Massage therapy is an experience where you are cared for on every level. We make sure you have everything you need to relax and get back to your day feeling and looking refreshed. To help you get started we’ve provided answers to common questions.
How early should I arrive for my appointment?
Arriving 5-10 minutes early for your appointment gives you time to use the restroom, discuss your goals for the session, and relax on the massage table.
Please arrive NO MORE THAN 10 MINUTES EARLY for your appointment. We need the time between sessions to reset the treatment room, do laundry, return messages, and occasionally take a lunch break.
What if I am late arriving to my appointment?
Please arrive on time for your appointment, as it has been specially arranged for you. If you arrive late, your session may be shortened to accommodate other appointments following yours. We will do our best to provide the services you have booked, but we can only guarantee the entire duration of your session if you are on time. Full payment for your scheduled services will be expected.
What should I expect from my first appointment?
Before your first appointment, you will receive an automated email confirming your appointment and prompting you to complete a new client assessment. When you arrive, we will review your assessment and discuss your goals for the session. Then, we will explain how to get on the table before leaving the room to allow you to get comfortable.
After the session concludes, we will step out to give you privacy while you get dressed. Once ready, please exit the treatment room and meet us at the desk. During checkout, we will process your payment for the session, help you book your next appointment, and recommend any relevant self-care techniques.
What if I fall asleep and drool or snore?
It’s common to fall asleep during a massage, and that’s perfectly normal. If you’re feeling stressed or sleep-deprived, you may doze off once you enter a relaxed state. Rest assured, there’s no judgment from us. We’re happy you feel relaxed enough to fall asleep, and we won’t mention it.
Drooling can also happen, especially if you’re lying face down. Let us know if you need a tissue, and we’ll gladly provide one.
What if I pass gas?
During a massage, it’s possible to pass gas, especially when you’re relaxed, or the therapist applies direct pressure to certain areas. Massage therapists understand this is a normal response and simply a sign that you are relaxed. You won’t face any judgment from them. You can always excuse yourself to use the bathroom if you feel uncomfortable.
Do I have to take my clothes off?
The therapist will leave the room while you get undressed and provide sheets, towels, and blankets to cover yourself during the massage. Some massage options also work well if you choose to remain clothed, so please discuss your preferences with us before booking.
Is it okay to ask for more or less pressure?
Your massage therapist will check in with you during your session to ensure comfortable pressure. Remember that a massage doesn’t need to be painful to be effective; some techniques are quite gentle. If you’d like more or less pressure, please speak up—your therapist won’t be offended!
When should I avoid massage?
If you are feeling unwell, please reschedule your appointment. Whether it’s Covid, the flu, or a stomach virus, I want to avoid catching anything, and so do my other clients.
Before booking a massage, please consult with your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions: blood clots, kidney or liver issues, uncontrolled hypertension, or any other questionable medical conditions/diseases for which you being treated for.
If you are experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, it’s essential to check with your healthcare provider before scheduling a massage.
Additionally, if you have a recent injury—such as broken bones, bruising, sprains, strains, or inflammation—please inform your massage therapist, as massage should not be performed in those areas.
Sexual Harassment
Our massages are only for relaxation, not sexual services. Essential Massage Therapy has a strict policy against sexual harassment. This includes asking for extras, making suggestive comments, or inappropriate touching. If you engage in any of this behavior, we will end the session right away. You will be charged the full amount for your appointment, and you won’t be able to book future appointments. For serious offenses, we will contact the authorities.
Have a Gift Certificate?
Fantastic—you must have awesome friends! We’ll require your gift certificate at the time of service. Your Gift Certificate credit lives on your account, so we’ll use it as your payment method at checkout.
Booking Notice
By scheduling an appointment, you acknowledge that you have carefully read and agree to adhere to the following scheduling policies at Essential Massage Therapy. Cancellations/Rescheduling less than 24 hours before the appointment time will result in the entire session amount being due. Payment is required before scheduling the next session. This policy is in place to ensure that other clients have the opportunity to book a session in that spot.
Cancellation policy
Out of professional courtesy for your massage therapist, we have a 24-hour cancellation policy. This policy not only respects the time of our therapists but also allows us to accommodate other clients. A fee of 100% of the full-service price will be applied for all no-shows and cancellations with less than 24 hours notice. Cancellations that occur more than 24 hours out may be rescheduled for a later date.
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