Frequently Asked Questions

  • The root of the word “somatic” is “soma”, which translates to “body”. So, one could say that a somatic experience is of the body, or a bodily experience.

    When someone is describing their work as “somatic” like myself, they are describing the orientation of their approach. For example, somatic work is not a top down, or mind centered approach.

    Somatic work focuses on current experience of sensation, feeling, emotion, visualization, and meaning.

  • For details on pricing structure, visit the Exchange page.

    When the standard rate is out of reach, you have the option of a sliding scale structure with the additional support of a no-tipping model. There are also limited PWYC sessions in place that provide low to no-cost care.

  • I do not, but I am more than happy to print receipts for your submission to be reimbursed for our sessions, if your insurance offers such service.

    I do recommend use of an HSA card, if you have one.

  • Yep! Pay-What-You-Can sessions are funded by community and managed with a waitlist. Head over to the PWYC page to learn more and sign up!

  • When you arrive, please make sure you give yourself enough time to use the restroom and hydrate before the session begins. Once you are ready, I will walk you into the room and acquaint you with the space. When settled, we will both review your intake form to create a session plan based on your needs and goals. Oftentimes, I will also conduct specific assessments in support of your goals. At this point, I will leave the room to give you privacy and space to get settled on the table or floor. After a few moments, I will knock on the door before re-entering, make sure you’re ready, and walk in to begin the session.

    Once you are ready, we will move forward according to the plan we discussed. If at any point, you change your mind on agreed work, please let me know as soon as you can. Your comfort and safety are priority.

    I understand, sometimes it’s difficult to read our body and intuition, so I will check in, if I sense any amount of discomfort.

    To end the session, I will leave the room, and wait for you to open the door once you are ready. At this point I invite conversation about our session and how we can move forward in support of your goals.

  • No, absolutely not. It is important to note, massage therapy and bodywork can be accomplished fully clothed. If the plan we curated involves skin contact, you will be invited to dress down to your comfort level, whatever that means to you. If you choose to undress, know you will be covered and carefully draped to access the body part being worked. If we are doing work with clothes in place, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows for full range of motion. Your safety and comfort are high priority.

  • Co-communication, as it relates to your needs and goals, is encouraged throughout the session, but absolutely not required. I often check in once in the beginning to make sure we are on the right path and again if I notice anything that might suggest experience of discomfort. Other than these brief check ins, you can feel free to relax and receive care in silence if you so prefer.

  • Yes! I have been trained in prenatal massage and movement. This usually looks like more pillows and different support tools. I am confident in providing this support, however, this is not my specialty nor is pregnancy my lived experience. If you wish to work with someone who has a deeper understanding of this work and experience, I can refer you to a more informed provider.

  • Yes, but not in the traditional sense. I invite couples to schedule time with me for partner massage class. This offering is available to those who have worked with me before or couples referred from a trusted source. Click here to review schedule.

  • I offer both remote and in person sessions depending on your location and needs.

    If you are local to Saint Louis MO, most of my offerings to include: massage therapy, integrative bodywork, movement, private classes, and group classes are offered at Empowered Spaces.

    Address:

    7602 Big Bend Blvd

    Saint Louis, MO 63119

  • My practice takes place in a room at the Empowered Spaces Collective location.

    Parking is behind the building with up to 100 feet to the entrance. There is a set of steps or ramp in place leading up to the back door. Once in the building there is a carpeted stair case with two levels up to the room.

    If you require accommodations with fewer barriers and ground floor access, notify me ahead of time so that I can arrange for the studio space to be used for our session.

    For more information on Empowered Spaces, click here.

  • No, not at this time. However, you are welcome to bring a trusted person (or technology), with you to a 1:1 appointment for this need. They are welcome to join the session if you feel comfortable with this company.

  • I work in collective environments, this means the space is shared with other practitioners and guests, using various products, that may be scented. So, there is a possibility the space may not be scent free. I provide all natural plant based hydrosols and topical products. I also have hypoallergenic non-scented creme and oil if needed.

    If you have any sensitivities, allergies, or require scent free products, please annotate this in detail on your intake form.

  • I use mostly organic oils, cremes, and salves. I generally have a range of plant and seed based oils to choose from. Some of these oils are infused with herbs.

    Linen is laundered with free and clear detergent.

    If you have an allergy or sensitivity, please let me know ahead of time so I can verify what product to use for your session. You are also welcome to bring in a familiar product.

  • At this time I am requesting masks be worn during indoor sessions. In addition to masks, there is an air purifier in the office at Empowered Spaces. My cleaning protocol will always be to disinfect surfaces and replace linen in between each session. All sheets, blankets, and towels are laundered daily.

  • My massage current equipment is a portable earthlite table.

    Dimensions: 42 inches wide by 75 inches long

    Max working weight: 800 lbs