The Art and Science of Compassionate Healing
Behind the Practice of Peaceful Kneads
Expert Care, Personalized for You
At Peaceful Kneads, we’re committed to providing skilled, compassionate massage therapy tailored to each individual's unique needs. Located in the heart of Sequim, we offer a wide range of services designed to address medical concerns, enhance relaxation, and support your overall well-being. Our therapists collaborate to deliver thoughtful, results-oriented care in an environment where every detail is considered for your comfort.
Where Understanding Informs Healing - The Story Behind Peaceful Kneads
Courtney, the owner and lead therapist, never imagined she would end up in massage therapy. Growing up in Sequim, where her family has deep roots dating back over 150 years, she initially pursued careers in Chemistry and Business Marketing Education. A surprising shift occurred when she started getting weekly massages to manage the physical and mental strain from sitting at a desk all day. "The progress I felt in my body and mind was astonishing," Courtney recalls. "I was in awe of how much better I felt, not just physically but mentally, too. That’s when I knew I had to make a change. So, I took a risk and left my desk job behind to dive into the world of massage therapy, blending my love of science with my newfound passion for helping others."
In 2009, she graduated from the prestigious Port Townsend School of Massage and soon after, founded Peaceful Kneads. "When I first started, I thought massage would be a routine practice, but I quickly learned it's anything but," she says. "My approach is highly tactile and methodical, yet fully adaptive to what the body presents in the moment. I work with the tissues in layers, using various techniques—predominantly non-painful, deep tissue myofascial release—to address the first signs of dysfunction and progress as the body allows. It’s all about giving the body a chance to move toward deeper, more effective healing."
Evolving Expertise – A Commitment to Continuous Learning
After a year in practice, Courtney found herself drawn to clients seeking relief from pain. Realizing she needed more advanced skills to better serve them, she returned to school to earn an Advanced Certification in Orthopedic Massage, a specialty she hadn’t initially envisioned for herself. Over the years, her practice has evolved from general wellness and pregnancy massage to a more detailed, medical-focused modality. "My strength is in addressing the source of mechanical pain," she explains. "I approach each session with the intention of achieving efficient, lasting healing."
Courtney’s dedication to learning extends beyond her own practice. In 2012, she began teaching at the Port Townsend School of Massage, sharing her knowledge with the next generation of therapists. "I feel strongly about maintaining a high level of professionalism in the massage world," she says. "Massage is a part of healthcare, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help shape the community and elevate our field."
Building Peaceful Kneads – A Place for Skilled Care and Collaboration
When Peaceful Kneads began, Courtney always envisioned it as more than just herself. "I saw a gap in the local massage community—many therapists had the hunger for knowledge and the desire to help others, but not the support or structure to thrive," she explains. She set out to create a practice that offered fair employment, ongoing training, wellness benefits, and the highest pay rate in the area, ensuring therapists could grow in their careers while delivering exceptional care.
Katie, one of the skilled therapists at Peaceful Kneads, embodies this approach with her belief in the restorative power of rest. "I love seeing how massage can reconnect people with their bodies and help them find a deeper sense of calm," she shares. Courtney adds, "Katie's sessions are deeply grounding. They bring a comforting sense of ease that's hard to put into words—it's like the feeling of being in a safe place where you can truly rest. Her approach is reassuring and calming, yet still very effective at working on pain spots. I leave each time feeling less overwhelmed, as if I took a deep, long nap and woke up to my body more free and my worries quieter."
Chris, a dedicated healer with a unique approach, brings a deep connection to the earth and his community into his practice. His background in farming, love for the earth and community service informs his work, where he blends clinical and restorative techniques with a focus on holistic balancing and support. "Chris is one of the most deeply caring, highly present individuals," Courtney says. "He puts people at ease with his kindness, is the best listener, and his passion for giving to others is unmatched." Another local therapist adds, "Chris’s work is precise and grounded. He has a way of making clients feel heard and cared for, addressing each concern with a thorough, compassionate approach."
Our Approach – Science-Based, Thoughtful, and Ethical Care
At Peaceful Kneads, we pride ourselves on delivering ethical, science-based care that empowers our clients. "Education is a big part of what we do," Courtney notes. "I want my clients to leave each session not just with less pain, but with a deeper understanding of their own bodies. This knowledge is crucial for lasting improvement. I want people to feel great when they arrive, but even better when they leave."
Our therapists work together behind the scenes, giving and receiving feedback to provide comprehensive, personalized care for each patient. We encourage clients to see different therapists within the practice, allowing for a range of techniques and perspectives that support more well-rounded healing.
A Place of Inclusion – Dedicated to Every Body
We’re committed to health equity, body positivity, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Peaceful Kneads is a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community and anyone seeking support. "Every person is unique, and our goal is to honor that in the attention we provide," Courtney says. "We hope that when you walk into Peaceful Kneads, you feel the deep commitment we have for your comfort and healing."
Looking Forward – Expanding Our Offerings Based on Community Needs
As we continue to grow, we plan to expand our services with new modalities like the upcoming infrared sauna sessions. "We listen to our community and aim to meet its evolving needs," Courtney shares. "My vision is to build something truly unique—a place that elevates massage as healthcare while providing a nurturing environment for therapists who have dedicated their careers to healing others."
Come See What Makes Us Different
At Peaceful Kneads, your well-being is our priority, and we are honored every time you entrust us with your care. Our work is tactile, thoughtful, and anything but routine, focused on helping you achieve real progress through skilled hands and compassionate hearts. Experience the difference for yourself and discover how Peaceful Kneads can support your journey toward healing and renewal.