Trauma-informed care
What trauma-informed massage means here.
It means you are in charge of the session. I ask before anything changes, you set the pace, and nothing is a surprise. Slow, intentional care, never aggressive pressure.
In practice
- We talk before I touch you, and you decide what the session focuses on.
- You choose how undressed to be. You are draped the whole time.
- The pace is set by your body, not the clock.
- You can speak up, ask for a change, or stop at any point. Anything you don't like is an easy adjustment.
- I tell you what I'm going to do before I do it.
- Afterward I leave the room so you can dress and get your bearings. Take your time.
Who tends to find this helpful
People who have had bodywork that moved too fast or pushed too hard. People who hold a lot and don't want to be asked why. People in therapy who want their body to be part of the work. People who are simply nervous about touch and want to know exactly what to expect before they walk in.
Something small for between sessions
A tiny practice for when your body is holding more than you can name. No explaining required, which is the point.
Simple somatic release by Danielle Matthews, on YouTube
If reading the steps is not your thing, watch the square. Same practice, seventeen seconds.
Box breathing, 4-4-4-4 by Pocket Breath Coach, Luke Horton, on YouTube
How this fits with therapy
I'm a bodyworker, not a talk therapist. Many of my clients see both, and the two tend to support each other. If you're working with a counselor, I'm glad to work alongside what you're doing there.
Your first session
Every new client starts with the Initial Assessment and Treatment, 75 minutes, $150. Here's the whole visit, start to finish, so there are no surprises.
Where this comes from
Before massage I spent six and a half years in nonprofit mental health, working with children and adolescents, after a psychology degree. I left because we were only treating the cognitive side of people while their bodies kept responding to stress on their own. That experience is why I work the way I do: gentle, nervous system first, no pressure that makes you brace. More about how I got here.
Continuing education includes craniosacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, active stretching, Thai massage and Reiki.
Common questions
What if I get emotional?
That is welcome here. We can pause, keep going, or talk. Nothing is required of you and nothing needs explaining.
Can I keep my clothes on?
Yes. You undress only to your comfort level, and you are draped the whole time. We can work through clothing if that is what feels right.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Let me know when you book so I can plan the space.
Do I have to explain why I am here?
No. Tell me as much or as little as you want. What I need to know is what you want from the session and what you do not want, and we can get there without the backstory.
Can I stop partway through?
Yes, at any point, for any reason. Say the word and we stop or change course. That is the whole point.
What clients say
5.0 on Google, 15 reviews
“Second time seeing Valerie today. She is very genuine and caring. I am feeling a massive amount better both physically and anxiety-wise. I noticed I was walking a ton better today.”
“Valerie is one of the best massage therapists I have ever experienced. She begins by discussing your needs, then provides a solution in a beautiful, clean and comfortable environment. The experience is always so relaxing, professional and kind.”
“She really listens to what my problem areas are and fixes them. She is the best I’ve ever had and a sweet, wonderful person on top of that.”