What Can I expect for my first massage therapy appointment?

Your Massage Therapy appointment will begin with an interview and assessment to determine what your goals and desires for your treatment are. We will discuss what areas you would like worked on, what positions you are comfortable in and how you will be draped. You can always wear as much or as little clothing as is comfortable for you and sheets will be provided to cover any parts of your body we aren’t currently working on. Once we have agreed on a treatment plan I will leave for a few moments to allow you to undress to your level of comfort and lay on the massage table. When I come back in I will massage the areas agreed upon, checking in with your comfort and pressure throughout. Note that you can always ask questions, address concerns or stop the treatment at any point. After the treatment we may discuss self care strategies or exercises for your condition.

dO YOU PROVIDE DIRECT BILLING?

Direct billing is provided under the carriers for Bluecross, Greenshield, Sunlife and Telus (Canada Life, Manulife, etc.). However, there is always the possibility of system or internet outages/errors and not all plans allow for direct billing or may only cover partial amounts. You are responsible for the full payment if any of these scenarios occur, so be sure to bring a back up method of payment just in case.

iS YOUR CLINIC SPACE ACCESSIBLE?

While the treatment space and washroom is on the first floor of the building, there are a few steps up to the main entrance, so unfortunately the space is not entirely accessible.

Is There onsite parking?

There is no onsite parking. However, there is a paid lot on the corner of Kent and Gilmour, half a block away. Free street parking can be found West of Kent on Gilmour and James street.

what do massage therapists mean when they ask if you’re comfortable?

This question can encompass so many different things! If you are not comfortable lying on the massage table, alterations in positioning, with pillows and bolsters or adjusting the headrest are often helpful in becoming more comfortable. Heating pads and blankets can be added if you are too cold, taken away and feet undraped if you are too hot. If the music isn’t to your taste or quiet is preferred it can easily be changed or turned off. Similarly, if the lighting is too bright or dark, it can be adjusted. Of course, if at any time the pressure is too much or little, a massage technique is uncomfortable or an area of the body doesn’t feel good to have work on we can always adjust or stop the treatment.

In short, feel free to speak up if something is bothering you or would make your experience more enjoyable and I will do my best to accommodate!

what conditions may massage therapy help with?

Massage Therapy is helpful for a wide array of conditions and concerns such as:

• Musculoskeletal concerns- tension, spasms, strains, sprains, dislocations, sport injuries

• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis

• Nerve conditions- sciatica, carpal tunnel, MS

• Mental and emotional health concerns- stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia

• Headaches, whiplash, concussion

• Post-surgical rehabilitation

• Pregnancy support

• Postural concerns, scoliosis, torticollis