Everything you might be wondering before your first session, answered plainly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Good to Know
Pick a question to read its answer
What happens at my first session?
I come to you and set up the table, fresh linens, and everything else in a space you choose. Before we start I'll spend a few minutes talking with you about what's going on, tight spots, old injuries, your goals, and how much pressure you like. Then I step out of the room so you can get comfortable on the table under the sheet. The session is yours: I'll check in on pressure, and you can speak up any time. Afterward I'll share a couple of simple things to do at home to make the relief last. First sessions usually run a little long so you're never rushed.
How much pressure do you use?
The whole range, and it's always your call:
- Light, relaxing, calming, great for stress relief or sensitive areas.
- Medium, a firm, satisfying pressure that addresses everyday tension.
- Deep, my specialty: focused, deliberate work into deep tissue, knots, and stubborn restrictions.
Deep does not have to mean painful — effective deep work should feel like a "good hurt." I'll dial it in to you and adjust on the fly.
What should I wear, and how does draping work?
Wear whatever you're comfortable in — once on the table, you undress to your own comfort level. You're properly draped with a sheet throughout the session — only the area I'm actively working on is uncovered, and your private areas stay covered. Florida's massage rules set the draping standard, and your draping preference is confirmed in writing on your intake form before we begin. You are never required to remove any clothing you'd rather keep on. Plenty of effective work can be done over light clothing. Your comfort and dignity come first, always.
Where do sessions happen? Do you come to me?
Yes — every session is in-home/mobile: I bring the table and everything needed to you, across Tarpon Springs and the surrounding areas. Travel is free within 8 miles of Tarpon Springs; beyond that it's a small distance-based fee (8–15 mi +$15 · 15–22 mi +$25 · 22–30 mi +$40), always shown before you book. You can check exact travel fees by ZIP. All you need on your end is a small, quiet space to set up.
What's your cancellation and no-show policy?
Life happens — you can cancel or reschedule free up to 24 hours before your appointment. I'll send a reminder the day before so you've got time to adjust if plans change. Cancellations inside 24 hours or no-shows may be charged the full session fee, since that time was reserved just for you. You can read the full cancellation & session policies any time.
How should I prepare for my session?
Hydrate well before and after — bodywork moves fluid through the tissues, and water helps you feel your best afterward. Try to avoid a heavy meal right beforehand. Most importantly, plan to communicate: tell me where it hurts, what you want out of the session, and whether the pressure feels right. The more you share, the more targeted the work can be.
How does payment and tipping work?
You can pay by Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, PayPal, or crypto, whatever's easiest for you, at the time of your session, or ahead of time on the Pay or Gift page. Tipping is never expected, but it's always appreciated if you felt your session was worth it. It's entirely your choice and never affects the care you receive.
Will cupping leave marks, and is that safe?
Cupping can leave round, bruise-like marks, and they're completely normal. Unlike a bruise from impact, these come from gentle decompression: the cups lift the tissue rather than crush it, which draws stagnant blood to the surface so fresh circulation can move in. The marks aren't painful and typically fade within a few days to about a week. If you have an event coming up, just tell me and I'll work around visible areas or adjust the intensity.
What is myofascial release, trigger-point, and cupping, in plain terms?
Myofascial release works the fascia, the thin web of connective tissue that wraps every muscle, with slow, sustained pressure to free up areas that have gotten stiff or stuck. Trigger-point therapy targets the small knotted spots in a muscle that can refer pain elsewhere; I hold steady pressure on them until they release. Cupping uses suction to gently lift the tissue, decompressing tight layers and boosting circulation, a different sensation from hands-on pressure that many people find deeply relieving. I often blend all three in one session based on what your body needs that day.
Is the intake form required?
Yes — Florida law requires it. Before any session, state law (§480.043) requires me to have your full name, home address, phone number, and your signed consent on record, and your draping preference confirmed in writing. The health-and-goals section is where the form really works for you: it lets me tailor the session and work safely around any conditions or injuries. It only takes a few minutes — fill it out online before your session, or in person when I arrive. On the form you can tap to select the body areas that need attention, which makes it easy to show me exactly where you'd like me to focus.
Is massage safe if I have a health condition or am pregnant?
For most people massage is very safe, but a few conditions call for extra care or a doctor's clearance first, things like recent surgery, blood clots, certain skin conditions, or pregnancy. Just mention anything relevant on your intake form or before we begin, and I'll adapt the work (or let you know if it's best to check with your physician first). When in doubt, ask me, I'd always rather you feel completely comfortable.
How do I book, and how do I rebook?
The easiest way is the Book a Session page — pick your service and a time that works, and you'll get a confirmation. Returning clients can book the same way any time, and many people like to schedule their next visit before they leave so the slot they want is held. If you'd rather just ask a question first, the Contact page reaches me directly.
Still have a question I didn't cover?
Looking for the fine print? Read the full cancellation & session policies.