Dr. Dominique M. Carson: Passionate Massage & Wellness Expert

We caught up with Dr. Dominique M. Carson for her digital cover story. She is a dedicated massage therapist, educator, and wellness advocate passionate about therapeutic touch. With expertise in various massage modalities, she helps clients achieve balance, relief, and well-being. Beyond the massage table, she created T.R.I.B.E., a coloring book emphasizing respectful touch and massage therapy as essential healthcare. In this interview, she shares insights on personalized treatment, self-care, and common misconceptions.

You specialize in various massage modalities. How do you determine the best approach for a client, and what should individuals consider when choosing a massage therapist?
Before a session, I assess a client’s massage and medical history and review the consent form for contraindications. This helps determine the most suitable treatment. I encourage clients to customize sessions with add-ons like hot stones, CBD oil, or cupping. To find the right fit, I suggest booking with multiple therapists to see whose touch aligns best. Therapists must understand that even when they do everything right, their touch may not resonate with every client. Clients, in turn, should ensure their therapist is knowledgeable, professional, and eager to learn. When I became a therapist, I vowed never to bring my turmoil into sessions, as it would be a disservice to clients. Massage is a unique blend of care and expertise tailored to individual needs.

Many see massage as a luxury rather than a necessity. What are the biggest misconceptions, and how does massage contribute to wellness?

A major misconception is that massage is just about relaxation. It extends nursing principles by promoting holistic care, healing, and identifying clients’ physical and mental needs. Like nurses, massage therapists study subjects such as neurophysiology, psychology, kinesiology, and anatomy. Alongside scientific knowledge, therapists must be compassionate and nurturing—massage heals the body, soothes the soul, and calms the spirit. Massage is more than touch—a conversation between hands and soul, where tension fades and the spirit finds peace.

Your coloring book T.R.I.B.E. promotes respectful touch and massage therapy as complementary medicine. What inspired you to create it, and how do you hope it impacts the industry?

I love massage therapy—it’s both stress-relieving and deeply rooted in history. I wanted the book to introduce people to massage therapy as part of the STEM/STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Art). When I started, I dreamed of a massage therapy coloring book that truly represented my personality. After receiving recognition at the 2023 Author All-Star Awards, I spoke with graphic designer and author Dr. Lena Payton Webb, founder of Blu Impressions, about creating a coloring book that could serve as an educational tool while generating additional income. Within three months, I sold over 100 copies, and I plan to release an academic version of T.R.I.B.E. this summer.

Stress and chronic pain are common today. What self-care practices do you recommend between massage sessions?
Mental health has become increasingly important to me, especially after losing two high school friends before they turned 40. As a healthcare professional, I practice what I preach. Inspired by Stress Awareness Month, I created the acronym S.T.R.E.S.S: Seriously Tired, Running Everywhere, Sobbing Silently—reflecting the strain on our bodies. I call myself a “Wellness Athlete” because I must always deliver my best to clients. However, rest is crucial—stress relief is challenging when you’re self-harming, dehydrated, or lacking sleep. My self-care routine includes workouts, long walks, regular massages, unplugging from social media, and enjoying downtime twice a month.

Journalism & Storytelling You’ve interviewed over 100 influential figures in pop culture. What’s the key to crafting a compelling and insightful interview, and which interview has been the most memorable for you?
I’ve met several celebrities, but my favorite in-person interviews were with Charlie Wilson, Eddie Levert, the Isley Brothers, and Carlos Santana. Charlie Wilson and Eddie Levert hit home for me because my grandparents loved The O’Jays and The Gap Band. When I interviewed Eddie Levert, it felt like my grandfather was reincarnated—he was the closest thing to Gerald Levert. The Isley Brothers and Carlos Santana interview was also special because it took place at Electric Lady Studios, named after Jimi Hendrix’s song “Electric Ladyland.” I love interviewing legends because they paved the way for younger artists. My interviews with Charlie Wilson will always hold a special place in my heart, especially now that his longtime publicist, Juanita Stephens, has passed away. She gave me incredible opportunities to interview him as he transitioned into a solo career.