Frequently asked questions
What can I expect during my first appointment?
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An initial appointment allows for a few extra minutes to discuss your health/injury history, specific needs, and goals for the session. Please ensure you have filled out your intake form prior to the first session (when you book an appointment you will be prompted to fill out the form). This time also offers the opportunity to discuss your boundaries and comfort measures during the massage (e.g. positioning, areas of your body that you would like me to avoid etc.).
I will then leave the room for a few minutes while you undress to your level of comfort (you may also choose to have a fully clothed massage) and get under the sheets in the position we discussed (either side-lying, face down, or face up).
I will knock on the door before entering and ask if you are ready for me. I will ask how you are feeling on the table and reposition you with pillows, rolled towels etc. to ensure you are comfortable.
I usually begin each massage with compressions, which means I gently press my hands on your back, shoulders, arms, and legs. Compressions are used to gently introduce my touch to your body. After compressions are complete, I will begin the massage treatment. You will be covered by a sheet at all times, except for the area I am treating.
During the massage, I will check in for feedback about pressure, temperature, and your overall comfort. Please feel free to speak up at any time if something is not working for you.
Approximately halfway through the treatment, I will hold the sheet up high over my head to ensure your privacy while you turn onto your back (or front, or other side, depending on how you began the massage). I will verbally guide you through this process.
I will gently let you know when the session is over and leave the room while you get dressed. Please take your time getting off the table, as some clients may feel lightheaded. When you are ready, you may open the door, and I will return to discuss the treatment and how you are feeling. If you are interested, I can make some suggestions for home care (stretches etc.).
I take payment at the desk in the clinic waiting room and accept all forms of payment.
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What is cupping?
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Myofascial cupping is a soft tissue therapy that encourages healing by creating a suction on the skin using plastic or glass cups (I use medical grade silicone cups). The cups gently help to lift underlying tissues, bringing increased circulation close to the surface of the skin.
A cupping treatment uses a combination of massage and cups to treat underlying soft tissues. Areas of muscle tension are located using massage techniques, and cups may then be applied on the affected area and moved over the skin in a gliding motion.
Cupping should not be painful, and the degree of suction can be adjusted to the client’s comfort level. Many clients find cupping deeply relaxing.
Cupping may leave light to dark circular marks on the skin that resemble bruises due to increased circulation under the skin. These marks are usually not painful and last for a few days, up to one week.
You may choose to have cupping incorporated into your massage treatment, or book a 30 minute cupping-only treatment.
Do I have to remove all my clothes?
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The level of undress is completely up to you and your level of comfort. You are not obligated to remove any clothing you do not want to. Being fully clothed for your massage (without the use of oil) is also an option if you prefer.
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Can I wear my binder during the massage?
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Of course! I will work around whatever makes you most comfortable.
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What are your COVID-19 protocols?
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All clients are asked to fill out a COVID-19 screening survey prior to their appointment. Clients are strongly encouraged to wear a KN95 mask (or equivalent), but as this is a shared practice space, masks are no longer mandatory. I will always wear a N95, have a HEPA filter running during and in between all appointments (noise level is low), and fresh air exchange in the treatment room. (Updated Sept. 2024)
What if I feel weird about [insert body part/function here]?
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It’s very common for folks to feel nervous or uncomfortable at the thought of being seen by another human. I want to reassure you that body hair, stomach sounds, stretch marks, acne, etc. are all normal and fully accepted without judgement in my practice.
What is the weight limit of your table?
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The table has a weight capacity of 550 lbs.
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Additional accessibility Information:
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My practice is located on the second floor of a 1912 heritage building. There is one long staircase and unfortunately no elevator. I recognize this is a significant barrier. If stairs are an obstacle, please email me and hopefully we can discuss an alternative solution.
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You may bring someone with you to your appointment (i.e. an interpreter, attendant, or friend/family member). They are welcome to sit in the clinic waiting room during your appointment.
If verbal communication is a barrier during your massage, we can find alternative communication signals that work for you and your needs.
The treatment room is scent-reduced as much as possible, but please be aware that since this is a shared practice space, there may be other scents around the clinic. There may also be outside noises and conversations.
I offer coconut oil and hypoallergenic grapeseed oil for my clients. If neither of these work for you due to allergy or sensitivity, please let me know in advance and I will find an alternative for you. Please note, I do not use any nut oils in my practice due to allergies.
I’m really anxious about getting a massage, how can you help with this?
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I completely understand. I have both personal experience with anxiety and see many clients who are nervous or anxious about receiving a massage. Please know that you are completely in control of your treatment. Ongoing communication and consent are cornerstones of my practice and I am always happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. ​
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How are you actively consent based?
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It is common to feel like healthcare professionals and practitioners have more knowledge of or control over our bodies than we do. Massage in particular has a reputation for being a silent/“passive” experience.
One of my goals as an RMT is for my clients to feel like they have complete autonomy over their bodies and the session. While I will of course help guide your treatment, I will always follow your lead and boundaries. For example, I will always ask at the beginning of every session if there are any areas of your body or treatment techniques that you would like me to avoid. These preferences may change throughout the massage as well and I will always listen and honour your wishes.
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I check in with clients throughout the massage to make sure you are still feeling comfortable with the area I’m working on and with how much pressure I am using.
At any point during the massage, you have the right to say no, change your mind, and ask for what you need. Consent is on-going, not a one time event.
I truly want to provide space for you to feel as though you can speak up and state your needs during your entire treatment time. If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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Do you have conversations with clients during the massage?
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I will always verbally check in (if verbal communication is a barrier, we will figure out other signals) throughout the massage to ensure you are comfortable, but I generally won’t initiate a conversation unless it pertains to your treatment. As I massage, I work through your treatment plan in my head and focus solely on your muscles. I promise you, I am not bored!
This is your time to rest, relax, and let it all go. While most clients prefer to zone out, I know from personal experience that some conversation - especially at the beginning of your massage - can help ease some anxiety. And of course, I encourage you to speak up if there is anything you would like me to know or would like changed during your treatment. I will always follow what works best for you.
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What are your rates?
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My rates are $105 per 60 minute session, $145 for 90 minutes, and $55 for a 30 minute cupping session.
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What is the etiquette for tipping?
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Rather than tipping, reviews and referrals are the best way to show your appreciation! Receive a $10 credit towards your next massage by leaving a Google review and/or by referring a friend. If they book an appointment, you’ll both receive a $10 credit.
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Do you offer direct billing?
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I currently do not offer direct billing, however your receipt will include all the information you need to submit to your insurance provider so you can be reimbursed.
I suggest checking with your insurance provider if you are unsure about what type of coverage you have (sometimes they require a doctor’s note for massage treatments to be covered).