Choosing the right massage setting

There are many places to go and get a massage here in Dallas, Texas and I'm sure this is true where you live...so how do you know if you're picking the right setting for you with all those choices? 
In one of my first blogs, I discussed the fact that not all massage therapists or massages are the same. ***You can read it here***
Let me share some insight on the most popular massage settings in my area, The DFW.

Massage Schools:
Massage schools are a great option if you're on a budget and are okay with a hit or miss type situation. 


The students in massage school clinics are practicing and are fulfilling the requirements to get their license so there will be heavy turn over. It's great to help these students out and get them their hours. You may also find your next favorite massage therapist! 
PROS:

• Cost effective
• You get to help students with the required feedback so they can hone their skills and become better massage therapists.
• You might find your favorite up and coming massage therapist.
• Sometimes you can just walk-in for sessions with out an appointment.

CONS:

• High Turn over rate.
• Possibly unskilled due to inexperience.
• Hit or Miss

Massage memberships:
These are the "massage envy" type places. You pay a monthly fee and in return you get a monthly massage at a low rate.
Pros:

• Walk-in appointments are taken here which is very good if your schedule doesn't allow you to book something in advance.
• Membership pricing.
• Being charged every month could inspire you to make sure you're getting your money's worth and get regular sessions.

Cons:

• High Turn over due to work environment.
• Possibly hit or miss experience.
• Inconsistency. 
• Being billed monthly. If you're not on top of it, you may miss out on your sessions and be paying for it anyways.

Massage clinics ( in chiropractic clinics):
Chiropractic and massage go together like peas and carrots. Which is why you find them together a lot. It just makes since to relax the muscles that are pulling on bones before an adjustment. "Medical massage" is usually done in these clinics.


Pros:

• Insurance can sometimes be billed for massage.
• You get deep work on specific problem areas.
• A chiropractor over sees your treatment.

Cons:

• More medically oriented versus relaxation oriented.
• Holistic massage is generally not done. (generally it's just the problem area that is the focus)
• Walk ins may not be available.

Spa Massages:
While a lot of people make the comment that spa massage is "fluff and buff", I've had some pretty intense deep work done in a spa. They have fun products and you can get many different treatments along with your massage too. Pedicures anyone??? Yes please!


Pros:

• The atmosphere is usually very nice.
• Extra amenities like showers, steam rooms, and hydrotherapy.
• Very skilled therapists.

Cons:

• Pricing can be high (covering costs of amenities)
• Turn over can be high depending on work environment.
• Spas get very busy and sometimes have inexperienced staff. (besides therapists)

Independent Massage Therapists:
This is what I am. I run my own practice and book my own appointments. When you schedule a session at The Heeling Hut Barefoot Massage and Wellness, you will only work with me and I will be your only contact person. i have worked in all of the above places (except envy) and have honed my skills over the past nine years to create my special brand of massage.

Pros:

• Professional relationship is formed with that therapist.
• The therapist knows your preferences and you don't have to explain them every time.
• You know the therapists style so you know what to expect every time.

Cons:

• Walk-ins or same day sessions may not be available because it's not a multi-therapist environment so pre-booking may be the only way.
• Work hours may fluctuate.
• Pricing maybe higher than a membership or school.

What's your preferred massage setting??
Do you agree with my list of pros & cons or have I left something out?
I wanna know what you like so leave me a comment in my comment section!

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​Hi! I’m Hillary Arrieta and I help people improve their lives by offering holistic solutions to ease stress, eliminate pain, and inspire self care practices. I own The Heeling Hut in Plano, TX. Where I teach workshops, write, and specialize in unique and effective massage and meditation techniques such as Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage and iRest® Yoga Nidra. At The Heeling Hut you'll find the best massage in the Dallas area for pain and stress management. Texas MT 040051

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