Is massage therapy right for me?

I believe that massage is right for everyone, but not every massage therapist will be right for you. It’s important to find a therapist who you trust-Your massage therapist should be someone you feel comfortable with and who you can talk to with ease. I understand that I will not always be the right fit for everyone. Finding a therapist you can work with to get the results you need should be your goal AND the goal of your LMT. For this reason, I offer complimentary consultations for those who want to meet me before committing to a full session.

Can massage fix my pain?

Manual therapy is one of the most beneficial modalities for alleviating pain and stress, though it’s important to understand how it works. Often, clients combine many different self-care methods when managing pain and stress, including chiropractic, physical therapy and personal training. Massage therapy provides stress relief and manipulates soft tissue that can cause pain and limited range of motion. In order to gain the full benefits of massage, it’s important to understand that one 60 minute session can’t “fix” years of pain related to poor posture, injury or repetitive motion. Massage provides the most benefit with consistent care. Massage therapy can help to alleviate pain if you are committed to healing it.

What can I expect from my first massage session?

Shortly after you arrive for your appointment, I’ll greet you in the waiting area. After filling out a brief Intake Form, we’ll chat about your goals, your pain patterns and what you might expect from your session. During your massage, I’ll apply many different techniques and will be in communication with you regarding pressure, stretches and breathwork, when needed. After your massage, you’ll have time to go over a personalized treatment plan and get answers to any questions you might have.

What is your massage space like?

My office is located at Soma Holistic Therapy Center in Merrimack, N.H, near the YMCA. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a small playground near the parking area. You’ll see signs for the Chamber of Commerce (located in the same building) in the front entrance. Feel free to wait in the waiting area-it’s cozy. Soma Center consists of many different independent practitioners, including a Mental Health Specialist, a Naturopathic Doctor and other LMT’s.

My office is small, private and cozy, with soft lighting and no harsh smells. It’s warm, clean and quiet.

What techniques do you use?

I combine many different methods from modalities that have been proven to be effective for promoting deep relaxation and alleviating specific pain patterns. Trigger point therapy and myofascial work are gentle methods for utilizing focused pressure to relieve areas of dysfunction. Sophisticated Swedish-style strokes and gentle stretching are also used to soften tissue and increase range of motion. Warm towels and essential oils can also be added to a session to create a sense of well-being and relaxation. Sometimes, clients simply want safe, nurturing touch that makes them feel cared for. We’ll go over your goals together and make sure you know what to expect.

What is expected of me as a client?

It is important that both therapist and client be respectful of one another at all times. Racist, sexist, homophobic comments and inappropriate sexual behavior will not be tolerated.

How will I feel after my massage?

People experience different things after a massage. Notably, clients report an increase in range of motion in arms, legs, hips and neck as well as a reduction in pain. The first massage session is often used to explore areas that require the most attention and discover techniques that benefit the individual. Aside from a decrease in pain, clients often note a better night’s sleep and a feeling of well-being after receiving massage. Most people feel deeply relaxed, but your experience will depend on your state of mind, your personality type and your initial goals. I am glad to answer questions and receive comments via text for clients who want to share their experience.