Drink water! Staying properly hydrated is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your massage session. Hydration plays a vital role in muscle recovery and minimizing any post-session soreness or discomfort. Massage therapy promotes circulation and aids in the release of toxins from your muscles. By drinking plenty of water, you ensure that your body is well-hydrated, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the massage. So, prioritize water intake before and after your session for the best possible results.

At your first visit you will sit down for a few minutes to review your intake and discuss what your goals are for your massage. Are you healing from an injury? Do you just want a general relaxation massage? This makes sure your massage fits your needs. Even if you are experienced at receiving massage it gives the massage therapist the opportunity to learn your likes and dislikes. You will discuss any medical conditions and decide on areas of focus. After you have the opportunity to share and ask any questions you may have, you will be given privacy to undress to your comfort level and lie down on a padded massage table. The room is usually dimly lit with soft music playing in the background to create a soothing ambiance. You will be properly draped with a sheet and blanket, exposing only the area being worked on. 

Yes! Some, but not all, health insurance companies include massage therapy as a covered benefit. I am an in network provider for Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield. I will verify your benefits before your visit to make sure your plan covers massage therapy. I ask you make sure to include your Policy ID and insurance information on your intake from at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. Blue Cross is the only health insurance company I am currently in-network with. 

I can directly can insurance companies for Auto Accident claims – also called PIP (personal injury protection). I just need those details before your appointment date, including the claim information and adjuster contact information. 

Whether you are billing health insurance or for your car accident, these appointments are considered medically necessary treatments and should be booked as such when scheduling your appointment. You may be required to get a referral from a doctor (MD, LAc, DC, or naturopath) depending on your policy restrictions.

Your coinsurance and deductible is based on your specific insurance plan. I will do my best to verify those details prior to your appointment, but quoted benefits are never a guarantee of payment. I strongly encourage you to ask your insurance company directly what your deductible and/or co-pay would be for your visit.

This is up to you. You are not obligated to maintain a conversation with your therapist. The majority, but not all, people prefer a quiet session. That being said, you are encouraged to communicate if you need something in order to be more comfortable.  The goal is to provide you with the best experience possible; knowing if you are too hot, too cold, in an awkward position, or if the pressure is too much or too little is important. If there is something you need, always speak up and let your therapist know.

Not if you don’t want to. Tipping is not required or expected. While some do consider tipping to be customary in the massage industry, I would never want this to be a barrier for someone getting the care they need. If you feel satisfied with your massage experience and would like to leave a tip for the massage therapist it would be greatly appreciated. Know that your presence and support is valued regardless.