154 Summit St, River Falls, WI 54022 715-227-3486
Welcome to Healing Roots
Wellness Center
Meet our Team!
Practitioners....
Emily Jacobson, LAc
Owner and Director of Healing Roots Wellness Center
* Acupuncture Services
* Massage Therapy
My interest in wellness and holistic medicine started at a very young age. Pursuing this interest, I attended St.Croix Center For The Healing Arts massage school in the year 2000. With a passionate young heart I decided to make an attempt at entrepreneurship and started my first business, Exceptional Relief Massage, in 2002. After a very successful 9 years in business, my mind and body needed to dive deeper into the healing arts. Wanting an extension of my career as a bodyworker, I chose to study Chinese Medicine and received a Masters of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 2016 and promptly opened To The Point Acupuncture and Tai Chi. Having been a bodyworker for more that 20 years, my goal is to create a safe space for each individual and work with their needs, meeting them wherever they are at on any given day. Holding this space allows for a person to be at ease and reach true healing. Working with Qi (sounds like chi) and deep communication as medicine, I am able to work with all elements of a persons mind, body, and spirit. With a massage therapy background, one area of wellness I focus on is pain management, with an additional focus on women’s health and mental/emotional health. As the owner and director of Healing Roots Wellness Center, my goal is to create a wholesome community of wellness providers and wellness seekers. Knowing that there are many paths to healing and that collaborative care has a big impact, I want to offer a diverse way to make healing available and accessible. We are on this planet to connect, love, and support each other. I believe this is the only way we are able to fully thrive as human beings. Humbly holding space for practitioners and recipients to receive emotional and physical nourishment is the basis of why I decided to open Healing Roots Wellness Center. In my spare time, you will find me hiking, riding bicycle, or kayaking with my sweet husband, playing with my dogs, teaching tai chi in the park, deep in a philosophical conversation, or laughing with a friend or loved one.
Call to book an appointment
715-227-3486
Amber Moore
Sparrow Acupuncture
*Community Acupuncture
Amber has been practicing acupuncture for the past several years, after receiving her masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from AAAOM in 2017, her Diplomate in Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture from NCCAOM, and her license from the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice. She practices in several locations, in rural Minnesota as well as the twin cities area, doing individual and community acupuncture. Her passion is in the fundamental restructuring of health care to be in more direct service to communities of people in need, and to make our community relationships the foundation to our healing. This has included volunteering her services in her immediate community, as she did during the COVID and racial justice riot era in her neighborhood, practicing in encampments near her home, participating in free health care events, and offering acupuncture in her back yard to anyone ready to take her up on her offer. She believes that acupuncture can be a very practical, simple way to support most people in their mental, physical and emotional health, without side effects or ethical conundrums. She strives against professional specialization, though sees each patient as a very special opportunity for connection and growth. She also loves plants a whole lot, making herbal teas, medicines, and teaching classes in basic plant identification, medicine making, and the like. She offers her herbal perspective to her treatments, including basic and accessible Chinese and western herbal solutions. In the other moments of her life, she engages in community art and puppet builds, hosts and attends craft and skill share events, loves to cook for people, gardens messily and excessively, and lives with her incredible teen in South Minneapolis.
715-227-3486
Laura Bond
Harmony Hands Reiki
Laura Bond, owner and practitioner I offer the energetic therapies of Reiki, Craniosacral and Sound Healing. My goal is to support my clients in reaching their highest potential for healing in a nurturing, comfortable environment. I feel privileged to work as an energy therapist, considering energetic touch and sound healing to be sacred. A diagnosis of breast cancer in 2000 and subsequent strong treatments to cure the disease led me into researching and receiving various non-conventional therapies. Reiki and Craniosacral Therapy were both profoundly helpful in my healing, so much so that I pursued training in both. Prior to founding Harmony Hands Reiki, I became a Certified Reiki Master in 2012 in the Usui System of Natural Healing under Constance Herris, Sunrise Healing Arts. My study of Craniosacral Therapy is ongoing at the Heartwood Institute, St. Paul, Minnesota. Most recently, my extensive background as a musician has fueled further interest and creativity in Sound Healing. When away from the Harmony Hands Reiki studio, I enjoy gardening, hiking, family time, and my piano.
715-255-0273
Melissa Pedrini
Well Living Massage
I am trained in deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, trigger point, Swedish, prenatal, myofascial release, and cupping therapies. All of my services include complimentary hot towels and doTERRA aromatherapy oils. My husband and I moved to River Falls in 2016. We have three young boys and have been enjoying making this community our home. We enjoy being outside in our garden as well as hiking and biking the beautiful trails in River Falls. We are huge baseball fans and enjoy going to the local Fighting Fish games.
715-903-6551
Unfortunately, Melissa is not taking new clients at this time (she's just that good!)
Lisa Dempsey
*Life coach
Shine Your Light Now!
Certified Life Coach, Reiki Master, Teacher, and Author. Real Estate Agent too. A MEDICINE WOMAN PRAYER I will not rescue you. For you are not powerless. I will not fix you. For you are not broken. I will not heal you. For I see you, in your wholeness. I will walk with you through the darkness, As you remember your light. My background is based on serving others and helping humanity thrive. I have always had the urge to be the helper, and I often found myself holding space and listening to others. I have a deep passion for helping others and acting as a guiding light to those who are struggling. I received a bachelor’s degree in social work and had several opportunities in helping people find a better way of life. I started my career working with teenage females at a Boarding School outside of the Chicago area – Helping the high school girls feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings as well, as working with them on body image, self-esteem, eating disorders and career planning. After a career in Social Work and Human Resources, I decided to step into my service role again, and assist those who, like me, wanted more and wanted to live on purpose. Becoming a Certified Life Coach in 2006, my first stint in coaching came when I was a Behavior Coach within a weight loss and wellness company focused on behavior modification, accountability and brainstorming blocks and triggers with my clients. Liking the work so much, I bought the company in Fall of 2007 running that company until 2015. In that time, I became a mother and found myself wanting to embrace the most important job in the world as a mom. Becoming a Reiki Master and practicing Healing Touch was so important to me as I made a life change and move finding myself thriving in different environments where I did what I could to serve others. Never stopping my work as a Life Coach, just finding other ways to supplement the family income. I feel like I have come full circle or perhaps have spiraled back into this work of serving others. After 2 of my brothers passed away in a 3-week period, I realized that I had to do everything I could to live my purpose and follow my dreams as a life coach and speaker. Now, more than ever, it feels like others need to find ways to manage stress, anxiety and depression as well as find a better way to live their purpose. So many people hold stress in their body, mind and spirit and cannot move past some of the heaviness in their lives. I want to help them with this. I continue to find myself wanting to do more to help our society and reach more people so they can share their light with others. My intention is to help my clients feel ‘rooted’ in themselves, feel empowered and able to move forward with confidence and courage. I love to help awaken my clients to their own power and magic. Offering a safe space to express, feel, think and speak. I am happy to help them gain clarity and get unstuck. I want to help my clients live an authentic life while fulfilling their goals, hopes and aspirations, and if you don’t know what that is yet – I help you brainstorm and identify your needs. I encourage a growth mindset as you overcome fear, rejections and lack of confidence. I have always believed that taking time to talk through things is often the best way to take the first step into healing and self-care. Sometimes we just need someone to listen, and hear the unsaid, then we can hear our own needs as we talk to someone. I love to help others reach their goals. Assisting with tools, techniques and personal growth. You can be the best version of yourself! I want to help you live your best life and SHINE YOUR LIGHT NOW! When you shine your light, everyone benefits!!!!! I am an Active Member of the International Coaching Federation.
Amy Matiski
Massage by Amy
My journey into massage therapy stemmed from an injury, surgery, and physical therapy in the late 90's. After several other subsequent injuries and surgeries I became interested in how the body functions, and more importantly heals. I attended Globe University in 2008 for massage therapy and have been practicing massage therapy energy since! Over the years I have enjoyed learning different modalities through continuing education, and received my masters degree in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2015. I will continue to grow, and receive education on different modalities and therapies to help improve my skills and add to my tool belt. Although I specialize in deep tissue and pain management, each massage is customized to meet the needs of each individual client, with other modalities incorporated based on the needs/wants of each client on that particular day. Other modalities I often incorporate are trigger point therapy, reflexology, lymphatic drainage, cupping, and gua sha. In my spare time you will often find me at one of my youngest daughters many sporting events, or enjoying the outdoors through gardening, camping, hiking, 4 wheeling, attending the races, or hanging out at the beach. I also enjoy reading, cross stitch, and planning our off grid homestead that my fiancee and I are working and striving for in our next phase of life!
651-307-4452
Call or Text to schedule
Andrea Gerrard
Befriending Grief
I am a dedicated integrative grief guide, yoga teacher, and massage therapist. With a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, I guide individuals through their personal journeys of healing and transformation through individual grief guidance sessions, restorative bodywork, and grief circle gatherings. Holding a master’s degree in education, certifications in yoga and massage therapy, and specialized training in meditation, energy medicine, and restorative and yin yoga, I blend these disciplines to create holistic experiences that support balance, healing, and growth. As a restorative bodyworker, I offer a nurturing and gentle healing touch, complemented by subtle energetic techniques that promote healing for the body, mind, and soul. My clients come to me seeking a soothing sanctuary - a tranquil escape from the demands of modern life. In my practice, I create a safe and restorative space, inviting individuals to pause, recharge, and reconnect with their inner selves. As an integrative grief guide, I am here to witness and honor the pain of sorrow, helping individuals learn to coexist with their grief. I provide tools and practices that can be integrated into daily life, empowering grievers to navigate their healing journey. My grief circles offer a safe and nurturing space for those experiencing loss, fostering a sense of community through shared ritual, ceremony, and mind, body, and spirit-centered practices. These gatherings are healing for all participants, creating a supportive environment where grief can be honored and transformed.
612-315-1422
Call or Text to schedule
Amanda McCutchin
*Craniosacral Therapy Provider
From The Heart
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, Amanda McCutchin has dedicated her career to supporting others on their healing journeys. Beginning as a nurse, Amanda developed a deep understanding of the human body and a compassionate approach to patient care, always seeking to promote both physical and emotional well-being. In 2020, after struggling with chronic pain that did not resolve through traditional treatments, Amanda discovered Craniosacral Therapy. The gentle yet powerful approach to healing that this therapy offers helped her regain balance and relief, sparking a profound shift in her professional life. Inspired by her own healing journey, Amanda became a certified Craniosacral Therapy provider, with a passion for guiding others through their own transformative experiences. In 2024, Amanda founded From the Heart, a craniosacral therapy practice that offers a safe, nurturing environment for clients to experience deep relaxation, emotional release, and physical healing. Combining her extensive healthcare background with the subtle, restorative techniques of craniosacral therapy, Amanda is committed to helping individuals address chronic pain, stress, trauma, and a variety of physical and emotional challenges. Amanda believes in the body’s innate ability to heal itself and works closely with each client to support this natural process. Whether you’re seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional support, or simply wish to enhance your overall well-being, Amanda is here to help you reconnect with your body’s wisdom and achieve lasting transformation—from the heart.
Call or text to schedule 952-297-2204
Teachers....
Colleen Gray
Qi Gong
I became interested in Qigong 20+ years ago. One of my motivators at the time was wanting a tool to deal with anxiety. This ancient Chinese practice has been referred to as moving meditation, an elixir for self-healing and is one of the branches of Chinese Medicine. My main teacher, Chunyi Lin from Spring Forest Qigong would say, “If you believe that it works, it works. If you don’t believe that it works, it still works.” As I took classes, read books and practiced in my living room each morning before work, I noticed a sense of wellbeing that carried throughout the day. Early on it became clear to me that I wanted to share this FREE medicine with others and to practice with a group outdoors. In its purest form Qigong is an invitation to bring awareness into every part of our life. I have led a weekly Qigong practice group for the past 12 years. I don’t consider myself a master, however I do consider myself someone who wants to “share the Qi” and to practice together with others. I look forward to this possibility through the Healing Roots Wellness Center. I’m an avid quilter in my free time and devotee of loving and supporting my three adult children in their endeavors. This includes Emily Jacobson, whose dream it was to open the Healing Roots Wellness Center.
Free Qi Gong, Monday evenings at 5:30
Heather Schuman
Vinyasa Yoga Flow
My goal as a yoga instructor is to provide a safe, judgement-free space where people can move, breathe, and be their most authentic selves. My own yoga journey started in 2005 when I took my first class and instantly fell in love with the practice. In 2012 I graduated from the Yoga Center of Minneapolis and began teaching. I love both the physical and mental strength, flexibility, balance, and stillness that yoga offers and I will never stop being amazed by the power of linking breath and movement. I strive to make my yoga classes accessible to everyone while keeping students challenged in their personal practices. I love teaching all ages and many different types of yoga and I will forever be a student of the practice. Off of my mat, my husband and I are busy raising three young kids. We enjoy being outdoors--running, hiking, biking, traveling, and exploring. We are grateful to be a part of such a beautiful and family-centered community.
Flow Yoga
Monday mornings at 9:30 and Thursday evenings at 7:00
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Bairet Eiter
Before becoming a yoga teacher, I began practicing yoga as a way to help me better understand my mental health. As I grew into my practice, I decided to take the leap towards teaching and I received my 235 hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification from Devanadi Yoga School and Wellness. In addition, I am certified in Chair Yoga through The Adventures of Super Stretch program. The most rewarding part of teaching is serving the community, I love getting to know each person that comes into the studio and I want everyone to feel welcome in the space to connect with one another. Yoga is for everyone! As a yoga teacher, I am just a guide and I encourage everyone to follow their own pace and to listen to their body even if that means resting in savasana for the entire class! I incorporate pranayama and meditation into every class and I am a huge advocate in using yoga props like blocks, yoga straps and bolsters to help support and deepen yoga poses. When I’m not at the studio, I work as a Youth Mentor with Being Human Well-Life Services where I teach kids and teens life skills and coping skills like yoga, pranayama and helping them find the benefits in spending time outside. In my free time I enjoy hiking, gardening, reading romance novels and spending time with friends. I am married to my high school sweetheart and together we have a dog and two cats. I’m excited to meet you and I am so happy to be returning back to the River Falls community!
Roxie Vandewater
Strength and Stretch
I have been teaching fitness for 35 years~Cardio, step,and in the last 9 years, gentle and chair yoga. I have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for 33 of those years and I believe exercise, in all its forms, has shaped and enriched my life beyond measure. Staying strong in body, mind and spirit and sharing different ways to do that with my students is at the heart of my teaching. I have always said, “I love the socialization, and the exercise is just a bonus.” No matter what format I am teaching, relationship is at the core of what I do and what I value most. In my spare time I love making memories with my family, which now includes a delightful little granddaughter, playing piano, snow shoeing and hiking, traveling and volunteering.
Strength and Stretch
Wednesday mornings at 9:00
Lakken Bowe
My name is Lakken (lake-in) and I have been interested in the asana of yoga since around 2011 when I was first introduced to a routine yoga practice. The benefits yoga has brought to my life are something I am passionate about sharing with the community. This led me to obtain my 200 hour teaching certification from Devanadi School of Yoga and Wellness in September 2023. I am humbled and honored to share my teachings through various asana styles, pranayama (breathwork), and meditation. My day job includes working at a motorcycle accessory company. My scope of interests is considerable including hiking, camping, reading, dancing, traveling, writing, and enjoying a good cup of tea or coffee. I look forward to meeting you on your mat!
Yoga 4 Every BODY
Tuesday evenings at 5:30
Carrie Kleven
Carrie took her first yoga class in 2005 and she is so happy that she did. The union of mind, body, and spirit with yoga hooked her and she is hard pressed to find any style of yoga practice she does not like. As a nurse, wife, and mother of 3 caretaking is her true calling. Carrie recently graduated from the Devandi School of Yoga & Wellness and cannot wait to meet you on your mat for a grounding and energizing mid-day boost!
Noon Boost Yoga
Wednesdays at noon (45 min class)
Mindful Flow Yoga
Alternating with Julie
Saturday Mornings 8am
Brenda Derks
Brenda has been in the fitness industry as a client and an instructor for most of her life. She is a trained Muay Thai fighter with certifications in kickboxing, strength training, personal training, and as a Rock Steady Boxing coach. She always seeks opportunities for learning and growth, continually advancing her skills through ongoing education. She thoroughly enjoys developing new and interesting workouts to keep clients (and muscles) from being bored! Join Brenda twice each week for bodyweight strength training classes that will challenge and inspire you to push beyond your limits, leaving you feeling empowered and accomplished!
Dynamic Strength: Ignite Your Power!
(Body weight strength training)
Thursday mornings at 7am
Julie Domres
I took my first yoga class at the YMCA in Minneapolis back in 2016. Initially I would leave those first classes feeling rested and refreshed, knowing deep inside of me that there was something more to it than the physical but not knowing what it was. The thing that started as a “really good workout” eventually became my means to finding healing in mind, body, and spirit. And when I lost my oldest son in September of 2022, it was the thing that helped me to move forward and to find peace once again. This journey I am on led me to yoga teacher training through the Devanadi School of Yoga and Wellness, and I graduated as a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher in September of 2023. Through my yoga practice, I have learned to be compassionate to myself and others, to trust myself and my higher power, and to connect with a body that I used to see as defective. The beauty in yoga is that it is for everyone, a lifestyle free of stereotypes. My greatest joy as a yoga teacher comes in watching others learn to meet themselves where they are at, discover their own yoga practice, and find their own pathway to healing. In my free time, I love to spend time in nature doing all the things: hiking, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and camping. I am an avid reader who loves nothing more than cracking open a new book and losing myself in the story unfolding on the pages. I am a mom and a wife, a friend and a daughter, and I am an advocate for those struggling with addiction. I would also happily consider myself a crazy bird lady who loves to sit on the deck and watch the action unfold around me!
Mindful Flow Yoga
Alternating with Carrie
Saturday Mornings 8am
Staff....
Heather Schuman
Programs and Studio Manager
I first joined the Healing Roots team as a yoga instructor and I was thrilled when the opportunity arose for me to step into the role of Programs & Studio Manager. In addition to teaching yoga, I am now able to play a part in collaborating, scheduling, planning, and creating behind the scenes. I love having the opportunity to connect with a variety of incredible, talented individuals and to assist them in planning and running their classes and workshops in our studio. I am grateful to be a part of such a kind, caring, and invested team of practitioners and instructors! Away from the studio, I enjoy time with family and friends, attending my kids' activities, yoga, baking, traveling, and being outdoors--running, hiking, and walking our sweet dog.
Diane McLean
Volunteer
I am passionate about supporting Healing Roots and the mission to provide wellness to our community. I am honored to volunteer my time to help clean and run errends when needed. In my spare time I love to garden and get my hands in the dirt. I love my family and anything that has to do with dogs!
