Hope and Health Waco

aBOUT US

Hope and Health Waco’s team of licensed experts from all walks of life. Many have used alternative massage therapy to improve their physical, mental, and emotional help. That is why they are so passionate about what they do. Each of them is a master in their area of expertise and is dedicated to providing you with the best experience.

Krista Stephenson

Massage Therapist

Krista Stephenson has dedicated over a decade to helping clients achieve relief from chronic pain, enhance their overall health, and remain injury-free. She utilizes a diverse range of modalities to craft customized sessions tailored to each individual’s needs. These sessions incorporate techniques such as deep tissue massage, manual therapy, sports massage, cupping, Swedish massage, myofascial release, and emotional release therapy. Krista’s goal is to help clients increase circulation and mobility, reduce stress and anxiety, strengthen their immune systems, and improve recovery time. Recognizing that injuries, pain, and stress can accumulate over time, she strives to help clients “push the reset button” and achieve optimal well-being.

Darrian McManious

Massage Therapist

Darrian McManious is a Licensed Massage Therapist serving the Waco, Texas community. A graduate of Baylor University with a Bachelor’s degree in Health, Kinesiology, and Leisure Studies, Darrian has been practicing since 2018. She specializes in sports massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy to help clients feel their best. Whether they are recovering from an injury, managing stress, or seeking rejuvenation, Darrian works with each individual to unlock their full potential, one session at a time.

Birgitte Christensen

Holistic Health Practitioner

Birgitte Christensen is a Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP) with over two decades of expertise in Reflexology, Craniosacral Therapy, Nutrition, and Supplementation. Originally from Denmark, she relocated to the U.S. in 2013, bringing her extensive knowledge and passion for holistic health to a new community.

Birgitte’s journey began with a dual role as a practitioner and as Sales & Marketing Manager for a supplement manufacturing company in Denmark, where she trained staff across over 250 stores. In 2011, she opened her own health food store, providing organic supplements, skincare, and holistic health services. Today, Birgitte continues to support clients both in person and online with services like Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, Ionic Foot Detox, and AO Frequency Scans.

In 2024, Birgitte published Healthy Made Simple, a book encapsulating her philosophy and approach to balanced, holistic wellness.

Education & Certifications:

  • 2024: Published Healthy Made Simple
  • 2006: Graduated in Reflexology & Nutrition, ZoneConnection, Denmark
  • 2006: Certified Massage Therapist, Optimal Therapy, Denmark
  • 2005: Certified Craniosacral Therapist, Trine Rosenberg Institute, Denmark
  • 2005: Certified 1st Degree Reiki Healer, The Reiki Alliance, USA

With a warm, practical approach, Birgitte’s goal is to help clients achieve a fulfilling, healthy lifestyle grounded in holistic principles.

Chelsey Vela

Massage Therapist

Chelsey invites clients to relax and restore with a healing massage experience. She offers a variety of massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, cupping, scraping, and gentle stretching. Aromatherapy is a key element in her practice, ensuring clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey to whole health. With 20 years of experience as a nurse and two years as a massage therapist, Chelsey is passionate about pain relief and improved health. She continually expands her knowledge in both massage therapy and nursing, with plans to offer additional services in the future. As a valued member of the Hope and Health Wellness team, Chelsey collaborates with Krista, Darrian, and Birgitte to provide clients with the best and most comprehensive massage care.