Financial Accessibility
Commitment to financial accessibility aka: Therapeutic Massage for All
I believe that comprehensive health care is a basic, fundamental human right. It should be accessible, inclusive and prioritize preventative care. As a whole, health care can be deeply divided along class lines; my practice isn't. Massage therapy is a complimentary, alternative health care modality that effectively addresses both physical and mental stress and should be available to everyone.
I occasionally hear people refer to their massage session as a “treat” that they have “earned,” as opposed to an integral part of their healthcare. In my experience, this is typically due to financial constraints, rather than lack of respect for or effectiveness of the work. I want to help people shift their perspective by making my massage practice is as financially accessible as possible.
In order to align my philosophy with my payment policies, I have decided to make some changes to my fee schedule and implement a couple new programs. The goal of these programs is three-fold:
1. Increase financial accessibility of massage therapy.
2. Reaffirm my belief in, and commitment to providing, preventative health care to all members of our community.
3. Increase awareness of massage as a viable treatment option. Lessening the financial impact of multiple massage sessions, clients will theoretically be able to participate in a more regular treatment plan thereby increasing the benefits and experience longer lasting relief.
Program #1: Sliding scale
No questions asked and available for both 60 and 90 minute appointments. Please mention when you book your appointment.
60 minutes... $60-80
90 minutes... $90-120
Program #2: Referral incentive
My business is 95% referral based. I believe that building my practice on community support and positive experience results in a solid, loyal client base. When a new client is referred in, both the new person and the referring client will receive $10 off their massage appointment. NEW! This incentive also applies to online referrals/review sites.
Program #3: Kindness in Hand Project
The Kindness in Hand project is a crowd sourced, community-driven massage donation project. Clients donate to the fund, which provides an hour treatment to someone in need - all nominations are accepted, there are no requirements. Folks may nominate themselves, a loved one, or a community member. The only requirement is contact information of the nominee. Cash and venmo donations, as well as referral credits can be traded for Kindness Coins which are deposited into the fund. Once the fund reaches $80, a nominee will be drawn at random, and will contacted to book their appointment!
Note: these 3 programs operate independently and cannot be combined.
*While I accept gratuity, I don't expect it. Tipping can be a great way to support my sliding scale work, but I remind my clients to not feel obligated. It is my priority and obligation as a health care provider to ensure that my clients receive the same quality of attention and appreciation regardless of their emotional, physical or financial situation.