What to expect: A guide to your first session:

If you’ve never had a massage before, or you’re visiting a new massage therapist, it’s normal to have questions about what to expect. My goal is to make the entire experience feel comfortable and straightforward from the moment you book.

before your appointment

When you book your first session, you’ll receive an intake form via email. Please complete it before your appointment so I can review your health history, concerns and goals ahead of time and we can make the most of our hands-on time.

Just prior to your appointment, I’ll text you specific, detailed directions for finding my office. I know arriving somewhere unfamiliar can be stressful, so I want you to know exactly where you’re going.

When you arrive, simply come inside and take a seat in the waiting area. There’s no need to check in with anyone. I’ll will be right out for you!

Before we begin

We’ll start with a brief conversation about what brings you in. We may discuss your goals, relevant health or injury history, areas of pain or tension, pressure preferences, and areas you would like me to focus on or avoid.

There’s no need to know exactly what type of massage you need. Just let me know what you’re experiencing and what you’d like to get from your session, and I’ll take it from there, creating a treatment tailored to you.

getting ready for your session

I’ll step out of the room and give you complete privacy to undress to your individual comfort level and get underneath the sheets and blanket on the massage table.

You will be professionally draped throughout the session and will never be unnecessarily exposed. Only the area being worked on is uncovered.

Gluteal work can be especially beneficial for low back and hip pain and may be incorporated when appropriate. Your comfort always comes first. You may keep underwear on, request work through the sheet, or decline work on any area for any reason.

during your massage

Every session is individualized rather than following the exact same routine.

My work combines therapeutic and medical massage techniques with nervous-system-informed bodywork through Neuro-Somatic Integration Technique™ (N-SIT™). Depending on your needs, your session may include focused deep tissue work, stretching, cupping, heat, cold, scalp and facial massage, aromatherapy-infused hot towels, Reiki, or other techniques and sensory elements.

I select and adapt techniques throughout the session based on your goals, what I’m finding in the tissue, and how your body is responding. You are always welcome to decline or request a change to any technique.

This is your time to unwind, unplug and step away from the demands of everyday life. During our hands-on time, I won’t initiate small talk, allowing you the space to settle in, quiet your mind and fully experience the session. A quiet environment can make it easier to turn your attention inward, become more aware of your body and settle into a deeper state of relaxation. You’re always welcome to talk if you’d like. I’ll simply follow your lead.

when your massage is over

At the end of your session, I’ll quietly let you know that we’re finished and step out of the room.

There’s no need to immediately get up and get dressed. Take a moment to open your eyes, notice how you feel, stretch, sit up slowly and get dressed at your own pace.

When you’re dressed and ready, crack the door open and i’ll come back in. We can briefly check in about how you’re feeling and anything I noticed that may be helpful going forward.

booking your next session

There is never any pressure to rebook. You know your body and your needs best, and you’re welcome to schedule your next massage whenever it feels right for you.

If you’d like to book before you leave, just let me know and we can schedule your next appointment together, or you can book online anytime at your convenience.