I've gotten massages before, but until I came to Melissa at Mending Hands I never understood the power and importance of body work. And as a personal trainer I can tell that Melissa has an amazing understanding of the body, so I can be sure that I'm getting just what I need. Often I come to her feeling really tense after a long day of working with clients and sitting at my computer and she knows exactly how to make me feel relaxed, calm, and actually nicely enough a bit taller (which is a big deal for a short girl like me!). I've come to her a dozen or more times and have even sent my husband and a few of my clients there. They all come back to me raving at how amazing she was and how great they feel. They now see her regularly too. The best part about all of it though is Melissa herself. She has an amazing working knowledge of the body, can do many different types of massage, and she really gets to know you and understand what you're looking for. I feel so at ease with her and she makes me feel very cared for. You can tell she loves what she does and truly believes in it, because you're never just a number with her. I never feel rushed and she always takes it one step further by giving me a little tip on my way out the door, like a stretch that I can do to alleviate some of the tension I'm feeling in my neck. I am now a massage devotee and will continue to send my clients to her. read more

This is my second review for Melissa and her business. I get massages about once a month so where ever we are traveling I get one there or I find different people in my local area. Hands down Melissa is the best! I have had massages in Thailand, Costa Rica, New York, LA, San Francisco, Palm Springs (I did find an amazing guy in Palm Springs but he moved- so that is exactly my point that Melissa is the best and she was right where I left her a year ago) and I can honestly say she is the best! When my husband and I look forward to coming to our time share we look forward to our massages with Melissa. Melissa gets it right. The pressure, the room temp, the bed is amazing. She remembered us and our conversations we had a year ago so we feel like we are visiting an old friend. She is so good that she books fast so make sure to make an appointment in advance!! Can't wait for next years massage already!! read more

I came to Mending Hands looking for something a little more personal than your run-of-the-mill spa massage. Melissa and I e-mailed a few times before I scheduled a session to determine what type of massage would be best for me. I only had Swedish massages in the past, so I wanted to try something different. Together, we decided that I should try the Shiatsu massage. I'm a little creeped out by what Melissa could feel in my body. She knows when I'm getting a cold before I actually have one, she knows when I'm not drinking enough water, she knows when I haven't been sleeping enough, when I've been jogging more than usual -- creepy, right? She used all these observations to give me a massage that was suited to my body's needs. I've never gotten that much attention at my neighborhood spa. My neighborhood spa also herds clients in and out like sheep. I never felt rushed with Melissa, and she even took time to talk to me before and after the session about my physical and emotional health. I left my evening massage with some delicious dark chocolates and had one of the best nights of sleep I've had in weeks. I'll definitely go back! read more

My experience was so wonderful that I booked 5 more appointments. Understandably, it took a while to get my initial appointment and I'll rest more easily knowing I'll be back to her capable hands on a regular basis. Our conversations were an added bonus...what a lovely woman! read more

I get massages regularly at home in Ohio, and I wanted to continue with my treatment while I was on vacation in Sarasota, so I scheduled a session with Melissa. She reviewed my physical issues (hardware in my neck, lumbar surgery within the past year) and we talked about the pressure I was comfortable with on my body work before she got started. Her reception area and treatment room are clean and comfy, and include a fresh decanter of fruity water and some healthy snacks. I was immediately comfortable on her table, and very impressed with her whole treatment. She could feel the tight areas and worked them firmly and effectively until they loosened up! Melissa uses just the right amount of massage oil, and even provides an aromatherapy treatment at the end. Melissa's location is convenient and easy to find, on a well-known road, not too far from the major hospital. I can recommend Mending Hands, and I will most certainly schedule an appointment with Melissa the next time I visit Sarasota. If I lived here full time, she would be my go-to provider. read more

I can't believe I have not updated my review since 2013. My husband and I continue to see Melissa on a regular basis. I fractured my ankle in 4 places 3 years ago and due to her care during my recovery I was able to go on my scheduled walking tour of Alsace 5 months after my surgery. Even my Orthopedic surgeon was amazed at my recovery. My husband broke his shoulder in 3 places February of this year and was back to his favorite pastime of fly fishing with the injured arm by June. Melissa's care during his recovery also helped with the pain and made for a quick and full recovery. She has done wonders keeping us young and active. Appointments are hard to get so we have standing appointment. read more

I have two specific examples of Melissa being amazing. 1. I've never had a facial in my life, but my 30th birthday was coming up and I wanted to be doing everything I could to take care of my skin. That being said, I was not into the idea of using the irritating chemicals that are involved in so many spa facials. I decided to take the plunge when Melissa started offering natural facials with Origins products, which I already love. The whole process was totally refreshing (and painless!). There are many steps, each one more relaxing than the last...hot towels, scrubs, steaming, moisturizers, toners, etc...and even some light massage in between. I walked away feeling fresh-faced, fabulous and ready to book another appointment. 2. Remember how I mentioned turning 30? Yeah, well, in that same realm...I completely threw my neck/back out earlier this year. I had to miss work, could do nothing but lie on my floor and was in terrible pain for days. The first thing I did was call Melissa who talked to me over the phone about things I could do to alleviate the pain before I made it out to Brooklyn to have her do some work on it. I booked 30 minutes for her to concentrate on my shoulders and upper back and I am not exaggerating when I say that the relief I felt was almost instant. She could feel exactly where the trouble spots were and wasn't afraid to really go deep into my muscles and alleviate the problem. After only 30 minutes, I felt 150% better and was convinced she was a miracle worker. I was back to work the next day and she will be the FIRST person I call the next time it happens! She's always professional, with a personal touch (like chocolates after your massage!) and she is extremely talented. Can't recommend Mending Hands highly enough. read more

I've just left Melissa's, and I'm so ridiculously relaxed that I feel like a piece of wet spaghetti trying to walk around. And I feel this way every time I leave her table. I've visited a number of massage therapists over the years, but Melissa is far and away the best. She takes the time to ask questions and find out what's happening physically and mentally. Not only am I relaxed, but my usually sore back has no pain. Melissa is awesome! read more

I am a florist and spend a lot of time on my feet. My back pain was bothering me even in my sleep. I started to look for a good therapist in the area and decided to schedule an appointment with Melissa based on her great reviews. I am very glad I did! Melissa's calm and friendly personality made me feel at ease the moment we met, and the massage session was so relaxing and healing I left her cozy office feeling 100% better. I always look forward to my next session! read more

You know, every time I go get a massage and it's not with Melissa.. I kind of regret it. Because it's not Melissa! She knows exactly how to cater to my conditions and I leave feeling great. I highly recommend her, without a doubt. read more

I had my second massage with Melissa today and it was still the best massage I have ever had. I have had massages all over the world, but she is the best. Right amount of pressure, great office, very nice personality and very professional. She will be my regular visit when we are in our second home in Sarasota. Can't wait to be back in December! Highly recommended. read more

I have been to Mending Hands on multiple occasions and can't say enough about the wonderful service provided by Melissa. Melissa is attentive, caring, and extremely talented at helping people relax, ease pain and learn to take better care of their bodies. A few key examples to explain a bit more about my great experiences at Mending Hands: 1) I treated my mother to a massage with Melissa as a thank you gift a few months ago. My mom loved it so much, she booked massages for my entire family as a Christmas gift. Melissa was able to accommodate us all over the holidays, and we had a wonderful, relaxing start to Christmas. 2) I recently injured my neck (old age, I guess!) and Melissa spoke to me on the phone, offering helpful advice for easing the pain at home, and booking me a massage for a couple of days later. After seeing Melissa, my neck is finally starting to feel better. She really listens to problems and targets them, rather than just giving the same massage to every client. I highly recommend having a session with Melissa - you will be getting a great, personalized treatment from a great massage therapist! read more

Last night I visited Melissa for my first ever prenatal massage. I'm 27 weeks along and starting to feel the strain of carrying a baby around and well, it was just time. I was a little apprehensive at first, wondering how things would be different. Well, I needn't have worried at all because Melissa is a pro. First, when I came in she asked me how I've been feeling and some more specific questions about specific things I have been feeling in my body (which, being pregnant, there are many weird sensations!). Then, she explained the very interesting prenatal set-up, which essentially involved some pillows and other props to keep you positioned comfortably. At last, we were on to the massage, which was gentle enough to be relaxing but also deep enough to work out some of the kinks I had been dealing with. Afterwards, she showed me a few simple exercises I could try out with a tennis ball and sent me home with the ball and a first-timer's gift bag. All in all, a lovely way to spend a Friday evening! I'll be seeing Melissa a few more times before the big day and I can't help but think I will still need her in my life afterwards. read more

One of the best massages I've ever had! I received a prenatal massage from Melissa today and am so thankful I did! The space itself is super cute and very clean. She was so thorough in figuring out my needs and offers aromatherapy at the end which was a nice bonus. :) If you're pregnant, she provides "The Pillow Throne" room. Yes, it is as awesome as it sounds. I'm so happy to have found a masseuse I can use regularly! She books waaaay ahead of time so make sure you make your appointment in advance! read more

I have been seeing Melissa regularly for two years now. She is incredibly kind and professional. There's nobody else in Sarasota that I would go to for a massage. I also love the recommendations for self-care Melissa gives for in-between appointments! read more

I am blown away by the consistency of perfection with Melissa and Mending Hands. I have been a client of hers for many months now and I wouldn't think of going anywhere else. She always takes the time to sit and review my personal trouble areas every visit ensuring that I get the very most of my experience with her. She is a incredibly thorough, talented, and a dedicated therapist. I would recommend her to anyone!! Thank you a million times over Melissa!! read more

I decided to visit Melissa after reading the reviews here and the material on her very straightforward and informative website and blog. I was able to schedule my first appointment at exactly the time I wanted, and Melissa was extremely generous with her time and attention, allowing several extra minutes before the session for us to discuss my health history and specific physical issues, my personal space issues/boundaries, and generally get to know each other a little bit. After the session, she offered me a little "takeout" box with a few goodies, and we spent another several minutes discussion some exercises I can do to maintain and improve the conditions that led me to seek her out (for me, pain in my hips, back and hamstrings). Melissa has a lovely personal energy and confidence, and a clear passion for massage/therapy, body mechanics and good communication. She was very warm and welcoming, and her home is immaculate -- I did not feel that anything was "missing" although we were not in a spa setting. If anything, it seemed more personal and welcoming than a typical commercial/client setting. I was very comfortable with her the entire time and will definitely schedule another session in the future. read more

I am 7.5 months pregnant and have been suffering from the terrible back pain and sciatica that is normally associated with pregnancy. I tried everything to treat the pain- yoga, acupuncture, cupping, you name it and message was my last resort. Well let me tell you Melissa did the trick!! She was methodical, thorough and really worked the pain out of my back and legs. She is immensely knowledgeable in her field and you can tell she really loves making people feel better. I am dedicated to visiting her for the rest of my pregnancy and will continue my treatments with her after the baby is born. I cannot recommend her enough :) read more

I was experiencing a nagging pain in my mid-back. I had seen a chiropractor about 10 visits, which did not help, so when I moved to Sarasota in 2013 I decided to try massage. I chose Mending Hands because of great reviews and a professional website where I could view hours, policies and rates, as well as get a sense of who I was contacting. When I emailed Melissa I got a swift reply and an appointment. Her practice is in a medical office building in a good location. Melissa is a great masseuse! I look forward to my appointments, not only for the great massage, but overall I enjoy the whole experience. She is both very professional and very caring. Melissa conducts her practice in a very professional way, keeps track of my appointments and payments and sends reminders and updates. I also feel I am being well taken care of physically and mentally during the massage session. Her office is clean and comfortable, the massage is wonderful, and ends with aromatherapy so I am relaxed and ready to face the world when it is time to go. Over the past year the massage did wonders for my back pain (gone) and I feel that it is beneficial for my overall health and circulation. One other special mention about Melissa is she does not accept tips!! So there is no hidden cost or having to factor in extra to the budget. Highly highly recommend Melissa and her Mending Hands! read more

After packing, moving to a new home, and then unpacking my back finally said enough. Thank goodness that I found Melissa at Mending Hands massage in Sarasota. I met with her last night and I am feeling so much better. She was both professional and knowledgeable. She listened to my complaints and concerns and then after the massage she gave me some self care tips to help me to work out some kinks on my own between appointments. It was a very relaxing massage as well as a therapeutic massage. I didn't know that you could have both at the same time! I highly recommend Melissa and Mending Hands if you are looking for an amazing massage in Sarasota, Florida. Her hands are like magic. read more

Fabulous massage with Melissa. My two-hour massage put me to sleep on the table, and now I feel like jelly. For a highly stressed-out person, Melissa found all the spots "kneeding" attention. I highly recommend Melissa, very professional and knowledgeable. Thank you Melissa! read more

Yesterday, I experienced Melissa's soon-to-be-available dry brush massage, and I can't stop thinking about it! Imagine an exfoliating treatment on your entire body by way of these neat nubbly gloves, then compression with lovely hot towels, and THEN - as if that wasn't enough - a Swedish massage (lavender-infused massage oil for me, please!). If you've ever received a body scrub, you know that your skin will feel fantastic. But it's messy and involves a lot of showering and wasted time when you COULD be getting a massage! A dry brush massage is a perfect solution. Afterward, my skin was incredibly smooth and soft from the dry brush and massage, and my muscles felt warmed and relaxed from Melissa's intuitive hands. It was an awesome mix of invigorating and soothing touch, and I still am feeling fantastic more than 24 hours later. It feels as though the treatment helped increase the circulation to my skin and underlying tissues, which is great from both a superficial (my skin looks and feels great!) and therapeutic (increased circulation = your body cleaning itself out) perspective. I'm a massage therapist myself, and can honestly say that Melissa is one of the most talented therapists from whom I've received body work. I love that she's offering this new treatment - it's something you don't find at many spas, and very rarely in private practice - and you must try it yourself! read more

Melissa has only been in Sarasota for a couple of years but has already built a large following. I highly recommend her as a massage therapist. She was very attentive to my needs and focused on the areas that I wished. Book her now as she is already becoming very popular. She was able to give me the massage I had longed for. I look forward to returning. read more

Though chronic pain can negatively impact one's quality of life, I am so grateful to have found Melissa, whose knowledge and refined skill set have served me well in my quest to minimize pain and keep moving! Now in her new, lovely and inviting studio, Melissa delivers a professional product as evidenced in the way she both practices her craft and runs her business. I have found her to be a kind and caring practitioner who listens and thinks creatively. read more

I was able to get that facial in December - and again she's so awesome she's very busy but she was able to accommodate me and get me in before my birthday. I loved it! The atmosphere was so soothing and the products she used were soothing. My skin felt wonderful when she was done! read more

Melissa is both professional and knowledgeable. I went to her for pain from the neck to the foot in my right side from plantar fasciitis which I had been struggling with for a year and a half. Her approach is gentle but mindful. She was quickly able to determine where my trouble spots were knew how to work on them without making me jump off the table. She is very open to working with other professionals (acupuncture, chriopractic) to help you heal. I have had many massages and she is by far one of the best. read more

I had my last massage with Melissa while on a recent vacation to Sarasota. As a loyal client when Mending Hands was located in Brooklyn, it was wonderful to book a session with my favorite massage therapist! Sarasota is so lucky to have her well-trained and magical hands. I was thrilled to see her beautiful new studio! The environment is just so pretty and relaxing. After my massage, I left the appointment feeling blissful. One of the many things that I have respected about Melissa is her dedication to keeping informed about the massage therapy field. She is always ready to provide tips, exercises, and stretches to do in between appointments. My experiences with her different massage styles and facials have all been wonderful. I will always book a session when I'm in town! read more

Melissa Finley's practice is located in a clean, professional office building centrally located off the main road. She is one of the best therapists we've ever experienced-- she gets to know you and caters her style and technique to your preferences. She is caring, compassionate and clearly experienced in massage. We give her our highest recommendation. read more

Melissa recently added holistic Origins facials to her practice. I was fortunate enough to be one of the first to participate in this blissful treat! I have never sought out facials due to my distaste at the chemicals used in these treatments. I'm a strong advocate for all natural remedies, and since Melissa told me she was using Origins products (which is the only makeup I ever use) I knew it was time to give it a try! From the steaming to the exfoliation to the toner, each product had more a beautiful scent of than the next! As an extra bonus, Melissa massages your hands and face during the facial. I highly recommend this an addition to your massage. It's well worth it and you can breathe easy because it's all natural. I'm hooked! read more

This is about as good a massage as I have ever had. Melissa is meticulous about both scheduling and planning each massage according to your needs. She also has the necessary equipment and knowledge to ensure that if you have a condition that prevents you from traditional face down or face up, you can still get a comfortable, effective massage on your side. read more

I found Melissa via Yelp for my mother who lives in LBK (I'm on the west coast). She has been a god-send to my mother who suffers from upper back tension exacerbated by the death of my father. Melissa's kind soul and hands have been so comforting and therapeutic. So thrilled that a one time gift certificate has turned into a wonderful ongoing relationship. Highly recommend her. read more