The massage therapy profession has a rich and diverse history, filled with stories of innovation, advocacy, challenges, and triumphs. Yet much of this history remains scattered, forgotten, or at risk of being lost altogether. At the Society of Massage Archives, we believe preserving this legacy is not just about honoring the past—it’s about shaping the future.
Kirby Clark Ellis, MTI, BCTMB (they/them/theirs)
President, Society Of Massage Archives (SOMA)
I’m a franchise-employed massage therapist based in Arkansas, and since 2014, I’ve had the privilege of supporting the peace and healing of clients from all walks of life. What started as a personal calling has grown into something much larger over the past decade—encompassing continuing education, professional advocacy, and a deep dive into the history of our field. Learn more about my work at kcemassage.com
In addition to my hands-on work, I’m also an Approved Provider for Continuing Education through the NCBTMB, an amateur massage historian, and an active volunteer with several massage organizations, including my state’s regulatory authority. Each of these roles allows me to give back to a profession that has given me so much.
One of my biggest passion projects is the Society of Massage Archives. I believe our history not only helps us understand where we’ve been and how we got here—it also connects us as practitioners and helps shape where we’re going. As massage therapists and bodyworkers, I truly believe we share a common story and a shared destiny.
For Hands of History broadcast, SOMA’s mission and vision, contact me Kirby@MassageHistory.org.
Dr. Jeffrey Montoya, LMT, BCTMB
Financial Administrator, SOMA
My passion lies in promoting wellbeing through massage therapy and bodywork. I’m a Board Certified Massage Therapist, a Reiki Master, and a dedicated massage educator. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to study more than 30 different massage modalities and forms of bodywork, each one deepening my understanding of how we can support healing in others.
I’m also the founder of Academy of Health, a nonprofit massage school based in Wisconsin, where I’ve been fortunate to help train and inspire the next generation of massage therapists. My journey in this profession has also included volunteering with organizations like AMTA, NCBTMB, and the International Consortium on Manual Therapies—each experience giving me a broader perspective on how we can move the field forward.
Currently, I hold a doctorate in Health Professions Education from Logan University, and I continue to be inspired every day by the potential of massage therapy to transform lives—one person, one practitioner, and one community at a time.
For our virtual book club, or questions related to SOMA’s operations, contact me Jeffrey@MassageHistory.org
Donald Q. Dillon, RMT
Secretary, SOMA
I am a practitioner, writer and practice coach. My 34+ years of practice include managing a multi-practitioner practice, and active roles with the professional association (RMTAO) in insurer and government relations.
DI authored the self-study workbook Charting Skills for Massage Therapists and was a regular columnist for Massage Therapy Canada magazine for much of its history. I’ve lectured to MT associations across Canada, and am the recipient of the RMTAO’s President’s Award of Merit, two “Hand of Thanks” awards, and the Ken Rezsnyak award. In 2012 I received the ONE Concept award for Massage Therapist of the Year. Find me at DonDillon-RMT.com
I contributed in a very small way to the 4th edition of Outcome-Based Massage by CK Andrade – an international textbook used by physiotherapists and massage therapists. I have been contracted by the Investigations and Complaints committee of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) in several cases concerning practitioner record-keeping.
My other projects include the guide On Practice: From Entry-Level to Established Massage Therapist and co-producing the podcast On the Table in conjunction with Massage Therapy Canada magazine. Find Dillon at DonDillon-RMT.com.
On SOMA’s progress so far, and projects we are currently working towards, contact me Don@MassageHistory.org.
Mission Statement
To preserve & integrate the historical knowledge of massage therapy’s professional advocacy & traditional techniques to guide and enrich our contemporary practices. Through the following objectives, SOMA will ensure the profession’s history will be safeguarded and accessible for future generations:
- Preserve Historical Artifacts & Documents
- Integrate Historical Knowledge With Educational Outreach
- Increase Public Awareness Of Massage Therapy’s Historical Significance
- Foster A Sense Of Community By Celebrating A Shared Professional Heritage
- Encourage & Support Research & Documentation
Vision Statement
Our vision is to build a stronger professional identity, fostering a sense of culture and community, and guide the sustainability & future growth of massage therapy by preserving and studying the history of massage therapy.