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Get to know Barbara Calahan, Owner and Founder of Mariposa Massage & Healing Center

Headshot of Barbara Calahan

A Journey of Transformation and Healing 

Barbara Calahan's life is a remarkable story of courage, resilience, and dedication to helping others. Raised in an Amish community, Barbara made the difficult decision in 1995 to leave behind the only life she had known in search of a new path. Her journey took her from Ohio to Pennsylvania, and eventually to Montana, where she went to massage school in Bozeman, Montana and upon graduation, founded Mariposa Massage & Healing Center LLC in Helena.


Early Life and Education 

Barbara grew up in an Amish community in northeastern Ohio, embracing the simple, traditional lifestyle of her upbringing. In 1995, feeling the need to explore a different way of life, she made the decision to leave her community. This significant choice marked the beginning of a new chapter that has since led to many additional chapters that at some point will show up in the cumulation of her life’s story in her book she is currently working on. She got her GED in 1996 after moving to Pennsylvania and briefly attended the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville, seeking higher education and broader horizons. During her time in Pennsylvania, Barbara embarked on multiple evangelistic mission trips to Brazil, Guatemala, and Haiti, which deepened  her faith and commitment to helping others and expanding her understanding of global communities.


Helping Others and Starting a Family 

After her time in Pennsylvania, Barbara returned to Ohio for a year, where she assisted in initiating a GED program for Amish individuals transitioning out of their communities for the ministry Mission to Amish People. Her passion for education and support for those in similar situations highlighted her commitment to making a positive impact. Barbara's journey then led her to Lexington, Kentucky, where she married in 2003 and welcomed her first child. When her daughter was 10 months old, the family relocated to Texas. In Texas, Barbara embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom and welcomed her second child. However, after 9 1/2 years, she and her husband separated, leading to a divorce.


New Beginnings 

As a single mother, Barbara moved to Denver, Colorado in 2013, with her daughters. Navigating the challenges of single parenthood, she entered her daughters into private school and returned to the workforce as an in-home caretaker for the elderly. After several years in Colorado, Barbara decided to pursue a new career path in massage therapy, a field that aligned with her passion for holistic health and wellness.


Establishing Mariposa Massage & Healing Center LLC

Barbara moved to Helena, Montana in 2015 to attend massage school, a decision that would pave the way for her future success. After completing a 1000-hour program at HealthWorks in Bozeman, Montana, she founded Mariposa Massage & Healing Center LLC in October 2016. Located in Helena, Montana, Mariposa Massage has become a sanctuary for those seeking holistic healing and wellness. Under Barbara's leadership, Mariposa Massage offers a range of therapeutic services, including therapeutic massage, clinical massage, vibroacoustic therapy, detox foot baths and aromatherapy. Her commitment to personalized care and her holistic approach have made Mariposa a leader in the industry and sought after destination for clients seeking stress relief,  pain management and rejuvenation.


Barbara Calahan's Legacy and Impact 

Barbara Calahan's journey from her Amish roots to becoming a successful business owner and healer is a testament to her resilience, compassion, and dedication to helping others. Her life story is one of transformation and empowerment, inspiring those around her to pursue their own paths to wellness and fulfillment. Today, Barbara continues to grow Mariposa Massage & Healing Center, LLC, making a positive impact on the lives of her therapists, clients and the Helena community. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to forge a new path and create a life dedicated to healing and service.


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