Frequently Asked Questions

I schedule all appointments through PocketSuite. Schedule yourself online!

All sessions are by appointment, so I do not accept walk-ins. I do not accept same-day appointments.

No! Unlike chain massage locations, you will receive the full amount of treatment time that you pay for. You are not charged for the intake and interview process, or the time it takes you to dress. This is, of course, dependent upon your timely arrival. Please arrive as much as 15 minutes early so we can get you on the table at the appointed start time to relax, talk about your goals for the session, and get on the table.

I'm the only massage therapist in the practice, so a couples' massage is a back-to-back booking, not simultaneous. 

Please arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment. Time for your appointment has been specially arranged for you. If you arrive late, your session will end at the scheduled time. Full payment for your scheduled services will be expected.  

 If you need to reschedule your appointment, you can log into your account and make changes anytime. There is a link in your confirmation notification to do so. For late notice cancellations, please contact me as soon as possible.

Cancellations without 24 hour notice may result in a full charge for your session, as that time has been set aside specifically for you. 

I accept cash, Venmo, PayPal, credit card, and gift certificates. 

A credit or debit card is required to reserve your appointment, however you are not charged for anything until after the appointment is completed.  When it's time to pay, you may choose another form of payment.

A processing fee is added to credit card and PayPal payments.

I do not bill insurance. You can pay with FSA and HSA cards, though!

Tipping is neither required nor expected, but of course I appreciate the gesture! 

The best appreciation you can show is by referring family and friends to me and letting them know about the amazing benefits of massage therapy! (If you make a referral, you get $20 via venmo or PayPal after they have their first appointment if they mention you as their referral source!)

The massage I offer integrates techniques from different modalities and approaches. Instead of you choosing a single type of massage from a dropdown list, which even I often find confusing, we'll talk about your goals and agree to a treatment plan that can support you in achieving them. 

As with most things in life, there is seldom one, right answer. Massage and bodywork are the same. I'll draw from my entire toolbox every time you're on the table.

For more information about what to expect during your appointment, please read about Your First Visit. 

You don't need to necessarily shower right before your massage, but I do ask that you come to your appointments clean and free of heavily fragranced personal care products. I will have a few "freshen up" items available for you in case you feel you need them. I am not, however, offended by bodies or the natural consequences of a day's work. Please don't stress about it.

This depends on your comfort level, first and foremost. If you're not comfortable, you'll not be able to relax and enjoy the full benefit of your massage session.

Many people prefer to be completely nude when they receive a massage, while others prefer to keep their underwear on. It's completely up to you, and you are encouraged to undress to your level of comfort.
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Tight-fitting or bulky undergarments can sometimes get in the way of the massage, especially if your problem areas are the low-back, glutes, or hips. Folks usually remove their bras so no straps are in the way of back and shoulder massage.

As a licensed massage therapist, I am legally required to ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Genitals will never be exposed, and only the area actively being massaged will be uncovered at any given time.

Situate yourself on the table however feels comfortable. During the session, I will move your limbs and adjust your head and neck for massage, and I will usually put them back how you had them. You don't have to keep them where I put them. You don't have to stay stationary. You also don't have to help me move your limbs. Let them go, and I will give them back when I'm done. If you're struggling to do so, I may offer some verbal instruction to relax, let me have your leg or arm, or ask you to resist me gently in an effort to convince your body it doesn't have to work.

I need you to openly communicate with me about your preferences and comfort. If anything needs to be adjusted, or if I am almost (but not quite) getting the right spot, just speak up and let me know right away!
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However, it is a myth that massage therapy needs to hurt in order to be effective. Some of the most effective techniques involve very light, gentle touch. Often, too much pressure can cause muscles to tighten further, and detract from the effectiveness of your treatment. 

The best situation is one in which we are both communicating, being clear in the moment. I do tend to be quiet during a session, so don't wait for me to ask before you speak up. I cannot emphasize enough how important communication is.

You will experience the greatest benefits from your session if you just allow yourself to become quiet and relaxed, which also helps your massage therapist focus on providing a great massage!

Definitely communicate with your therapist if you feel any pain or discomfort, if you have any concerns during your massage, or if there is anything your massage therapist can do to make you more comfortable. Some types of massage that work on deep layers of muscle and tissue, such as deep tissue or sports massage, will require more feedback to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable. 

And, sometimes, a session is more chatty than usual. You'll set the tone there. This entire experience is for you!

No. If you are feeling sick, you should not have a massage.

A massage will likely just make you feel worse. I don't want to get sick, as there is no PTO for a small business owner. Even if you are giving less than a 24 hour notice, I prefer you reschedule your appointment if you are feeling unwell, so let me know as soon as possible. You won't be charged for the session, in this case, unless it becomes a regular occurance.  

Not all types of massage are appropriate for all conditions or in all situations. Many health conditions may require gentler forms of massage therapy or more specialized techniques and treatment plans. In many cases, we can come up with a treatment plan that will work for you and your health situation. ​​Even some prescribed or over-the-counter medications can contraindicate receiving certain types of massage therapy. Be sure to list any medications you are taking, and inform your therapist of any changes since your last visit.

​In some situations, I may request your physician's consent and recommendations before performing massage.It is important for you to fully complete your Health History form and keep me up to date on your condition.  

​Be sure to let me know if you have:

• Any acute injury from a recent accident such as whiplash, sprains, or other soft tissue damage. 
• Swelling or edema.
• Acute conditions such as flared-up psoriasis, eczema, or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, prominent varicose veins, osteoporosis, or any other serious medical conditions.   

It's a great idea to give yourself some additional time after your massage to continue relaxing and to allow your body to fully absorb the benefits of massage. Drink plenty of water, and prioritize some time for yourself. If you have the option of an epsom salt bath, foot soak, or towel application, do it. It's a great way to help your body recover from the work, and it's a great way to relax!

Yes, it's ok to exercise after a massage, but most people prefer to stay relaxed. It's good to give yourself some down time between massage and exercise.

*If you are competing or heading to a strenuous activity, let me know, and I can end your session with sports massage techniques that will set you up for a better experience.

This very often happens during a massage and is nothing to be embarrassed about. Just take it as a sign you are enjoying the relaxation!  

Of course! I don’t want you lying there uncomfortable and preoccupied, so feel free to take care of it. I have tissues nearby, and the bathroom is closeby, as well. I will have a robe available for the latter, so you won't have to get dressed and undressed again.

Yes, please let me know right away. 

If you are uncomfortable laying face down, or in any other position, let me know. Bolsters and towels can be used to make you as comfortable as possible, and I can also do much of the work with you on your side. This goes for any reason you might not be comfortable in a given position on the table.

Please refrain from using recreational drugs or alcohol at least 4 hours before your appointment. Please refrain from using tobacco as long as you can before your massage. Even some prescription or over the counter medications can contraindicate massage, so communicate with me about that. 

Yes, absolutely let me know if you do not want to be touched in a specific area or in a certain way. You don’t have to give me any details, and you have the right to ask to take a break or end your massage all together at any time, for any reason. I want to do all I can to make sure you know you are safe in my space and on my table. You are in control, and I want you to exercise that control in every way that allows you to receive therapeutic benefit from our session.

Not all types of massage are appropriate for all conditions or in all situations. Many health conditions may require gentler forms of massage therapy or more specialized techniques and treatment plans. In many cases, we can come up with a treatment plan that will work for you and your health situation. ​​Even some prescribed or over-the-counter medications can contraindicate receiving certain types of massage therapy. Be sure to list any medications you are taking, and inform your therapist of any changes since your last visit.

​In some situations, I may request your physician's consent and recommendations before performing massage.It is important for you to fully complete your Health History form and keep me up to date on your condition.  

​Be sure to let me know if you have:

• Any acute injury from a recent accident such as whiplash, sprains, or other soft tissue damage. 
• Swelling or edema.
• Acute conditions such as flared-up psoriasis, eczema, or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, prominent varicose veins, osteoporosis, or any other serious medical conditions.   

It's a great idea to give yourself some additional time after your massage to continue relaxing and to allow your body to fully absorb the benefits of massage. Drink plenty of water, and prioritize some time for yourself. If you have the option of an epsom salt bath, foot soak, or towel application, do it. It's a great way to help your body recover from the work, and it's a great way to relax!

Yes, it's ok to exercise after a massage, but most people prefer to stay relaxed. It's good to give yourself some down time between massage and exercise.

*If you are competing or heading to a strenuous activity, let me know, and I can end your session with sports massage techniques that will set you up for a better experience.