Frequently Asked Questions

Before Your Session
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Mobile massage means the massage comes to you. Instead of driving to a spa or clinic, I bring everything needed—a professional table, linens, crème, and music—so you can relax in the comfort of your own home, office, or event space.
Clients choose mobile massage for the convenience, privacy, and ability to fully unwind in their own environment. It’s also a great option for special occasions, like corporate wellness days, bridal parties, or family gatherings.
Learn more about setup and travel fees on my Booking & Policies page.
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A mobile massage is designed to be simple and stress-free. I bring everything needed for your session—including a professional table, table warmer, linens, hypoallergenic crème, and music. All you need to provide is enough space for the table to be set up, usually about 6–8 feet.
If you book online, you’ll complete a short health intake form before scheduling. If you book by phone or text, I’ll provide a paper form when I arrive. This quick step helps me understand your health history and goals so your massage is both safe and effective.
During the session, you’ll undress to your comfort level and remain covered with a sheet or blanket at all times. Each massage begins with a brief consultation to clarify your intentions—whether you’re seeking deep relaxation, targeted relief, or improved mobility. I combine a variety of techniques (from craniosacral release and lymphatic drainage to deep tissue and stretching) and integrate breathwork and mindful awareness to help your body release tension.
At the end of your session, I’ll share simple stretches or self-care tips you can use between appointments to maintain your results.
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Massage therapy includes a wide variety of approaches, each with its own focus and benefits. The main difference is often whether the style developed from a Western (clinical/therapeutic) tradition or an Eastern (holistic/energetic) tradition.
Western modalities focus on anatomy and physiology, often used for pain relief, mobility, and recovery. Common examples include Swedish massage for relaxation, deep tissue for chronic tension, sports massage for athletic performance, prenatal massage for expectant mothers, and trigger point therapy for localized pain.
Eastern modalities tend to emphasize energy flow, balance, and whole-body wellness. Examples include acupressure, Thai massage (movement-based stretching), Shiatsu (Japanese pressure point work), Amma (Japanese massage rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine), and Tui Na (Chinese massage that blends massage with acupoint stimulation).
In my practice, I specialize in advanced therapeutic techniques such as craniosacral release, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and stretching methods, as well as familiar modalities like Swedish, deep tissue, sports, and prenatal. You can explore the full list of techniques I use on my Services & Rates page.
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Yes—massage can support many common concerns, both physical and emotional. Clients often notice benefits such as:
Relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain
Reduced headaches and jaw tension
Improved circulation and lymphatic flow
Faster recovery from workouts or injuries
Eased discomfort during pregnancy and postpartum
Better sleep and lower stress levels
While massage can be very supportive, it’s not a replacement for medical care. During your intake, we’ll review your health history and goals to make sure massage is safe and tailored to your needs. If any conditions require caution, we’ll adjust techniques accordingly. You can read more about how I customize sessions on my My Approach page.
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A contraindication is simply a reason why massage may need to be avoided or adjusted for your safety. This could be due to certain medical conditions, injuries, or medications. Common examples include fever, contagious illness, open wounds, recent surgery, or blood clots. Before your session, I’ll review your health history and check in with you, so we can be sure the massage is safe and customized to your needs. If something requires caution, we’ll modify the approach—or if massage isn’t appropriate, I’ll let you know.
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A small, private area is all that’s required—about 8 feet long by 5 feet wide works well. The massage table itself is roughly 2.5 feet wide and 7 feet long (including the face cradle), and I’ll need a little space to move comfortably around it. Most living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices are perfectly suitable.
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Wear whatever helps you feel comfortable. Most clients undress to their comfort level and are always draped with clean sheets or a blanket for warmth and privacy. Some prefer to keep undergarments on, and that’s completely fine. If you’d rather stay dressed, loose clothing works best, though certain techniques may be more limited. The priority is that you feel safe, relaxed, and at ease throughout your session.
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A qualified massage therapist should have professional training, current certification, and a commitment to ongoing education. In California, this means being certified by the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). At Coastal Therapeutic Massage, I go a step further—I’m also Board Certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB), which represents the highest credential in the field. This ensures you receive safe, professional, and evidence-informed care every time you book a session.
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Absolutely! A minimum of 30 minutes per person is encouraged, but this can be a great way to get a discount. Please let us know when the appointment is scheduled so that your therapist is prepared with enough sheet sets to accommodate.
During & After Your Session
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It depends on your goals and lifestyle. Some clients benefit most from weekly sessions—especially when working through chronic pain, stress, or recovery from injury. Others find that biweekly or monthly sessions are enough to maintain results and support overall wellness. During your consultation, we’ll talk about your goals and create a schedule that works best for you.
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Massage feels good in the moment, but the real transformation comes with consistency. Regular sessions—often weekly or bi-weekly—help your body and mind build on the progress made each time.
Clients who commit to consistent massage often notice:
Less chronic pain and muscle tension
Better sleep and deeper relaxation
Reduced stress and anxiety
Stronger immune function and faster recovery
Support during pregnancy, postpartum, or post-surgery healing
Beyond the physical, regular massage provides a sense of grounding and reconnection with your body. Many clients tell me they feel more resilient, more balanced, and more present in their daily lives when they make massage part of their routine.
One massage is always beneficial—but consistency is what creates lasting change. Think of it not just as treatment, but as an ongoing investment in your long-term health and vitality.
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Massage therapy is generally very safe when performed by a trained professional. The most common side effects are mild—such as temporary soreness, tenderness, or slight bruising in areas that were tight. These effects usually fade within a day or two as your body adjusts.
Before your session, we’ll review your health history and any concerns you may have to ensure massage is appropriate for you. In some cases, I may request physician clearance before proceeding—always with your safety and well-being as the top priority.
Policies & Payment
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Life happens, and I strive to be flexible. To respect everyone’s time:
12 hours notice or less: 50% fee
4 hours notice or less: 75% fee
1 hour notice or less: 100% fee
If I’m able to rebook your time, no fee will be charged.
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Payment is due at the time of your session. For simplicity, I prefer Zelle, Venmo, or cash—these methods avoid processing fees and help keep my rates stable. I also accept credit/debit cards (processed securely through Stripe) and most HSA/FSA cards if your plan covers massage. Gift certificates and coupon codes can be applied when booking online.
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Please arrive on time. If you're late, I’ll do my best to accommodate as much of the session as possible within your reserved time. However, a late arrival may reduce the session length without affecting the full session rate.
Still have a question?
If your question isn’t answered here, I’d love to help.
📧 Email: chad@ctherapeutic.com
📞 Call/Text: (714) 202-6312
💬 Or send a message through my Contact Page