Rachel Smead, LMT - Co-Founder, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
My name is Rachel Smead, and I am the co-founder of Sabai Professional Massage Academy. My journey in massage therapy began immediately after high school when I attended the Montana School of Massage, graduating in 2004. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work across the globe—from Europe to various parts of the United States—and finally return to my beloved Montana.
Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to serving those who serve, spending the first six years working on military installations, then onto my own private practice, and the last four years focusing on veteran care through the VA. My specialty is chronic pain management, a field that resonates deeply with my passion for helping veterans. Yet, I also find immense joy in providing care to expecting mothers, offering them comfort during one of the most special times in their lives.
At Sabai, I’m thrilled to be bringing the gift of educated touch to the Bitterroot Valley. This fall, you’ll find me overseeing our student clinic, where I’m eager to share my experience and guide our students as they embark on their own journeys in massage therapy. For me, Sabai is more than just a place to teach—it’s a place to inspire, nurture, and elevate the next generation of massage therapists.
Karen L. Fisher, LMT, BCTMB - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Karen L. Fisher, LMT, BCTMB - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Originally from New York and raised in New Jersey, I relocated to Missoula, Montana, in 2008. I began my massage journey in 2003, graduating from Somerset School of Massage Therapy as Practical Valedictorian. I later earned my Board Certification with the NCBTMB in 2015.
Throughout my career, I've worked alongside renowned instructors like Brian Smith, serving the Rutgers Swimming and Diving team, and providing massage therapy for fundraising events like the Airline Ride Across America. Before moving to Montana, I ran my own massage practice in New Jersey, Body Essential Therapeutic Massage, for five years.
In Missoula, I taught Kinesiology, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massage at the Montana School of Massage for several years. My passion for continuous learning has led me to certifications in Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, and Reiki, as well as specialized training in Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
Outside the classroom, I’m an avid runner and horse enthusiast. I've competed in over 20 half marathons in national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, and I’m excited to explore Montana’s landscape through various outdoor activities. I’m also a certified equine sport massage therapist, reflecting my deep love for both human and animal well-being.
At Sabai, I’m thrilled to pass on my knowledge and passion to the next generation of massage therapists.
Madeline Strong, DPT - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Madeline Johnson is a Montana native and Doctor of Physical Therapy with over 10 years of experience in the field. She earned her doctorate from the University of Montana in 2017 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fitness Evaluation and Programming from Boise State University. Her practice is focused on manual therapies and exercise prescription, with specialized training in oncology rehabilitation and lymphedema management.
Madeline has completed advanced education through the Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy, allowing her to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of physical conditions. She also integrates dry needling into her practice, a technique she finds particularly effective in improving pain, function, and mobility.
Madeline and her husband Todd live in the Bitterroot Valley, where they enjoy the great outdoors, from cross-country skiing in the winter to paddleboarding in the summer. In her free time, she loves photography, travel, gardening, and exploring everything Montana has to offer.
