CODE OF ETHICS FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS

As a member of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP), I pledge my commitment to the highest principles of the massage and bodywork profession as outlined here:

1. COMMITMENT TO HIGH-QUALITY CARE

I will serve the best interests of my clients at all times and provide the highest quality of bodywork and service possible. I recognize that the obligation for building and maintaining an effective, healthy, and safe therapeutic relationship with my clients is my responsibility.

2. COMMITMENT TO DO NO HARM

I will conduct a thorough health history intake process for each client and evaluate the health history to rule out contraindications or determine appropriate session adaptations. I will provide services within the scope of practice for massage therapists and bodywork professionals only when there is a logical expectation that the service(s) will be beneficial to the client. I will acknowledge the contraindications and limitations for massage therapy and refer clients to other health-care professionals when indicated.

3. COMMITMENT TO HONEST REPRESENTATION OF QUALIFICATIONS

I will not work outside the commonly accepted scope of practice for massage therapists and bodywork professionals. I will adhere to my state or local jurisdiction’s scope of practice guidelines (when applicable). I will only provide treatments and techniques for which I am fully trained and hold appropriate credentials. I will carefully evaluate the needs of each client and refer the client to another provider if the client requires work beyond my capabilities, or beyond the capacity of massage and bodywork. I will not use the trademarks and symbols associated with a particular system or group without authentic affiliation. I will acknowledge the limitations of massage and bodywork by refraining from exaggerating the benefits of massage therapy and related services throughout my marketing.

4. COMMITMENT TO UPHOLD THE INHERENT WORTH OF ALL INDIVIDUALS

I will demonstrate compassion and respect for others. I will seek to decrease discrimination, misunderstandings, and prejudice. I will not refuse service to any client based on disability, ethnicity, gender identity, marital status, physical build, or sexual orientation; religious, national, or political affiliation; or social or economic status.

5. COMMITMENT TO RESPECT CLIENT DIGNITY AND BASIC RIGHTS

I will demonstrate my respect for the dignity and rights of all individuals by providing a clean, comfortable, and safe environment for sessions, using appropriate and skilled draping procedures, giving clients recourse in the event of dissatisfaction with treatment, and upholding the integrity of the therapeutic relationship.

6. COMMITMENT TO INFORMED CONSENT

I will recognize a client’s right to determine what happens to their body. I understand that a client may suffer emotional and physical harm if a therapist fails to listen to the client and imposes their own priorities in a session. I will fully inform my clients of choices related to their care and will disclose policies and limitations that may affect their care. I will not provide massage without obtaining a client’s informed consent (or that of the guardian or advocate for the client) to the session plan. I will respect the client’s right to decline, modify, or stop the massage/bodywork session regardless of any prior consent they’ve given.

7. COMMITMENT TO CONFIDENTIALITY

I will keep client communication and information confidential and will not share client information without the client’s written consent, or unless it is medically necessary or required by law. I will ensure every effort is made to respect a client’s right to privacy and provide an environment where personal health-related details cannot be overheard or seen by others.

8. COMMITMENT TO PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES

I will refrain from and prevent behaviors that may be considered sexual in my massage practice and uphold the highest professional standards in order to desexualize massage. I will not date a client, engage in sexual intercourse with a client, or allow any level of sexual impropriety (behavior or language) from clients or myself, whether consensual or otherwise. I understand that sexual impropriety may lead to sexual harassment charges, the loss of my massage credentials, lawsuits for personal damages, criminal charges, fines, attorney’s fees, court costs, and jail time.

9. COMMITMENT TO HONESTY IN BUSINESS

I will know and follow good business practices with regard to record keeping, regulation compliance, and tax law. I will set fair fees and practice honesty throughout my marketing materials. I will not accept gifts, compensation, or other benefits intended to influence a decision related to a client. If I use the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals logo, I promise to do so appropriately to establish my credibility and market my practice.

10. COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONALISM

I will maintain clear and honest communication with clients and colleagues. I will not use recreational drugs or alcohol before or during massage sessions. I will project a professional image with respect to my behavior and personal appearance in keeping with the highest standards of the massage profession. I will not actively seek to take someone else’s clients, or disrespect a client, colleague, or other allied professional. I will actively strive to positively promote the massage and bodywork profession by committing to self-development and continually building my professional skills.

Weekday Wellness Membership $99

Our Weekday Wellness Membership is designed for consistent self-care and a regular nervous system reset.

Monthly Treatment: One 60-minute Signature Ashiatsu session per month.
Added Value: Every session includes restorative steam heat and a tuning fork attunement. a $30 value
Scheduling: Appointments are valid Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday bookings are available for a $26 upcharge.
Commitment: A 6-month minimum commitment is required with a valid card on file for automatic monthly billing.
Flexibility: You may pause your account for up to 3 months without penalty.
Cancellations: Early cancellation (before 6 months) incurs a $100 fee. If you cancel and wish to restart within 12 months, a $50 restart fee applies.
Use It or Lose It: To ensure consistent progress, sessions do not roll over; please ensure you book your appointment each month.

What is Ashiatsu?

Ashiatsu is an advanced form of massage. In Japanese, "Ashi" means foot and "Atsu" means pressure. This treatment is delivered entirely with the feet while you relax on a traditional massage table. By using overhead bars for balance and support, I am never "walking" on your back; instead, I utilize the broad surface of my feet to provide long, gliding strokes that "melt" into the muscle tissue. Many clients compare the sensation to being gently ironed. Although it is new to you Barefoot Massage techniques have been practiced for thousands of years in China, India, Japan, Philippines, Thailand, and beyond.

This technique naturally decompresses the spine, helping to elongate the back and create space between the discs. Because the foot provides a broad, smooth contact area, your body is less likely to "brace" or resist the touch, allowing for a nervous system reset and restorative tissue work that is much better accepted by the body than traditional deep tissue. Most people cannot even tell that I am using my feet rather than my hands.

Note: Ashiatsu may not be right for you if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery, have osteoporosis, or currently have athlete's foot or nail bed fungus.

I offer a risk-free 12-minute trial for your session. If you decide within the first 12 minutes that this style isn't for you, we will stop immediately for a full refund. After the 12-minute mark, the massage continues to completion and the session is non-refundable.

What is the dress code for Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage?

You’re welcome to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. You’ll always be professionally draped for modesty. Ashiatsu uses long, flowing strokes with oil or cream, which work best directly on the skin. The therapist will honor all clothing as a boundary—any covered areas will not receive Ashiatsu, which may limit the effectiveness of low back treatment.

If you prefer to stay fully dressed, you’ll receive a modified Fijian-style barefoot massage. For this option, soft, flexible athletic clothing is recommended.

What should I wear for a Fijian Barefoot Massage?

Please wear soft, athletic-style clothing (such as yoga pants and a t-shirt) that allows for full range of motion.

Aren't feet gross?

Neglected feet are gross, but my feet are my precision instruments. They are soaked, buffed, sanded, and moisturized to a butter smoothness so seamless you often cannot tell them from hands. To ensure the highest level of hygiene:

Sanitized Standards: My feet are washed and sanitized between every single client.
Zero Floor Contact: Once cleaned, they go into fresh socks and special Ashiatsu sandals and never touch the floor.
Cleaner Than Hands: Unlike hands, my feet never touch cell phones, door knobs, or steering wheels.
This meticulous care ensures a sensation so seamless that most people cannot tell the difference between my feet and my hands. Because they are protected and professionally maintained, they provide a clean, high-quality, and therapeutic experience that is often more sanitary than traditional hand-based work.

Is sobriety required?

Absolutely. You must be fully sober to provide legal and valid consent for your massage. Alcohol and marijuana impair judgment and physical sensation, making it unsafe for me to perform deep tissue work. Clients who are not sober will not be treated. 

Do you accept tips for "off-menu" services?

No. I have a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding any inappropriate requests. Any such solicitations will result in the immediate termination of the session and a permanent ban from the practice.

What if I feel uncomfortable?

Your safety is my priority. Please alert me immediately if the pressure, temperature, or technique needs to be adjusted. Professional boundaries are strictly maintained; female breasts and genitals are never touched, and I am sensitive to areas of past trauma. You may always pause, stop, or exit the massage. All body sizes are welcome and I don't judge you- my focus is on getting you to relax and not be preoccupied with insecurities.

What is recommend aftercare?

To ensure your body integrates the work we've done, please follow these recovery guidelines: 

• Avoid Strenuous Activity: Do not engage in heavy exercise, high-impact sports, or demanding physical travel (like skiing or long flights) for at least 24 hours. A massage "unites" the tissue, but your body needs quiet time to stabilize. Jumping straight into intense activity can cause re-injury or leave you feeling worse than when you arrived. 

• Hydrate & Remineralize: Drink plenty of water and enjoy a leafy green salad to help relax and nourish the muscle tissue.

• Skip the Alcohol: Your body is processing the session; alcohol can hit your system significantly harder and cause a "massage hangover" the next day
• Listen to Your Body: If you feel the need to nap or eat a full meal, honor that. Recovery is where the real healing happens.

Is it normal to tip a massage therapist?

Yes, tipping is at your discretion always but standard service industry tipping for hair dressers, nail technicians, and massage therapists is 15-30% of the original price (not the discounted or coupon price.) If you tip me 100% because you are thrilled with the service and want to gift me you better tell me so- otherwise I'm going to think you dropped money and for got it. I accept cash, Square (you will have a second charge on your credit card,) or Venmo. 

I skipped the razor today...

Before arrival: It's not necessary to shave before an appointment. You are human and having hair is part of that- you are not judged for being human. All bodies are welcome. Do shower up before your massage. Profuse sweating because you cycled to the office in July heat will cancel the appointment. Massage cream will not mix with sweat and it just doesn't work. Covered in concrete dust? Also, that doesn't work.

Do I have to talk?

No, you can request "quiet enjoyment today" and that's code for less talking please. Stephanie will still check in that pressure is adequate and health.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

24 hours notice is required to receive a refund. Clients may cancel their own appointment during this timeframe through the Square App, however they should call Stephanie to initiate the refund. Refunds go back to the original method of payment only. Cancellations less than 24 hours receive no refund. See the Policies for more details on arrival time, etc

How often should I get a massage?

It depends on your goals. Comedian Bob Hope received a massage daily. General relaxation can come daily, but most people find monthly is sufficient to maintain a regulated nervous system. If you are under a period of high stress you may increase your visits to bi-weekly or weekly. Deep Tissue clients are recommended to come for a minimum of six appointments, spaced every 3-7 days apart to reduce baseline tone.

I'm in Physical Therapy currently...

Verify with the Physical Therapist that's it is okay for you to receive massage before appointment. Sometimes the PT doesn't know if it is the PT that is working or the massage, and it interferes with the treatment plan and insurance payment.

Will it hurt? 

While deep tissue may cause minor discomfort, the focus is on comfort, and therapists adjust pressure upon request. You should be completely relaxed during Deep Tissue Massage. If you are bracing or "armoring" against pressure the therapist will not honor requests  to go deeper.

Full Moon Massage + | Client Care Agreement

Welcome! To ensure your experience is safe, professional, and restorative, we operate under a "WELL Massage" policy. By booking, you acknowledge that you meet the following health and community standards.

1. The "WELL Massage" Requirement

To receive treatment, you must be in a state of general wellness with healthy, intact skin.

• Medical Conditions: Massage is for wellness and relaxation; it is not a substitute for medical care. Severe or chronic pain is a medical condition and must be evaluated and treated by a licensed physician.

• Prohibited Health Conditions: Service is strictly prohibited for those with a fever, virus, cough, or any acute contagious illness.

• Foot & Skin Health: Clients must have healthy feet and toenails. We do not provide service for: toenail bed fungus, thickened nails, athlete’s foot, ringworm, wet/peeling/pitted skin, cuts on feet, or any open rashes or wounds.

• Integrity of Information: Providing a full and accurate health history is critical to a safe treatment plan. Omitting information wastes therapeutic time and is grounds for dismissal. 

2. Arrival & Attendance

• The 10-Minute Window: Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time to use the restroom upstairs, update the therapist, and finalize consent forms.

• Session Start: You should be disrobed and on the table by your scheduled appointment time to maximize your treatment.

• No Third-Party Booking: You may only book for yourself. The person named on the appointment must be the person receiving the massage and the person who completed the intake forms.

• Late Arrivals: Arrivals 15+ minutes late are considered a non-refundable "no-show."

3. The Session Experience

Ashiatsu Attire: You’re welcome to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. You’ll always be professionally draped for modesty. Ashiatsu uses long, flowing strokes with oil or cream, which work best directly on the skin. The therapist will honor all clothing as a boundary—any covered areas will not receive Ashiatsu, which may limit the effectiveness of low back treatment. If you prefer to stay fully dressed, you’ll receive a modified Fijian-style barefoot massage. For this option, soft, flexible athletic clothing is recommended.

• Hygiene: Clients must arrive freshly showered and sober.

• Scent-Free Space: To support a healthy environment for my asthma, please avoid perfumes, scented products, or smoking/vaping immediately prior to your visit.

• Communication: Please communicate immediately if you have any discomfort or would like an adjustment in pressure or temperature. 

4. Safety & Conduct

• Zero Tolerance Policy: This is a strictly professional, therapeutic space. Any sexual advances, comments, or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate termination without refund and a permanent ban.

• Emotional Readiness: Clients must arrive in a calm state. Verbal aggression, yelling, or refusal to follow therapist instructions will result in a deferred session without a refund. 

5. Binding Refund & Dispute Policy

• Reservation of Time: I understand that my payment secures the therapist’s time and the availability of professional services.

• Cancellations: At least 24 hours' notice is required for any refund.

• Forfeiture: I explicitly agree that any violation of these policies—including health omissions, hygiene issues, or behavioral misconduct—constitutes a forfeiture of my payment and that no refunds will be issued.

• Chargeback Waiver: I voluntarily waive my right to dispute this charge or initiate a credit card chargeback for any session terminated due to my non-compliance with these established policies. 

6. Privacy & Consent

• Confidentiality: All client information and health records are kept strictly private in accordance with professional ethics and privacy laws.

• Electronic Signature: By booking and signing this document, I agree that my electronic signature has the same legal effect as a signature in ink