What to Expect
These policies are subject to change at any time. Updated May 2023
How many treatment sessions will I need before I may experience an improvement in my symptoms?
This question depends very much on what conditions you are experiencing, and the response to treatment varies greatly between individuals. Some people notice that their pain is decreased after the first session, but this is not a single-treatment solution. The beneficial physiological effects are cumulative. Establishing new patterns in the nervous system requires repetition, whether we are learning a sport, a musical instrument, or how to respond to the challenges of life with resilience rather than overwhelm.
Using the self-care tools that I teach is an important factor for a client’s rate of improvement. My goal is to empower you with self-applied tools and techniques that help you cultivate your calm center and comfortable mindset. I believe that Autonomic Balancing bodywork provides the foundation from which the self-care tools can be applied most effectively. Some clients may benefit from receiving this treatment regularly for an extended period, while others may need it only for a short time. If your budget or available time is limited, I would be glad to discuss your condition and possible treatment needs by phone before you make an appointment.
Where can I learn more about the training that has shaped your approach to treatment?
I have integrated a variety of manual therapy techniques I learned at Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage, including aspects of Shiatsu and Swedish, along with additional training in myofascial release, and my own extensive research into the leading-edge neuroscientific understanding of pain, trauma, mindfulness and resilience. My experience with the Associative Awareness Techniques approach greatly influences my work. I continue to explore manual therapy modalities that focus on working through the nervous system to change pain and normalize muscle tension and function, such as Primal Reflex Release Technique.
Somatic Experiencing™ is a nervous system-oriented approach to support recovery from the lingering physiological effects of traumatic experiences, ranging from auto accident and injury to developmental trauma such as abuse, and other overwhelming life events. Learn more about Somatic Experiencing™ here.
What is the time length and cost of a session?
The introductory session is about 75 minutes to allow time to review your health history and treatment goals, provide some basic neuroscience education, and introduce Somatic Experiencing™. Subsequent sessions are 60 minutes, with up to 15 minutes additional time available for mindful wrap-up of the session if needed, at the therapist's discretion. Each session includes a varying combination of hands-on work, Somatic Experiencing™, and mindfulness coaching in response to each client's therapeutic needs and treatment goals. My approach is highly customized for each client. Read more about my treatment approach here.
The fee for the 75-minute introductory session is $90.
In-person office sessions are $100/60-minute session.
Somatic Experiencing™ and mindfulness coaching video sessions are $100/60-minute session.
Sessions of 90 minutes or 120 minutes are also available, and multiple sessions per week may be available at a discounted rate; please inquire. We can discuss which session length and timing would be the best fit for your treatment goals.
How do I book a session?
First-time clients, please call me at 585-943-3974 to make your initial appointment. Thereafter, you may use the Book a Session link from this web site to reserve your appointment time on my MassageBook calendar. If you have difficulty finding a time that works for your schedule, please call or email me. Additional times may be possible.
Where do I find your office?
2507 Browncroft Blvd. is located at the corner of Browncroft and Blossom Road in Penfield, a short distance east of Route 590 north. The building is on the east side of the parking lot, and it is the middle building behind the Advantage Credit Union. Plenty of parking is available directly in front of the building.
Is the office location accessible for people with mobility limitations?
My office, Suite 204, is on the second floor, and there is no elevator in the building. I am available for home visits by arrangement if mobility limitations make the stairs a barrier. Please contact me for scheduling.
How early should I arrive for my appointment?
For the initial session, please arrive 15 minutes early to fill out forms if you have not completed them in advance. Thereafter preparation time is not needed before your session, but timeliness is important. Please understand that session time can not be extended due to a client’s late arrival.
Are you able to accept insurance?
Unfortunately, few insurance plans cover massage therapy. Depending on your insurance plan you may be able to submit for reimbursement for out-of-network providers. Please check with your employer or insurance carrier. I can provide you with documentation of your treatment if needed, but I do not have access to information about your insurance plan.
Can I use my HSA/FSA to pay for my session?
Heath Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be used to pay for massage therapy in certain circumstances; please be sure to check with your HSA bank and the IRS for policies and documentation requirements before paying with your HSA card. More information about using HSA/FSA to pay for massage therapy here.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards, including HSA account debit cards. Please be sure to check with your HSA bank for policies and documentation requirements before paying with your HSA card. I do not have access to this information.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 24-hours notice for appointment cancellations. Cancellations within less than 24 hours will be charged an $80 fee. In case of sudden illness or emergency, this fee may be waived for the first-time occurrence only. Please call or text 585-943-3974 to cancel appointments if it is less than 24 hours before your scheduled time; otherwise, please cancel or change your appointment using the confirmation email link.
No-shows or cancellations less than 2 hours before the appointment time will be charged the full session fee. Changing a session scheduled for 90 minutes to 60 minutes without 24-hours notice will be charged the 90-minute fee. If you need assistance, feel free to call 585-943-3974 or email.
Note: Clients who frequently cancel appointments, even with 24 hours’ notice, may be moved back to my waiting list. Established clients who do not schedule an appointment for more than 6 weeks without any communication may need to return to my waiting list so I can accommodate new clients.
Do I need a referral from my primary care provider to receive massage therapy or to continue with treatment?
No, Somatic Therapy from a Licensed Massage Therapist does not typically require a referral from any other health care provider. If you are seeking reimbursement from insurance or using an HSA card to pay, a referral may be required. Please check into these requirements before your first appointment. I do not have access to this information.
What does your hands-on treatment involve?
I use a variety of bodywork modalities to support my clients in their healing process. "Autonomic Balancing" is a unique hands-on treatment involves a variety of manual techniques applied to the skin to introduce a novel combination and variety of sensory input to the brain for the purpose of alleviating mental and physical stress and tension. This variety of touch is applied on the arms, legs, face and shoulders, hands and feet. Clients are positioned face-up while lying flat on the massage table. A reclining chair is also available for anyone who is more comfortable in a seated or reclining position. Clients remain fully clothed during this treatment and may be covered with a blanket.
Somatic Experiencing™ bodywork involves gentle compression on arms, legs, shoulders, hands or feet , offered to encourage awareness of body sensation and provide support for remaining present and grounded in safety.
What should I wear for my session?
Clients remain clothed during all types of bodywork I use. I can work through any type clothing; however, if possible, I recommend that you wear comfortable, stretchy, yoga or other exercise gear for your session. Blankets are available if needed for your comfort. Please remove everything from your pockets and any prominent jewelry, especially bracelets and earrings. Rings and necklaces are usually not obstructive.
How will I feel after the bodywork treatment?
Most people find the treatment relaxing. As with many types of massage therapy, some people may feel tired or drowsy after receiving it. Give yourself the opportunity to rest, and drink plenty of water if you feel tired. I do not recommend having this treatment immediately before you need to do intense physical or mental activity; regular daily activities are usually fine afterwards.