General Information
Gift Certificates
Gift Certificates are available in any denomination. Visit our Shop to purchase.
Etiquette
We suggest that you plan to arrive a few minutes early to check in and relax. The allotted time for your services allows for undressing, dressing and resting time. Please be considerate so that we can fulfill our commitment to see you and others on time. Late arrivals will not receive an extension of the scheduled treatment. Also, please inform us if you are pregnant or are currently under a doctor's care or are taking prescription medication.
Cancellations
Treatments are reserved especially for you. A 24-hour cancellation notice is required to avoid being charged for any treatment or service. All no-shows are charged at full value.
Cleansing
It is not typical but your body may go through a cleansing process which could include muscle soreness, headaches or nausea. We recommend that you drink 12–16 ounces of water after your treatment. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Insurance reimbursement
We accept NHIA, POMCO and No-Fault insurance. We can help you to determine insurance coverage if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will give me my massage?
Your massage will be given by a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist with over 1000 hours of training. All therapists at the Center for Therapeutic Massage are committed to advancing their skills through continuing education classes so they are up to date with the most recent research and massage techniques.
What kinds of massage can I get?
Generally, your session will be a combination of various massage techniques. Specialized techniques are described on this site. If you are not sure what "type" of massage to request, your massage therapist will be able to determine what will be the most effective treatment for your session after your initial consultation. Your session will consist of what you need, and you will not be limited to choosing one modality. We do not charge more for deep tissue or hot stone massages.
Will a massage ever hurt?
Massage on healthy tissue feels good, and the saying "no pain, no gain" is not true for massage. The most effective and the deepest massage works with the body's natural responses, rather than against them. Always tell your massage therapist if you feel any discomfort so he or she can adjust your treatment to the right level.
Massage to treat a painful injury may at first cause some discomfort, which usually lessens noticeably in the first few minutes. Your massage therapist knows ways to minimize pain and will work carefully within what feels right to you.
What should I do during my massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If your massage therapist wants you to adjust your position, he or she will either move you (for instance, move your arm) or will tell you what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people just close their eyes and relax completely during their massage. Others prefer to talk. It's your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax.
Do not hesitate to ask questions about what your massage therapist is doing or about massage in general. If you are ticklish, tell your therapist so he or she can work carefully or avoid the most sensitive areas altogether. However, because the quality of touch is completely different from tickling, even extremely ticklish people are often surprised that a massage does not tickle.
The most important thing you should do during your massage is let your therapist know if you are experiencing pain, discomfort or need of any kind of adjustment in pressure or position. The desire to sigh or take a deep breath is a sign that you are relaxing. In fact, deep natural breaths can actually help you relax.
Will my hair and makeup be disturbed?
Massage of the face, scalp or neck may result in the disturbance of your makeup or hairstyle. Let your therapist know if this is a concern. They may modify their technique, be especially careful or skip an area altogether.
What do I do after my massage?
When your massage is finished, your therapist will leave the room while you dress. Be aware that massage can be profoundly relaxing, and it affects all of your body's systems. Give yourself a moment to reorient before slowly getting up from the table. It is also recommended that you drink extra water after your massage to keep your muscle tissue hydrated.
How will I feel after my massage?
After a massage, most people feel very relaxed. Many experience freedom from aches and pains that have built up from months of tension or repetitive activity in their daily life. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience an increase in energy that can last for several days. Sometimes the immediate effects of your massage may seem mild. Watch for further change over the following days, such as pain relief, increased mobility or reduced stress. Should you have any additional concerns, a therapist will be glad to answer any questions.
How long will a massage last?
The length of your massage will vary based on what you need.
An hour is enough time for a deeply relaxing full-body massage, or a more in-depth treatment on a particular area, for instance back, neck and shoulders. A half-hour can be an excellent introduction to massage, with plenty of time for a partial massage, such as back, neck and shoulders or legs and feet. An hour and a half is enough time for a full body massage along with special attention to a problem area.
What will my first appointment be like?
Your massage will take place on a table specially designed for stability and comfort. Your massage therapist may offer cushions or an adjustable face rest for support. The room will be warm and quiet, often with soft music to set a relaxing mood. Your therapist will begin by asking some general health questions since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate. Your therapist will then leave the room while you undress and relax onto the table, covering yourself with a fresh sheet or towel.
For a full-body massage, most people undress completely, though you may choose to wear underwear. You are completely draped at all times, except for the area being worked on. Genitals and women's breasts should be covered at all times. Your massage therapist will usually use a lubricant, such as light oil or lotion, which is good for your skin and absorbs well. A massage usually begins with a light steady touch, followed by broad flowing strokes. This starts calming your nervous system and releasing tension in your superficial muscles. Gradually, as your body becomes ready, your massage therapist works more deeply to relax specific areas.
Have More Questions?
We're here to provide an outstanding experience. If you have any questions or need additional information, always feel free to contact us. Use the link below to ask us a question.
