Karin is a godsend! I started going to Karin for pre-natal massages after reading reviews on yelp and now after a year, I am so grateful for our bi-weekly sessions to re-cooperate my worn body spent chasing around the little one. Karin checks-in every session to understand what my body has been through and where to particularly focus. Some weeks I need a complete relaxation massage and some weeks I need to focus on my aching back - she tailors her treatments wonderfully! She is such a calming and caring person, I leave feeling so rejuvenated and happy! Added bonus: discount packages 6 sessions for the price of 5! read more

I have been going to Karin for 10 years, ever since my first Mother's Day. Karin not only is able to help my body calm down and relax, she is thoughtful and considerate. I am always at ease with her and have been grateful for every massage she has given me. I can't wait to see her again! read more

Karin is amazing! I've been seeing her regularly for three years now (since August 2019). She's super skilled, tailors her treatments for how I'm feeling, and can mix different modalities in the same session (lymphatic drainage plus Swedish, yay!). The vibe is comfortable and casual, and her massage table is so cozy (I know that sounds weird but trust - I could sleep on that thing). Also, she is a wizard with wrists and arms, so if you have an office job or spend too much time at the computer (who doesn't?!) she will make you feel like a whole new person. Highly recommend! read more

After I broke my hand and had surgery to repair the broken bones, the recovery required me to keep my hand supported at all times. That means I only had one position to sleep and one to sit which caused my back, shoulders, and arms to build tension. My wife suggested I see Karin for a lymphatic massage which helps for recovery after surgery. Karin did a combination of Swedish and lymphatic massage. It was exactly what I needed. I literally felt lighter after I got off the massage table. I didn't realize how much tension was built up in my body until it was all released. I will definitely be going back to see Karin again during the rest of my recovery from surgery. Massage with Karin is not just a luxury, it can be an important part of healthy recovery. It also feels darn good! read more

Your what hurts? Oh, really? Dude, that SUCKS. You know what you need? A MASSAGE. And not just any massage. (Note: storefronts that say "Happy Pretty Girl Massage" are neither happy nor pretty) If you're going to plunk down your hard-earned American dollars for something, you should get the best something your hard-earned American dollars can get, no? Behold: Karin Wertheim is an exceptional CMT. I've had many massages from *many* CMTs (more than a dozen, none at Happy Pretty Girl Massage although the day is young), and Karin is simply the best. She pays very close attention to you and to your body, and is immediately responsive to your needs. She's very strong but also very gentle-- she knows how to use her strength wisely and effectively. She's fantastic, truly. My advice to you (and we're friends now, aren't we?) is to contact Karin straightaway. Before you know it, you'll be leaving her table dazed, happy, and loose. OK, I was loose before, but you get the picture. read more

I ask a lot of a massage therapist: be strong, but not too strong; be firm, but accommodate my body's particular needs; create a soothing environment, but don't go too far into the land of crystals and unicorns; and most important, know your trade. Karin Wertheim succeeds at all of these. I unreservedly recommend her fine massage services! read more

Yelp brought Karin into my self-care routine. I'm so glad to have found her! The reason for searching for a CMT is that I needed to relax. I'm taking a hiatus from the gym and am carrying a lot of extra energy around that makes me frantic from time to time. I asked Karin to help me let that energy go so I can relax. I've had three massages so far. Karin knows what she's doing, and is a total professional. I like that Karin is willing to tailor so many things to customize the experience, though her default approach to things is pretty much how I like it. Generous pressure but not too much. Good pacing. The space isn't too warm or cold. Music that is loud enough to drown out any funny noises my tummy might be making, but not enough to feel like a party. She has a sound machine to block any outside noise if that's an issue. She uses an unscented cream that isn't greasy The pricing is already good, but Karin also has a prepaid package deal that makes it a no brainer. There are multiple payment options. My preference is to #SupportSmallBusinesses #BringCash I'll be back...I bought a package and have more massages to enjoy! read more

When I showed up for my appointment with Karin, I was feeling really tense and tight, with particular pain in my upper back, neck and shoulders. I relayed my specific concerns and she listened carefully and attentively. When I told her I probably spend too much time on the computer, she said she sees a lot of clients with that problem and she could definitely help. And did she ever! In 90 minutes, I was transformed from feeling full of tension and stress, to being so relaxed and tension-free that I didn't want to move a muscle. The massage was the kind that when it ended, I wanted to hang on to that incredible feeling forever. I left feeling like my body and I could face the real world again. I highly recommend Karin. She's warm and friendly, she cares about giving you exactly what you want, and of course, her massage skills are amazing! And her prices are reasonable too! read more

Karin was a dream come true. Very last minute, my employers decided they wanted to bring a masseuse in to the office. I called out to my social network and multiple friends recommended Karin. She set up shop in the office and worked her magic! Even one co-worker who had never has a massage before was converted. I couldn't recommend her more highly. read more

There are a ton of massage therapists in the Bay Area, and most of 'em are mostly good enough most of the time. Same deal in Boulder (I lived near there for a few years.) Karin is better; she basically set the standard by which I judge the others. Stop searching, just call her. (She's fun to talk with, too.) read more

I cannot recommend Karin highly enough, because this scale only goes to 5. She is caring, focused on the needs of her client, and sensitive to their moods -- when I'm feeling chatty, she's right there with me, but when I just want to melt into a puddle, she's fine with that too. I've had several massages from her; sometimes I don't know specifically what's bothering me, but she will suss it out on her own within a few minutes of putting me on the table. I always get up from her table feeling relaxed, strong, and confident. She's reasonably priced and offers 20% off when you buy a block of five. Awesome service at an awesome price -- stop reading this and go book with her! read more

Karin is amazing! Very thoughtful and welcoming environment and personality. Was honest about how she didn't have experience treating my RSI, but worked with me to get great treatment. Prices are fair for the quality and length, also in my neighborhood so it's very accessible. read more

I hadn't had me-maintenance for years, and it took me a while to get the wherewithal to contact Karin for a session. But man, am I glad I did. She took the time to sit with me and ask what was going on with my body -- and with me -- and then she went to town. While I really appreciate the lazy relaxed feeling after a massage, the second and third time I went I actually got the energized, get-'er-done feeling afterward and went to town on my to-do list with vim and vigor. It was amazing. WILL GO TO AGAIN A+++ read more

I don't get professional massages very often, and it usually feels like I could have saved time and money just taking a nap. Karin was really different. I work out and run, and I can get pretty tense and busy. Karin was just so real and friendly, which felt good...none of the fluff I've gotten from other massage therapists. She found the tight spots in my neck and legs, and she just knew exactly how to loosen up the knots. The rest of my day felt clear and focused, and it had everything to do with my massage from Karin. Her prices are more than fair, and the whole thing just worked. She has great hands, she put me at ease, all at the right price. I'll definitely go back regularly. read more

I recently had the pleasure of a 2 hour session with Karin, and I left with that warm, melted feeling we could all use a lot more of. If you've never tried a longer session I highly recommend it! All the good stuff mentioned in my first review still applies :-). Karin is a loving soul with strong hands and a friendly, upbeat personality. Oh, and if you are in need of lymphatic massage she has been helping lots of folks with that. Thanks Karin! read more

Between long hikes in Point Reyes and long nights hunched over my laptop, by body was a mess. My legs were torn up and my shoulders were hunched and sore. Luckily, that's when Karin came along. After sizing up the situation and working on my legs and shoulders, I felt like I was all put back together again. The pain from my shin splints went away and my hunch was well, less hunched. She did a fantastic job finding the knots and kinks and working them all out. If you need a good massage, she's the one. read more

Simply put: amazing. Karin is a total sweetheart, skilled in her trade. Working at Costco, my body sees a lot of repetitive movement which can make a body unhappy. Karin's skilled hands melt all that away. Do yourself a favor, pamper yourself and get a massage from Karin! read more

Karin is simply extraordinary. She's absolutely the best, most intuitive and most effective masseuse I've ever had. She loves her work and it shows! When I came to see her, I was desperate for relief from a migraine (I'm a chronic migraine-sufferer). I told her about the back and hip pain I have from sports injuries, as well, in our pre-massage discussion. Karin was able to help me so dramatically in our one-hour session that I almost cannot believe it myself. The migraine, which I'd had for four days prior to my appointment with Karin, was completely gone after the massage. I can finally sit up straight and I am able to walk pain-free, something that had been impossible due to bursitis in my hips. She also did an amazing mini-massage on my jaw for my TMJ and my jaw stopped clicking when I talk. I've had both positive and negative experiences with massage therapy over the past ten years. Never, though, has a masseuse known exactly where my problem areas are and just how much pressure to apply. I always find myself asking for more pressure, but with Karin, it seemed like complete intuition. I guess eleven years' experience will do that! She is super friendly, very welcoming, extremely kind and invited me to sit in her kitchen while my brother had his massage; I also brought my godmother, who, smiling, described the massage state as "ahhhh" and then, after having regained her verbal faculty, as "pure bliss." I imagine that Karin will be our family massage therapist from now on. She's very affordable and she really does wonders. I would recommend her to anyone suffering from neuropathic pain, back pain, migraines or any other stress-related problems. She's a natural healer and you'll feel better immediately. Go Karin! read more

So glad that I found Karin on Yelp! Having never had a massage before, I was apprehensive about whether a 1-hour session would help me with the neck, shoulder, and back pain that I've been experiencing as a result of soccer injuries and wonky sleeping positions. Now I'm kicking myself for waiting so long! Karin's upbeat and warm personality instantly put me at ease, and her strong hands and soothing touch did wonders for my back and neck. Feeling that stress and tension melt away is a great thing. Can't wait to go back for another healing session, and can't recommend Karin highly enough. read more

Karin is AWESOME! She's so calm and nurturing and has a magical sense for what needs work. I'm pretty sure that she released, like, five years worth of stress from my shoulders in a one-hour session. I haven't had that many massages in the past, but never before Karin have I felt like "man, I need another one of those!" Anyways... if you're in need of solid body work, see Karin, she's the best!! And she's super friendly and accommodating to boot :) read more

Karin does a very thorough, mid-deep massage that seems to get all the connective tissue just right. It's meaty and satisfying, and I hear myself making AAAH sounds a lot. She is just such an open, friendly, positive presence. Her work is an extension of that, and it always resets me well; back to the "world is a friendly place, there are good people here, and my emotional burdens can be put down with a friend's help." AAAH!!! read more

There is a difference among massage therapists, Karin is one of the good ones. Sometimes having a massage can be a luxury or treat and sometimes it is medically important for your well being. Karin is a great therapist in both cases. If you are recovering from surgery consider contacting Karin for a lymphatic drainage massage. This type of massage can make a huge difference in the speed and comfort of your recovery. Not all massage therapists do this type of work and this is one of Karin's specialties. When my husband was going through cancer treatment and recovering from multiple surgeries the massage sessions he had with Karin were an important contribution to improving his health and well being. I've had several sessions with Karin over the years and every one was a valuable use of my time and money. When I was experiencing pain in my back because I was sleeping in a chair at the hospital next to my husband's bed, a massage from Karin made all the difference in my ability to function. It gave me new life during an incredibly stressful and difficult time. And I've also had massages from Karin that were just a nice treat that were equally great in a different way. read more

Karin was super professional and attentive to my individual needs. Her communication style is warm and welcoming; she truly listened to what I needed and tailored my message perfectly. I felt instantly rejuvenated and relaxed. She also sent a follow-up e-mail with helpful recommendations based on our conversation. It was delightful experience! read more

I've had many massages from Karin, and hope to have many more. each time, i've felt she's been sincerely focused on me and on giving the most effective and positive experience she possibly can. Karin communicates extremely clearly and professionally; it's a pleasure to book with her. read more

As a mover, my body needs constant and serious upkeep. I literally could not do my job without the amazing and intuitive hands of Ms. Karin! The best massage I have ever had, hands down (no pun intended), and I have been seen by dozens! I mean that wholeheartedly. Sometimes, I need a more gentle touch when I am wounded, other times I really need her to open up with both barrels. In either case, she has been able to sense what my body needed before I even opened my mouth to explain. You absolutely must treat yourself to 1 or 100 massages by this gift from the universe! read more

Karin is *really terrific*. She is very skillful, has great instincts, and she is very professional while also being nicely informal and relaxed. She is compassionate and understanding. She is flexible. I've had several good massage therapists, but Karin is the best! I don't normally do Yelp reviews, but Karin is so excellent I decided to do one. :) read more

I have had low back pain for a couple of years. Karin helped me identify some of the issues in my hamstrings that were complicating my back pain. Since then, I've been getting better and better! She's awesome! read more

I have a knee injury from several years back that causes a lot of tension and tenderness in my my legs and hips and she is incredibly sensitive to my particular needs. Her massages are always leave me feeling as loose as a wet noodle when she's done. No more tension! A problem I've noticed with some massage therapists is an inability to adjust their style to the needs of the client, but Karin is great at sensing how much pressure is good for me and doesn't assume that my needs remain the same each time. She communicates very well and responds quickly to feedback which means I always get exactly what I need out of my appointments with her. Today's appointment was perfectly timed. I got to get rid of all the tension I'd built up from a couple weeks of stress and feel relaxed and energized! read more

Karin was very personable making it easy to relax while she gave me a massage. She was happy to talk or not talk depending on what I preferred. She made sure I knew that I had absolutely no responsibilities while she worked. Prior to the massage she asked what areas were particularly sore and made an effort to spend extra time working on those areas. After the massage I felt great. The areas of my body that constantly ache were pain free for the rest of the evening. read more

Karin Rocks! I got a massage from her the day before leaving on a two week cruise, and it set the perfect tone for the adventure! Instead of starting vacation all stressed out from work, I started my vacation fully relaxed and feeling great in my body. I've had lots of massages and bodywork done over the years, and I really appreciated how Karin had excellent knowledge and was also happy to work with my requests (I'm picky!) read more

I went to Karin for a Lymphatic massage and she was Great! Very professional, comfortable environment and Wonderful Hands!!

Karin's massage services are a delightful retreat from everyday life. The charm and comfort of a massage in a quaint Berkeley residential neighborhood is a perfect break from the hustle and bustle. Her close attention to personal body needs, habits, aches and pains helps design a tailored experience that can help your overall joint/muscle health. I am so grateful for the service! read more

I'm still glowing from the wonderful massage I received a few days ago from Karin Elizabeth Wertheim - The perfect balance between deeply relaxing and good time spent on the problem areas. Haahhhhh. I'm breathing, and feeling the ripple effects of ease. read more

I recently had a small stroke and Karin has been helping me in my recovery with massage therapy. The massage has been great on my road to recovery both with therapeutic touch and relaxation that comes from it. Karin has been extremely flexible in working with me and dealt gracefully with several last minutes changes when I had to request to move something up a few minutes. You won't be disappointed if you give her a call! read more

I went to Karin because she was one of the few people that I found did lymph massage in the East Bay and I need one of these because I was having borderline lymph congestion. I had never even heard of lymph massage but I was advised that a typical lymph massage should last from 1 hour to 1 and a half hours. When I arrive to see Karin, she told me she could do an effective lymph massage in 30min. I was skeptical but trusted her suggestion to do 30 lymph and 30 regular massage. By the time, we were done I felt so light I thought I wasn't going to float out the door and the lymph congestion pain had drastically eased! By the next day, it was completely gone! read more

A massage from Karin makes it all better. Call this super friendly and affordable woman. You'll be glad you did

One of the best massages I've ever had. Karin is down-to-earth, professional, intuitive, and she took the time to hear about what was going on with my body. I've never felt the effects of a massage so clearly before; shoulders straighter, pain in shoulder blade & general stiffness gone, and generally just so much clearer. (And yes, the lack of reed-pipe-and-nature-sounds music was also a plus...) The last massage I got was so disappointing that I put off getting another for two years. On a grad student budget, who wants to spend that kind of money only to feel like a hot bath would have been a good substitute? Now I have the opposite problem: working out how I'm going to be able to get on Karin's table regularly! read more

Karin just gave me a beautiful relaxing massage. She paid special attention to the areas I knew were tight and had an intuitive knack for finding areas I was not even aware were holding tension. She has a warm friendly presence as well as a very professional way about her. If you need a good massage in the East Bay give her a call. What a delight. read more

I've had a lot of excellent bodywork done over the years and Karin is definitely in the top of the class! I came to her to try out a lymphatic massage and it really seems to have helped some of my chronic sinus issues, as well as general stress. After months of stress, I left feeling relaxed and happy after a nice afternoon session in her lovely home and hope to visit again soon! read more

I have been seeing Karin regularly for massage during my pregnancy and she is absolutely wonderful. She is a caring, knowledgeable massage therapist and her body work has been pivotal in maintaining my health (and sanity!) during my pregnancy. She listens to your needs and intuitively treats your body in a caring and kind environment. Not to mention she has THE most comfortable massage table anywhere! She also accepts payment with my HSA insurance card which is a huge plus and this is not common everywhere. Highly recommended! read more