Jesse Otter, PTA, LMT

My Philosophy

“Our bodies’ ability to heal is far greater than anyone has led us to believe.” This is the foundation of my philosophy as a therapist. To look beyond the individual diagnosis in order to see the whole person, facilitating each patient's natural, inherent healing potential. I use a hands-on, holistic approach that balances the science of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics with the art of healing and renewal. Every patient that I work with is a gift to me. The education and perspective I glean from each dynamic, unique individual that graces my table is greater than anything that could ever be learned in a classroom. I thrive on helping people reconnect to their bodies and to themselves, beyond whatever limitations may be present at the moment, to remember all that their bodies ARE capable of.

My Background

I obtained my undergraduate degree in Plant Biology from Upper Iowa University in 2002 and spent the next eight years working in the organic and natural products industry. In 2010, I realized that what I truly longed for was a job that would allow me to make a difference in people’s lives. So, in 2011 I enrolled in Carlson College of Massage Therapy and began my second career as a massage therapist. In 2012 I took my first John Barnes Myofascial Release training and found my true calling. Since then, I’ve taken more than 300 hours of continuing education directly under John Barnes, becoming an expert-level myofascial release therapist.

In 2020 I enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Kirkwood Community College to expand my skill set to include retraining the body into healthier, more functional, and more energy-efficient movement. This also allows me to employ my manual therapy skills in the treatment of pelvic floor conditions, something that I’m very passionate about. While I love working with all patients, I’m especially drawn to working with those who experience chronic pain, have post-surgical adhesions, and cancer survivors with post-radiation fibrosis. When I’m not working, you can find me connecting with friends and family, on my yoga mat, frolicking in nature, dancing to live music, paddling on the water, or on my meditation cushion.