching, and positional release to improve posture, reduce pain, and increase movement. She encourages stretching, hydration, heat, and self-massage at home. Outside the spa, she enjoys hiking, swimming, camping, and cooking.

Jade Morris
Massage Therapist
Jade graduated from Spa Tech Institute in 2020 and spent five years running her own massage practice before joining Essence Wellness Spa. She specializes in moderate to deep pressure massage, blending Swedish and deep tissue with focused therapeutic work. Jade loves helping clients understand their muscles and relieve pain. She recommends hydration, stretching, and consistent massage. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband and two boys.

Rekayshia Hemond
Massage Therapist
Rekayshia began her massage career in 2025 after deciding to pursue hands-on healing over nursing school. She focuses on Swedish-style massage and deep relaxation, incorporating pin and stretch, myofascial, and positional release techniques. She encourages daily stretching and plans to expand her training in pregnancy and postpartum massage. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, being outdoors, spending time with her daughter, and writing.

