"I cannot recommend Michelle of Healthy Necessity enough! When I first came in, I was dealing with severe adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). It was exhausting and very frustrating, especially since I was told by my doctor that it would take more than a year for full range of motion to return. The pain was incredible and my range of motion was severely limited. Michelle's expertise in cupping, red light therapy, and scraping made an immediate difference. This combination of advanced techniques dramatically accelerated my recovery, breaking down scar tissue and relieving the deep-seated inflammation. Thanks to her specialized skills, I am completely cured, pain-free, and have full mobility back in less than 4 months! If you are struggling with a frozen shoulder, Michelle will help you get your mobility and life back." read more

Michelle is an amazing massage therapist! She has been the number one necessity for me in my overall health and wellness journey. I am so grateful for her and the amazing care she provides. Her experience, dedication to her work, and skill she has perfected are rare to see. Thanks Michelle, you are the best!! read more

I suffer with Parkinson's. The help I receive gives me relief from stiffness , instabilit, shakines. I have been going there over 18 years. Before the Parkinson's. Medicinal massage is not a luxury, it's a necessity. You receive information to help with your daily life. read more

Michelle's expertise as a massage therapist has helped keep me healthy and physically active for many years. Over 20+ years to be exact. She has seen me through muscle strains, aging aches & pains, surgery scars and overall knots and stiffness. I am an avid outdoor sports enthusiast, and she continues to teach me tips on how to keep my body moving without pain. Michelle customizes each massage session and is continuously adding new techniques for her clients. If you have wanted to try cupping, it is pure magic in Michelles hands. I leave my massages feeling centered, relaxed and rejuvenated. A total mind and body reset. My 80 year old mom even has me request massage appointments for her when visiting from out of town. I highly recommend Michelle and Healthy Necessity Massage. read more

Michelle is incredible, as both a masseuse and a person. Her scheduling process is easy and she's always extremely on top of her appointments. Her studio is easy to access, clean and calming. Michelle always asks and genuinely listens to what your concerns are for the session, and then she gets to work! She uses multiple modalities to target both the areas you identified and whatever else she finds. I have had multiple sessions where I walked away shocked by what she was able to accomplish. When I was in chemo, I had extremen fluid retention and after seeing Michelle, I was back to normal! She is so exceptionally knowledgeable, kind, thorough, compassionate and truly cares about the wellbeing of each person she comes into contact with. She is a wonderful human being and has changed my life as a masseuse! I will never go anywhere else! read more

Michelle is extremely knowledgeable and talented massage therapist. For over 20 years Michelle has been my massage therapist. Michelle continuously learning to always be on top of new techniques. She is very in tune with the body and even if you forget to share all your tight spots/ailments she will find them. She always sends me from my session with great at home tips to help keep my body in its best shape between sessions with her. She has worked to help me with preventing plantar fasciitis. She has also worked with my daughter on breaking up scar tissue from multiple leg surgeries. Her patience and ability to go at clients pace has been amazing to get the relief my daughter needed. Michelle is only therapist I would refer my clients, friends and family to. read more

What a great place to get a massage, the staff is so wonderful and Michelle is so sweet, I love this place and would highly recommend it and have,keep up the good work!! read more

Michelle is the best massage therapist I have EVER had - like by leagues. I want to keep her a secret because she's so great, but every time I leave, I just can't believe how good she is. I feel like I've had a customized session that completely removes my stress and aches for weeks. She is very intuitive and has a routine that will completely put your mind and body at peace. 10 stars if I could!! read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE Michelle! She's SUPER knowledgable and has magic hands! I always feel so relaxed and refreshed after a massage with her. She also provides helpful tools and tips on ways to maintain and manage any areas of concern on your body. read more

I have seen Michelle a few times and loved my massages and cupping sessions! To the comment about Healthy Necessity Massage being booked up until the end of the year, the reason why Michelle's practice thrives is because she's amazing and does amazing body work and has always had a busy clientele. So if you are a new client get on her waiting list, Michelle is worth it! read more

If you're a potential new client....don't waste your time. Requested an appointment and got the response that they're booked THROUGH THE END OF THE YEAR. It's currently early March. How?! read more

I have been meaning to post this review for awhile now...this is the kind of business model that I wish more owners would follow. (I shouldn't even call it a business, it's more like a sanctuary that happens to turn a profit.) Anyway, on to the review, in a town named Pleasanton, not every moment IS necessarily pleasant, but with a place like HNM on the map and the love that is generated by the owner, down to the staff and maintenance, I can count on a pleasant encounter for sure. I booked a 60 min. Massage with Stacy while I was in town, and quickly added an extra 30 minutes. She luckily had room after my appt, so we were good to go. (Smile.) Her touch is one of confidence and experience, like a loving mother cat correcting those knots and holding patterns to calm down and take heed, all with love and respect. Her DT skills are something to marvel at, and. I was surprised that I wasn't wasn't really sore the next day...(another smile.) All in all, I loved the ambience of the spa, the easy booking and communication, and most of all the session was great. Now if I could find parking? (Oh well, we can't have it all.) Namaste! read more

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Last year for staff appreciation day we had Michelle come to our office. We each received a 15 minute chair massage which felt amazing!!! I was so amazed that within 15 minutes I was able to relax and feel so calm. I really can't get over how relaxed I felt. I usually have a difficult time relaxing when I go get a massage, but not this time!!! I highly recommend Michelle! read more

I have been a client of Michelle's for years. We even moved out of the area nearly 3 hours and I will still book a day to go see her. I've seen others, but every time I leave them my thought is "it's not Michelle". Just know, you need to plan ahead of time! She can be booked out for quite some time because she is so awesome, she books so quickly. Everyone that has seen her knows this and will book out sessions for up to a year (I'm one of them) If you are a new person looking for a therapist, I highly recommend Michelle. Book her, and though you may have to wait, it will be worth it. read more

Had a terrific Zoom session with Michelle to go over exercises to aid with the arthritis in my lower back. My primary care doctor suggested Yoga, stretching and movement but that was it! Michelle not only educated me on what was happening with my back but showed me stretching with household items. I had a wonderful and very satisfying experience and would recommend contacting Michelle at Healthy Necessity. Michelle cares very much for providing the right information for her clients. I highly recommend giving Michelle a chance to improve your health!!! read more

I live with multiple chronic illnesses and severe fibromyalgia pain. I reached out to Healthy Necessity Massage in October 2018 as I saw online that they treat people with chronic pain. I first met Lare D'Amico on Oct 8, 2018 and he patiently explained to me about how MyoFascial Release - MFR works, he talked to me about what was going on, how I feel etc. I usually only tell him the general area that is hurting but he always spots the exact area that is hurting and makes me feel better. I can't even begin to describe the positive role he has played in my well-being. Thank you Lare read more

Just had my second massage with Michelle and I have to say she is the best I've ever had. She tailored my session to me, spending more time on my shoulder and hip where I was experiencing a lot of pain and stiffness. This session she added cupping to my shoulder, and wow I am amazed at the immediate relief. She accomplished in two sessions more than what weeks of PT exercises couldn't do! I highly recommend Michelle she is a true professional! read more

I can't recommend this place highly enough! Michelle is amazingly talented and extremely kind. I have had significant back pain and scar tissue for many years. In my first session Michelle zoned in on the key areas that needed work and developed a strategy to help provide me with immediate relief. She is so knowledgeable in her craft and talented in it's execution. Don't hesitate to book your appointment. I promise you won't regret it! read more

I had an amazing experience from start to finish. Scheduling was easy and they even reminded me of my appointment the day before. Lare is highly skilled and knowledgeable and I felt very comfortable during my entire massage. I will absolutely be back and I recommend him to anyone who needs a little pampering, self-care or just basic stress-relief. Thanks, Lare! read more

Michelle at Healthy Necessity is the best. I've been going to get a massage from her once a month to relieve stress and tension in my body. Then COVID-19 hit, and I haven't had a massage since February. My body is mess--but Michelle to the rescue! She started doing online coaching for stretching and self-care. Working from home and not having a proper desk, my whole body is out of whack, especially my neck and hands. Michelle walked me through different stretches that I can do at home to help keep my body loose. She even uses everyday objects you have at your house. Got rubberbands and a rolling pin? She shows you how to use those! This is such a help and Michelle is so knowledgable and she is a lifesaver! read more

After several neck and back traumas, I have come to depend on massage as a way to alleviate and manage my pain. I have a stressful and busy schedule, which consists of air travel for 40+ weeks out of the year. Point being: massage keeps me functional. A great massage makes me a force to be...ok, you get the point. So, when my spectacular massage therapist based in Berkeley (Tricia Parrish) went on a spiritual journey to India, I was at a loss. What to do! Kristen to the rescue! My boyfriend recommended, based on word of mouth and positive reviews, Healthy Necessity. I noticed that Michelle Pena was highly reviewed but had a month wait. Kristen was available and got me in the same week! She was friendly and asked questions on what issues I was having. She even offered advice on how I could alleviate pain prior to our visit. And, during the actual massage...oh, my! She understood my issues, used precisely the right amount of pressure and I walked out feeling at least an inch taller! Kinks, stress, and knots: Be Gone! I cannot recommend Healthy Necessity enough! read more

This was my first time having a massage at Healthy Necessity. Kristin was my masseuse. This was arguably the best massage I've ever had. It was clear she understood the human anatomy because she was very attentive to the troubled muscle and tissue areas of my back and neck. The small, deliberate movements she made with her fingers, hands and arms to release the tension made all the difference in the world. And I still managed to receive the relaxing benefits that allow me to melt. I loved this so much that I already have another session booked before the end of the month. I highly recommend Kristin and Healthy Necessity. Don't miss you! read more

I was having significant shoulder and neck pain, more than ever in my life. Michelle was able to get me in for cupping and massage and I am so grateful for her care. She took time to understand exactly what I was feeling and for how long I had been feeling this way, and then worked her magic. Following our session, she took time to teach me exercises to do at home for continued maintenance. I felt so much better immediately. In fact, my arms felt so light and she explained that's how they should always feel and why. After our second appointment together, I truly did feel that all the weight/pressure I had been carrying in my neck and shoulders was gone. I am so very grateful to Michelle and Healthy Necessity for the care and treatment I have received and will be a lifelong customer for sure. Thank you Healthy Necessity and Michelle!!! read more

My wife doesn't like massage; until I sent her to Kristin Stoker. She was able to completely relax and let her very stressful life fade while Kristin kneaded and massaged the pains right out. She has been back 3 times, and loves it every time. I've also had Kristin give me a massage, and it's one of the best ones I have ever had. She listens and adjusts to my needs and it was a very relaxing experience. Highly recommended! read more

I recently started seeing Michelle Pena for my massages for my recovery. I have to say she has healing hands and has the best knowledge and advice for me in regards to my recovery. I'm really blessed that our paths crossed and I will definitely be seeing her on a regular basis. I highly recommend her if you looking for massage therapist. read more

This is hands down one of the best massage therapist places you will find in Pleasanton. Michelle & staff are extremely knowledgeable & always professional! They are worth the wait to get in. Michelle has "fixed" me on more than one occasion. If you are looking for complete professionalism & needing body work Healthy Necessity is who you need to call!! read more

I have been going to Michelle for years! This girl knows her stuff! I had been going to chiropractors for years and did physical therapy on my neck and nothing worked until Michelle. I highly recommend her for massage . I have had her other therapists when Michelle was on maternity leave and they are equally as good. I seriously wouldn't go anywhere else. They are amazing! read more

Massage doesn't get any better than this. Michelle has done wonders with my injured ankle! Such nice people too!

I am a normal massage customer of Michelle's and she has helped me over the past two years to improve my mobility & reduce pain. Since COVID we have been unable to meet in person and it has greatly impacted my issues. As soon as she offered video coaching I signed up and I am so happy I did! She provided stretching and exercises to help me improve my mobility & reduce pain. She followed the session by sending me videos of the exercises and stretches to help address my issues. I am very thankful she is offering this services and it has helped me immensely. I highly recommend it. read more

Look no further, this is the place to go for wonderful massages! Both Kristen and Michelle are amazing and so full of knowledge about the body, muscles, etc. always a relaxing experience. They always ask if you need work on anything specific before working on you too, very in tune with their clients. read more

I just came back from a 90-minute with Kristin and I feel great! She really focused on the areas I told her bothered me. At the end of the massage, she told me other problem areas I didn't know I had and gave me tips on how to manage tension on my upper body at home! Too bad I won't be staying in the Pleasanton area but if you're near enough, I'd highly recommend that you give this place a try! Worth every penny and they gave me a discount for being a first-time client. read more

After going to several professional massage therapist I can absolutely attest that Michelle is the best. On my first appointment she had delivered the most extraordinary massage I've ever had. She tackles the knots throughout that will leave you feel so good and relax after wards. Try Michelle , you'll be glad you did. read more

I have been going to Healthy Necessity Massage for several years. In the past I have seen Michelle Pena who is just awesome. So, when she went out on maternity leave I was a bit nervous. Knowing Michelle, I knew the gal she had in her office covering for her while she was out had to be good, so I gave Kristin a call. Kristin was able to see me within two days of my call. This was a huge plus because I typically call when I am in pain or suffering from a migraine. Kristin took the time to ask questions in order to help me obtain the best results. She focused on the problem areas and I walked out headache free. Kristin even followed up with me the day after to see how I was doing. To my surprise I remained pain free following my visit. I will not go anywhere else but Healthy Necessity Massage. Both therapists are professional and care about their clients overall health and healing. read more

Michelle provides excellent Spa & Massage Services in home like comfortable atmosphere. She is experienced Massage Therapist with many years of service in the Tri-Valley area, specially Pleasanton. Her Prices are reasonable and the massage chairs are very comfy and adjustable.The ambiance is perfect for relaxation and is a great stress reliever. I highly recommend it. read more

This review is at least 10 years overdue! I started going to Michelle over a decade ago when a friend of mine recommended her to me; little did I know what a life changing event it would be. I admit that my reasoning at the time was simply to interject a bit of pampering in my life. However, as I got older and life moved on and become more stressful, my body started reacting in different ways to the long hours at my office job hunched over a computer. It started reacting differently to the outside stressors and even to my attempts at regular exercise. In order to get some relief, I started scheduling regular massages with Michelle and eventually referred her to my entire family (my parents, sister, niece, and even my teenage son are now regular clients). Michelle is amazing, she gets to know you as a person in addition to knowing about your body, this allows her to track your issues and personalize your massage to you and your body, targeting the key areas. Although she is massaging with her hands, I always feel my soul and mind being massaged as well as her kindness and caring is impossible to miss. She is professional, compassionate, and a deeply beautiful human being! I've often wondered what I would do without her...well, after 3 months of a "Shelter in Place", I've gotten a peek at what that would look like and it's not pretty. I miss her spirit and her kind nature and my body definitely misses her hands. However, being the dedicated person that she is, Michelle has been using her "downtime" to continue her education by taking a series of classes and posting videos of ways to stretch and take care of your body. If you are looking for a massage therapist who has mastered the art of combining professionalism with fostering deep personal connections, don't hesitate to call Michelle. She has a lot of loyal clients and frequently books up in advance, but do yourself a favor and wait for an appointment if you have to, you won't regret it. read more

Michelle is the best masseuse, ever. I have had massages all over the world and it amazes me that my perfect masseuse is 8 miles away. There are some people who add to humanity; those who create positive energy just by walking in a room. Michelle is one of those people. If you are looking for a masseuse, do yourself a life-favor and call Michelle. read more

Kristin is the best massage therapist in the San Francisco Bay Area! Lord knows I've been to so many and Kristin not only helped ease my sciatica nerve pain but she also recommended a medicine ball for me to use to strengthen my leg muscles---now it's a part of my daily exercise routine. Her hands I swear have their own GPS---they know where the gnarly muscles are and somehow guide Kristin to apply the right pressure. Healthy Necessity is in Pleasanton on Main Street. This place makes Pleasanton very pleasant. Wait----did I say Kristin took care of my sciatica nerve pain? She did what the chiropractor in Castro Valley didn't do. Kristin. Is. The. Best! read more

I cannot say anything but good things about Healthy Necessity. I used to see Kristin and she brought me back from the dead last summer. I was very broken at that time: severe shoulder, neck, and back pain. I am grateful for her. Unfortunately, Kristin left and Michelle has been my masseuse since then. I really appreciate how Michelle genuinely cares about her clients well being/health. She even gives you helpful tips on how to reduce pain/strain in between visits and really finds joy when she sees how you improved from the previous time. Michelle has hired a few other masseuse. I haven't had them massage me, but i trust Michelle's judgement to hire only the best to work at Healthy Necessity. I'm not the type to write reviews, but i believe it's very important to give recognition to those who have done a great job. Looking forward to my next session!! read more

Kristen is by far the best massage therapist. She is very knowledgeable, respectful of your body, lovely office space.

Just had a 60 minute massage with Michelle. She was very friendly, warm, and kind. She started off fairly gently, then went into a deeper massage after, of course confirming if the pressure was right or not. I like that she has nice details like her hand will follow her to the spot she is going to next and will gently press and massage the spot before going onto a deeper massage. I also liked that she utilized a variety of 'tools' like heating pads, cloths, etc. throughout the massage. From beginning to end she was very friendly and professional. She also did a great job with a few of my knots and helping relieve some stressed/sore areas. I look forward to seeing her again in the future, hopefully. read more