Meet the Team

Mark Howarter, the founder of The Chiropractic Experience, has been a part of the chiropractic industry since 1999. He embarked on this journey shortly after graduating from chiropractic school. Born and raised in Garnett, a small town in Kansas, Mark grew up on a farm with his two brothers, nurtured by his parents, who were dedicated educators. Pursuing higher education was a given for Mark, instilled with a strong work ethic, honesty, and a sense of community from a young age.

Mark’s educational journey led him to Emporia State University, where he initially studied business management before making a life-changing discovery. While working in a machine shop during a summer break, he experienced debilitating back pain. Encouraged by his parents, Mark sought chiropractic care, despite knowing little about it. To his astonishment, the chiropractor’s adjustments provided immediate relief not only for his back but also for his severe allergies and psoriasis. This transformative experience inspired Mark to become a chiropractor.

He altered his career path and enrolled in Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas City. During his time at chiropractic school, Mark’s own health improved significantly as he received regular chiropractic care. His psoriasis vanished, and he abandoned allergy medications. This reinforced his unwavering commitment to chiropractic care.

Mark’s conviction that he was following the right path crystallized when he received his first chiropractic adjustment and felt the healing effects in his own body. As he began caring for patients during his chiropractic education, witnessing their remarkable recoveries further solidified his calling. This realization was underscored when he embarked on a mission trip to Guatemala, where he witnessed miracles through chiropractic care. Adjusting his own daughters after their birth further cemented his commitment.

Mark’s passion for chiropractic care extended beyond his local community. He embarked on mission trips to Ghana, West Africa, and Uganda, providing care to tens of thousands in need. During this period, he also felt a calling to seminary and earned a Master’s Degree in Ministry and Pastoral Leadership, aligning with his desire to love and serve both God and people.

In his professional journey, Mark obtained Pediatric and Webster Technique Certification from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, enabling him to care for pregnant mothers, infants, children, and families. He also acquired certifications in utilizing Insight Subluxation Station technology through Chiropractic Leadership Alliance, focusing on assessing neurological function and stress patterns.

Mark’s commitment to personalized care is reflected in his practice, offering various services from specific upper cervical chiropractic adjustments to custom orthotics, decompression, aqua massage, kinesiotaping, Theragun soft tissue care, and more. He also serves as a chiropractic consultant for Leander Tables, sharing his expertise and passion for chiropractic with practitioners and students nationwide.

Beyond his professional life, Mark cherishes his role as a husband to his wife of 20 years and a father to his two daughters. He maintains close ties with his extended family and enjoys spending quality time with them. An avid outdoorsman, he finds solace in activities such as bowhunting, fishing, hiking, and lake outings at his country home. Additionally, Mark is actively involved in his local church, where he serves as a director of men’s ministry, mentoring fathers and young men in his community. His love for travel takes him to the mountains and beaches, especially when accompanied by his cherished family.

Having joined the practice some years ago, Michelle has become an integral part of the team, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Born and raised in Lawrence, Michelle’s roots are firmly planted in this town since her parents moved here when she was just in second grade. Her educational background led her down a different path initially, as she delved into various aspects of accounting during phase one of her adult life. However, phase two allowed her the privilege of staying home to raise her two children, during which time she found joy in caring for other people’s babies for nearly fifteen years.

Now, in phase three of her life, Michelle has rediscovered her passion while working alongside Dr. Mark in the chiropractic practice. Her love for her role is evident every day, as she takes pleasure in knowing she has the opportunity to bring happiness and relief to those who walk through their doors. Michelle believes that their practice is not just about adjusting physical pain but also about providing emotional support and spiritual upliftment to their patients. She’s a firm believer in the power of small gestures, whether it’s a smile, a comforting hug, lending a listening ear, or keeping the little ones entertained so parents can fully enjoy their time with Dr. Mark.

Outside of her fulfilling career, Michelle boasts a 37-year-long marriage and two grown children. When she’s not at the office, she can be found indulging in her hobbies, including crocheting, getting lost in the pages of a good book, or embarking on shopping adventures. Michelle’s commitment to her work and her warm, caring nature make her an indispensable part of the Chiropractic Practice team, both inside and outside the office.