GENERAL FAQ
What does a Registered Massage Therapist do?
Registered Massage Therapists are trained health professionals, regulated under the College of Massage Therapists of BC (CMTBC).
RMTs use manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system, neurological system, and surrounding soft tissue structures in order to achieve a therapeutic effect. Usually, when we experience massage therapy from someone who is non-registered, then the goals are generally limited to relaxation with possibly some mild tension release and mood improvement.
When you see an RMT however, your therapist will focus on the data from their pre-treatment assessment in order to formulate an effective treatment plan for you. Your therapist will also provide you with the necessary home care instructions after your treatment is complete, with direction on an appropriate time period to book in for a subsequent appointment where you can discuss the effectiveness of the given home care plan.
I’ve never experienced massage therapy before, how do I know it’s for me? Massage Therapy can be beneficial in treating a multitude of medical conditions and injuries, as well as aiding in replenishing one’s mental and emotional state of well-being. Generally, first-time patients tend to seek massage therapy to help with one or more of the following symptoms and/or conditions:
- Problems falling asleep.
- Muscle stiffness.
- Movement of a limb can feel “heavy” at times.
- Recurrent back, neck, and hip pain.
- Persistent headaches.
- Feeling like you’re stressed “all the time.”
- Being Sedentary for a majority of the day.
- Poor posture.
- Training, or the introduction of a new workout routine.
At the end of the day, if you’re contemplating whether or not you need a massage treatment then your body is answering for you – so listen to it!
What can I expect at my first appointment?
It all depends on which appointment duration you are booking for!
Generally, 60 minute treatments are ideal for most visits, as it allows the therapist to key in on a few focus areas that the patient would like worked on.
This appointment duration allows the therapist enough time to perform a pre-treatment assessment, focus on those key complaint areas, and send you home with some home care exercises.
75 and 90 minute treatments are ideal for patients who would like more areas worked on, and there are also 30 and 45 minute options available for patients who prefer less treatment time.
Your therapist can help you pair with the right treatment duration based on your needs and goals.
You can have a look on the online booking page, where each treatment has a short description to assist with your booking needs: https://rmtchristinasharma.janeapp.com
How can I book an appointment?
You can book in for a Massage Therapy treatment online through JaneApp at the following link: https://rmtchristinasharma.janeapp.com
You can also call or text the office number at 778 389 5190 to book an appointment directly through the therapist.
What information do I need in order to book an appointment?
Whether you book an appointment online via JaneApp, or by calling or texting the office number, you must always provide the following information in order to secure your appointment:
- First and Last Name
- Email Address
- Primary Phone Number
- Emergency Contact Information
Once your appointment is booked, an intake / health history form will be sent to the email on file to be completed and signed before arriving at your scheduled appointment. If the form is not completed and the patient has not made any attempts to complete the form after being reminded to, then you will need to fill the form in person before the treatment begins.
It is important to have these documents completed beforehand as filling them out in person will cut into your treatment time. These intake documents only need to be signed once before the initial treatment commences.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
If you have already provided your policy plan information for extended health care coverage, then we do not require anything other than a credit card at your first appointment to keep on file for any outstanding balances and fees.
How often should I be receiving Massage Therapy treatments?
The answer for this question varies from patient to patient, and it can depend on anything from their occupational habits and daily routines, to temporary life stressors and accidental injuries.
Generally, weekly or bi-weekly massage treatments can be very beneficial in promoting overall relaxation, a positive mindset, and optimal well-being.
Over time, patients may become more comfortable and confident in their home care plans and may opt to focus more of their time incorporating them into their routine, before returning when they feel they are ready to try more advanced exercises. Your therapist can always help you on a treatment-to-treatment basis to let you know how long you should wait until you come in for your next appointment. Overall, the frequency of massage therapy appointments will depend on the patient’s health care needs, goals, and compliance with the given home care routine.
Will I be sore after my treatment?
If you have never experienced massage therapy before or have not been in for a treatment in a long time, then you may experience some soreness for a couple of days after your massage treatment.
This is considered normal and is not generally a sign of concern.
Do you offer direct billing?
We offer direct billing to a number of extended health care providers.
Please refer to our “direct billing faq” page here: (link), for more information regarding direct billing services.
Do I need a referral from an MD?
A referral from your Medical Doctor is not required in order to book an appointment for Registered Massage Therapy.
However, some extended health care insurance companies may require one in order to activate your benefits.
If you are planning on using extended health care benefits, then please look into your policy plan and send in the documents accordingly before your scheduled appointment, to ensure a seamless direct billing process.
How can I pay for treatments?
When you attend your first visit, you will be required to provide a credit card to add to your file, regardless of whether or not extended health care insurance will cover the entire treatment cost.
This card will only need to be given once and then moving forward, all treatment costs and fees, as well as remaining balances (if any) after submitting eligible claims, will be charged on this credit card.
If you do not wish to pay fees and remaining balances via credit card, then you can opt for the Interac e-transfer method. If you chose this method, then please discuss this with the therapist when you arrive for your initial appointment.
* Please keep in mind that if you choose the Interac e-transfer method, then you will be required to sign a contractual agreement between you and the therapist which states that payment for treatments and other costs – including all no show / late cancellation fees – will be received in a timely manner, and without contest.
Are pets allowed in the facilities?
There are no pets allowed in the building, with the exception of service / emotional support animals.
Are the facilities wheelchair-friendly?
Yes!
The entrance to the facilities are street level and there are elevators that can help with mobility assistance devices.
To ensure the therapist can cater to the appropriate modifications, you are welcome to contact us to provide as much information as possible regarding the size of the mobility aid, whether or not you are able to walk a small distance to the treatment room, or if the therapist will need to make room beside the treatment table in order for you to place your mobility device as nearest as possible to you.
Feel free to contact us at 778 389 5190, so that we can provide the necessary modifications.
