Tara Kelly
Massage Therapist
In 2023, I graduated from the Massage Therapy program at Wake Tech Community College in Raleigh. I graduated with a BA in Women’s and Gender Studies at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2017. In between earning my undergraduate degree and beginning my massage therapy education, I worked as a barista, carpenter, and line cook. My pronouns are they/them/theirs.
I like working with clients who are dedicated to their personal care routines, as well as those who are hoping to gain awareness and curiosity about the routines they might like to build outside of the treatment room. I am committed to partnering with my clients in exploring the different treatment modalities that massage and bodywork therapy can offer in support of their wellness goals. When that means referring them to someone who is trained in a different modality, I am glad to connect my clients with other massage therapists or healthcare professionals. Massage and bodywork therapy has been transformative in my own healing and embodiment journey and I hope to pass that experience on to everyone who enters my treatment room.
I am currently upskilling one-on-one with the experienced team members at Hands On Health. Areas of learning focus have been or will be: neck, shoulders, jaw, and hips and NMT treatment approaches. I am interested in building my skill set with continuing education in Myofascial Release, Cupping, NMT, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Reflexology, and Scar Tissue Massage.
All are welcome to my table and I look forward to meeting you soon.
Fun Facts About Me
- I enjoy walking and finding new hiking trails to explore around my home in Carrboro. And if there’s a creek, I want to put my feet in it!
- I love to dote on my cats and admire them as they enjoy life.
- I make my own kombucha and love to learn new DIY kitchen hacks.
- I like to use neurodivergent tools like timers, fidget toys, and ear plugs to help me focus my attention and conserve energy.
- I love game nights and cooking big meals with friends and family.
- I grew up at the beach and love that North Carolina offers such a diverse landscape to explore.
Tara listened intently to my issues and was respectful of my concerns. I am 100% better and will continue to go to Hands On for future needs and maintenance.
Response from the business owner:
Thank you for the feedback Francie. We love helping our community have positive experiences. We welcome you any time. Take care. Laura (and Tara too
Read Francie Low’s review here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NNbrwFqLdqnTUM5cA
I cannot say enough good things about my massage experiences with Tara! Not only is she incredibly skilled and compassionate as a therapist but she also provides you with knowledge to continue to work on pain points and areas of concern. I went to see Tara initially for chronic headaches and TMJ issues. From my first appointment, Tara consistently checked in with me and made me feel comfortable. She is truly in tune with the body and finds trigger points and areas that you never knew were tight or contributing to your pain. She helped teach me techniques and exercises to do at home and really is invested in seeing you feel and be better. Tara is truly an amazing massage therapist and feel lucky to have found her.
~ Rebecca Woscoff via Google Maps. Read review here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/F7xhqU2j37VTVTXd8
Amazing! I’ve been having issues with my jaw the past few months and after just one 30 min tmj session with Tara I have felt so much relief. If you are having problems with your jaw or anything at all go to them. Everyone at HOH is great 🙂 you won’t regret it!
~ Shea Stephens via Google Maps. Read review here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DCkhiUK78BNHiiVK8
Education
- 2017 graduate with BA in Women’s and Gender Studies from UNC Chapel Hill
- 2023 graduate with a certificate in massage and bodywork therapy from Wake Technical Community College
Continuing Education
- Cupping- Principles and Applications | 4 CE Hours- Bodywork Therapy Seminars
- Currently upskilling in NMT techniques with skilled therapists at Hands On Health