Meet Jacquelyn Fanno
Certified Massage Therapist. Master Educator. Founder of Eros & Essence.
Twenty years ago I fell in love with two things at the same time: healing bodies and teaching people how to do it. I have spent every year since doing both — and I have never looked back.
I am Jacquelyn Fanno, a California-certified massage therapist (CAMTC #25356), a professional member of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, and the founder of Eros & Essence — a private wellness sanctuary in Tarzana, California, where clinical expertise meets the art of healing touch.
Where It Began
In 2006 I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a B.S. in Health Sciences and from Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology with a Certificate of Massage Therapy.
My early years took me through exceptional environments — The Ritz Carlton, physical therapy centers, five sports teams at UCF, and backstage on tour with performing artists and their crews.
Building the Next Generation of Healers
My teaching career began at Keiser University in Orlando, Florida, where I served as University Department Chair and Program Coordinator from 2007 to 2011 — overseeing the massage therapy programs across all six of Keiser's Florida campuses. I instructed the full 1,000-hour Associate in Arts Massage Core, including Anatomy & Physiology, Pathology, Kinesiology, Sports Massage, and Legal & Ethical Business Practices. My students consistently achieved an 80% MBLex pass rate and 100% NCETMB pass rate under my instruction.
When I relocated to California, I joined Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi) in Reseda, rising from Lead Instructor and Director of Special Events to Director of Education — a role in which I oversaw faculty development, curriculum, academic compliance, and the full educational operations of the massage therapy program. I ensured the school met all State of California educational standards and all accrediting agency requirements.
Over more than 15 years in higher education, I taught students aged 18 to 80, adapted my instruction for blind students and those navigating language barriers, and mentored faculty across multiple institutions. I did not just teach massage therapy. I helped build the programs that trained an entire generation of California and Florida therapists.
“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.”
Clinical Specializations
My clinical work goes beyond relaxation massage. With 20+ years of hands-on practice, I specialize in conditions that many therapists turn away:
Medical Massage
Russian Medical technique targeting the root cause of dysfunction — not just symptoms. Clinically structured sessions designed around your specific condition and history.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Specialized soft tissue work targeting nerve and vascular compression between the collarbone and first rib — relieving referred pain, tingling, and weakness in the arm and hand.
Sciatica & Lower Back
Clinical deep tissue and myofascial protocols addressing lumbar dysfunction, piriformis syndrome, and sciatic nerve irritation — for lasting relief, not temporary comfort.
TMJD & Carpal Tunnel
Targeted intraoral jaw release and forearm work for tension headaches, jaw pain, and wrist compression — conditions that many therapists decline to treat.
Why I Built Eros & Essence
After years in institutional settings, I wanted to create something entirely mine — a space where clinical precision and healing connection could coexist without compromise.
Eros & Essence opened in Tarzana in March 2026. One practitioner. One client. Full attention. This is the culmination of everything I have learned about healing, teaching, and human connection.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Whether you are booking your first session or returning for ongoing care, I am honored to be part of your healing journey.