Licensed Massage Therapists:

Steve Grbic, L.M.T

Therapeutic based, specializing in deep tissue and myofascial release.  His integrative massage blends techniques and modalities to give you the exact therapy you need and may include deep tissue, myofascial release, Thai stretching, and sports massage techniques.  SATURDAY hours.

Schedule with Steve

Kristen Hirsch, L.M.T.

Therapeutic based, specializing in light to medium pressure therapeutic Swedish massage and migraine/headache massage therapy.  Kristen specializes on calming the nervous system, moving lymphatics, and reducing stress with her massage techniques.

Schedule with Kristen

Chelsee Taylor, L.M.T.

Therapeutic based, specializing in medium to deep tissue massage and integrative massage.  Chelsee’s massage is a personalized blend of therapeutic massage, relaxation, trigger points and spot specific work. SATURDAY hours.

  Schedule with Chelsee

What is Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic Massage is offered by a licensed and trained therapist who manipulates the soft tissues of your body — muscle, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and skin using varying amounts of pressure and movement.  There are many types and styles that therapists may use:

• Therapeutic Swedish Massage.  Swedish massage is a lighter to medium pressure massage focused on relaxing and reducing stress.  The therapeutic focuses on moving blood and lymph flow as well as calming the nervous system.  So many people are stuck in fight or flight mode and may benefit from this style of massage.
• Integrative Massage.  Many years of experience go into integrative massage. Treating your body to an integrative massage will allow the therapist the space to use his or her skills to find the best tools for you.  This a great massage if you have chronic tension, experience pain, or are recovering from an injury. Some modalities that can be used during this massage are cupping, myofascial release, Thai stretching, and deep tissue massage. 
• Migraine/Headache Massage. A wider range of cranial sacral and massage therapy training has gone into this massage.  It focuses on reducing headaches, calming the nervous system, and balancing the cranial bones.  Perfect for the occasional headache sufferer or those with chronic migraines.
• Deep Tissue Massage.  A highly skilled massage therapist performs either whole body massage or spot specific massage using deep pressure.  This “hurts so good” style is great for acute injuries, muscle restrictions, and back pain. 

As these are the specific types of massage, your therapist will discuss what your concerns and goals are for the session and accommodate accordingly.

What can I expect during my first appointment?

Preparing for a massage doesn’t require any special preparations. Before a massage therapy session starts, your therapist will ask you about any symptoms, your medical history, and what you’re hoping to get out of massage Then you both can discuss the best course of action for the most productive session.

To receive the most benefits from a session, you undress only to the point that you’re comfortable. You will lie on a table and cover yourself with a sheet and blanket. Your massage therapist will start massaging and evaluating through touch areas that are painful or tense.  

If a massage therapist is pushing too hard, ask for lighter pressure and vice versa. Occasionally you may have a sensitive spot in a muscle that feels like a knot. It’s likely to be uncomfortable while your massage therapist works it out. But if it becomes too painful, you should always let your therapist know.

What can I expect after a massage therapy session?

Water, water, water. As with any other session like this, blood flow is heightened and needs water to help the muscle recover and flush out toxins. It is not uncommon for there to be pain, soreness, and stiffness in the following days after a massage therapy session. This is due to the muscles being worked in ways that they were not previously accustomed. If this is something you’d like to avoid let your therapist know ahead of time so they can plan accordingly.

https://www.amtamassage.org/articles/1/News/detail/3124/25-reasons-to-get-a-massage

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/massage/art-20045743

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/massage-therapy/about/pac-20384595

Massage is not just luxurious.  It’s a way to a happier, healthier life!