Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Henery.
Hi Karen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Currently, I am mom to my amazing 3-year-old daughter, along with co-owning and managing a large wellness center with 6 independent contractors on staff. We also have a remote Operations Assistant that supports our overall business operations and client retention. In 2024, we underwent a major renovation and rebrand along with a web site redesign, all of which I coordinated while maintaining daily operations and taking care of my daughter. In 2025, we were voted Best Spa by Pittsburgh Magazine readers, and Best Massage Therapist by Pittsburgh City Paper Readers. In 2026, we have the honor of being voted Best Massage Therapist and Finalist for Best Wellness Center by Pittsburgh Magazine readers!
Our wellness center is one of the largest acupuncture offices in the region, along with providing herbal medicine, massage therapy, manual therapy, holistic allergy elimination support, and fertility support. We also have the capacity to provide workshops and instruction on a variety of topics, including Chinese medicine, massage therapy, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Yoga, and other movement based activities. Each of our practitioners is an expert in their field and several of them have a minimum of 15 years in their practice. The practitioners’ extensive training and experience provide clients with treatment options and results unlike any other clinic in the area. We are also unique in that we have 6 approved providers on staff for the VA Health Care System Community Care program to provide acupuncture and massage therapy to local veterans.
Coming from a background in corporate PR, advertising, and hospital-based health care project management – the holistic medicine world is a very different place! The open-mindedness and wide range of practitioners and clients lends a different feel to daily life. Being able to support our practitioners in their ability to help clients find their healing journeys is rewarding. It keeps me on my toes and requires constant use of my entire brain – logic and creativity! I value this aspect of our business. I started out as a Licensed Massage Therapist and joined my husband – an acupuncturist – in ownership of the business in 2018. I became majority owner in 2025. My background versus the transition into the wellness industry may seem bizarre to some, but having the corporate skill set to manage a growing small business like ours has been detrimental in the past few years. I’m excited to see what we do next!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Navigating parenthood, economic fluctuations, and owning a business with my spouse! It can be very challenging to work, live, and parent together as there is very little space and things tend to overlap or interrupt often. It is a daily effort and reminder to remain present, set boundaries, and most of all – communicate. It is not possible to manage a business of any size without recognizing the importance of consistent, clear, and effective communication. Whether through natural development of the skill or intentionally taking workshops and training to build up a tool box to pull from. Effective communication can be mimicked by use of a template or script, but truly effective and authentic communication comes from a place of deeper connection to not just the people, but also the world around us. I’ve been fortunate throughout my life to receive mentors and peers that recommended or provided resources to me at moments when my ability to communicate was in need of improvement. Recognizing that others who care for us can provide valuable support without judgement or anger is a skill in and of itself, but those people are a blessing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
WAY Wellness Center embraces a comprehensive approach to health, blending time-honored traditions with contemporary techniques. Our mission is to treat each individual as a whole person capable of a vibrant and healthy existence. Our philosophy centers on addressing the root causes of health issues, rather than just alleviating symptoms. By harmonizing the body’s internal systems and enhancing overall well-being, we aim to promote long-term health and vitality. Our practitioners are dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a balanced and holistic path to wellness. We show you how to integrate the natural wisdom found in classical Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and massage therapy. Improve your health – body, mind, and spirit. Our team offers acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, SAAT, massage therapy, and intraoral massage.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We love collaborating with other holistic wellness focused businesses in every industry – from events to workshops, fundraisers, and more. Reach out to us with your idea or request. We can brainstorm for ideas on how to support the community by lifting everyone up around us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.waywellnesscenter.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/waywellnesscenter
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/waywellnesscenter
Image Credits
Julie Kahlbaugh
