Questions & Answers

---

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Health & Safety First

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

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.)

• Do you require a health and consent form for everyone?100% yes. This is required during your first visit so I can understand your medical history. Your information is private and stored securely. With written consent, I can provide clinical reports to your GP, NDIS, or specialist.

• 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.

• 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).

2. Specialised Women’s Health

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

• Can I receive treatment if I am pregnant or postpartum? I provide specialised care for the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, focusing on structural strain. For postpartum clients, I address "new mother’s strain" (neck and shoulder tension). Note: I do not offer massage during the 1st trimester.

• I have breast implants; can I still have a deep tissue or prone (face down) massage? Absolutely. We utilise specialised bolstering and cushioning to ensure zero pressure on the chest, or we can perform the treatment in a side-lying position to ensure your comfort and the integrity of the implants.

• Do you offer support for Post-Mastectomy or Breast Surgery recovery? Yes. I provide gentle scar tissue management and lymphatic drainage. Because this is a sensitive area, I require medical clearance from your surgeon to ensure incisions are fully healed.

• I suffer from Endometriosis or PCOS; can massage help? 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, 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. This is no barrier to a high-quality massage. We will work together to ensure your positioning is comfortable and your privacy is respected.

3. Professional Boundaries & Comfort

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

• Is your clinic a 'safe space' for women regarding body image or scars? My studio is a zero-judgment zone. Whether it is surgical scars, stretch marks, weight fluctuations, or skin conditions, I view your body through a clinical lens. Your body is honoured here exactly as it is.

• 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 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 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 work around the area by focusing on the lower back and hamstrings instead.

• Is there a towel if I prefer to be covered? I practice professional draping at all times. If you have specific preferences regarding towel weight or coverage, please let me know, ow and I will follow your lead.

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.

5. Fees & Insurance

Transparent information regarding pricing and industry registration.

• Can I claim my private health insurance rebate? 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.

• What does "Registered Massage Therapist" mean in Australia?"Registered" is usually a business designation for health fund rebates. Both registered and non-registered therapists hold the same Diploma of Remedial Massage. Quality is best judged by professional experience and results.