Question - What's the difference between an Aromatherapy Massage Practitioner and a Registered Massage Therapist - RMT
Answer - First of all it is helpful to understand that there are approximately 80 different modalities of natural health care therapies. A Certified Aromatherapy Massage Practitioner and Registered Massage Therapy Practitioner (RMT) are only 2 types of nearly 80 available natural health care modalities. Both methods involve ways of working with our body, they have some overlapping benefits. Both are indeed very different and distinct in approach. Aromatherapists are extensively trained in therapeutic use of over 50 essential oils for use during a therapy treatment or other methods of administration. Aromatherapy is a natural health care based therapy which works to improve a client's physical, psychological and spiritual wellness. It benefits muscular aches or pains, stress, feelings associated with anxiety, depression, focus, concentration, and much more. For a list of many of the conditions benefitting from aromatherapy please visit my services page for an in depth explanation
The modality of a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is similar to an Aromatherapist. It incorporates a physical level of our body systems and has relaxing effects as well. However, an RMT massage treatment typically does not involve use of therapeutic essential oils, unless they have proper training in this therapeutic modality. Registered Massage Therapists (RMT's) are trained to work with physical ailments including more serious injuries. Their services are in demand for athletic injuries, fractures, frozen shoulders and more. RMT techniques are more clinical and reactive by nature. A Certified Aromatherapist Practitioner offers more of a natural health care approach with emphasis on illness prevention as well as long term wellness.
Question - Can you issue a receipt for my private extended health insurance benefit plan?
Answer - The short answer is no. The long answer is important to understand. Holistic services that I offer are genuine and recognized by reputable organizations such as the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Association (www.nhpcanada.org). I received my training from the Mississauga School of Aromatherapy and Canadian Holistic Therapists Training School. In addition I have completed studies in Botany, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology at Sheridan College. I am a Certified Aromatherapist, Certified Hot Stone Massage Practitioner, Certified Reflexologist, as well as Level II Reiki Practitioner.
In spite of my extensive credentials, these holistic massage services in Brampton are typically not covered by private extended health insurance plans. It is typically because I do not have RMT status. Therefore I am unable to issue receipts for private insurance benefit plan purposes.
Associations such as Natural Health Practitioners of Canada are working to gain acceptance of natural health care practices into our main stream health care system however it is an ongoing effort as of now.
My practice is more than a clinical occupation, it is an art form of natural health care healing massage. I perform my work with purest of intention and consideration. My goal is to help you achieve long-term soulful wellness through proactive natural health care services.
If you require massage therapy treatments for a serious deep rooted muscular skeletal ailment, it may be better to find a qualified RMT who has more intensive training in clinical techniques. Additionally, an RMT offering Aromatherapy should have completed an additional 300 hour program through an accredited educational institution recognized by the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Association previously mentioned above.
Proper administration of this type of therapy treatment is important because pure essence oils need to be applied with care and understanding. If you are searching for a very soothing and healing massage in Brampton, in a warm, inviting, relaxing unhurried atmosphere, and do not require a receipt for private extended health insurance benefit plans then I look forward to your call. Alternatively, there is an RMT at the Yoga Loft and Holistic Centre that may be able to accommodate you. Check the Brampton Yoga Loft and Holistic Centre website holistic center description page for details.
Question - Does OHIP cover massage therapy?
Answer - No. Unfortunately, it is not covered by OHIP.
Question - What is aromatherapy massage?
Answer - Aromatherapy is natural health care therapeutic use of aromas (essential oils). It is an art and science of holistic healing using different aromas and properties derived from highly concentrated extracts of herbs, flowers, shrubs, as well as plants or plant material. These oils contain properties that are therapeutic when inhaled or applied to your skin blended with a carrier oil. There are also many other ways to obtain benefits from them.
Question - How is aromatherapy administered?
Answer - Aromatherapy can be administered in many ways such as direct inhalation, steam inhalation, in a bath, in a diffuser or vaporizer, hot, warm, or cool compress, as well as in a massage blend. You obtain more benefit by receiving a therapy treatment using organic pure essence oils because you are not only inhaling aromas, but also receiving their benefit through your skin.
Question - How do essential oils work?
Answer - Please visit the how essential oils work section of my services page for a thorough explanation.
Question - How do I know the quality of organic essential oil I am purchasing?
Answer - Always seek out organic oils that are packaged in dark glass bottles. Country of origin, Latin name, precautions as well as expiry date should be listed on labels. If it isn't, then question whether or not a product is pure. Some products will claim to be aromatherapy based, however, be sure to read about ingredients of a product carefully. If the word fragrance appears, question the pureness. It is probably something with a synthetic fragrance. Good quality aromatherapy products will list properties in their Latin name, country of origin, as well as expiry date.
Question - Where can I purchase a good brand of organic essential oil?
Answer - Please consult with an aromatherapist. She may carry a supply of organic oils or provide recommended sources.
Question - Can I take essential oils internally?
Answer - Never take essential oils internally. Always consult with a trained aromatherapist.
Question - What are differences between synthetic (adulterated) essential oils versus pure unadulterated essential oil?
Answer - Synthetic oil has man made unnatural chemicals added to it whereas a pure one remains in its natural state without any harmful additives.
Question - What does therapeutic grade essential oil mean?
Answer - Therapeutic grade is the highest grade of oils produced. They are carefully processed in such a way that molecules are still intact and alive. This means they have intelligence to interact with your own energy field in an optimal way. The same blend on two different people will often smell quite differently because of an ability to be uniquely activated for each person.
Question - What can I expect during my first visit?
Answer - During your first visit for an aromatherapy treatment a brief client health assessment form needs to be completed. This will help to determine current health conditions or any medical concerns that need to be addressed before a session begins. After a health assessment form is completed, we will review it together. I may ask you for reasons for your visit to determine if there are any areas of concern that need to be focused on during a therapy treatment session. Afterward, a custom oil blend will be put together to match your particular health care needs. The atmosphere will always be made to be most comfortable and safe. I will then leave the room for a few minutes while allowing you to prepare yourself for an aromatherapy treatment. During visits for hot stone treatments, the same will apply. A health assessment form will be completed and I will explain procedures of this technique. Stones are always tested to ensure a comfortable temperature!!
Question - How long will a treatment last?
Answer - All sessions last a minimum of 1 hour assuming you've arrived for your appointment on schedule. Late arrivals may have a treatment adjusted accordingly to prevent previously scheduled appointment conflicts for other clients. However you will still be responsible for a full fee rate.
Question - What are benefits of aromatherapy massages?
Answer - For a list of some benefits aromatherapy can provide please visit my aromatherapy massage section of this website.
Question - What are the benefits of hot stone massage therapy?
Answer - For a list of some benefits that this type of therapy can provide for you please visit my hot stone massage section of this website. Classic massage therapy treatments are commonly understood however techniques using heated volcanic rocks are not as commonly known. Watch this hot stone massage video for a short demonstration to learn more about amazing natural health care as well as relaxation benefits of this ancient luxurious therapy.
Question - Will I need to remove all of my clothing?
Answer - Your comfort is always very important during a massage treatment. You will be respected at all times. You will be asked to remove only an amount of clothing you feel comfortable with. Traditionally, to receive most benefit from healing properties of pure essence oils, it is best applied directly on your skin. You will be draped and only areas being worked on will be uncovered. There is always complete privacy, dressing and undressing, before as well as after each treatment. Removing all jewelry is optional but recommended. Jewelry may take away from receiving full benefit of a treatment. Bringing a hair tie is always a good idea for anyone with long hair.
Question - What parts of my body will be massaged?
Answer - This is a completely professional service, rest assured that I will treat you with absolute respect. If you have any particular areas of concern needing attention, it is important to mention them prior to beginning a treatment or during the review of your assessment form. A therapist will do their best to target areas of most discomfort or tightness. Full body massage includes hands, feet, legs, arms, back, chest, neck, shoulders, face and scalp.
Question - Should I expect any muscle soreness or discomfort after a treatment?
Answer - It is not unusual to experience mild soreness, especially if you are new to this therapeutic modality. However any soreness is usually very mild and passes within a day or two. Deep pressure tissue work will stimulate blood flow circulation throughout body systems. That assists with releasing toxins from a body. It also helps internal organs to function at their best.
Question - How will I feel after a session is over?
Answer - Normally most clients come out of a session feeling completely relaxed, refreshed, rejuvenated and recharged. They are ready to face the day again! It is recommended to drink plenty of water after a treatment. That helps flush out body toxins which have been released. It is suggested that you arrange some quiet time after your appointment. That time will provide an opportunity to reflect and be with your peaceful state. Please note that an applied oil continues to work for up to 7 days following a treatment. It is recommended that you wait at least a day before taking a shower. That will prevent washing away beneficial oils from your skin. It will prolong healing benefits of an aromatherapy massage treatment. Some practitioners may also recommend taking an epsom salt or sea salt bath with a few drops of oil. It may help to further relax muscles, clear your mind, as well as alleviate any stresses.
Question - How often should I receive a treatment?
Answer - Generally, once or twice a month is beneficial. However, depending on an individual's particular health conditions, more frequent visits may be suggested.
Question - Are there any contraindications to aromatherapy massages?
Answer - Yes. Although aromatherapy is very beneficial, caution needs to be taken with certain health conditions. Among them would be clients with these following conditions.
Please consult with your therapist if you have any of those conditions to determine a best possible treatment plan for your particular case. Read about contraindications to aromatherapy massage for a complete understanding.
Question - Are there any contraindications to hot stone massages?
Answer - Yes. Anyone with these following conditions should not have hot stone massage.
If you are unsure if this is a proper therapy for you please consult a therapist. Read about contraindications to hot stone massages for a complete understanding.
Question - How do I schedule an appointment?
Answer - You can arrange an appointment by phone or by email. To guarantee your appointment request is received, arranging by telephone is best. If requesting an appointment via email please provide a telephone number where you can be reached.
Question - What is your cancellation policy?
Answer - If you are required to change your previously scheduled appointment time due to unforseen circumstances please call me as soon as you possibly can to rearrange it.
Question - What happens if I am late for an appointment?
Answer - Arriving early guarantees your full treatment time. If you are late I cannot guarantee you will receive a full hour of treatment. There may be other appointments or committments to tend to. You will still be billed full rate for a treatment. A pre-arranged appointment time must be adhered to as a courtesy for everyone involved.
Question - What methods of payment do you accept?
Answer - Presently I am unable to accept payment by debit or credit card. Cheques as well as cash payments are welcomed. Gift certificates are also available for purchase.
Question - Do essential oils have an expiry date?
Answer - Yes all essential oils have an expiry date. A high quality producer will label bottles with latin names as well as an expiry date. It is typically 2 to 3 years beyond a bottling date depending on a particular oil. If you are purchasing a new oil with a short expiry date there is a good chance it has been on a shelf for quite a while.
Question - Can I use aromatherapy essential oils past their expiry date?
Answer - It is not recommended to use aromatherapy essential oils past their expiry date if you intend on applying them to your skin. However, there are other practical uses for end of life aromatherapy oils that can no longer be applied to skin. They can be used in natural organic home made household cleaning solutions, or in an essential oil diffuser for room freshening.
Question - Does OHIP cover aromatherapy?
Answer - No. Unfortunately, aromatherapy is not covered by OHIP.
Question - Does the Ontario Health Insurance Plan cover holistic services?
Answer - No. Unfortunately, our holistic centre services in Brampton are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.
Question - Does OHIP cover hot stone massages?
Answer - No. Unfortunately, hot stone massages are not covered by OHIP.
Question - What does OHIP mean?
Answer - OHIP means Ontario Health Insurance Plan but some people also refer to it as the Ontario Hospitalization Insurance Plan. It is a health plan administered by the government of Ontario for health care services provided within Ontario. More information can be found at Ontario Ministry Of Health.