Question 1

Do I tip my therapist?

Accepted Answer

Tips are more commonplace for massages in a spa setting.  In Ontario we are regulated by the same Government Health Act as Doctors and Dentists whom we conventionally do not tip.  It is not expected that you tip your massage therapist either.  Some clients still like to show their appreciation through a gratuity which is always a kind gesture, just never expected.  You will receive the same level of excellence in care whether you choose to tip your therapist or not.

Please keep in mind that the greatest tip you can provide your therapist is a referral. Your trust and confidence is the most appreciated form of gratuity. Thank you for referring a friend, family member or colleague to our clinic.

Question 2

What do I wear during my treatment?

Accepted Answer

You can wear as much or as little clothing as you wish. Whatever makes you feel comfortable. You will be covered by a sheet and blanket at all times. Your therapist will uncover one area at a time (i.e.: your back) to treat and then cover it again when they are finished. You will always be explained the treatment plan in detail, explaining what part of the body the therapist will be touching, and uncovering.  If you are not comfortable with the treatment explained to you, you can let the therapist know and she/he will modify it to your comfort level.

Question 3

Do you offer direct billing?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  For more information please go to our direct billing page.

Question 4

What's the difference between a masseuse and an RMT?

Accepted Answer

Masseuse and Masseur are names that were used by some people before we became regulated by a government body. The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) started assigning the RMT designation in 1995. Someone calling themselves a Masseuse today is not registered or regulated and likely not insured. What is the difference between “licensed”, “certified” and “registered”? “Licensed” and “certified” people are not the same as a Registered Therapist. They generally do not possess liability insurance and may have as little as 500 hours of training. They are not included in extended Health Care Plans nor are they regulated by the CMTO. It is illegal to use the name or designations RMT or MT if you are not a member of the CMTO. Please be aware that the ONLY designation given by the CMTO is RMT (which can be shortened to MT). These people are not controlled by a professional college nor are they bound by the RHPA. All RMTs have a photo registration card, a certificate and a registration number.. Ask to see it if you are uncertain of a person’s credentials.

Question 5

How long should my appointment be?

Accepted Answer

For your first appointment, we recommend one hour. A full hour will give your therapist time to:
Determine which areas require more focused work.
Perform any assessment or testing that may be necessary.
Make recommendations for your Treatment Plan.
A full-body massage generally takes one hour.

Question 6

How often should I have a massage?

Accepted Answer

There are many answers to this question. Many people receive regular massage throughout their lives;

For preventative health – to maintain flexibility, good posture and decreased stress response.
To manage painful conditions including chronic pain, headaches and back & neck pain.
For a general feeling of health and wellness

Massage Therapy is effective for specific conditions which require focused treatment plans such as: Injuries to soft tissue like sprains and strains and activity-based syndromes like Runner’s Knee or Plantar Fasciitis, or chronic conditions like sciatica, low back pain or headaches. Your therapist will make recommendations about frequency and duration based upon your treatment plan.

It is a good idea to stick with your plan so you can achieve the maximum benefit from treatment.

Question 7

How do I pay for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

We gladly offer Debit, Cash, Visa, MC as payment.  We can also securely save your credit card on file to save you time and hassle. We also offer direct billing for those with insurance coverage that accepts billing in this manner.

Question 8

Does my insurance cover massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

OHIP does not cover massage therapy.

Many extended health benefit plans do.

Refer to your insurance booklet; if you have one. You can also ask your employer or call your insurer directly. Have your Group and ID numbers handy. Ask them:
How much coverage do you have, if any?
Is there a deductible? Is it per calendar year (i.e.: January – December)?
Is there a maximum amount per visit?
Must you obtain a doctor’s note before receiving massage in order to submit a claim for benefits?

Question 9

Do I need a doctors note for massage therapy

Accepted Answer

Your massage therapist does not require a doctors note to provide you with treatment.
Sometimes your insurance may require you to have a doctors note in order for them to reimburse you under your extended benefits plan. Check your insurance plan to see if they require a note from your doctor.

Question 10

Is massage painful?

Accepted Answer

The therapists at relax. are conditioned to provide you with deep tissue massage, although deep pressure is not always indicated.   So if you feel your therapist is not using enough pressure feel free to mention it.  If you find the therapist’s pressure is uncomfortable or you don’t like a particular technique it’s important to let them know.  Only you live in your body and while we can feel a lot of information from your body we can’t know everything.  Too much is not always better.  If you feel yourself tensing against the pressure it’s fine to ask your therapist if they can ease up a bit.  “No pain no gain” is not always the case with bodywork.  Communication with your therapist is key.

You can feel a bit sore after a deep tissue massage.  In most cases there is no discomfort after the treatment, but it does happen upon occasion.  This reaction is completely normal, and is usually caused because your muscles are not used to being manipulated and worked on.  This discomfort can last 1-2 days, and is similar to the feeling you get after exercising.  The more often you receive massage therapy, the less you will have this post massage discomfort.  This is because your tissues will get used to being manipulated, and will relax much easier.

Question 11

Should I talk?

Accepted Answer

Everyone unwinds in their own way.  Some clients need to talk to help alleviate their stress levels and others need to zone out.  Your massage therapist should be mindful of allowing you to gauge the level of chit chat during the massage.   If you need quiet time and you feel like your therapist has not picked up the cues,  a simple request can go a long way to allowing you to get what you need from the time you have invested on the table.  Your therapist will completely understand.  It’s a common preference.

Question 12

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life has its unforeseen circumstances. If you do need to cancel your appointment, please allow as much time as possible so that other clients may benefit from being treated, and our therapist can be compensated for their hard work. A minimum of 12 hours notice is required. Please expect to pay full price for appointments cancelled less than 12 hrs prior to start time.

Question 13

What is your late policy?

Accepted Answer

If arrival is delayed, we will make every effort to accommodate you but this may not always possible. Service time will be shortened to avoid delays for other clients and you will be charged at full-time value.

frequently asked questions.