At The Salon Professional Academy Maplewood, our educators bring so much more than industry knowledge into the classroom. They bring years of experience, unique talents, passion for teaching, and a genuine desire to help students grow.
This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Marissa Matthes, Massage Therapy Educator, who joined the TSPA Maplewood team in July 2026!
Meet Marissa
Marissa was born in Northern Illinois and spent part of her childhood between Illinois and Ontario, Canada, before moving to Minneapolis at age 11. She has a college-age daughter and is happily married to one of her high school sweethearts.
And massage therapy isn’t Marissa’s only talent! She has been a professional singer throughout her adult life and has spent the past 11 years performing in a working rock band. She describes herself as someone with so many interests that she often wishes there were simply more hours in the day.
24 Years in Massage Therapy
Marissa says she knew from a young age that she had “healing hands” and a strong sense of intuition. In her 30s, an opportunity arose for her to pursue an education in massage therapy—and 24 years later, she is still practicing and sharing that passion with others.
That longevity is also one of her proudest accomplishments. Over the years, she has successfully balanced being a mother, wife, educator, and massage therapist while building a career that worked for her.
Why TSPA Maplewood?
Marissa was looking for an opportunity to diversify her career and become part of a team. After hearing about TSPA Maplewood from former students, she decided to experience the Academy for herself by coming in for a service. That visit ultimately inspired her to apply—and we’re certainly glad she did!
Teaching is something Marissa truly loves. She enjoys understanding different personalities and learning styles and finding ways to connect with each student. For her, one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator is watching students gain both knowledge and confidence.
Her favorite service to perform and teach is relaxation massage, which she views as the foundation upon which massage therapy knowledge and skills are built.
The Lesson She Wants Students to Remember
Of all the skills and lessons students can take with them after graduation, Marissa hopes they remember one especially important message:
“Know your worth and honor your standards. This applies to all aspects of life.”
Her advice to anyone considering a career in the beauty and wellness industry is equally meaningful: expect to work hard while learning your craft. The time and effort spent in school is only a small moment compared with the many years of a rewarding career that can follow.
What’s Next for Marissa?
Marissa isn’t finished learning either! She plans to study for her National Certification right alongside her next class, giving her students the opportunity to see firsthand that education and growth don’t stop after graduation. She’s also interested in expanding her knowledge of more intensive aromatherapy treatments.
And when she does get a day off? Her ideal start is a cup of coffee on the patio with her dogs and/or husband. After that, she says it’s “off to the races” tackling the many things she wants or needs to do.
If her students had to describe her in three words?
Patient. Clear. Chill.
We are so excited to have Marissa as part of the TSPA Maplewood family and to have her experience, energy, and passion helping shape the next generation of massage therapists. Welcome to the team, Marissa! 💗
