Frequently Asked Questions

I get asked this question all the time!

The truth is, I really can't put what I do into one specific category or "type" of massage.

Over the years, I've collected quite a few tools and techniques, and I draw from them based on your individual needs, goals, and what I believe will serve you best.

Some of the techniques I may incorporate include active and passive stretching, cupping, heated Gua Sha, Muscle Release Technique® (particularly helpful for repetitive-use injuries), and heated Synergy Stones, just to name a few.

Rather than following a specific routine or sticking to one style, I take a whole-person approach and customize each session around you.

No cookie-cutter sessions here!

Yes, but probably not in the way you might expect! Let's clear up a common misconception:

Deep tissue doesn't necessarily mean deep pressure. And deeper isn't always better! 

My approach is about working with your body, not against it. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including deeper, focused work when appropriate, based on your individual needs and how your body responds. 

For clients who enjoy deeper, more focused work, I often incorporate tools and techniques such as heated Gua Sha (instrument-assisted soft tissue work) and cupping. These allow me to approach areas of tension in different ways without simply applying more and more pressure. 

I don't believe effective bodywork should require you to grit your teeth, hold your breath, or brace yourself against the pressure. In fact, that can be counterproductive! 

If you're looking for someone to use maximum pressure throughout your entire session, I'm probably not your therapist. And that's okay! 

My goal isn't to see how much pressure you can tolerate. It's to help you feel and function better. 

No problem at all!

While I offer body-based coaching and hybrid sessions for clients who want to explore the connection between their physical well-being and what's happening in their lives, coaching is always optional.

If you're simply looking for customized therapeutic massage and bodywork to relieve pain, improve mobility, or help you feel better in your body, that's exactly what we can focus on.

No pressure, no expectations, and definitely no surprise coaching sessions!

No worries! That's what I'm here for.

If you're new to my practice, you'll start with either a New Client Introductory Session or a Hybrid Session, depending on your needs and goals.

If you're primarily interested in therapeutic bodywork, the Introductory Session is a great place to start. If you'd like to combine hands-on bodywork with a little deeper exploration through coaching, a Hybrid Session might be a better fit.

Still not sure? Feel free to reach out! I'm happy to help you figure out where to begin.

You don't have to have it all figured out before we get started!

First of all, welcome! I'm so glad you're here!

Your first appointment is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, discuss what's bringing you in, and explore what you'd like to get out of our time together.

One of my favorite questions to ask is, "How do you want to feel?"

We'll talk about your health history, areas of concern, goals, and anything else that might help me better understand your needs.

My New Client Introductory Session is 90 minutes total, which includes approximately 60 minutes of customized therapeutic bodywork, along with time for conversation, assessment, and recommendations.

Throughout your session, I'll explain anything you need to know, answer your questions, and make sure you're comfortable.

There's no cookie-cutter routine waiting for you. We'll start where you are and work together toward where you'd like to be.

Absolutely not! Your comfort is always a priority.

You're welcome to undress to whatever level feels comfortable for you. Some clients prefer to leave their underwear on, while others choose to undress completely. It's entirely your decision.

You'll always be professionally draped with a sheet and/or blanket, and only the area being worked on will be uncovered.

My goal is to create a safe, respectful environment where you can relax and feel completely at ease.

Completely up to you ! However, I encourage you to use this time to unplug, quiet your mind, and fully receive the work.

In my experience, less conversation allows you to become more aware of your body, notice subtle changes, and get more out of your session.

One of my favorite questions to ask is, "How do you want to feel?" Your answer helps me better understand what's most important to you and how we can approach our time together.

There may be times when I'll ask questions or check in with you, and you're always welcome to speak up about your comfort or anything you're experiencing.

Otherwise, remember, you're not here to entertain me! You're here to take care of yourself, support your healing, and leave feeling restored.

So give yourself permission to simply be. No conversation required!

Not necessarily!

Everyone responds to bodywork a little differently. 

Some people leave feeling lighter, looser, and more relaxed, while others may experience some mild tenderness or soreness afterward, especially if we've been addressing areas of persistent tension or restriction.

But here's something I want you to understand: 

Soreness is not an indication of a successful session!

My goal isn't to leave you feeling like you've been run over by a truck. It's to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support your body's ability to move and function better.

A little temporary tenderness can happen, but significant pain isn't something I consider a normal or desirable outcome.

Remember, effective bodywork doesn't have to hurt!

Every day! 😂

Just kidding… but wouldn't that be nice?

Fun fact: Bob Hope reportedly received a massage every day for decades, and he lived to be 100! I'm not saying that's the secret to longevity, but he might have been onto something!

All kidding aside, the frequency of your sessions really depends on your individual needs, goals, and what we're working toward together.

If you're dealing with acute pain, recovering from an injury, or addressing a specific issue, I may recommend more frequent sessions—as often as once a week or every other week—until we get you back to a good baseline.

Once you're feeling better and move into more of a maintenance phase, once a month is a pretty common rhythm for many of my clients.

Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. We'll work together to find a schedule that supports your goals, fits your lifestyle, and makes sense for you.

Short answer? Nope!

I believe therapeutic massage and bodywork are forms of healthcare, and I approach my practice with that philosophy in mind. After all, you don't typically tip your physical therapist, chiropractor, or acupuncturist, right?

As the owner of my practice, I set my own rates to reflect my experience, training, and the quality of care I provide. My rates are structured so that tipping isn't necessary. 

That's also why you won't find a tip prompt at checkout. I don't want anyone feeling pressured or obligated to leave a gratuity.

Of course, if you genuinely want to leave a tip (for some people, it's their love language!), it's always appreciated, but it's absolutely never necessary or expected.

Want to show your appreciation? Leave me a great review or refer someone who might be a good fit for my practice. Those things mean the world to me!

Bottom line: The price you see is the price you pay. No awkward tipping decisions required!

Nope! 

My practice operates exclusively during weekday daytime hours, with my latest appointment starting at 4:30 p.m., depending on the day.

After more than 25 years of hands-on work, I've learned just how important it is to maintain a healthy balance between taking care of others and taking care of myself.

 That's why I intentionally schedule appointments during the hours when I have the most energy, allowing me to be fully present and give my clients my best.

Much like scheduling a doctor's appointment, many of my clients intentionally make time in their schedules for regular bodywork because they recognize the importance of investing in their health and well-being.

I believe taking care of your body is an investment in your health and well-being, not just an occasional luxury.

And besides, I encourage my clients to honor their own needs and boundaries, so I figure I should practice what I preach! 😉

If weekday appointments work for your schedule, I'd love to work with you!