Leading a Spa: Beyond Management, Into the Heart of Wellness

Does Being a Therapist Make a Difference in Spa Leadership?

The Spa Manager’s Role: A World of Strategy, Hospitality, and Leadership

Managing a spa is a universe in itself, an intricate balance of hospitality, wellness, strategy, and leadership. As a Spa Manager and therapist with over 20 years of experience, one question often arises in our industry: Do you need to be a therapist to effectively lead a spa?

My answer is nuanced. While being a therapist is not a strict requirement, having firsthand experience in the treatment room offers an indispensable advantage for gaining a holistic view of the business.

The Heart of a Spa: Crafting the Client Experience

A spa is far more than a physical space offering services; it is a sanctuary of wellness where every detail—from the fragrance in the air to the temperature in the room—shapes the client’s perception. Understanding this experience is critical, and that understanding becomes extraordinary when you’ve walked the client’s journey from the inside.

Having started as a therapist and later transitioned into a Spa Manager, I have experienced every aspect of spa operations: preparing treatment rooms, performing therapies, and assisting clients at the front desk. These experiences provided me with a unique perspective, enabling me to understand not only client needs, but also the challenges faced by the team.

When you’ve been in the treatment room, you understand the physical and emotional effort required for a full day of therapies. You recognize the importance of an adjustable table, the choice of the right oil, and the ability to interpret a client’s body language. This practical knowledge has not only helped me make better managerial decisions but has also earned me the trust and respect of my team.

The Power of Education in Spa Management

While my experience as a therapist provided valuable tools, I also had to invest in my education in areas like revenue management, wellness business leadership, and strategic planning to advance in my career.

Running a spa requires a delicate balance between technical expertise and managerial skills. Without complementary training, it’s difficult to tackle critical aspects such as profitability, customer retention, or motivating a multidisciplinary team.

A Spa Manager must be both a strategist who translates the client experience into numbers and results, and a leader who fosters a collaborative and inspiring work environment.

Empathetic Leadership in the Wellness Industry

Leadership in wellness is unique. It’s not just about managing—it’s about leading with empathy and inspiring a team whose mission is to care for others.

I firmly believe that a leader must “get their hands dirty” from time to time: step into the treatment room, prepare therapies, and interact directly with clients. This not only connects the Spa Manager to the essence of the business but also earns profound respect from the team. Leaders who understand the work from within make decisions with a sensitivity that benefits both the staff and the clients.

Leadership Rooted in Holistic Understanding

Yes, I believe a Spa Manager should understand the work in the treatment room to have a comprehensive view of the spa. Experiencing roles such as therapist, receptionist, or spa attendant firsthand allows leaders to go beyond numbers and procedures, managing with a holistic perspective.

A Spa Manager who speaks the language of wellness from within can connect better with their team, empathize with clients, and make more informed decisions. It’s not about being a therapist forever, but about having had that experience to truly understand what it means to provide wellness.

Ultimately, leading a spa is more than just a job, it’s a commitment to excellence, the team, and, above all, the client.