Wellness leadership: the future is therapist-led says Lasse Eriksen

Farris Bad's development manager proposes a new solution to the ongoing challenges of retention and fair compensation in the spa sector

Norway

By Wendy Golledge

08 May 2025

farrisbad.no/

As development director at Farris Bad, one of the largest spas in the Nordic region, since 2011, Lasse Erikson has vast experience at the coalface of spa and wellness operations.

Here he reflects on the ongoing industry challenges of retention and fair compensation, and explains why he has developed a new strategy, celebrating therapist expertise in order to retain his best people.

“At Farris Bad, we believe in the transformative power of knowledge – and in the people who hold it. In an industry often shaped by standardised treatments, we’re shifting the focus back to where the real magic happens: the therapist,” he says.

“Their hands, their experience, their energy, these are what create unforgettable guest experiences.

“Our therapists are not only leaders within our resort but active participants in international events and competitions. Now, we’re taking that excellence one step further.”

Smiling man in sauna hat with towel over his shoulder

"By championing a personalised approach in treatments, we foster a culture of recognition and respect. Therapists are empowered to take ownership of their work, which boosts job satisfaction and supports long-term retention."

Lasse Eriksen

Development manager, Farris Bad

Celebrating therapist expertise

“We have recently introduced specialist treatments that represent the very best of what each therapist has to offer,” continues Eriksen.

“The collection of exclusive 75-minute treatments are created and performed by therapists with 10, 20 and even 30 years of experience.

“These are not treatments written in a manual. They are deeply personal journeys, shaped by each therapist’s unique training, philosophy and passion. Their skill has been refined through years of practice and a deep connection to their craft.

“This shift honours individuality, supports specialisation and puts the therapist’s identity at the centre of the guest experience.”

Farris Bad has a 2,500sqm spa and is the only hotel in the Nordics established on a genuine mineral-rich spring

Benefits beyond the treatment room

“By championing a personalised approach, I believe we are fostering a culture of recognition and respect at Farris Bad.

“Guests benefit from treatments that are crafted with authenticity, intention and mastery, and go far beyond the expected. Therapists are empowered to take ownership of their work, which boosts job satisfaction and supports long-term retention.

“These bespoke treatments cost an additional 20 Euros, which goes directly to the therapist, acknowledging the value of their expertise and rewarding their commitment to excellence.

“This evolution mirrors what we’ve already seen in disciplines like yoga, where clients seek out specific instructors for their unique knowledge, energy, insight and presence. At Farris Bad, we believe spa guests will – some already do – increasingly seek the same.”

A man providing a hammam treatment — An authentic Turkish Hammam ceremony developed by Georgi, who has over 30 years of experience as a therapist

Facing challenges with integrity

“Naturally, this model brings challenges. If a therapist is unavailable, their treatment simply cannot be replicated,” adds Eriksen.

“But I don’t consider this a flaw, it’s a feature. It highlights the authenticity and irreplaceability of the experience. In these instances, guests are offered the resort’s high-standard classic massages, ensuring they still receive outstanding care.

“We envision a future where therapists are celebrated as artists of wellness; where their growth is nurtured, their individuality respected and their passion shared.

“This is more than a new service offering. It is a statement of values. The future is not about one-size-fits-all treatments. The future is personal. The future is therapist-led. And it’s already begun.”

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