FAQs
Can I claim mobile massage on private health insurance?
By and large - no. Unfortunately, only AustUnity and CBHS Health explicitly specify that mobile massage is claimable. BUPA is a definite, blanket NO. Somewhat confusingly, the Australian Regional Health Group (ARHG, which includes HBF and other, smaller funds) advise that they do not cover mobile massage, however, some of the funds under its umbrella may still recognise mobile remedial massage treatments, and advised that members should contact their fund directly (Source: Association of Massage Therapists “Claiming Mobile Massage Fact Sheet”). I do have a provider number for most funds (excluding Medibank Private, BUPA and HCF), so it’s always worth checking with them directly.
I strongly encourage clients seeking mobile massage to contact their health funds to request coverage of the service, and let them know how much you value the service, especially if you have accessibility issues with getting to and from (or being in) a remedial massage clinic. The AMT has challenged ARHG’s position, stating that it may discriminate against fund members who are house-bound, immobile, elderly, disabled or vulnerable, and I wholeheartedly agree! It’s definitely worth a discussion with your fund.
Remedial Massage appointments at Namami Yoga and Wellness are claimable through your private health insurer (excluding HCF). Any relaxation massage or reiki do not attract rebates.
Clients at The Green are able to receive private health rebates for remedial massage, except through HCF.
Do you treat clients with disabilities and/ or sensory issues?
Absolutely. Everyone is welcome to book in with me for a massage treatment. If getting on/ off the table, and/ or rolling over, is difficult for you I am happy to help, but strongly recommend you have a support person available to lead the process to ensure you remain safe.
If you have difficulties with verbal communication, again, it’s best you have a support person there to ensure your experience remains comfortable and safe for you, and I am more than happy to work out a way to ensure you feel heard.
As for sensory issues, you are welcome to contact me to discuss your needs: I have a range of oils and balm (scented and unscented) to use, as well as various types of coverings: thick cotton towels, lighter cotton towels, sheets, and soft blankets - you can request your preference via SMS or email prior to your massage. You are absolutely welcome to use any towels or blankets that you have, if you prefer to. Weighted blankets are amazing, but I don’t carry one with me because, a) they’re heavy, and b) they aren’t one size fits all - if you have one and would like to use it during your massage, you absolutely can. If I’m treating you at your house, you have full control of the lighting and sounds (music, white noise, silence, etc). If you are not comfortable lying down, I can treat you while you’re sitting up. We can even sit on the floor. If I’ve missed something, please email me (contact details are on the home page), and I’ll answer any queries you may have.
How would you like me to pay for my treatment?
I use the Fresha website and app for mobile bookings, Acuity for my sessions at Namami Wellness, and a manual booking system for The Green residents. Fresha usually asks for your credit card number to secure your booking. It doesn’t deduct any money until I ask it to, so you’re welcome to use that card for automatic payment. You can also pay by cash (please note I don’t carry change!), bank transfer, or EFTPOS via my Square reader.
For my sessions at Namami Wellness, I do request a 50% deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due after your treatment, which can be processed automatically. The deposit can be transferred if you need to reschedule, but I do require 48 hours’ notice for these appointments as I’m only there once a fortnight at this stage.
The Green residents can pay with cash, EFTPOS or credit card after their session (the cards when the wifi is connected!).
I also offer AfterPay, so you can pay in 4 instalments (not able to be used for gift vouchers). Please ensure you have an AfterPay account, and are ready to tap your AfterPay card (on Google or Apple Pay) at the end of your massage.
If you are coming to my house, are you OK around kids and pets?
YES. I am a mum of two, and pet-parent to a hugely affectionate and hairy Golden Retriever, a chaotic rescue dog (breed unknown - she’s a Broome Special), two very sociable cats, and a snake (not free range), as well as quite a few daddy longlegses. Our house is noisy and messy, and I can totally work around that kind of thing at your place. You don’t have to do an “OMG, people are coming over!” freak-out tidy up before I come over. Trust me. You just need to clear a space for me to put my stuff. That’s it.
I’ve never had mobile massage therapy before. What can I expect?
I will send you an SMS when I’m on my way with my expected time of arrival: usually 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment so we can have a chat while I set up.
I am concerned about two particular things: safety and comfort (yours and mine). You just need to make sure I have room to put my table down (it’s quite big, so a lounge room is often best), and a clear space around it for me to work. I’ll need to use your bathroom/ kitchen/ laundry to wash my hands, and give you privacy while you get ready for your massage. I’m likely to borrow a chair to sit on if I’m working on your head and neck.
If you’ve been at work all day, or have been active, please ensure you have a shower prior to my arrival.
Prior to the session commencing, I will go through any issues you have outlined in your intake form. I will suggest my treatment plan, explaining the areas which will be best worked on within the time allocated, and request your input, tweaking the plan as necessary to ensure your comfort. Your consent every step of the way is crucial.
It usually takes me about 10 minutes to pack up and process your payment afterwards, then I’m off to let you enjoy the post-massage bliss that follows.
What do I need to wear?
Wear whatever you’re wearing!
When it comes to your massage, you have these options:
You undress to your underwear and get on the table while I’m out of the room washing my hands (and giving you some privacy to do this). If you do choose to be undressed, please be reassured you will be kept covered with towels throughout the massage - only the body part I’m working on will be exposed. When in place, the towels usually cover clients from the top of their chest to their toes.
You may wish to remain clothed, or partly clothed. If you chose to be partly clothed, I will cover the exposed areas until I start working on it.
I understand your requirements may change from session to session, depending on how you feel. I will always check this with you prior to your massage.
What is your cancellation policy?
For mobile massage:
You can cancel up to 1 hour before your appointment without penalty (later than that, you do get charged). Life happens, I get it. I do prefer it if you provide 12-24 hours’ notice if you can, just so I can offer someone else the spot.
Your client intake form is crucial: as I am a mobile provider, it lets me know where you live, and requests a brief history so I’m aware of any conditions you have so I can plan the session (and it is required by my insurer). Your confirmation emails - sent on the day you booked and 48 hours prior - contain the link. If I haven’t received it, I’ll send a SMS with the link and a gentle reminder. I will follow this up with a phone call 24 hours prior to the appointment: if the form is still not received, your appointment will be cancelled 45 minutes prior to the appointment and my cancellation fee applied (50% of the session fee).
For Namami Wellness sessions:
I require a 50% deposit upon booking to secure your place, and require 48 hours’ notice for any cancellations or reschedules, please. The deposit can be transferred to the new booking, provided it is done at least 48 hours prior to the appointment date. Any cancellations or reschedules after this forfeit the deposit.
For The Green residents:
Please let me know ASAP so I can offer the spot to someone else.
I’ve just had a vaccination/ have had a contagious infection: can I still have my massage treatment?
The current advice is that massage therapy should be avoided 72 hours (3 days) immediately post-vaccination. Please note I am fully vaccinated as per the schedule for adults.
If you or one of the members of your household has had a contagious illness, please ensure you or they have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours prior to your appointment, otherwise, please reschedule. My immune-compromised clients (and me!) appreciate your consideration.
What are your infection control procedures?
Fresh linen is used for each appointment. All sheets, towels, pillow cases and coverings are washed with hot water and detergent, and dried on the line.
My massage table is disinfected between clients, and the oil dispensers wiped down.
Clients are advised to cancel their appointment if they, or a member of their household is unwell with a contagious infection: no penalty applies if cancellations are made up to 1 hour prior to the appointment. Likewise, I will cancel client appointments if I or a member of my household becomes ill with a contagious infection to prevent any chance of spreading disease. Face masks will be used should the government direct it, or as needed/ requested by my client.