Massage Therapy FAQs for New York Clients

Why trust us? Our therapists are fully licensed and insured. Under New York law, practicing massage without a license is a felony. Every session is delivered by a licensed professional so you receive safe, ethical care.

What should I expect at my first session?

• Intake and comfort. You will fill out a brief intake form about your physical condition, medical history and lifestyle. This information helps the therapist tailor the session. The therapist will ask about health issues, stress levels and medications to ensure your safety.
• Draping and privacy. You may undress to your comfort level. You will be properly draped at all times and only the area being worked on will be uncovered. Your privacy and modesty are protected throughout the session.
• Comfort check. Sessions typically last 30–90 minutes. The therapist will check pressure and temperature and adjust as needed. You are free to ask questions, request a change of technique, or stop the massage at any point.

Do I need to be completely undressed?

No. Undress only to your comfort level and communicate with the therapist. Professional draping ensures that you remain covered except for the area being worked on, and you can request more coverage if you feel exposed.

What should I tell my therapist before the session?

To keep you safe, please disclose:

• Any health conditions. Inform the therapist if you have contagious skin conditions, circulatory issues, digestive problems, endocrine issues, musculoskeletal injuries, lymph/immune disorders, nervous-system conditions, respiratory issues, or other medical concerns (pregnancy, migraines, cancer, etc.).
• Recent injuries or illnesses. Don’t schedule a massage if you have a fever, have recently been in an accident, feel dizzy or nauseous, or have bruises, open wounds, rashes or sunburn.
• Medications and allergies. Tell the therapist about any medications (especially blood thinners) or allergies to oils/lotions so they can choose appropriate products.

When should I avoid massage?

Massage is generally safe, but there are times when it’s not recommended:

• Early pregnancy. Prenatal massage after the first trimester is typically safe but should be performed by a therapist trained in prenatal techniques.
• Skin infections or open wounds. Massage can spread infection and impede healing.
• Uncontrolled hypertension or heart issues. Severe high blood pressure or heart conditions require a doctor’s note before massage.
• Certain cancers and blood clots. Physician’s approval is required.
• After drinking alcohol or certain medications. Massage can amplify effects of alcohol and some medications.

If you are unsure whether massage is safe for your situation, consult your healthcare provider.

Do you accept health insurance?

We do not bill insurance directly. Instead, we operate on a pay-at-time-of-service model and provide documentation so you can seek reimbursement.

1. Out-of-network provider. Most HMOs, Medicaid and Medicare do not cover massage. Some PPO, auto insurance or workers’ comp may reimburse.
2. HSA/FSA accounts. We accept these if you have a prescription.
3. What insurers require. Doctor’s prescription with ICD-10 code, number of sessions, and physician’s NPI/license number.
4. Documentation we provide. Itemised receipt (superbill) with date, duration, CPT codes, therapist’s license/NPI, tax ID, and diagnosis if supplied.
5. Submitting the claim. Complete your insurer’s form, attach our receipt and doctor’s prescription, and request reimbursement to you, not us.
6. What we can’t do. We cannot verify coverage, file claims, or guarantee reimbursement.

Will my insurance reimburse me?

It depends on your plan. PPO and auto insurance may reimburse. HMOs, Medicaid and Medicare generally do not. Ask your insurer:

• Is massage therapy covered for my diagnosis?
• Do I need a doctor’s prescription? What must it include?
• Is the therapist’s NPI and license number required?
• Will reimbursement match in-network rates? Are deductibles or co-pays required?

How do I self-bill my insurance?

1. Call your carrier and confirm self-billing is allowed. Request a claim form.
2. Get a prescription from your physician with diagnosis code and treatment plan.
3. Attend your session and pay at the time of service. We will provide an itemised receipt.
4. Highlight the codes and attach the receipt and prescription to your claim form.
5. Submit everything within the required timeframe. Follow up with your carrier.

Do you verify insurance coverage?

No. Contact your insurer directly for details.

Do you offer medical receipts for reimbursement?

Yes. Upon request we provide a superbill with session details, CPT codes, your doctor’s diagnosis code, and our professional information.

Can massage be tax-deductible?

If prescribed by a doctor for a specific condition, massage may qualify as a deductible medical expense. Ask a tax professional.

Do you accept tips?

Gratuities are appreciated but never expected. Cash preferred. Not reimbursable by insurance or HSA/FSA.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Use our online booking system or call us. A credit card is required to hold your spot.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule without charge. Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged the full session fee.

Are minors allowed to receive massage?

Yes, with parental consent. Parent/guardian must be present for clients under 18.

Do you offer prenatal massage?

Yes, after the first trimester. Always consult your doctor first. We do not provide massage during the first trimester.

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Note: This FAQ is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personal guidance.