Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find your answer here, please feel free to message me.
Q: What services do you provide?
A: My Services and Rates have their own page HERE. All pricing includes NJ Sales tax. I may recommend a specific type of massage based on your current health or needs. Please note that I do not provide same day appointments to new clients, so if I have not worked with you before, I will require the session to take place beyond the next 24 hours. This gives you time to fill out your paperwork and for me to arrange my schedule.
A: My Services and Rates have their own page HERE. All pricing includes NJ Sales tax. I may recommend a specific type of massage based on your current health or needs. Please note that I do not provide same day appointments to new clients, so if I have not worked with you before, I will require the session to take place beyond the next 24 hours. This gives you time to fill out your paperwork and for me to arrange my schedule.
Q: Do you provide Gift Certificates?
A: Yes, you can purchase Gift Certificates by service or dollar amount HERE or you can contact me directly either via email or phone to order one. They can be digital or physical (and mailed to you).
A: Yes, you can purchase Gift Certificates by service or dollar amount HERE or you can contact me directly either via email or phone to order one. They can be digital or physical (and mailed to you).
Q: What are your hours?
A: I work most days of the week, from 10am-8pm (last booking is 7pm). I try to be flexible with my schedule, but availability is different every day due to bookings and personal commitments. I am closed on holidays and occasionally the day before and after. Additional charges may apply for appointments on the day before and after holidays.
A: I work most days of the week, from 10am-8pm (last booking is 7pm). I try to be flexible with my schedule, but availability is different every day due to bookings and personal commitments. I am closed on holidays and occasionally the day before and after. Additional charges may apply for appointments on the day before and after holidays.
Q: Where do you provide massage?
A: The office address is 186 Princeton-Hightstown Road, Building 3A Suite 7, West Windsor, NJ 08550. I was previously working in my home office in East Windsor and moved to the new location as of April 22nd. Please note, my massage license only allows me to provide massage within the state of New Jersey.
PLEASE NOTE: Travel is currently unavailable to clients.
A: The office address is 186 Princeton-Hightstown Road, Building 3A Suite 7, West Windsor, NJ 08550. I was previously working in my home office in East Windsor and moved to the new location as of April 22nd. Please note, my massage license only allows me to provide massage within the state of New Jersey.
PLEASE NOTE: Travel is currently unavailable to clients.
Q: What equipment do you use?
A: I have a massage table with a clean set of sheets and top blanket for warmth. I use an all purpose Biotone massage lotion, which is hypoallergenic. If there are allergy concerns, I also have shea butter. I also provide soothing music, unless you have your own. For cupping sessions I have 2 sets; one is plastic with a pressure hand pump and the other is silicone. For chair massages, I bring my specialized ergonomic massage chair and hand lotion.
A: I have a massage table with a clean set of sheets and top blanket for warmth. I use an all purpose Biotone massage lotion, which is hypoallergenic. If there are allergy concerns, I also have shea butter. I also provide soothing music, unless you have your own. For cupping sessions I have 2 sets; one is plastic with a pressure hand pump and the other is silicone. For chair massages, I bring my specialized ergonomic massage chair and hand lotion.
Q: Do you offer "sensual", "erotic" or "full release" massage?
A: Absolutely not. Those are code words for a happy ending massage, which is prostitution and against the law. I offer legal, legitimate, and medically therapeutic massage only. No sexual behaviors are tolerated before, during, or after a session. Any illicit or sexually aggressive remarks or advances made will result in immediate termination of the session. You will be liable for full payment of the appointment and the police will be called. I do not joke around with this.
A: Absolutely not. Those are code words for a happy ending massage, which is prostitution and against the law. I offer legal, legitimate, and medically therapeutic massage only. No sexual behaviors are tolerated before, during, or after a session. Any illicit or sexually aggressive remarks or advances made will result in immediate termination of the session. You will be liable for full payment of the appointment and the police will be called. I do not joke around with this.
Q: What is your draping policy?
A: Full body draping is required by state law. The only exception is when the client is fully dressed for chair massage, are unable to remove their clothing, or they remove the clothing only from the area being worked (such as lifting the shirt for lower back work). I use a full set of sheets and am trained in proper draping techniques so the only body part that is exposed is the area being worked. Massage is regulated by the NJ Board of Nursing and by NJ law, the client's genitals and "gluteal cleavage" (butt crack) must be covered at all times.
A: Full body draping is required by state law. The only exception is when the client is fully dressed for chair massage, are unable to remove their clothing, or they remove the clothing only from the area being worked (such as lifting the shirt for lower back work). I use a full set of sheets and am trained in proper draping techniques so the only body part that is exposed is the area being worked. Massage is regulated by the NJ Board of Nursing and by NJ law, the client's genitals and "gluteal cleavage" (butt crack) must be covered at all times.
Q: What forms of payment do you take?
A: I accept cash, Venmo, Apple Pay, and all major credit/debit cards via Square. Please be aware the pricing listed does not include tax. For payments via Square there is a 3% processing fee. There are no refunds for sessions paid.
A: I accept cash, Venmo, Apple Pay, and all major credit/debit cards via Square. Please be aware the pricing listed does not include tax. For payments via Square there is a 3% processing fee. There are no refunds for sessions paid.
Q: Why is MLD so expensive? Other therapists charge less!
A: Manual Lymphatic Drainage is an up and coming modality. Many massage therapists haven't attended classes specifically for this technique (they learn from YouTube, other websites, or take a quick weekend course) and so they charge what they would for a normal session. This does not provide the client with true MLD and any changes observed will not last longer than a day or two. It can even cause more damage as many therapists use pressure that is too deep, which will increase the swelling. I have a certificate for over 80 hours of in-person training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage at an Advanced level in the Vodder technique, which is the most effective form of MLD. You should only work with a therapist who has an in-person training certificate to ensure they know what they are doing.
Additionally, compare the cost of MLD verses not getting MLD. Not getting it means a longer recovery so more time off work, more pain medication, drains put in to remove the swelling, and possible future surgeries to remove fibrosis tissue. If this is a chronic issue, it would involve a life time of medications, surgeries, possible infections, etc. All of which would easily add up to at least several thousand dollars. The less invasive and clearly less expensive choice is the MLD sessions, even when used as a maintenance tool.
A: Manual Lymphatic Drainage is an up and coming modality. Many massage therapists haven't attended classes specifically for this technique (they learn from YouTube, other websites, or take a quick weekend course) and so they charge what they would for a normal session. This does not provide the client with true MLD and any changes observed will not last longer than a day or two. It can even cause more damage as many therapists use pressure that is too deep, which will increase the swelling. I have a certificate for over 80 hours of in-person training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage at an Advanced level in the Vodder technique, which is the most effective form of MLD. You should only work with a therapist who has an in-person training certificate to ensure they know what they are doing.
Additionally, compare the cost of MLD verses not getting MLD. Not getting it means a longer recovery so more time off work, more pain medication, drains put in to remove the swelling, and possible future surgeries to remove fibrosis tissue. If this is a chronic issue, it would involve a life time of medications, surgeries, possible infections, etc. All of which would easily add up to at least several thousand dollars. The less invasive and clearly less expensive choice is the MLD sessions, even when used as a maintenance tool.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: At this time, I do not accept insurance and insurance companies do not cover massage therapy. Many of my clients find the best option is to pay out of pocket and get a receipt, which may get reimbursed. Check out my "Specials" page for discounts.
A: At this time, I do not accept insurance and insurance companies do not cover massage therapy. Many of my clients find the best option is to pay out of pocket and get a receipt, which may get reimbursed. Check out my "Specials" page for discounts.
Q: What can I do to get insurance to cover my session?
A: This website has a great breakdown on what you should do to try to get your massage session (or Manual Therapy, as the insurance companies call it) covered. All massage therapists are considered Out-Of-Network. Please be aware most insurance companies do not cover massage therapy done by an independent therapist (aka not part of a PT program) and requires several steps and attention to detail to get it covered.
A: This website has a great breakdown on what you should do to try to get your massage session (or Manual Therapy, as the insurance companies call it) covered. All massage therapists are considered Out-Of-Network. Please be aware most insurance companies do not cover massage therapy done by an independent therapist (aka not part of a PT program) and requires several steps and attention to detail to get it covered.
Q: What happens if I am late to the session?
A: If you show up late for an appointment, you will be treated for the remaining time of the session, unless my schedule allows to extend the appointment to the full session time. You will be liable for the full session cost.
A: If you show up late for an appointment, you will be treated for the remaining time of the session, unless my schedule allows to extend the appointment to the full session time. You will be liable for the full session cost.
Q: Do you have a cancellation policy?
A: If you cancel/reschedule your session within 24 hours of your appointment time, half the cost of the scheduled session will be charged unless the session time is filled with another client.
Cancelling/rescheduling a booked appointment within 4 hours of your appointment is considered a No Show unless I am able to fill the appointment slot. A No Show is charged the full amount of the appointment session, plus any applicable taxes or fees.
Emergency situations or weather related instances will be considered on an individual basis.
Please be aware there are no refunds for pre-paid sessions. A credit card will be required to reserve an appointment time and by booking an appointment you are agreeing to this cancellation/No Show policy.
A: If you cancel/reschedule your session within 24 hours of your appointment time, half the cost of the scheduled session will be charged unless the session time is filled with another client.
Cancelling/rescheduling a booked appointment within 4 hours of your appointment is considered a No Show unless I am able to fill the appointment slot. A No Show is charged the full amount of the appointment session, plus any applicable taxes or fees.
Emergency situations or weather related instances will be considered on an individual basis.
Please be aware there are no refunds for pre-paid sessions. A credit card will be required to reserve an appointment time and by booking an appointment you are agreeing to this cancellation/No Show policy.
Q: Who can get a massage?
A: Almost everyone, depending on your health and the type of bodywork. There are certain situations where massage or MLD is inadvisable, which will be discussed with you. Any person under the age of 18 must have a signed consent form from a parent/legal guardian before the treatment begins.
If you have any of the following, please wait until you no longer have the ailment before getting a massage: Fever, any illness due to virus or infection, lice, poison ivy, any contagious skin condition.
If you have been exposed to COVID-19, Influenza, or are showing symptoms of said illnesses, you may not book a session until you have a confirmed negative test or at least 3 weeks have passed since the symptoms started.
If you are currently seeing a doctor at regular frequent intervals for ANY reason, you MUST get clearance in writing to receive bodywork.
A: Almost everyone, depending on your health and the type of bodywork. There are certain situations where massage or MLD is inadvisable, which will be discussed with you. Any person under the age of 18 must have a signed consent form from a parent/legal guardian before the treatment begins.
If you have any of the following, please wait until you no longer have the ailment before getting a massage: Fever, any illness due to virus or infection, lice, poison ivy, any contagious skin condition.
If you have been exposed to COVID-19, Influenza, or are showing symptoms of said illnesses, you may not book a session until you have a confirmed negative test or at least 3 weeks have passed since the symptoms started.
If you are currently seeing a doctor at regular frequent intervals for ANY reason, you MUST get clearance in writing to receive bodywork.
Q: What should I do to prepare for a massage?
A: Before the day of your session, fill out the necessary forms emailed to you in the confirmation email, and return them completed before the appointment. Please arrive at least 5-10 minutes early.
- Please make sure your body is clean and hygienic.
- Drink water (at least 8oz) before and after the session.
- Have on hand any relevant health history test results such as MRIs or operative report notes.
A: Before the day of your session, fill out the necessary forms emailed to you in the confirmation email, and return them completed before the appointment. Please arrive at least 5-10 minutes early.
- Please make sure your body is clean and hygienic.
- Drink water (at least 8oz) before and after the session.
- Have on hand any relevant health history test results such as MRIs or operative report notes.
Q: How many massages do I need to get?
A: There is no easy answer to this question and is dependent on lots of different pieces of information. On average, most people get a Swedish/Deep Tissue massage every 4-6 weeks to maintain their bodies, as long as there is no specific issue/injury work. If we are working on a specific issue or complaint, I ask that you allow for no less than three sessions within a month to better evaluate your response to the massages.
For Manual Lymphatic Drainage, it is 3-5 sessions over a week period to start. It may require more or less, which will be discussed during the session.
Each person will respond differently. Every massage should be a steady improvement and build on the accomplishments of the previous session. An entire session focused on the problem area will usually bring better results.
A: There is no easy answer to this question and is dependent on lots of different pieces of information. On average, most people get a Swedish/Deep Tissue massage every 4-6 weeks to maintain their bodies, as long as there is no specific issue/injury work. If we are working on a specific issue or complaint, I ask that you allow for no less than three sessions within a month to better evaluate your response to the massages.
For Manual Lymphatic Drainage, it is 3-5 sessions over a week period to start. It may require more or less, which will be discussed during the session.
Each person will respond differently. Every massage should be a steady improvement and build on the accomplishments of the previous session. An entire session focused on the problem area will usually bring better results.
Q: Will it hurt?
A: Possibly during a Deep Tissue or Sports session. When releasing some knots and trigger points, there may be some numbness or specific areas of pain. This can be monitored during the session with open communication between therapist and client to keep the pain level tolerable. All treatments are discussed before the session and the client may request no releasing. From my professional experience, I do believe the pain from releasing knots and trigger points is necessary to prevent worse pain in the future, but all requests for less pressure will be respected.
There should be absolutely no pain for Swedish massage or Manual Lymphatic Drainage. During Surgery Recovery massage there may be pain as we work on the scar tissue or if your surgery was recent as your tissue is still traumatized. But the massage should be reducing pain levels, not increasing them.
A: Possibly during a Deep Tissue or Sports session. When releasing some knots and trigger points, there may be some numbness or specific areas of pain. This can be monitored during the session with open communication between therapist and client to keep the pain level tolerable. All treatments are discussed before the session and the client may request no releasing. From my professional experience, I do believe the pain from releasing knots and trigger points is necessary to prevent worse pain in the future, but all requests for less pressure will be respected.
There should be absolutely no pain for Swedish massage or Manual Lymphatic Drainage. During Surgery Recovery massage there may be pain as we work on the scar tissue or if your surgery was recent as your tissue is still traumatized. But the massage should be reducing pain levels, not increasing them.
Q: Can my husband/wife/partner/friend watch our therapy session?
A: No other person may observe the session unless the client requires a support person (ie, Dementia, Autism, physical restrictions, etc). If they are causing harm or distraction, they may be requested to leave. This is a family friendly business and you are welcome to bring your child if need be.
Please note: Please inform the office if you intend to bring your child to allow preparation.
A: No other person may observe the session unless the client requires a support person (ie, Dementia, Autism, physical restrictions, etc). If they are causing harm or distraction, they may be requested to leave. This is a family friendly business and you are welcome to bring your child if need be.
Please note: Please inform the office if you intend to bring your child to allow preparation.
Q: What should I do during my massage?
A: Try focusing on your breathing. Keep your body relaxed; I will let you know if I need you to move. Communicate with me (verbally or otherwise) about comfort levels of pain and/or temperature. If you dislike something, say something. But most importantly, enjoy the time for yourself.
A: Try focusing on your breathing. Keep your body relaxed; I will let you know if I need you to move. Communicate with me (verbally or otherwise) about comfort levels of pain and/or temperature. If you dislike something, say something. But most importantly, enjoy the time for yourself.
Q: Do I have to be naked?
A: If you don't want to be naked, you absolutely do not have to be. But undressing does help for some massages. Chair massage are done fully clothed. Sports massage can be done with athletic shorts. All other massages are done with you undressed, but you may keep the undergarments on. Bras are required to to be unclasped while working on the back. You will always be covered during the massage either with a full sheet or a towel. Only the area being worked will be exposed. Genitals are never worked and/or uncovered. If being nude is not possible or preferred, then I suggest wearing loose fitting clothing during the session.
A: If you don't want to be naked, you absolutely do not have to be. But undressing does help for some massages. Chair massage are done fully clothed. Sports massage can be done with athletic shorts. All other massages are done with you undressed, but you may keep the undergarments on. Bras are required to to be unclasped while working on the back. You will always be covered during the massage either with a full sheet or a towel. Only the area being worked will be exposed. Genitals are never worked and/or uncovered. If being nude is not possible or preferred, then I suggest wearing loose fitting clothing during the session.
Q: Do I have to give you my health history?
A: Yes, knowing your complete health history is very important to deduce what could be causing your pain/issue as well as highlighting any reasons you should not get a massage. Provide as much information as possible. Information such as occupation also allows me insight to what muscles are being stressed on a daily basis. It is also required by law to gather health information and sign a waiver for massage therapy and bodywork.
A: Yes, knowing your complete health history is very important to deduce what could be causing your pain/issue as well as highlighting any reasons you should not get a massage. Provide as much information as possible. Information such as occupation also allows me insight to what muscles are being stressed on a daily basis. It is also required by law to gather health information and sign a waiver for massage therapy and bodywork.
Q: Will you tell anyone about my health history or our therapy session?
A: Anything relating to the therapy session, health history, and anything said before, during, or after the session (even if it doesn't have to do with the massage) is completely confidential. All files and notes are kept secure. I will not share your health history or therapy session with anyone without your written consent (such as with a doctor). I follow all HIPAA confidentiality guidelines.
A: Anything relating to the therapy session, health history, and anything said before, during, or after the session (even if it doesn't have to do with the massage) is completely confidential. All files and notes are kept secure. I will not share your health history or therapy session with anyone without your written consent (such as with a doctor). I follow all HIPAA confidentiality guidelines.
Q: What if I need my information given to someone else, like a doctor or another therapist?
A: If you would like me to send my session notes to a physician or other medical professional, please make a request in writing and provide an email address to send the requested forms/notes. If you wish for them to be mailed, please provide an envelope, stamped and addressed to the doctor if you would like to me to mail it.
A: If you would like me to send my session notes to a physician or other medical professional, please make a request in writing and provide an email address to send the requested forms/notes. If you wish for them to be mailed, please provide an envelope, stamped and addressed to the doctor if you would like to me to mail it.
Q: What type of music will be playing?
A: My music is usually instrumental pop music. Some clients have referred to it as a fun "name that tune" opportunity.
A: My music is usually instrumental pop music. Some clients have referred to it as a fun "name that tune" opportunity.
Q: Oh, no! Did I just fart during the massage?!
A: The following are normal responses that sometimes occur during massage or MLD. You need not be embarrassed nor suppress them: Movement or release of intestinal gas - crying - laughing - strong emotions - sighing - groaning - yawning - softening of muscle tissue - cognitive or felt memories - stomach gurgling - the need to move or change position - dozing or falling asleep.
You may also feel an intense need to urinate after MLD. It may even be an odd color or odor. This is your body filtering out the debris and is normal.
A: The following are normal responses that sometimes occur during massage or MLD. You need not be embarrassed nor suppress them: Movement or release of intestinal gas - crying - laughing - strong emotions - sighing - groaning - yawning - softening of muscle tissue - cognitive or felt memories - stomach gurgling - the need to move or change position - dozing or falling asleep.
You may also feel an intense need to urinate after MLD. It may even be an odd color or odor. This is your body filtering out the debris and is normal.
