I am committed to providing inclusive, knowledgeable and compassionate massage therapy and bodywork in my practice. This is a LGBTQ friendly practice. I want to be inclusive of everyone regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, age, beliefs, size, diagnosis etc. In my opinion there are way too many people that are not being treated well in this world. It is not a contest of who is discriminated against the most. I know that sounds good in theory and can be messy in practice which is why I want to invite you to contact me, let’s have a conversation and we can share information before we schedule a session together.
Everyone says “Safety First!” but, really it usually comes later. Later after coffee, after someone has already been hurt or offended. I have now spent over half my life doing massage and diligently attempting to serve in a manner that is safe for all of us. 30 years ago there were few advanced classes and continuing education for massage therapists. I continue to do a lot of background work, research, going to support groups and in-services for other health professions, asking for assistance, information, being mentored in order to work safely with people that are medically involved, expecting and elderly. I am still doing this. New procedures and processes are occurring all the time. Massage Therapists are sometimes the last to get the education and information about how to support people, work safely and effectively with specific current surgical procedures or new treatments. Sadly some people are aware of this and hesitate, or are very cautious to receive massage therapy and bodywork, or they just avoid it all together because it is too scary. I don’t blame you one bit.
My table is a hydraulic lift table so you do not have jump up on it or climb on it using a step stool. It is wider than your average massage table with additional options and spaces for breasts and abdomens. This is not just for prenatal, it is for larger people, post-surgical situations and people with medical devices like feeding tubes, implants or colostomy bags. I have plenty of pillows, bolsters and cushions for your comfort. I have plenty of linens and blankets to keep your warm and comfortable.
You have permission to keep all your clothes on or take all your clothes off for your session. You will be required to be covered and draped appropriately. It is so very important that you are comfortable. If you are not comfortable the session will not be as effective. If you are on the massage table and your brain is busy considering if you should have taken something off or left something on you are not comfortable. People think this is for modesty and it can be however, it is not only for modesty. There are other reasons;
· It is not necessary. You can wear a wet suit and a trench coat and I can still work with you , I will make some adjustments and use less massage cream or lotion.
· Because of an injury, condition or post-op situation, removing clothing may cause you additional pain or discomfort. So, let’s not do that.
· You may be very fatigued from life, a competition or a side effect of a medical treatment or procedure. If you have a limited amount of energy and don’t want to spend it getting undressed and dressed again that is fine.
So come as you are, be who you are, let me know what your preferred pronoun is and know I want you to feel safe on my table.
I am cisgendered and do not even want to start a first time I met, encountered, how many friends and family I have that identify and/or express differently, went to pride, volunteered or worked with thus and so post… I don’t want that to matter. I want you to matter. You will not be rushed, I will hold space and time for your comfort. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me
Thanks for the restack. I was pleasantly shocked to see it.