ABOUT LITTLE BIRD WELLNESS
From 2010 to 2026, follow the winding road of a massage therapist, her tribe, and a dream.
It Starts with One
Lani Dove's journey began at the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy, juggling massage training with yoga teacher certification. After gaining experience in various settings, she launched her own practice, Healing Wings Massage, in 2011.
Bird is the Word
Healing Wings Massage thrived as Lani expanded her skills, taught at CCMT, and grew her private practice while balancing family life.
On the Move
Clients love to laugh about how often we've relocated over the years. From gyms and yoga studios to chiropractors’ offices, boutiques, and salons, we’ve made our way through many spaces before settling in Manchester and East Granby, where we continue to grow.
Adding to the Family
Lani expanded the team in 2019, hiring former students and colleagues, slowly growing the practice into a full-fledged wellness center, even overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pressure Makes Diamonds
Despite the setbacks of COVID-19, Lani and the team seized the opportunity for further growth, including new locations and services.
What’s in a Name
With a growing team and expanded services, the practice was renamed Little Bird Wellness, blending the family names and honoring its evolution into a holistic wellness center.
Hometown Nest
The expansion continued with a new location in East Granby, where Little Bird Wellness built strong community ties and actively supported local initiatives.
Main Street Pride
Little Bird Wellness continued its growth in Manchester, finding a more spacious location at 272 Main Street, allowing them to add more practitioners and engage deeper with the community.
We Invite You to Become Part of Our Story and Begin Your Own Journey to Wellness
MEET THE TEAM
Meet our family of massage therapists, estheticians, nutritional therapist, and shaman healer with over 100 years of experience combined. We are ready to help our clients achieve full body mind and spirit wellness
Lani Cochran
Managing Owner ~ LMT, NTP
lic #6286
After dabbling in music education and yoga instruction, Lani finally landed where she always has belonged and graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy (CCMT) in 2010. She has been an active member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) since graduation, previously serving on many volunteer committees and the CT Chapter Board, and earned the President’s Award in 2021 and the Distinguished Service Award from the CT Chapter in 2023. Lani was a faculty member at Cortiva Institute (formerly CCMT) from 2014 to 2019. She taught multiple bodywork classes, professional preparation & science classes, and brought that same spirit of education into the growth and development of the Little Bird Wellness staff family. In her massage work, Lani has been practicing Traditional Thai massage for 12 years, and Sarga Bodywork for 4 years. Her clients describe her style as “deceptively deep” and she has been known to lull people to sleep just as easily as she can unstick a frozen shoulder. In 2021 Lani also became a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, to help clients find balance through the foundations of health. She is passionate about finding healing from the inside out, and loves the therapeutic qualities of food!
Chris Cochran
Co-Owner ~ Shaman Practitioner
Transpersonal Coach
Chris is a formally trained Shaman in the Peruvian traditions. He has 25 plus years of experience as a personal and profession coach stemming from his career in the U.S. Army and in corporate America. Chris holds a B.S. in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis with a minor in Anthropology, a Masters of Leadership, and an MBA. Chris combines his corporate, military and healing training with his love of nature to provide coaching and healing sessions which are unique to each client. See Me For: Shamanic Healing
Emily Kerr
Manchester Manager ~ LMT, EST
LMT lic #10656 / EST lic #1605
Emily graduated from Cortiva Institute (formerly CCMT) in October of 2019 for Massage Therapy, and returned in November of 2020 to pursue Skincare. Finishing the program in May 2021, she now has a dual-license for Massage and Esthetics. She has additional education in lymphatic bodywork, offering a type of massage that focuses on the body's Nervous system, rather than the musculature. Most recently, she has trained with the owner & creator of Solavedi Organic skincare, and is now offering Ayurvedic facials. With a passion for helping people and an education in muscles & skin, she’s there to help anyone feel better, inside and out.
Stacey Carew
East Granby Manager ~ LMT
lic #3149
Stacey graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy (CCMT) in 2002. Over the next 15 years, she supported massage therapy students using both her experiences in the massage therapy field and her degree in Psychology from St. Joseph University. She has training in multiple modalities, including Thai massage, Myoskeletal Alignment techniques and warm bamboo massage. She recently became certified in Manual Lymph Drainage. Combining intuition and various massage modalities, she supports each client towards their own personal healing.
Lisa Roy
Marketing Coordinator
all locations
Lisa is beginning her journey at Little Bird Wellness as our Marketing Coordinator, supporting both the Manchester and East Granby locations. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University with a Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, she brings a thoughtful, creative, and people-centered approach to her work. As the marketing role takes shape, Lisa spends time at the front desk each week—intentionally getting to know our clients, practitioners, and the day-to-day rhythm of the practice. This hands-on time helps her truly understand the heart of Little Bird Wellness and ensures that our marketing reflects the care, connection, and real experiences happening inside the space. Behind the scenes, Lisa manages Little Bird Wellness’s social media presence, sharing glimpses of daily life, highlighting services, and offering an authentic look at the intention behind the work. Her focus is on helping our online presence feel just as warm, welcoming, and human as the experience clients have when they walk through the door. Outside of Little Bird, Lisa is a wedding floral designer, spending her weekends creating organic, artful arrangements for meaningful celebrations. Her background in events, design, and storytelling naturally weaves into her role here—supporting connection, ease, and a sense of belonging, both in person and online.
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Jenna Pratt
Receptionist
East Granby office
Jenna is a 2023 graduate from East Granby High School and has continued to work while exploring future career paths. With lots of time to reflect on all of her passions and make a final decision, she decided to start school soon for massage therapy, as she has always loved helping others relax and feel good about themselves. Jenna is known for her positivity, warm heartedness, and her passion for helping those around her. In her free time, she loves playing the guitar and piano, and even writes her own music. She loves to connect with others and is excited to elevate your experience at Little Bird Wellness as our East Granby receptionist.
Ana Banks
Receptionist
East Granby office
Ana brings creativity, compassion, and warmth to the East Granby office as our receptionist. Outside of work, she is an artist who markets her paintings and handcrafted jewelry, using her creativity as a way to connect with others and express herself. She is deeply passionate about animals, music, nature, and singing. She values the sense of peace and inspiration they bring to everyday life. Above all, Ana has a strong passion for human connection and creating a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone feels seen and cared for.
Mark Roth
Receptionist - Assistant
East Granby office
Mark is the youngest receptionist in East Granby—and yes, he’s keeping it in the family! As Lani’s son, Mark is taking his first steps into the world of wellness, customer care, and small business operations. With a sharp mind and a classic teenage smirk, he’s learning the ropes of reception and client communication—answering phones, scheduling appointments, and occasionally restocking tea. We’re excited to have him here and appreciate your patience and kindness as he learns the art of front desk magic.
Carrie Fauteux
Receptionist
Manchester office
Carrie is the face you’ll often see first at our Manchester office—and the person who keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. As our lead receptionist, she makes sure every client feels cared for the moment they walk through the door. Outside of the office, Carrie is a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, trained through Crossroads Yoga in 2018, with additional certifications in Energy Medicine Yoga (EMYoga) and Reiki III. Her background in energy work, movement, and mindful practices deeply informs the grounded and compassionate way she holds space—for both clients and our team.
Melanie Powell
Receptionist
Manchester office
Melanie is currently a student at CT State Community College Manchester, majoring in Communications. She has a strong passion for health, wellness, and holistic healing. Melanie is dedicated to creating a welcoming and peaceful environment for every client and is always happy to assist clients on their wellness journey.
Jasara Hall
LMT
lic #3378
Jasara is a 2002 graduate of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy (CCMT), and has worked in many different venues of massage over the years. She has been trained in many modalities and takes that knowledge into every session. Using a combination of intuition & client communication, she develops a plan for continued work and care with clients. Sports massage, deep tissue, reflexology, or a combination of all & more. Jasara focuses on a shared goal of client health for each session.
Pamela Prior
LMT, EST
LMT lic #11637 / EST lic #1621
Pam is a licensed aesthetician and massage therapist with a deeply rooted, whole-body approach to care. She became a state licensed aesthetician in 2019 after completing the 1,250-hour Advanced Esthetics Program at Asnuntuck Community College, and in 2025, she graduated from the Asnuntuck / CT State Massage Therapy Program—further expanding her ability to support clients through hands-on, integrative care. Pam also brings an extensive medical background as a dental hygienist, which informs her commitment to the highest standards of care, safety, and infection control. Her strong clinical foundation pairs seamlessly with her intuitive, calming presence. Driven by a genuine love of learning, Pam has pursued advanced certifications in Jet Peel, Microdermabrasion, ProCell Microchanneling, and Microcurrent. Her work blends technical expertise with a relaxing, soothing touch, making her especially skilled in customized facials, body treatments, peels, mechanical exfoliation, lymphatic drainage techniques, and deeply restorative relaxation work. Pam believes the most meaningful part of her work is helping clients achieve results that go beyond what they expected—supporting not just healthier skin and bodies, but a deeper sense of ease and confidence in themselves.
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Christine Rivera
LMT
lic #10618
Christine is a Licensed Massage Therapist who graduated from Cortiva Institute in 2019. She first became a Licensed Cosmetologist in 2014. Since then, Christine has worked in both fields and has developed a passion for the importance of self care. She believes that the power of touch is essential, and massage therapy is a way to improve your mental and physical well-being. Christine has a strong interest in anatomy and views each body as its own unique puzzle. And to better serve her clients, Christine plans to further her education in order to help whomever should walk through the door.
Bronwyn Burns
LMT
lic #7169
As a Violinist and Violin instructor for the past 20 years, Bronwyn has studied and implemented use of correct posture. She has trained her hands to be sensitive and finds this ability transfers well to massage therapy. As a Certified Music Teacher in the Hartford Public Schools, she has experience in maintaining equilibrium being sensitive to the needs of a wide variety of individuals. As an undergraduate she minored in Philosophy of Science & has knowledge of the concepts and practices of Energy Work. Bronwyn is a Martial Artist, this is helpful for strength, flexibility and endurance. This, along with regular meditation, helps to maintain her spiritual, mental and physical balance. Bronwyn enjoys sharing these qualities, and feels a deep sense of satisfaction in bringing comfort and relief through massage therapy.
Katarina Antalova
LMT
lic #7786
Katarina graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in 2008. She is helping clients with management of stress, pain, discomfort and edema. Katarina is a certified manual lymphatic drainage therapist (CMLDT) and certified lymphedema therapist (CLT). She studied complete decongestive therapy (CDT) and MLD through Klose Training under the guidance of Linda Hodgkins, MS OTR/L CLT-LANA.
Olivia Wertz
LMT
lic #10462
Through my educational experiences working with chiropractic patients I have a solid understanding of how to treat people who are recovering from a fall, surgery or car accident. I assist in the healing process and eliminate scar tissue. My favorite type of massage to perform is deep tissue and I have seen and felt these techniques work in these types of patients. In addition, I’ve paired well with physical therapists to help with the strengthening of clients muscles. I’ve had the opportunity to work with professional athletes who have benefited as well and made a difference in their performances. I have such a passion for massage therapy and it shows when I work on clients. You can feel that I want to heal. I am still continuing my education and adding more techniques and knowledge to better serve the community.
Beki O'Neil
LMT
lic #5558
Beki is a CCMT graduate from 2007. With over 13,000 hours of hands on experience and use of techniques such as deep tissue, Swedish, sports, assisted stretch, prenatal, hot stone (including Himalayan), cupping, basic trigger point, basic reflexology, and rehab/post surgery work. One her specialities is helping with headache and migraine relief. She also has worked along side a chiropractor for over 13 years with patient care and care plans within a massage therapy scope of practice. She is always willing to help and provide the best therapeutic pressure and relaxation for every BODY- using empathy and intuition to make you feel refreshed and renewed.
Michael Crowe
LMT
lic #11046
Michael has been practicing as a massage therapist after graduating from Cortiva Institute in 2022. Since starting he has picked up multiple modalities such as Swedish, cupping, myofascial, and Himalayan hot stone. He utilizes a collaboration of Swedish, myofascial, and some deep tissue techniques at a slow, intentional pace. The Swedish base of the massage allows for deep relaxation while the myofascial and deep tissue techniques are capable of offering a more intentional massage to those who still require a lighter touch.
Angela Tamburrino
LMT
lic #11506
Angela is a licensed massage therapist (in Connecticut and Florida) with 15 years of experience, graduating from Keiser University in Hollywood, Florida, in 2010 with an Associate of Science in Massage Therapy. Certified in over 10 modalities, including hot stones, reflexology, bamboo, cupping, body scrubs and wraps, she crafts personalized treatments for relaxation and recovery. Angela spent 6 years at the prestigious Hard Rock Hollywood Resort and Casino before transitioning to the yachting industry as a spa stewardess, providing luxury wellness services. Passionate about holistic health, she delivers exceptional, client-focused care.
Madelyn Sherman
EST
lic #3115
Madelyn is a licensed esthetician at Little Bird Wellness, where she combines her passion for skincare with a holistic approach to wellness. After graduating from ACC's esthetics program in 2023, she has dedicated herself to helping clients achieve radiant, healthy skin. Having personally battled acne, Madelyn understands the importance of confidence and self care. She believes in the power of whole body healing and advocates for minimalistic skincare regimens that prioritize natural ingredients. With extensive knowledge of skincare ingredients and a commitment to results-driven treatments, Madelyn provides exceptional care to her clients. Her specialty lies in crafting customized facials for acne-prone and mature skin, while also promoting relaxation. She is also skilled in brow services and lash lifts, delivering personalized results that are ensured to enhance each client's unique features. With compassion and expertise, Madelyn guides her clients on a journey to achieve the healthy skin they deserve.
Joe Aubin
LMT
lic #10377
Joe has been a licensed Massage Therapist since 2019 and brings a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to bodywork. He studied at Cortiva Institute, where he was introduced to acupressure under the instruction of Lani Cochran. After graduating, Joe relocated to Fresno, California, where he worked in the Whole Health Department at the VA Medical Center, providing massage therapy for veterans. He is certified in Sports and Medical Massage as well as Myofascial Cupping, blending therapeutic precision with a calm, grounded presence. He enjoys deep tissue work, working with chronic pain (back, neck, neck, shoulder, hips), injury recovery and improving range of motion. Joe returned home to Connecticut in 2024 to care for his mother and is now excited to continue his professional journey with the Little Bird Wellness team. His goal is to help clients move more freely, recover more fully, and reconnect with their bodies through compassionate, focused care.
Mia Daly
EST
lic #4100
Mia Daly is a licensed esthetician who believes that great skincare starts with feeling seen, heard, and cared for. After experiencing her own struggles with acne as a teenager, Mia developed a passion for helping others feel confident in their own skin. She specializes in results-driven facials, corrective skincare services, waxing, body treatments, and brow lamination and lash lift and tint services, always tailoring each treatment to her client’s unique needs and comfort level. Mia is a thoughtful listener who takes the time to understand her clients’ concerns and goals. Her approach combines relaxation with education, creating a calming environment where clients feel supported and empowered in their skincare journey. Her ideal client is someone who values a personalized experience, wants to improve the health of their skin, and appreciates gentle, honest guidance along the way.
Caitryn Byrka
LMT
lic #8256
Caitryn graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in 2014 and began her practice in a chiropractic office in Tolland CT, where she focused on helping clients manage chronic pain and tension. Over six years, she built a loyal clientele while developing a deep understanding of the body’s ability to heal through consistent care. After navigating her own health challenges and exploring the culinary arts, Caitryn gained a renewed appreciation for the role massage plays in maintaining balance — not only for the body, but for the quality of daily life. Receiving regular massages reminded her where her true passion lies: helping others reconnect with comfort, mobility, and self-awareness. Now, she’s excited to return to the work she loves and to guide clients along their own path toward relief and renewal. Caitryn combines her intuitive touch with clinical understanding to support clients managing chronic pain, stress, and everyday wear. Her sessions emphasize mindful, restorative bodywork that meets each client exactly where they are.
Shea Blake
LMT
lic #11622
Shea is a licensed massage therapist with a strong, thoughtful approach to bodywork. She received her education through Connecticut State University, with focused training in myofascial release, deep tissue massage, and Swedish relaxation techniques. Her work is firm and methodical, making her a great fit for clients who appreciate clear intention, steady pressure, and a sense of structure in their sessions. Shea especially enjoys incorporating heat to help muscles soften, circulation improve, and the body settle more fully into relaxation. She believes massage is an essential part of both physical and mental well-being, and she’s passionate about supporting clients with pain management, improved mobility, and nervous system calm. Shea is excited to grow her practice and build lasting relationships with the clients she works with—meeting each person where they are and tailoring care to what their body needs most.
Aren Bierkan
LMT
lic #8471
Aren is a licensed massage therapist and a 2015 graduate of Asnuntuck Community College, with over 10,000 hours of hands-on experience. His work blends precision, intuition, and care, making each session both effective and deeply supportive. Aren is well-versed in Swedish, deep tissue, sports, prenatal, hot stone, and trigger point techniques. His style is detailed and intentional, with a particular focus on the neck and shoulders—making him an excellent choice for clients who experience migraines or carry chronic tension in the upper body. He also works thoughtfully with sciatic pain, helping to ease discomfort and restore mobility. By combining therapeutic depth with relaxation, Aren creates customized sessions that leave clients feeling lighter, looser, and deeply at ease—often describing that post-session feeling as happily “jello-like.”
Denise McCollin
LMT
lic #11593
Denise is a licensed massage therapist who prides herself in providing professional, therapeutic, client centered care. She graduated from the Baltimore School of Massage in 2008 and completed advanced refresher coursework through the Cortiva Institute in 2025, ensuring her skills remain current and evidence based. Denise’s approach to massage therapy emphasizes relaxation, pain relief and restoring balance within the body. She integrates techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and therapeutic bodywork tailored to each client’s individual needs. In addition to being a massage therapist, Denise is also a registered nurse who brings a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology and clinical awareness to her sessions. Some fun facts about Denise are: she is a published author, a Reiki practitioner, a dog mom and loves traveling. If you are experiencing muscle tightness, discomfort, stress from work or daily life, her goal is to assist you in feeling relaxed, renewed and supported on your journey to improved wellness.
Emma Thomsen
EST
lic #4841
Emma is a licensed Esthetician who understands how important self care truly is, and is passionate about helping everyone feel comfortable in their own skin. Having experienced what it feels like to be self conscious of her skin, Emma finds joy in giving clients hope and encouragement that their skin goals can be achieved. She exhibits kindness towards everyone, ensuring the treatment room is a safe space for all to feel comfortable. Having graduated from International Institute of Cosmetology, Emma specializes in facials, body treatments, waxing, and brow and lash enchantments, personalized for each individuals needs. She finds that a holistic approach towards skincare not only can improve your skin health, but soothe the anxieties many face when it comes to acne. Emma is an empathetic service provider, who values being honest yet caring and informative with clients. She has dedicated herself to being a lifelong learner, and believes in educating clients whilst crafting treatment plans. She aims to help clients understand their skin and develop a healthy relationship with skincare.
I've had massages before, but this was my first time at Little Bird Wellness. From the moment you walk into the establishment, you feel instantly welcomed and at peace. The atmosphere is very serene and clean and the customer service is outstanding.
Tina Dee
LET'S GET SOCIAL
MANCHESTER
EAST GRANBY
HARTFORD
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