Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions. Updated periodically.

Collapsible content

This is my first time, what can I expect?

When you arrive, you’ll be warmly greeted at reception. They may ask for your health insurance information and confirm whether you’ve completed your health intake form. I’ll then come greet you and bring you into the treatment room. Before we begin, I’ll check if you’d like to use the washroom.

We’ll start with a brief conversation: “How can I help you today?”


Together, we’ll go over how your body is feeling, clarify your treatment goals, and build a game plan for the session. This includes:


  • Areas you'd like to focus on
  • Pressure preferences
  • Body positioning and comfort
  • Heating pad temperature
  • Any allergies to massage products
  • Ending with asking if you have any questions or other health concerns you'd like to share.

Then, I’ll step out to give you privacy to undress to your comfort level. Once you're ready, I’ll knock, wait for your response, and gently check in with “Hey there, all set?” before entering the room.

Upon beginning, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable with the headrest, bolster, and heating pad, and then we'd start the session. During the session, I may ask how the pressure feels and remind you: “If you’d like more or less pressure at any time, just let me know.”


I may also let you know what area we’re moving to next, for example: “Now that we’ve finished the back, we’ll move to the glutes—this part is always done over the blanket.”

When the session ends, I’ll gently check in with: “Hey there, how are you feeling?” We’ll have a short, calm chat about any recommended home care or follow-up. You’ll be encouraged to take your time getting up and moving slowly. I’ll then leave the room and wait for you to come out when you’re ready.

What can I expect after the session is done? The next day and on-going?

After your session, it's normal to feel drowsy—or ideally, deeply relaxed, more centred, and in a zen-like state.

If it’s been a while since your last massage, you might feel some mild soreness about two days after your session—ironically, that’s when it tends to peak. It’s completely normal and feels similar to the soreness you might get after a moderate workout—only this time, I did the work on your muscles!

I recommend hot showers and gentle stretching to help ease any tension.

That said, everyone responds differently, so consider this a general guideline rather than a strict rule.

How often should I get a massage?

I typically recommend coming in every two weeks or twice a month—whichever works best for your schedule. You’re welcome to rebook with reception after your session, or feel free to rebook yourself online—whatever’s easiest for you.

What's my style of massage?

If you’ve had massages from different therapists before, you’ve probably noticed that everyone has their own unique style.

Whether it’s relaxation, therapeutic, or deep tissue massage, my approach is rooted in working with the nervous system, not against it. I believe massage therapy should never be painful. There may be brief moments of “good, relieving” discomfort, but the goal is always to create a safe, calming space where your body feels invited to release tension naturally.

Deep Tissue Massage - In this approach my style is slow, fluid, and intentional—think steam-roller vibes with a gentle touch, so your body can welcome the depth without resisting it.

Therapeutic Massage - The style remains the same but with less pressure. The intention is to meet your body’s natural resistance—firm enough to influence, yet yielding to the body’s guidance, shifting your nervous system into healing mode.

Relaxation Massage - With relaxation, the flow continues—just lighter and softer. Movements are smooth, rhythmic, and effortless, inviting your body to let go, your mind to quiet, and deep relaxation to unfold without needing deep pressure.

No matter which approach we take, this flow-based style carries through every treatment—all designed to calm your nervous system, release tension, and restore balance.

Can I book if I’m not in pain? I'm not sure what to book?

You don’t always need a specific reason to book a massage—and that’s perfectly okay. Regardless of why you come in, we’ll always create a personalized game plan to guide the session.

If you’re ever unsure which type to book, I recommend choosing therapeutic massage—it’s a versatile option that can be tailored to your needs on the day.

We've worked together before, what can I expect?

Now that you’re familiar with my vibe and approach—and have a sense of the flow—you can expect that same level of care and consistency every single time. We’ll still check in and review everything as if it were your first visit, just a little quicker, so we can keep moving forward on your wellness journey.

During the session, talking vs talking too much, etc.

If this is our first time working together, you may notice that I talk a bit more as we move through each area of the body. This is intentional—it gives you a chance to get a feel for my vibe and style.

That said, it’s absolutely okay to request less talking if you’d prefer to zen out and escape the world. That kind of quiet trust means a lot to me, and I’m truly grateful for it.

I always welcome—and encourage—open communication. It helps me understand how you're feeling and whether anything needs adjusting during the session.

Whatever you need, we’ll make it work.

Do you accept health insurance? Direct billing?

Short answer: Yes (in most cases).

Most health insurance plans or benefit plans will cover massage therapy services. Every insurance provider offers different levels of coverage and limits may apply, so it is always recommend you get in touch with your provider before booking your appointment. Some insurance providers also require a referral from a physician for coverage to apply. 
 
At Urban Massage & Wellness, direct billing to most insurance providers is available for massage services, but in some cases you may have to pay up-front and you will be issued a receipt that you can claim through your provider.

If you have questions about direct billing, please reach out by calling 780-569-1302 before booking your treatment.

What’s the difference between a Masseuse, Massage Therapist, and RMT?

Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a licensed title. RMTs have formal training, pass provincial exams, and are recognized by insurance providers.

Not all massage is created equal.

  • 
Masseuse – Outdated term. Not the vibe. Often misunderstood and not used by professionals.
  • Massage Therapist – General term; may or may not have formal training. Could be anyone. No guarantees.
  • RMT (Registered Massage Therapist) – Registered, educated, and insured. This is the professional standard.

When you book with me, you’re getting a RMT —trained, experienced, and focused on your health. No gimmicks. No fluff. Just powerful, therapeutic results. Let’s raise the bar. Your body deserves better.

But a MALE registered massage therapist? What if I’ve had a bad massage experience?

Let’s address an elephant in the room—it would be unwise of me to not acknowledge that some male massage therapists have crossed lines, and that’s put a cloud over the rest of us.

I take pride in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and integrity in every single session.

With the hopeful intention of earning your trust, I invite you to book with me, to experience what working with a male massage therapist should be like.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen or if you have any concerns regarding your health.