Frequently Asked Questions

Note: Ray reserves the right to decline treatment if he believes it may compromise your health or his clinical safety standards.

Males, please be advised: I only accept new male clients who have been referred to me by a GP in a written referral to Athletic Sports Massage Canberra. Treatment for male clients is limited to the neck, shoulders, and upper back only. I do not provide full-body sports or remedial massage treatments for male clients under any circumstances.

1. Clinical Excellence & Safety Standards

Your health is my priority. This section covers my qualifications and the medical protocols required to ensure your safety.

• Are you a qualified Remedial Massage Therapist?

• Absolutely. I hold a Diploma of Remedial Massage (HLT52015), the gold standard in Australia. My qualification is from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). This ensures my clinical training meets the highest national standards.

• Why do you require medical reports for injuries or spinal surgeries?

  My Duty of Care is to ensure treatment is safe. For existing injuries or spinal surgeries, I require a copy of your GP, surgeon, or MRI/Ultrasound report at least 48 hours before your session. This allows me to see the "why" behind your pain and avoid complications. (Medical Reports Required for Your Safety.)

• Does everyone have to fill in a health and consent form?

  100% yes. This is required during your first visit so I can understand your medical history, any injuries, and other relevant information. Your information is private and stored securely. With your written consent, I can provide clinical reports to your GP, NDIS, or Specialist if necessary.

• Are there conditions where massage is not advised?

  For your safety, I cannot provide treatment for contagious skin diseases, active infections, or severe/bleeding back acne. If you are being treated for cancer, heart conditions, or blood-related infections, a written medical recommendation from your doctor is required.

2. Specialised Women’s Health

Dedicated care for the unique physiological needs of women, from pregnancy to post-operative recovery.

• Have you massaged women with CPTSD?

  Yes, over the years, I have worked extensively with women managing Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD)—particularly veterans from the armed forces and survivors of domestic and partner abuse.

  Trauma is often held deeply within physical tissues as chronic muscle "armouring" and nervous system hyperarousal. To help manage these symptoms, I combine tailored sports or remedial massage, and I can also add specific physical exercises. This dual approach aims to gently soothe the nervous system, lower stress hormones, and help release stored emotional tension.

  It is important to remember that while trauma-informed bodywork is a profoundly supportive tool for regulating the body and easing physical symptoms, it is not a cure for CPTSD. Instead, it serves as a safe, compassionate physical aid alongside a holistic healing journey.

• Do you offer support for Post-Mastectomy or Breast Surgery recovery?

  Yes. I provide gentle scar tissue management and lymphatic drainage. I require medical clearance from your surgeon to ensure incisions are fully healed, and massage is ok.

• I suffer from Endometriosis; can massage help?

  Yes, while massage doesn't treat the underlying condition, it helps release "guarding"—the chronic tightness in the abdomen, lower back, and hips caused by pelvic pain—reducing physical stress on your nervous system.

• I have my period; should I cancel my appointment?

  Please don't! As long as you feel well enough and have showered and put in a new pad, etc, you are welcome. Many clients find that massage during their cycle provides significant relief from tension.

• Can I still have a massage if I have a colostomy bag?

  Definitely, there is no barrier to a high-quality massage. We will work together to ensure your positioning is comfortable and your privacy is respected. Please replace the bag before coming for your massage.

• I have trouble with my pelvic floor muscles. I feel embarrassed to ask!

  It's better to ask than worry about it, as I am an open-minded person who is willing to help with areas of the body that can cause pain. I can check them to see if any trigger points need to be released with your full consent.

• Do you offer breast massage?

  Yes, I do, as it's part of a woman's anatomy, plus the benefits are very good for the circulation within the breast system, as most athletes wear sports bras, and they don't allow the breasts much bounce. Plus, it's good for women who have had breast implants. Don't think of it as sexual because this is not!!

3. Professional Boundaries & Comfort

Ensuring a respectful, "zero-judgment" clinical environment.

• Scars? My studio is a zero-judgment zone. Whether it is surgical scars, stretch marks, or weight fluctuations, I view your body through a clinical lens. Your body is honoured here exactly as it is. The only safety concern I have for you and myself is that you can turn over safely without falling off, as I have a smaller electric massage table that is set up for athletes' style bodies, as that's the main practice Ray does, massaging athletes.

• I’ve never seen a male therapist before; what can I expect? It is normal to feel apprehensive. My approach is 100% professional. I explain exactly which muscles I am targeting and use professional draping techniques. You are welcome to bring a female friend to sit in during your session.

• What should I wear if I need my glutes (buttocks) massaged? The glutes are a powerhouse group often responsible for lower back pain. To treat them effectively without restriction, I require clients to wear a G-string (disposable ones provided free). If you prefer full-coverage underwear, I will not be able to do the whole glutes and only part of them will be massaged, as I no longer pull under wear up to get to the glute muscles, as I have damaged my fingers too many times with super-tight underwear.

• Is there a towel if I prefer to be covered? I practice professional draping at all times. But saying this, if you have specific preferences regarding towels and dislike being covered, please let me know, as it's your right to feel comfortable when having a massage that you pay for and for you to be able to relax better.

• What does "Registered Massage Therapist" mean in Australia?

  “Registered" is usually a business designation for health fund rebates. Both registered and non-registered remedial massage therapists hold the same Diploma of Remedial Massage under the Australian standards. Quality is best judged by professional experience and results.

4. The Studio Environment & Logistics

Everything you need to know about arriving at the clinic space.

• Can I bring my baby or child to the appointment?

  To ensure you get the most out of your treatment, I recommend attending solo. However, if you are a nursing mother with a sleeping infant in a carrier, please contact me in advance to discuss logistics.

• What is your approach to aged care and disability support?

  I have over 10 years of experience serving the Canberra community, providing specialised remedial massage, rehab exercises, and manual handling support.

• Can I walk in for an appointment?

  No. All sessions must be booked in advance to ensure a discreet experience where clients never cross paths.

• Is there parking available?

  Yes, there is plenty of free, safe, off-street parking on my private driveway.

• Is the environment smoke-free?

  Yes. I am a non-smoker, and the studio/grounds are strictly smoke-free. Please refrain from smoking before your visit to maintain air quality for sensitive clients.

• What kind of massage oils do you use?

  I use two high-quality professional blends:

  Muscle & Joint Oil: Contains Wintergreen, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, and Pepper for inflammation.

  H2Oil Water Dispersible Oil: A clean blend of Sunflower, Rice Bran, and Coconut (nut-oil free).

5. Fees & Insurance

Transparent information regarding health fund rebates.

• Can I claim my private health insurance rebate?

  No. I have chosen to remain independent of health fund schemes to keep my rates as affordable as possible. Many clients find my flat rates are more cost-effective than paying for "extras" cover with small rebates.

Working With Vulnerable People (ACT) Registered (WWVP)

Contacts 0435-626-343