Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to an initial session?
Structural Integration is traditionally done with men in underwear and women in a bra or sports bra and underwear or athletic shorts. This allows access to wherever I may need to work during any given session. If you prefer to wear a camisole or a tank top, that's fine. Think about making sure that I can work with your upper legs, the arms up to the shoulder, and the neck.
For cranial sacral therapy (CST), wear comfortable clothing that allows full range of motion. For massage, clients are fully draped and will be given the room to disrobe to their comfort.
What's the difference between Structural Integration, Hellerwork, & Rolfing?
Dr. Ida Rolf created the Structural Integration (SI) series to systematically organize and align the body in relation to gravity for lasting structural change. Joseph Heller, the first president of the Rolf Institute, expanded Dr. Rolf's model in the 70s to explore the intimate mind-body connection.
Rolfers come from the SI program at the Rolf Institute, Hellerworkers come from the SI program through Hellerwork International. I graduated from the Hellerwork program in Omaha, Nebraska. Nowadays many SI practitioners are trauma-informed and incorporate Somatic Therapy into their work. Ultimately, the way each practitioner works is unique.
How does Structural Integration differ from massage or chiropractic?
Massage works to decrease tension, improve circulation, and bring a sense of relaxation to the client.
Chiropractors manipulate bone with high-velocity movements to mobilize the spine and free the spinal nerves.
Structural Integration works with the fascia and the nervous system to bring about lasting benefits in posture and quality of movement. It looks similar to deep tissue massage mixed with physical therapy and energy work.
I have a specific issue. How many sessions should I get?
I suggest you start with one session and see how you respond to the work. If you like it, you can try a few more sessions. After resolving and resourcing any concern, you can come in on an as-needed basis.
How often should I come in if I’m doing the series?
Anywhere between once a week and once a month. Weekly is excellent to resolve chronic issues quickly, while bi-weekly or monthly gives more time for a more gradual and long-term process.
How often do people come in for regular bodywork? Why get regular bodywork?
People who get regular bodywork typically come in between every three to six weeks. I personally try to get work weekly. Regular bodywork is wonderful for moving through the things that come up, releasing stress, aches, and pains while encouraging greater flow, ease, and resiliency in daily life.
Do you offer shorter / longer appointments? How do I schedule that?
Yes! I work with people for custom lengths of time, prorated at $110 an hour for the first hour and $90 for subsequent hours.
Some people (and many children!) do better with 30 minute sessions. Other people like their two-hour full body relaxation massage, or a longer session for a thorough blend of myofascial techniques, massage, and cranial sacral therapy.
To schedule a nonstandard appointment length, contact me via phone or email.
Can I use my HSA?
You can use an HSA card to pay for sessions, or I can provide receipts for you to get reimbursed,
Presently, Structural Integration is not covered by insurance.
What do I need to know about parking for my visit?
We have a parking lot on either side of our office. Park in the south lot to easily access the front of the building.