FAQ
DO YOU TALK A LOT?
Before every massage, we discuss your massage preferences, goals, and any areas to avoid or modify around health conditions. Regarding the initial paperwork, I will ask how much communication you prefer. Generally, I will check in periodically to ensure my client's comfort throughout the massage. Some conversations can help a client settle into the session, but I encourage all my clients to enjoy their session in silence. It allows me to be more intuitive. Some clients seek an engaging massage therapist, meaning they will tell clients to breathe or to contract a muscle and hold certain positions. I prefer my clients to zone out and let me do most of the work. In the future, I would love to get trained in breathwork and sports massage styles that involve more communication, but I feel my best now in silence.
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DO YOU OFFER PEDIATRIC MASSAGE?
I am not accepting any more clients under the age of 18. Pediatric massage is a specialty on its own. And my work is evolving to be more intimate yet therapeutic. In my practice, I may sit, stand, kneel, or get under a client for certain styles of massage and bodywork. I would not be comfortable using this on a minor.
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DO YOU REQUIRE A DRAPE?​
There are various draping styles throughout the world. In WA State, draping is mandatory, with the genitals remaining covered. Consent is necessary for certain draping and massage styles. Toni and the client will discuss draping before the massage. It helps build trust and security for both therapist and client. During the massage, Toni will check in with the client. At any time, the client can change their draping to be conservative. Written consent is only needed before the session if the client wants less draping. Toni may use more conservative draping depending on the client and massage styles involving movement and stretching. There is no genital or perineal massage (massaging tissues between the anus and genitals). Any illicit or sexual innuendos or advances will result in the termination of the session. And you will be liable for full payment. The massage therapist does not date clients to maintain professional boundaries set by the law.
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HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
Due to regular clientele, I no longer have time to book appointments by phone, email, or text. If you have questions, please send me a text message. I will respond within two-five business days. A credit card is required on file to reserve a session. New clients are required to pay a 50% deposit for their first session. ​No-shows or cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled appointment get charged the entire original service amount. And this includes rescheduling, refusing to complete required paperwork, or wanting to shorten your session. Being over 30 minutes late or inappropriate is an automatically charged cancellation. There is an exception if YOU can find someone to take your appointment. I am a sole practitioner. I only generate an income when giving massages. Unforeseen cancellations are a huge loss to my business.
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Bring a state identification card for verification and arrive 10 minutes early to find parking, use the restroom, and relax in the waiting area. First-time new clients, please text (253)-455-3491 upon arrival. I will then greet you shortly. I appreciate your patience!
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DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE ANY PAPERWORK?
In Washington State, massage therapy falls under healthcare. It is required to collect your name, address, birth date, consent, and information about your health. If the link isn't working, please let me know asap. Your session may get rescheduled if it's not completed 24 hours before your appointment. New allergies or sensitivities to lotions and oils may not get substituted without enough notice. All fields require an answer, or it will not submit. It only needs to be completed once by new clients. New paperwork gets requested from existing clientele on occasion. It ensures that we are aware of any health and studio policy changes. Before seeking massage therapy, consult your doctor, especially if you have a health condition, recent injury, or surgery.
DO YOU TAKE HEALTH INSURANCE?
I only accept credit/debit cards, cash, checks from established clients, and FSA/HSA cards. Vita Nova Massage is not in-network with health insurance. Medical prescriptions sent via email are accepted. I can provide reimbursement receipts. Always check your coverage before booking, as I am not responsible for denied re-payments.
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IS YOUR STUDIO ADA ACCESSIBLE?
My location is stair-access only, but because I'm on the main floor, I have an ADA ramp for the front entrance's porch steps. My studio is next to ADA-accessible restrooms, and I have an electric ADA-accessible massage table. For more information on the entryway and table dimensions or specialized cushions I offer, click here.
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DO YOU OFFER MOBILE MASSAGE OR CHAIR MASSAGE?
I only provide table massage therapy at my office. My specialized table and cushions allow clients to receive massages lying on their back, stomach, sides, or sitting.
DO YOU OFFER COUPLES MASSAGES?
Currently, I am unable to because I am a one-woman operation.
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IS YOUR BUILDING SCENT-FREE?
Other practitioners in the building sometimes burn incense and diffuse essential oils. I use essential oil sprays and drops on hot towels or under the face rest. Generally, it is manageable, and scents from the rest of the building don't travel into my studio. When you complete your online paperwork, please list any allergies or sensitivities. I can always provide a scent-free and hypoallergenic session. Please let me know if there are any changes as I try to keep the room's scent or non-scent set to your preferences before arriving. ​