Business Details
15 Years
experience
Expert Massage Therapy Services in Chicago
River North Massage Therapy Center was founded in 2011 as an extension of The New School for Massage, Bodywork & Healing, which was established in 2002 to address gaps in massage therapy education. Our center specializes in therapeutic massage services, combining clinical expertise with personalized care. All therapists are graduates of our affiliated school, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to evidence-based practices.We offer a range of services including chair massage, table massage, prenatal therapy, and sports massage, tailored to individual needs. Our commitment to education ensures therapists remain at the forefront of industry advancements. With over two decades of combined experience, we prioritize client wellness through accessible, affordable care in Chicago's River North neighborhood.
Services
Chair Massage
Table Massage
Lymphatic Drainage
Pregnancy Massage
Sports Massage
Cupping Therapy
Student Clinic
Graduate Clinic
Expert Clinic
Corporate Massage Events
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- Locally owned and operated by licensed massage therapists
- Specialized therapeutic massage services, not a general spa
- Therapists trained at our affiliated accredited massage school
- Convenient downtown Chicago location with flexible scheduling
- Continuously updated techniques through industry-leading education
What people say
Best massage ever
Excellent therapists
Affordable luxury
Personalized care
Chronic pain relief
Services
Chair Massage
Chair massage provides quick, convenient therapy focused on high-tension areas like the back, shoulders, and arms. Performed in a specialized ergonomic chair over clothing, it's ideal for busy schedules. Sessions last 20-35 minutes, promoting circulation and stress relief without requiring oils or undressing.
Table Massage
Table massage delivers therapeutic treatment across the entire body using Swedish, deep tissue, or customized techniques. Clients receive sessions on a comfortable table with adjustable pressure levels. Available in 25-100 minute durations, this service addresses muscle tension, posture issues, and overall wellness through hands-on manipulation.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage supports maternal well-being through specialized techniques for expectant mothers. Certified therapists use side-lying positioning and cushions to ensure comfort while addressing swelling, muscle aches, and stress. Sessions last 50-100 minutes, focusing on safe, effective relief throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Sports Massage
Sports massage targets athletes' needs with pre-event preparation and post-event recovery techniques. Therapists focus on injury prevention, flexibility improvement, and performance enhancement through deep tissue work. Sessions range from 50-100 minutes, addressing specific muscle groups and movement patterns related to athletic activities.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy uses suction cups to release fascia adhesions, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension. Therapists apply cups statically or move them across treatment areas, creating a kneading effect. Sessions last 50-100 minutes, leaving temporary discoloration that fades within 10 days while promoting deep relaxation and tissue healing.
People
Emmanuel Bistas
Co-Owner
Co-founder of River North Massage Therapy Center, Emmanuel combines business leadership with a commitment to quality massage education. He oversees operations while maintaining connections to the therapeutic community.
Barb Bistas
Co-Owner
As co-owner, Barb contributes to strategic direction while ensuring client-centered care remains central to the center's mission. Her vision supports both therapeutic excellence and community wellness initiatives.
Alex
Licensed Massage Therapist
Specializing in deep tissue and sports massage, Alex combines attentive listening with technical skill. He focuses on pain relief while incorporating client feedback to customize each session for optimal results.
Andrea
Licensed Massage Therapist
With a background in pharmacy, Andrea brings holistic healing expertise to her practice. She specializes in Swedish and trigger point therapy, creating personalized experiences that address both physical discomfort and mental stress.
Namiko
Expert Clinic Therapist
A certified myofascial release therapist with advanced training, Namiko integrates yoga and Eastern medicine principles. Her expertise in lymphatic drainage and cupping makes her a valuable instructor at The New School for Massage.
Questions
What types of massage services do you offer?
We offer chair massage, table massage, lymphatic drainage, pregnancy massage, sports massage, and cupping therapy. Our therapists also provide deep tissue, Swedish, and trigger point treatments.
Are your therapists licensed and trained?
All therapists are licensed and graduated from The New School for Massage. They receive ongoing training to maintain expertise in current therapeutic techniques and modalities.
Do you offer corporate massage events?
Yes, we provide professional on-site chair and table massage for company events, wellness fairs, and conventions throughout the Chicagoland area with punctual, reliable service.
What are your cancellation policies?
We require 24-hour notice for cancellations. Missed appointments without notice may incur a fee. Members can manage bookings through our online system for easy modifications.
Can I purchase gift cards?
Yes, gift cards are available for any service amount. They make perfect gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, offering recipients flexible access to our massage services.
Do you have membership options?
Our membership program includes a free monthly massage and up to 20% discounts on services, making regular therapeutic sessions more affordable while promoting consistent wellness maintenance.
