+ Should I schedule deep tissue or relaxation?

There are three main things that differentiate deep tissue from relaxation, and it may surprise you to know that pressure level isn’t one of them! It comes down to three questions - what are your goals for your massage, what techniques do you want to have access to during your massage, and how much input for follow up do you want? We wrote a blog that describes each point in detail to help you decide.

+ Will massage be painful?

Despite the “no pain no gain” mentality that has crept it’s way into the world of massage therapy, this is not the case. During almost any bodywork, there is potential for discomfort, but this is very different than pain. We ask that you always let us know if you are feeling pain, we can lighten up the pressure or modify our techniques to get the job done in a way that isn’t going to harm you.

+ What should I expect during my first massage?

1. You will receive an intake form in your email inbox to fill out ahead of time, so we have a good idea of what you’re coming to us for. We will discuss all of that with you further before we get started.
2. We’ll also discuss expectations as far as pressure, what kind of techniques you’re comfortable with, and any areas of your body you’d like us to avoid. We encourage communication throughout the massage, so no worries if you forgot to bring something up ahead of time, bring it up whenever it pops into your head!
3. Since it’s your first session with us, we’ll check in a couple of times through the session to make sure the pressure we’re using is tolerable, and how the heat on the table feels, which is adjustable. Yep, heated tables, people!!
4. What clothing you remove or keep on is up to you, generally people will leave on their underwear and remove everything else, but we’ve had people leave on their bras, socks, shirts, and we’ve had people remove all of it, however you’re comfortable is fine with us, anything can be modified. You will have a sheet and blanket on at all times, and we only undrape the section we’re working with.
5. We have a variety of teas available and triple filtered water, and we have to go cups so you can take your hydration with you.
6. Serious therapy for long standing pain from injuries, surgery, postural patterns, often take several sessions to ease. Your therapist will have a plan for you to rebook that they think will maximize the benefits and be as efficient as possible. This is a collaborative relationship and you to have a say in your therapeutic plan. Together, with your therapist, you will be able to come up with a flexible plan to get your bodywork goals achieved.

+ How often should I get a massage?

The answer to this depends on what your goals are. If you are coming to us to ease chronic pain, to increase range of motion, prepare for a competition, or another similar goal, we will have a flexible plan for you that will build on each session, and gradually reduces in frequency as you have less tension between sessions, eventually finding your sweet spot for maintenance that accounts for your regular activity levels. If you are coming to us for stress relief, we will have less of an opinion on when you should come back, as it depends on the amount of stress in your life, and how often massage is necessary to keep your stress response at bay. It may take some experimentation to find your optimal time between sessions, but we’re very flexible and happy to help you find that.

+ What if I’m self-conscious?

Some people mention acne, dry skin, body hair, or are worried about their weight. If things like this phased us at all, we’d be in the wrong industry! All we ask is that you are hygienic when you come in for you massage. Once that box is checked, you do not need to worry. You do not need to apologize for your body here, this is truly a safe space for all body types. Another good fact to know: we are LGBTQ owned and allied. This is a safe space for every body.

+ Do I have to talk during my massage?

We will follow your lead. This is your session. No explanation or preface needed, we respect your space, mental and physical.

That said, sometimes communication is necessary, especially for a new client so that we can learn your preferences. We’ll check in with pressure occasionally, about the heat on the table, and sometimes to check in with certain areas as we work to gauge progress. Everything from the volume of the music, to the heat on the table and even the face cradle height and angle are adjustable, just ask!

+ What kind of music is played?

Usually kind of ambient nature stuff, but some instrumental too. If the music is distracting, we can usually find something to help you get in the zone. Just ask!

+ How much should I tip?

Whatever feels good to you. We are honored to be part of your healing journey, tips are appreciated, not expected.

+ What does having a massage license mean?

To become a licensed massage therapist in Michigan you need to accumulate at least 500 hours of training in a state-approved curriculum and then pass the MBLEx state exam. Currently, all of our therapists were trained at Irene’s Myomassology Institute who hold a higher standard than the minimum required. We have 700 hours of training which breaks down to:

465 hours of core curriculum: Anatomy, physiology, pathology, hands-on techniques, muscle mechanics, client evaluation, and ethics.

160 hours of elective courses: These are like massage workshops that specialize our therapy, grow our awareness, and expand our techniques. There are over 40 electives at Irene’s Myomassology including but certainly not limited to prenatal massage, hot stones therapy, side-lying massage, lymphatic drainage, craniosacral therapy, reflexology, and energy system courses.

75 hours of clinical experience: practical experience working with the public in Irene's student clinic as well as volunteering at school sponsored events like health fairs and charity events to test out our knowledge in the real world during school.

Being licensed in Michigan also requires at least 18 hours of continuing education to be relicensed. This ensures therapists learn new techniques and widen their window of perspective on how to treat clients, which all benefits you!

+ There are cheaper massages available, why choose DPB&M?

1. We think of therapy as long-term, we are considering the full plan for your recovery, not just one session at a time.
2. We are collaborative and cooperative, never competitive. We refer to each other all of the time because we value each other’s experience, knowledge, and style… this means you’re truly getting the best massage because our priority is you.
3. We are some of the most curious people we know… we share knowledge during our regular meetings, and we all enjoy learning new techniques and perspectives. We have true passion and feel purpose in our work, and we feel like it shows in our bodywork.

+ What kind of payment do you take?

All major credit cards, cash, and check. Gift certificates available online and in office.

+ Do you bill insurance?

Currently we are only able to bill automotive insurance in the event of an auto accident injury, or workers compensation insurance if you were injured at work.

Unfortuntely, most primary health insurance companies do not include massage therapy as a covered service and do not allow L.M.T's to become registered providers.

Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Accounts can be used to pay for massage therapy, provided you have a note of medical necessity from your physician. Click HERE to learn more about FSA & HSA funds for Massage Therapy.

+ What is your cancellation policy?

Out of respect for our therapists, we ask that you cancel your appointment in a timely manner, with at least 24 hours notice. This maximizes the potential for us to rebook your appointment slot with another client and make sure our therapists are able to make the income they deserve. If you cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours notice, a $30 late cancellation fee will be applied. The full session will be due if you do not make any effort to cancel your appointment and miss it.

+ Where can I park?

We have ample parking surrounding our building. There is a straight lot along Woodward, which you can follow down and enter the larger lot under the angled maroon and grey awning.