Do I have to do the full Soma Series?
Not at all! I recommend all clients start with 1-3 sessions to determine whether it feels like a good fit. 3 sessions generally allows enough time for the work to begin effecting change through the body.
The Soma Series is a specially-designed sequence of 11 sessions that helps to eliminate overall tension, increase body awareness, and restore more easeful alignment. The Series is also made up of 3 distinct segments (sessions 1-3, sessions 4-7 and sessions 8-11), so breaks can be taken between those sections as needed. While I believe most everyone can benefit from receiving the full series, I’m also happy to offer individual sessions or a mini-series depending on your needs.
What does a Soma Session look like?
We start each session with a brief check in and ‘body reading’ to assess your current alignment and posture. I may ask some questions about how you are feeling in your body that day and then we’ll have you get on the massage table.
Each session includes about 90 minutes of time on the table, during which I provide manual, hands- on release of your muscles and tissue to address tension and imbalances throughout your body. While I am working, I will sometimes ask you to participate with integrative movement and breath, and by recognizing feelings and sensations as they arise in your body.
We conclude each session with a few minutes of guided movement education and another body reading/check in, especially focusing on posture, walking, and other essential, everyday movements (varies depending on each client’s mobility, access needs, etc).
What should I wear?
Clients should wear comfortable shorts or underwear, and a sports bra or tube top if applicable. I have tube tops available to borrow, for those who would like to try them, as they can provide better access when working on your back and shoulders. If you would like to have more coverage during your session, a loose fitting shirt and pants are also okay as long as they are not restrictive.
How does a mobile session work?
I’m currently offering mobile sessions in the Olympia area. You will need to have an open floor space of approximately 8 ft by 8 ft for us to use, in a space where you feel comfortable receiving bodywork. I will bring a portable massage table, bolsters, and linens to your residence. I will need a few extra minutes before and after the session to set up and take down, but you will still get the same amount of time on the table.
Is Soma Structural Integration painful?
No, Soma should not be painful. We will work together and communicate to find the level of pressure that is productive and appropriate for your body and nervous system.
While you may experience intense sensation or deep pressure from this work, more pressure is not always more effective, and I never want to go past your limits of what feels safe or comfortable for you.
Can you bill my insurance?
I’m not contracted with any insurance companies, but I am able to provide a Superbill receipt that you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement if applicable.
I am able to bill for Personal Injury Protection (PIP/MVA) claims and L&I.
If your insurance requires a referral, prescription, and/or a diagnosis from a doctor, please ensure you have this secured before your first scheduled session.
If you would like to pay using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Structural Integration is generally covered since it is classified as massage therapy.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Cash and checks are preferred. I also accept Venmo and all major credit cards. Gratuity is not expected.
Do you offer sliding scale/trades?
I reserve a few sliding scale spots each month for anyone for whom cost is a barrier to care. Please reach out directly for more information. I am also open to trades if you have a service or product to offer!
What is your cancellation policy?
No-shows are subject to the full session fee.
Cancellations or rescheduling within 48 hours of appointment are subject to a 100% session fee, however I understand that life, sickness, and emergencies happen! I will do my best to fill late cancellations from my waitlist in which case I may reduce the cancellation fee to $50, or waive it depending on the circumstances.
Appointments may not be honored if client is more than 20 minutes late. If you arrive more than 20 minutes late to your appointment, you may also be charged the full session fee as a late cancel/no-show.
What is your COVID/sickness policy?
If you have COVID symptoms or have had a recent COVID exposure, please contact me before your appointment to reschedule.
If you have symptoms and have no known exposures (or test negative on a PCR/high-accuracy test), please let me know ahead of time so we can both wear high-quality masks during your appointment.
I am happy to mask for any appointments to reduce exposure risk, just let me know when booking!