Frequently Asked Questions

  • Honestly, almost everything. Most people come to me for two main reasons:

    1. To quiet their mind.

      In a world of constant noise, a massage allows your nervous system to drop out of “fight or flight” and into “rest and digest.” It’s a hard (yet soft) reset for your mind.

    2. To relax their body.

      Whether it’s chronic pain from sitting all day, muscle tightness from training, or general aches and stiffness, massage physically kneads out the knots and restores movement.

  • A full body session will always include work on your back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, and feet (though not necessarily in that order).

    I typically include glute work as a standard part of the session (worked through the sheet or directly on the skin, based on your preference), and many people love having their face and scalp included.

    Abdominal work is a bit different—I only include it if we’ve discussed a specific reason for it beforehand.

  • No, never. Genital areas are strictly off-limits. It is both illegal and a violation of my professional ethics. You will always be properly draped to ensure your privacy and comfort are maintained at all times.

    • 60 minutes: Great for a full-body tune-up or just targeting specific areas (like your back, neck, and shoulders only).

    • 90 minutes: My most popular. Perfect if you want a thorough full-body session with extra time on a problem spot or two.

    • 120 minutes: The luxury option. Ideal for serious relaxation and/or addressing multiple areas of chronic tension without feeling rushed.

  • You can expect a session designed for maximum comfort from the ground up. Literally.

    It’s all part of the flow: every element, from the table to the towels to the decor, is chosen to help your body and mind fully let go. You’re here for results, but you deserve comfort, too.

    My table isn’t your standard-issue model. It’s extra-wide and extra-padded, with additional arm rests that give you more room to relax completely. I use a variety of bolsters to provide perfect support, accommodating any postural needs or body types.

    I conclude all my full-body sessions with a thorough foot massage (if you’d like one), using hot towels to clean them both before and after. Let’s be real: you don’t want to step off the table with slippery feet, and you probably don’t want me to massage anywhere else after working on them. It’s a simple, grounding touch that finishes the session right—and by that point, I might just need to wake you up.

  • Nope. You undress to your comfort level. For the most effective massage, working on bare skin is best, but you’ll always be professionally draped with a sheet for privacy. (No boobs, butts, or junk.)

  • Nope. In fact, it’s a nice change of pace for me to offer fully clothed bodywork. Wearing comfortable, flexible workout clothes (like yoga attire) is perfect.

    I can easily blend shiatsu, range-of-motion techniques, and assisted stretching through clothing. This approach is especially effective for sports massage and can be done on the table or on a floor mat. Many clients find this style even more relaxing and accessible.

  • Ideally, no.

    Think of my massage as an “assisted meditation.” Talking—whether from you or me—keeps your nervous system alert and prevents you from achieving the deep relaxation you’re paying for.

    While I’m happy to follow your lead, true restoration happens in silence, so feel free to drift off. Your silence leads me to believe you’re perfectly relaxed. So please always speak up about pressure or comfort—that kind of communication is essential.

  • It can be. It’s usually a sign we effectively targeted the muscle tension that needed attention. It feels like post-workout soreness and should fade within a day or two.

    If the soreness lasts longer than a couple days, it may have been too aggressive for that area, and your body may need less pressure than your mind thinks.

  • That depends on you. For general maintenance and stress relief, every 4-6 weeks is a solid sweet spot. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, intense stress, or you’re an athlete in training, you’ll likely benefit from getting massages more often—every 1-3 weeks.

    I offer a monthly membership with discounted rates if you want to lock in regular self-care and make it a consistent part of your routine. Details can be found on my booking page.

  • I get it. A bad massage is worse than no massage. After years of practice—and learning from my own early mistakes—I’ve honed in on what is universally effective: the right pressure combined with a seamless flow.

    My goal is to keep you in a state of deep relaxation while I effectively address your tension. You shouldn’t have to feel like you’re risking your time and money on an inconsistent experience.

    While I’m always learning and believe clear communication is key, I’ve refined my technique to the point where I don’t need to constantly check in and pull you out of your peace. However, if you need more or less pressure, or something isn’t right, I might not know unless you tell me. So please speak up—it helps me get it just right for you.

  • Absolutely. Glutes are a major tension storage unit. I approach the glutes and sacrum with the same professional, therapeutic intent as your shoulders or back. I can work effectively through the sheet if you prefer to keep underwear on, or directly on the skin. My technique adapts to your comfort—the results are what matter.

  • Yes. I have specialized pillows and a full body cushion to safely and comfortably accommodate side-lying positions or to provide support if you’re propped on your back.

    And yes, you’ll still get actual pressure. You’re not a piece of glass—I’ll provide the therapeutic pressure you need to relieve tension, tailored safely for each stage of pregnancy.

    If you’re in your first trimester and still comfortable lying face down, that’s perfectly fine too. I generally recommend sessions of 90 minutes or less if you’re further along, as longer sessions can become uncomfortable.

    Just let me know how far along you are when you book, and we’ll make sure you’re perfectly supported.

  • Technically, yes—with a slight twist. My treatment room is directly adjacent to another excellent therapist’s room. My colleague and I can coordinate our schedules so you and a friend can enjoy your own private, simultaneous sessions. It’s the perfect way to share the experience while each getting a massage tailored just for you.

  • Cash is still king, but I accept credit/debit cards, Venmo, and even checks.

    You will need to use a card if using my online booking system.

  • I do not accept gratuities as my rates reflect the cost of doing business.

    But if you insist, I won’t resist.

  • Wunderbar! You can book your session directly here on the website—it’s the fastest way to secure your spot.

    If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out at Ddicarmine@gmail.com or (845) 464-3660.

    Can’t wait to help you feel better!