Meet the Team

At the heart of Art of Massage Institute is a team of passionate, experienced instructors dedicated to shaping the next generation of massage therapists. Each member of our teaching staff brings not only deep knowledge of anatomy, technique, and holistic wellness—but also a genuine commitment to student success. Our instructors don’t just teach massage; they mentor, encourage, and lead by example. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or returning to deepen your skills, you’re in the hands of educators who believe in the power of touch and the importance of compassion. Get to know the people who make our school a place of growth, healing, and lifelong learning.

IMG_2115 2.JPG
  • Jessica Amparan
  • Founder, Dreamer, Mentor

Jessica Amparan stepped into the world of massage therapy at just 20 years old with a simple but powerful dream: to build a life of freedom, flexibility, and purpose. In 2002, she enrolled in massage school with no roadmap—just a determination to create something of her own. By 2003, she became a licensed massage therapist, and Jessica’s Massage Spa was born.

What started with one table and one client at a time has now grown into one of the most successful and respected massage spas in East Texas. Through grit, faith, and relentless dedication, Jessica built her business from the ground up—learning every detail of the industry and leading with integrity. Today, she oversees a thriving spa filled with an incredible team of licensed massage therapists who share her mission to bring healing, excellence, and heart to their work.

But her greatest role? Momma. Jessica is a proud mother of four beautiful children and a devoted foster parent, regularly welcoming little ones into her family’s arms and home. Every business decision has been built around this calling—to live a life that prioritizes presence, purpose, and love.

Now, as the founder of Art of Massage Institute, Jessica is passionate about passing that vision on to her students. She’s created a school where future therapists aren’t just trained—they’re empowered. With a handpicked team of expert instructors and a heart for mentorship, Jessica is helping others build the kind of life and career they once only dreamed about.

Because it is possible. And she’s living proof.

Untitled.jpeg
  • Shannon
  • Director

Shannon serves as the dedicated School Director at Art of Massage Institute and is a full-time Licensed Massage Therapist at Jessica’s Massage Spa. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Shannon is a passionate educator and lifelong learner. She graduated from the Lauterstein-Conway Massage School in 1997 and has since built an impressive resume of advanced certifications, including Reiki Master, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Trigger Point Therapy, Reflexology, Hot Stone Massage, Aromatherapy, and more.

Shannon’s teaching style is rooted in clinical precision, anatomical understanding, and a deep respect for the healing process. She empowers students to think critically, work intentionally, and remain endlessly curious—key ingredients for a lasting and effective massage therapy career.

IMG_4563.jpeg
  • Stephanie
  • Licensed Massage Therapist & Instructor

Stephanie brings over a decade of hands-on experience and a deep passion for the art of massage therapy to the classroom. As both a Licensed Massage Therapist and a Licensed Massage Therapy Instructor, she specializes in deep tissue work and excels at turning complex concepts into practical, real-world applications.

Stephanie’s teaching style is both approachable and engaging, creating a learning environment where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered. Her combination of technical expertise and genuine care equips future therapists with the knowledge and confidence they need to thrive. She is wholeheartedly committed to helping each student uncover their unique strengths and grow into skilled, compassionate professionals in this meaningful field.

Untitled.jpeg
  • Briana
  • Licensed Massage Therapist & Instructor

is a highly skilled Licensed Massage Therapist and Massage Therapy Instructor with a passion for helping others heal and thrive through the power of therapeutic touch. While she specializes in lymphatic drainage—a gentle yet powerful modality that supports the body’s natural detoxification and healing—her knowledge and experience extend far beyond that single technique.

With a multi-disciplinary approach to bodywork, Briana brings a wide range of skills to the classroom and the treatment room. Her well-rounded training allows her to customize care for each client and offer students a broad foundation in both technique and intuition.

As an instructor, Briana is intentional, patient, and deeply invested in her students’ success. She encourages curiosity, clinical understanding, and hands-on confidence, equipping future therapists with the tools they need to make a lasting impact in the field of massage therapy.

My project.png
  • Mark
  • Licensed Massage Therapist & Thai Massage Instructor

With over a decade of hands-on experience and a deep-rooted passion for the healing arts, Mark brings unmatched expertise to the classroom as our Thai Massage Instructor. For the past 12 years, Mark has devoted his practice to mastering Thai Massage. His commitment to authenticity and excellence has led him to Thailand multiple times, where he completed extensive and immersive training.

Mark has studied under more than 14 distinguished teachers and has provided nearly 6,000 hours of Thai Massage sessions. His approach blends traditional techniques with a modern understanding of the body, creating a dynamic and transformative learning experience for students. As both a Licensed Massage Therapist and Licensed Massage Therapy Instructor, Mark is passionate about passing on the art, philosophy, and therapeutic power of Thai Massage to the next generation of healers.

Hear What Our Students Are Saying

“Thankful for their support!”

“Art of Massage Institute has been an incredible place to learn—supportive, hands-on, and truly focused on student success. The instructors are passionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely care about helping you become the best therapist you can be.”

— Proud AMI Graduate

“I feel prepared and empowered!”

“I came to AMI with a dream, and I’m leaving with the confidence and skills to make it a reality. The instructors truly care about each student’s growth and make learning both challenging and rewarding.”

— Proud AMI Graduate