ABOUT US
Helping you become your healthiest, most vibrant self—inside and out.
Our mission is to support the whole person by blending mental health counseling with practices like yoga, fitness training, nutrition guidance, and more. We believe true wellness starts within, and lasting growth comes from addressing the challenges that shape your habits and self-perception. Inner Fitness is a safe, judgment-free space where you’re free to be authentic, feel supported, and explore meaningful change.
Our Founder
Valarie James,
LMSW, MPH, 200HR RYT
She/Her
Valarie James is a licensed Master’s Social Worker. She received her Bachelors from Grand Valley State University in Public Administration and a dual Masters from Michigan State University in Social Work and Public Health. She is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and 200HR Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. Valarie’s goal is to bridge the gap between mental health and physical movement through her practice of what she calls “Inner Fitness.” Valarie has a variety of experiences working with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, and older adults of diverse populations. She has a passion for assisting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues and mood disorders. Valarie strives to make mental health services and the ability to heal accessible for all without the fear of feeling judged. Her goal is to make every client feel respected, supported, and empowered regardless of background.
Audre Robison,
Licensed Massage Therapist
Audre joined the world of massage therapy after completing her program at Lansing Community College in 2010. Over the years, she has studied and practiced a wide variety of modalities, including Swedish massage, deep tissue techniques, myofascial release, cupping, prenatal massage, and many more.
She believes in supporting all bodies on their wellness journey, but her deepest passion lies in prenatal massage. Having experienced the journey of pregnancy twice herself, Audre understands both the joys and the challenges it can bring. She is committed to helping expectant mothers find relief, comfort, and relaxation during this special time.
Audre looks forward to welcoming you to the table and providing care that leaves you feeling refreshed, restored, and renewed.
Emily Welles,
Registered Dietitian (RD)
Emily has been a Registered Dietitian (RD) for 10 years with a variety of experience. She started her schooling at Michigan State University and graduated with a bachelor's of science in dietetics. She completed a 10 month clinical focused internship at University of Michigan Hospital. Emily completed her master's degree at Grand Valley State University in Clinical Dietetics with research focused on improving eating disorder care in Michigan.
Emily started her career working in mental health at Hope Network while also gaining experience in eating disorders at the Comprehensive Treatment for Eating Disorders (CTED) private practice. In 2022 she transitioned to owning her own private practice (Emily Welles Nutrition LLC) working with clients who struggle with eating disorders. Emily also worked full time as a Diabetes Educator in the adult diabetes and has 4+ years of experience working with patients living with Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes.
Emily has been involved in the dietetics community as part of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics boards, Michigan Academy member and nominating committee and Dietitians of West Michigan member, secretary, social media chair and president. She current sits on the Michigan Eating Disorder Alliance (MiEDA) board.
Emily is a compassionate, person-centered clinician. She values active listening, support and collaboration.
Morgan Kline,
E-RYT 500, YACEP
Morgan first turned to yoga as a way to recover from competitive sports, but it wasn’t until her early twenties that she began to feel the deeper pull of the practice. What started as a physical outlet quickly became a lifelong path of self-inquiry, healing, and empowerment. After falling in love with the transformative power of hot yoga, she completed her 200-hour training in April 2020. Her teaching journey continued with a 300-hour advanced training in Costa Rica in 2022—and hasn’t slowed down since.
With nearly six years of experience and over 2,000 hours of teaching across boutique studios, private sessions, international and domestic retreats, workshops, and teacher trainings, Morgan brings depth, warmth, and authenticity to every class she leads. She holds the designation of E-RYT 500 and is known for her grounded yet playful presence that encourages students to explore their edges and uncover their inner strength.
Expect to sweat, smile, and grow. Whether she’s leading a fiery vinyasa in a heated room or bringing the metaphorical heat through intelligent sequencing and soulful intention, Morgan’s classes are designed to meet you where you are—and remind you of the power already within. Her mission is simple but profound: to guide others in creating an abundant life fueled by strength, courage, and inner peace.
