Everyone has questions about massage therapy. This page is complied of questions asked by clients. More information on massage can be found on the blog page or throughout the site.

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Are you seeing new clients?

Yes, my schedule is a first come first served business. I do have limited availability so all sessions will be secured with a credit card.

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What type of massage therapy do you offer?

​I offer a holistic and therapeutic approach to massage therapy. My emphasis is in deep tissue, lymphatic drainage along with a variety of other techniques combined to benefit the client's massage needs. I perform deep connective tissue work that entails firm, concise pressure. My ideal client is one that makes regular, monthly massage appointments to reduce symptoms of chronic or acute pain. Sports injuries, fibromyalgia, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), prenatal and repetitive motion injuries are some of the issues I am trained in. I work with clients in assisting to retrain muscles, reshape scar tissue formation or adhesions. From a professional athlete to a weekend warrior, the techniques that I provide can assist anyone in their pain management goals.

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Can you Diagnose me?

No, I cannot diagnose nor treat a mental health disorder, disease or medical condition. Soft tissue and the myoskeletal system is in my scope of practice. I can only make recommendations for massage therapy.

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*If I find a possible signs of serious medical condition I will suggest you make appointment to see your doctor for further assessment and treatment. 

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What is your policy?

For policy information you may go to the policy page.

 

What form of payment do you take?

Established clients can make payment by cash, check, zelle or credit. Cashiers checks and money orders will be rejected for payment. To work with me you must have a credit card on file. I have a strict no show and cancellation policy. Your card will be charged for no shows and cancellations.

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How do I schedule a appointment?

You may contact me at 817-966-1020 to schedule your appointment or schedule on the booking page. If I do not answer the phone I am either in session or you have contacted me after hours. Please leave a message and I will return your call when I am able to. Sometimes I may not receive your message. Please be patient and call back.​

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Do you accept walk-in's?

Walk-in client's are not accepted nor appreciated due to the nature of my schedule and for security reasons. All sessions are by appointment. No exceptions.

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Do you schedule in person consults before the massage session?

No. If you would like just a phone consult to just ask questions or need recommendations  I do charge $50 fee. My time and energy is valuable just as yours is. For more information about consultations and if one is necessary click here for consultation information.

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Are you licensed and insured?

I am licensed and registered with the state of Texas since October 2007. I am insured through AMTA and with ABMP.

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Do you teach CEU classes for massage therapy?

My schedule does not permit me to teach classes to massage therapists at this time. Please contact your local CEU provider for classes.

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Is your office wheel chair accessible? Do you have a table where I can get on and off with ease?

Yes, for both questions. I have a hydraulic table that I can adjust the height so you are able to maneuver on and off with ease. Please contact the office before scheduling your appointment so that I may further assist you with your special needs.

 

Do you take insurance?

No. I do not take insurance. I can give you a digital receipt with a CPT code so that you may file a claim with your insurance company. You will need to have a doctor or chiropractors' release when you submit the receipt to your insurance.  I cannot guarantee you will be reimburse for your session. 

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Do you offer chiropractic services? Are you a physical therapist?

No, both are out of my scope of practice.

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Do you provide mental health services?

Some clients misconstrued that massage therapists are mental health care providers. Please contact a psychologist, therapist or a mental health care professional in your area for further assistance. It is out of a MT's  scope of practice to offer those services unless they hold a degree in mental health services.

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Do you accept auto accident clients?

I no longer accept auto accident clients. I do accept those that have chronic issued from previous auto injuries.

 

Do you take flexible spending account credit cards?

As long as I am able to run the card like a regular credit card the answer is yes. Check with the rules of your flexible spending account to find out if you can charge massage therapy services to your account. You are responsible for full payment at the time of services. 

 

Do you work with PIP or promise to pay?

No.

 

Do you work on a sliding scale?

No.

 

Do you offer discounts?

No. 

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Do you offer gift certificates and massage packages?

I do not.

 

Do you offer Military discounts?

I do offer extra time for our military personnel to say thank you for their service. 

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Are you a massage establishment or a spa? Do you have employees?

I am a independent massage therapist. My business is not a massage establishment nor is it a spa. If you seek spa services please look in the area where you reside.

 

When you contact me for services you will be working with me and no other therapist. No, I do not have employees nor contract.

 

Do I need doctor's release for massage?

Yes, if you have had recent surgery, been in the hospital for a length of time or anything that may present as a possible contraindication for massage one is required. You will not be seen for services without one if you fall into this category. Please contact the office for questions about doctor's clearance for your medical condition be scheduling your session.

 

Do you perform weight loss massage?

No, you will need to contact a medi spa for those services. 

 

What if I am late for my massage appointment?

I schedule 30-minutes between session in cases such as these. If I have another appointment after yours, I may have to cut your session time short. You will be charged full price of the massage session. Clients that are frequently late will have those minutes docked from their visit while being charged the full price. Late arrivals will no longer have the option of rescheduling. If you are more than 15 minutes late you may take the rest of your scheduled time or you will be billed for the full session.

 

I want to make certain you get 100% of your session time yet I also want to honor the person that is scheduled behind you, too. I do my best to make certain everyone’s session begins on time they requested.

 

Please give yourself plenty of time to arrive to your appointment. 

 

May I come early to the appointment?

Returning clients may arrive five to ten minutes early to their appointment. Reception area is closed to the public, family members and early arrivals. 

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Do I need to wear a mask?

No. I will request you wear a mask if you show signs of allergies. If you are ill stay home! It is your choice to wear a mask to your session. It is recommended if you are immunocompromised to wear one.

 

What is your policy on canceling and no shows?

Same day cancellations will be charged 100% of the session rate. A 24-hour cancellation notice is required to cancel your appointment by phone.

 

Clients that are ill or recovering for a cold or infection will not be seen. I will have you reschedule your appointment at a later date and the fee will be waived one time. You must reschedule or be charged 100% of the service fee. 

 

You are responsible to keep and remember your appointment time. If you forget your appointment and for go a no show, you will be billed 100% of the session rate. The missed session must be paid in full before you are seen again.

 

No shows and last minute cancellations drive up the cost of business. I cannot book someone at the last minute to take the appointment time you missed. 

 

Why do I need to fill out a client assessment form?

Yes, as in any medical situation, you do have to fill out a form. It is state law for medical professionals to keep client information on file. You will need to fill out your name, phone number, birth date, medical information and sign and date the release. This protects you and me.

 

If you do not fill out the form, a massage will not take place. Some clients fear that I will contact them outside of the office setting so they do not want to fill out the form. No worries, I am not a telemarketer. You know when you need a massage. I will not contact you unless you advise me to. As a client, you are HIPAA protected.

 

What if I have the flu or a possible cold can I come in for a massage? 

No. Please do not book a massage session while you are ill or recovering. This includes flu, cold, Covid or any contagious disease. You can pass infection onto the therapist. You can book an appointment after a week when your symptoms have passed, not before. Clients that show signs of a cold or flu will be sent home without a massage. You will be charged for the session if you do this.

 

What parts of the body do you massage?

Areas of the body that will be massaged are face, head, scalp, neck, back, arms, hands, abdomen, gluts, thighs, calves and feet.  The breast work may be performed only if the client signs and dates a release form. At the client's request, I may perform lymphatic drainage on the breast and surrounding area for both men and women. I work on the groin muscle with stretching and trigger point therapy for both genders. The client must sign and date the release before I can work in these areas.

 

I do not massage the genitalia on male or female clients. Persons that request this will not be booked or will be asked to leave. If necessary, a police report will be filed. By law I am required to report solicitation to the police department.

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Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician.

 

Am I supposed to tip?

Tipping is not included in the cost of your session and is always optional. While the industry standard is 15–20%, gratuity is entirely at your discretion. If you’re ever unsure, feel free to ask. Tips are appreciated and graciously accepted. You can also show your support by referring friends, family, or coworkers, or by booking your next session.

 

​Do you provide draping? Is Draping optional?​

​Draping (sheet or towels) is always provided. Yes, draping is required. A updated mandate required by the state says that I must provide this disclaimer: "draping will be used during the session."

 

Exceptions for non draping will be for modalities such as lymphatic drainage, craniosacral and sports massage. Shorts for men and a sports bra and shorts for women are suitable instead of a drape. 

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If you tend to feel warm during your session, please let me know. I can turn off the heating pad or adjust the draping to keep you comfortable. I do provide lightweight muslin and cotton covers for your comfort.

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Keep in mind my massage is professional in nature and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. 

 

Should I talk to the massage therapist during the massage?

Although some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, it's optional. Feel free to close your eyes and relax. You can also take a nice nap as well.

 

Deep tissue massage and sports massage are just some of the types of massage that require a more little more feedback. When I work deeper into the layers of muscle and will ask from time to time if the pressure is comfortable. If you opted for a sports or myoskeletal work I will instruct you on stretching and movement. I will not initiate conversation unless you choose to talk during your session or if you ask me a question.

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Am I supposed to take off my underwear when I get a massage?

No but it is prefered. Some people prefer to keep their undergarments on during a massage session, while others prefer to be nude underneath the drape. It's entirely up to you. Draping is required and will always be provided to you.

 

If you have problems with your lower back, hips or buttocks underwear can become obstructive and can gets in the way of applying proper strokes. If you feel uncomfortable removing your undergarments, you can keep them on.

 

​When should I make my next appointment?
That is entirely up to you. For stress related issued I recommend bi-weekly or once a month. For deep tissue or trigger point therapy that will vary. It all depends on how much adhesions', scar tissue and trigger points you may have. Due to muscle memory, muscles may revert back to old patterns causing pain and discomfort from a few days to several weeks after a session.  This applies if the client goes back to strenuous activities, does not pay attention to posture, has awkward sleep patterns and many other factors are involved as well. To avoid this, I recommend that you do come in weekly until the negative pattern is broken up. That can take anywhere from 2-10 sessions. Once the pattern is broken, a bi-weekly or a monthly massage should be sufficient to maintain your muscles.

 

Never wait until the pain gets severe again. If you do the muscles will revert back to the old, negative pattern and we will have to go back to square one again.

 

During your session speak up if:

• The room is too hot or too cold.

• You experience severe pain.

• You have any questions related to the massage.

• There is anything you forgot to mention during the consultation.

• If you have sensitivity to essential oils or scents.

Communication is essential in receiving a massage. if you have any concerns, please express them before, during or after the massage session.

 

​How do I convey to the therapist that the pressure isn't deep enough?
Communicate with me. I will never take offense if you request more pressure. As previously stated the I will adjust the pressure and technique to your comfort level. I go as deep as the muscles allow me to go. If I go any deeper or force the muscles to comply, I could cause bruising or injury to you.

 

If you have neuropathy, take pain meds or have other medical conditions such as diabetes deep pressure will not be used. Keep in mind I do not perform deep or aggressive pressure. 

 

​Does a massage have to hurt to be effective?
It's a myth that massage has to hurt to be effective. Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. For example lymphatic drainage focuses on the the lymphatic system. Gentle, slow and concise strokes are used to drain the lymphatic channels. Too much pressure will temporarily "smash" the lymph nodes down canceling out the purpose of the drainage.

 

Too much pressure can cause stress to muscles and they can become tense. Communication is essential to a massage. The therapist should also be paying attention to breathing patterns, slight movement and occasionally ask if pressure is fine.

 

If it is not a good kind of pain, tell the therapist. Just remember this quick hint: on a scale of one to 10 (where 1 is no pain and 10 is extremely painful) the pressure should always be less than seven.

 

Sometimes pain is unavoidable, especially if a client has severe scar tissue, adhesion's that are underneath the deep underbelly of the muscle, trigger points, or hypersensitivity to touch. As always I ask if the pressure is comfortable and try to be as gentle as possible in these circumstances.

 

You know your own body. No one else can tell you that something doesn't hurt. If something hurts, tell me. I can work out the trigger point if requested or I can use other methods.

 

"I have self image issues. I am nervous about receiving a massage because..."

• I'm overweight

• I'm hairy

• I have acne

• My feet are calloused

• I have stretch marks or scars

 

Being self-conscious should never keep you from seeking necessary health care, especially when it's visiting a massage therapist. If you're self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the massage therapist to avoid that area.

 

You may choose for a therapy that is done through clothing, such as shiatsu, energy work or lymphatic drainage. No massage lotion is used so you may remain fully clothed during the session.

 

Do I need to take a shower before I come in for a massage?

If you do any type of construction, outside work or exercise you will need to take a shower before seeing a me. Debris such as dirt clings to the skin and may scratch you when massage strokes are applied. A hot bath or shower will open up pores, relax and help loosen the fascia and muscles. Exfoliating the skin with a cotton washcloth, loofah or agate cloth will help increase circulation while removing dead skin cells.

 

I have no shower facilities at my office so you will need to take one before seeing me.

 

I’m a bit embarrassed but I haven’t shaved my legs. Is it OK to still schedule my appointment for a massage?

As I always stress never allow hair stubble (hairy legs) deter you from getting your regular massage maintenance.  Honestly, it doesn't matter to me if you shave or not. By not shaving your legs it will never take away from the quality of your massage session.

 

May I have a hug?

It’s perfectly all right to ask for a hug and I am more than happy to give you one. A hug is a form of appreciation. Some clients will ask for one after receiving a massage when they have been in pain for quiet sometime.

 

I have never been offended nor uncomfortable when someone has asked for a hug. I do not believe that it will lead to transference or a inappropriate relationship. A hug is a form of compassion. Being compassionate is only human. I feel we all need to give and receive more compassion. As humans we need touch that is soothing and comforting. Touch decreases stress and helps to lower blood pressure.  By hugging it does release chemicals such as Oxytocin and endorphin’s that can assist in healing the body faster.

 

Best of all hugs are free and feel good when you receive one. It makes your day better. You are more than welcome to ask for one.

 

Additional information:

No two therapist are alike. Any therapist you may go to will have different ways they perform massage. How a MT is trained is a important factor that goes into how they perform the massage. Not all therapist will have the same training and may specialize in a certain technique. Make sure you ask what they specialize in if you are seeking a particular massage.  Most therapist's will give an explanation what they do and will address your concerns.

 

I would advise that if you are new to massage therapy that you search the web for more information.  There is plenty of reading material on the web to get you started.

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Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician.​