By: Pam Perry PR
In a world where healing takes many shapes, Dr. Dominique Carson emerges as a distinctive presence, blending the art of therapeutic touch with the power of her storytelling. An award-winning author, massage practitioner, and communicator, Dominique’s path reflects resilience, faith, and meaningful purpose. From growing up in East New York to establishing a mobile massage service, she has encountered numerous obstacles and grown through them, offering inspiration to those around her. In this interview, Dominique shares her personal journey, thoughtful perspectives on success, and the heart behind her work.
Q. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story? How did you get to where you are today?
I am an award-winning author, journalist, massage practitioner, and orator, born and raised in East New York, Brooklyn. My mother and grandmother, the late Eloise Grant, inspired me to be strong, ambitious, steadfast, and diligent. After reading Psalm 23 and the book Emma and Mommy Talk to God, I learned the importance of acknowledging and having a relationship with God.
My grandmother, cousins, Jacob (also known as my Irish twin), and the late Hassan Brown, as well as my late Uncle Ricky, all encouraged me to pursue a career that utilized my hands, which eventually led me to massage therapy. I recalled my mother’s words about the craftsmanship of my pudgy hands and my uncle’s expertise in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
My uncle and cousins, Niani and Fatima, also encouraged me to channel my words onto paper and write as an emotional support tool. Writing became a way for me to cope and find solace during some difficult moments of my childhood.
Q. I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
I have faced numerous challenges but have approached them with resilience and gratitude, which have shaped the foundation of my career and inspired me to lead with compassion and grace.
Some of the difficulties I’ve encountered include a hearing deficiency, chronic asthma, pediatric trigger thumbs, abuse of a child’s innocence, paternal abandonment, a near-fatal car accident in February 2023, layoffs, inconsistency of work as a media analyst, navigating my career as a massage practitioner after the pandemic, losing high school friends to health issues and suicide, and several losses of family members, including my late uncle Ricky in May 2025. My uncle encouraged me to develop my storytelling skills and supported my journey as a massage practitioner.
Q. Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in, and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I am a licensed massage practitioner who offers customized mobile therapeutic massages designed to help executives with muscle recovery and stress relief within two hours or less. I aim to bring wellness directly to your doorstep, creating moments of calm and restoration even in a busy lifestyle.
Mani Benedette focuses on connection rather than just convenience, with the slogan, “Soothe Your Pain, Establish Your Peace,” one session at a time. Each massage is intended to provide a meaningful experience of healing, restoration, integrity, and purpose.
For nearly six years, I have refined my techniques to deliver highly personalized therapeutic sessions, focusing on reducing stress and supporting muscle recovery.
Q. What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success?
If you want to fly like an eagle, it’s important to surround yourself with supportive and inspiring influences rather than distractions. Allowing God to guide the events in your life can provide a meaningful sense of direction. Success is rarely straightforward; it’s a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and effort. I have reached many milestones and continue to learn as I transition to full-time self-employment. Success can be a powerful response to doubt, demonstrating through accomplishments what others may have overlooked.
That said, at some point, success is less about proving anything to others and more about affirming your own potential and seeking continual guidance from God. If you rely solely on external approval, it can lead to disappointment. Being your own advocate when others question your gifts, talents, plans, or purpose is essential.
Q. Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
To me, success is not primarily about awards or recognition. It is about deepening your relationship with God, understanding yourself, inspiring others, and fulfilling your true calling or purpose.
A quote that resonates with me is:
“Every rose has its thorn, but the beauty of the flower makes the pain worth it in the end,” reflecting how some of my most meaningful achievements came after challenging and discouraging times.
As I’ve grown, I realized that both sunshine and rain are necessary for growth. For a long time, fear of failure held me back, but focusing intensely on my goals and seeking God’s guidance has made the rewards more meaningful. Accepting discomfort as part of growth has been an important lesson.
Photo: Unsplash.com
Q. What’s next for you?
I officially launched my mobile massage business, Mani Benedette, which translates to Blessed Hands in Italian, in early spring. I plan to serve clients in Virginia, New York City, my hometown, and other cities during special events. I will also be applying for grants to help support the business. I continue to work independently as a massage provider for companies and collaborate with other therapists on future projects.
My adult massage therapy coloring book, T.R.I.B.E., has received several award nominations and will be released in an educational and academic version this summer. Other projects for 2026 include being featured in a docuseries and participating in collaborative books titled Mind Over Matter and Boss Moves in Las Vegas, Nevada.
On the editorial front, I continue freelancing for various publications and will have two billboards this summer recognizing my work in health and journalism. My music book pitch advanced to the finals for the 33 1/3 book series, which highlights musical artists and signature albums. There are many more opportunities ahead, and I am grateful to be moving forward with purpose.
Q. Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
You can access my free checklist, “8 Tips to Consider Before Getting a Massage,” by visiting www.tipsmassage.com.
People can also text “Massage” to 908-845-5394 to learn more about my massage services and upcoming events.
Social Media Information and Portfolio:
- Professional Portfolio: https://dominiquecarson.contently.com/
- Twitter: twitter.com/domcarson
- Facebook: facebook.com/dmc922
- Instagram: instagram.com/domcarson90
- LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drdominiquemcarson
