New Client Guide
I am delighted to be a part of your wellness journey. As a new client, it’s important for you to understand a few key aspects of my practice to ensure a smooth and personalized experience. This guide outlines the steps and expectations for your first visit and beyond. Throughout the entire process, your safety and comfort are my priority.
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Intake: Before your first visit, you will be sent an intake form via email which will inquire about your health history, current physical condition, and any specific goals or concerns you have. This will allow me to tailor your session to your individual needs and ensure you receive the most effective treatment possible. Please complete and submit this form at least 24 hours prior to your appointment to give me time for review.
Arrival & Consultation: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your first appointment so we can discuss the intake information and confirm the treatment plan. I will recommend specific massage therapies that I think will best meet your needs, and you will always have the opportunity to adjust the chosen techniques according to your preferences.
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Communication: Your feedback throughout the session is welcome and encouraged to ensure the treatment meets your needs. Communicating openly about your comfort level, pressure preferences, and any areas you would like to focus on or avoid is essential.
Agency: I aim to empower clients to change their minds at any time regarding any element of the treatment.
Level of Undress: You may choose your level of undress. While most clients decide to be fully nude, the option remains to keep on any articles of clothing that will help keep you comfortable. You will be given privacy before and after the session for undressing and redressing.
Modesty & Draping: Any areas of the body that aren’t being actively worked with will be draped underneath a sheet and blanket, and genitalia/breast tissue will be covered at all times.
Cell Phone Use: Please refrain from texting, emailing, or making phone calls during the session to maintain a peaceful and professional environment.
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Physical Sensations: You may feel a range of sensations during a massage, from deep relaxation to a 'good pain' as tense tissue is worked with and released. Always communicate if anything feels truly painful or uncomfortable.
Emotions: It is common for emotions to emerge as one receives touch in a safe, quiet environment. Any emotional expression is welcome in this non-judgmental space, and I thank you for your vulnerability and trust. Tears, laughter, or a need for silence are all normal. This is your time to heal, and I honor your process.
After Effects: You may feel deeply relaxed, energized, or even a little sore the day after a massage (similar to post-exercise soreness). This is normal and usually subsides quickly. Staying well-hydrated is important to maximize the benefits of the session and minimize any soreness.
Further Support: If deep emotional concerns arise, please remember that while I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space, I am not a licensed mental health professional and cannot provide psychotherapy or counseling. I can, however, help you connect with qualified mental health resources if you wish to seek further support and integration.
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Frequency: After your first session, I will discuss recommendations for follow-up appointments based on your goals and any ongoing needs. Consistent sessions are beneficial for long-term wellness, but the frequency of visits will be personalized to you.
Arrival Time: I recommend arriving 5-10 minutes early to each appointment to review the session plan and ensure you receive the full treatment time.
Intake Update: Your intake form only needs to be completed before the first session, unless there have been changes to your health/medications. If this is the case, please request a new intake form to be sent.
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Methods: Payment for each session is due at the time of service and may be completed via cash, credit/debit card (including tap-to-pay options), or a gift certificate.
Prepayment: As a new client, you may be asked to prepay for your first session, particularly for outcall services or if booking an extended session.
Gratuity: Tipping is never required, yet always appreciated. This Reader’s Digest article provides further insight into tipping etiquette when it comes to massage therapy.
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Our Booking & Cancellation Policies apply to all clients, even for first-time appointments.
If you cancel or reschedule an appointment less than 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay for the session in full.
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Privacy: Your privacy is of the utmost importance. All information shared in online forms and during sessions is protected by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and will be kept confidential, used only for the purposes of providing you with the best possible care.
Exceptions: Circumstances which are exempt from HIPAA protection include disclosures of clear and imminent danger to oneself or others, intention to commit a crime, suspected abuse or neglect of a child or elderly individual, or if there is a court-ordered subpoena for client records.
I sincerely appreciate you choosing my practice. It's a privilege to serve you and I am excited to see what we will accomplish together!