Breana had an interest in massage from a young age. In adulthood, she experienced a massage that truly resonated with her and sent her down the path of becoming a Massage Therapist. While in school, she heard of Burke Williams and quickly found that the company aligned with her values and goals. Breana has held multiple positions within a company that has fostered her creativity and growth. Enjoy reading about her journey with Burke Williams.
Name: Breana Neil Joined: 2021
I have always enjoyed helping my family relax and feel better, which naturally led me to a passion for massage therapy. As an adult, I experienced a massage that truly resonated with me—it was a transformative moment. I became inspired to adopt a more holistic approach to well-being, not just for myself, but for others as well. That experience sparked my research into massage therapy, and I soon realized that this was the right path for me. It has been rewarding to embrace a lifestyle that allows me to help people wherever I go while fostering my own personal growth.
I attended McKinnon Body Therapy Center in Oakland, CA starting in 2019. I was drawn to their flexible, à la carte class options. I specialized in the Deep Tissue path complimented by an advanced course in pathology. My experience there was so enriching that I chose to take additional specialty courses including Reiki, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Shiatsu, oncology massage, cupping, and more. I also participated in workshops at Esalen in Big Sur, which further expanded my knowledge and skill set.
How were you first introduced to Burke Williams?
During massage school, Burke Williams frequently came up in conversations among students because of its stellar reputation. When I researched the company myself, I was captivated by its beautiful locations, extensive amenities, and commitment to ongoing professional development through its training programs. The elevated level of service that Burke Williams offers to both guests and employees really stood out to me, and I was eager to be a part of that.
What was the interview process like for you as a Massage Therapist? Any tips you could offer for someone who is thinking of applying?
The interview process was smooth and supportive. After submitting my application with references, including my massage professor, I was quickly contacted by Amy Flair, who made the entire process feel very welcoming. During the hands-on practical portion, I had the opportunity to meet James Doolittle, my future Massage Manager, who exemplified Burke Williams’ values of professionalism and care. His calm and thoughtful approach immediately made me feel at ease.
For those applying, I would suggest bringing your genuine passion for massage and a strong desire to be part of a team. Burke Williams is a family-owned business that deeply values its sense of community, so you can expect to be supported at every step.
You stepped into the Massage Trainer position in San Francisco. Why did you decide to interview for that position?
Becoming a Trainer was an exciting opportunity for me to help other therapists refine their techniques and explore new approaches to massage. I have always enjoyed providing personalized and high-quality services to guests, and the Trainer role allowed me to share my knowledge and elevate my own skills while helping others succeed.
You recently accepted the Massage Manager position in San Jose. What excited you about applying for the role?
I saw the Massage Manager position as a natural progression in my career, offering the chance to mentor and support other therapists while further deepening my connection to Burke Williams’ culture. This role allows me to integrate my academic background in communication with my hands-on massage experience, helping the team work more cohesively and efficiently. I’m excited to contribute to the development of others and to play a part in the continued success of the San Jose location.
What are you excited to bring to the Massage Manager role?
I’m excited to bring my enthusiasm and dedication to the role. With such a large and diverse massage team at San Jose, I’m eager to foster a strong sense of unity and support, empowering each therapist to grow and succeed. My goal is to cultivate an environment where both guests and team members thrive, delivering exceptional services and building lasting relationships within our community.
For you, what makes a great Massage Therapist?
A great massage therapist is someone who is passionate about their craft, humble, and deeply respectful of the human body. They possess strong communication skills—both verbal and non-verbal—and are attuned to their guests’ needs, often anticipating them before they’re expressed. Lastly, a great therapist is someone who contributes to the massage community, supporting and uplifting their peers, which helps maintain the integrity and growth of the profession as a whole.
You have had the opportunity to work at both our San Francisco location and our San Jose location. How would you describe each of them?
Burke Williams San Francisco is an incredible gem in the heart of downtown. Its location offers a stunning view of the iconic Dome in the SF City Center mall, and the spa itself is an oasis of tranquility. The management and staff there are both highly skilled and welcoming. The energy is a perfect mix of vibrant and relaxing, giving guests a seamless experience to unwind and enjoy their spa day. One of my favorite features is the cozy social lounge with its inviting fireplace, a perfect space to decompress.
The San Jose location is remarkable, with a close-knit, supportive team that fosters a collaborative work environment. I’ve been warmly welcomed, and the camaraderie among the staff is inspiring. Many of the therapists have been with the company for a long time, so there is a wealth of experience and insight to learn from. The Moroccan-inspired décor adds a fun, unique element that enhances the overall guest experience.