FAQ
General Questions
How can I buy a massage package online?
Here's where you can buy a massage package. (Just scroll down about halfway.) You may also want to consider a Mini-Series of Structural Bodywork.
Can I split a massage package between two people?
A lot of people ask me that. To answer honestly, I'd rather you not split massage packages. Splitting packages side-steps the primary reason I want you to get a package: to commit yourself to a plan. You commit yourself to a plan because that's what will ensure that improve, rather than using massage as a band-aid only.
I can't control whether you follow through with my recommendations, but I can make sure you have a little more motivation!
Do you take last minute or emergency appointments?
My schedule and style of massage works best when it's planned in advance. That's why I book out a couple of weeks ahead.
I do my best to squeeze in current clients who are having a 'massage emergency'. If you're a new client needing a last-minute massage, I can usually refer you out to another competent therapist.
Tipping is not essential for me. I set my rates to make an appropriate income. On the other hand, if you're a tipper, I do politely accept.
I don't bill insurance. I DO provide itemized invoices at your request, so that you may get reimbursed by your insurance company. All you have to do is email me after your session(s). The turnaround is usually less than 24 hours.
Structural Integration
Kinesis Myofascial Integration. It's in the family of work called Structural Integration. I practice under my massage therapy license.
What’s this KMI/Structural Integration like?
I’ll be working deep into your soft tissue (that’s your muscles and surrounding connective tissue). This slow and steady work makes long-term changes in your alignment and movement.
Each session begins with a standing assessment of your alignment. This gives me clues about where you have restrictions and tension, which helps me focus the work on the areas that need it most.
The bodywork is done with you seated or lying down on the massage table. During the whole session, you’ll wear whatever you feel comfortable and modest in (shorts and a sports bra, a 2-piece swimsuit, or just your underwear is fine).
I’ll have you do specific movements for most of the hands-on work. This is in contrast to normal massage. Movement makes all the difference!
What do I wear during my Structural Integration session?
Generally, bra and underwear are fine. You can also wear a tank top and shorts or a 2-piece bathing suit. I'm pretty flexible about working with whatever you feel comfortable in. I often use a blanket for modesty and warmth.
Things that won't work as well: very tight spandex shorts, undergarments that are too revealing or too loose. You'll figure out what works best for you after a session or two.
Does Structural Integration hurt?
It’ll be intense at times. One example: You may experience “good pain” that means your body needs it. Or you may have interesting emotions come up. To be honest, it’s different for everyone.
I always work within your personal threshold. The thing to keep in mind is that serious change should challenge your system within its ability to re-balance.
Can I get just one session of Structural Integration?
Nope. I never plan on doing "just one" of anything, massage or Structural Integration. While one session can get you quick relief, I'm just as interested in creating lasting change for your body. You wouldn't go to the gym and expect a miracle after one workout. That means we need a multi-session plan.
What you can do is have a trial session. Trial sessions will be officially available soon! In the meantime, please contact me if you're interested in this.
Should I get Structural Integration or Myofascial Massage?
You should definitely try SI if you have the resources, and if you are ready to commit to lasting change. The decision shouldn't be taken lightly.
Myofascial massage is a great way to get treated by me and see if you want to go for more. There are other reasons I'd suggest massage, which you can read about here.
Do you do acute injury treatment?
Most of the time, no. In fact, if you're serious about getting your injury treated, I suggest you see Dr. Eric DeRoche of Kinetic Sports Rehab in Fremont. He's my chiropractor (and brother!), and he's helped me through a couple injuries since I moved here.
However, once you're dealing with a sub-acute or chronic injury, you're ready for my work. This could be a few days or weeks after your injury. The treatment course I recommend will depend on the severity of the injury and how well you are healing. It's best to contact me directly before making an appointment.
Because it works so much better than regular massage. Read about my clients' perspective here.
On a related note, you don't have to get my work over and over. You can get a Mini-Series of 3 sessions, and then not come back for 6 months. After a Full Series, I might not see you for a year or more. And when you do come back, you'll be in a much better place than when I saw you last.
It's also a highly educated modality. I'm very serious when it comes to doing the best bodywork I can do for my clients. Better education and higher prices hold me to a higher standard of work. I'd be out of business pretty fast if I had high prices without the results to back it up.
If you're wondering why I charge relatively higher prices than therapists who offer similar work, it's about quality of life. Some therapists see 20-30 clients per week. That would drive my quality of work way down. I see 6-10 clients per week. That allows me time to give time to writing articles for you, to taking care of myself, and to having a life outside my business. Not to mention an incredible level of service for each of my clients.
All of those things are good for you, in the end. All of those things mean that the work you get is much, much better. I don't compromise on that.
Where can I learn more about KMI?
Aside from my blog, you can read: The KMI Experience, Getting the Most from KMI, and What Makes KMI Different? over on Tom Myers' website. (Tom Myers is the father of KMI.)
