LAWS REGARDING MASSAGE THERAPY:
All practicing massage therapist in Louisiana are required to follow all laws and licensing procedures as stated by the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy through the Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals. Each massage therapist should be able to present upon request, documentation proving current licensure under the Louisiana Laws.
Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy: 225-658-8941

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?
Your therapist may request that you arrive 15-20 minutes early for your first appointment. During this time you will be asked to fill out a confidential intake sheet regarding your medical history. It is important to be very thorough with this information and to answer all questions honestly. There are some conditions that can be aggravated or worsen through massage therapy. This is also a good time to ask your therapist any questions or concerns you may have regarding your first session.

DRAPING - WILL I HAVE TO DISROBE?
The area to be massaged will be uncovered while the rest of your body will be draped by a sheet or blanket. Your comfort level and modesty will always be respected and the session will be discrete and professional. Some clients choose to wear nothing under the draping while others wear their undergarments. Either way, you will disrobe to your comfort in total privacy with the therapist out of the room. The therapist will show you the best way to get comfortable on the massage table, leave the room and return whenever you are ready.

WHAT WILL THE MASSAGE BE LIKE?
Soft light and soothing music are the usual backdrop for a session. Sometimes candles and Aromatherapy are incorporated to create the most relaxing environment. If there is anything about the atmosphere that makes you uncomfortable or is not conducive in helping you relax, let your therapist know. The technique your therapist uses will vary according to your needs or requests. Massage may be light (for relaxation), deep (for knotted muscles), or a combination of both. Always remember that this is your massage. Don't hesitate to tell your therapist what works best for you. Generally, the therapist will check with you several times during the session about the pressure that is being used. Remember, the more feedback that you give, the better the massage will be for you. Some massage therapists include scalp and facial massage in their sessions. Most therapists will ask before the session begins but if you don’t want your hair and make-up disturbed let the therapist know.

WHAT SHOULD I DO DURING THE MASSAGE?
Relaxation is important and one of the keys to an effective massage. Make yourself comfortable, relax and communicate with your therapist if you are uncomfortable in any way. Most people just close their eyes and relax completely during a massage. Some prefer to talk. It's not uncommon for people to fall asleep during a massage.

WHAT IF I WANT TO CHANGE POSITIONS OR NEED TO GO TO THE RESTROOM?
If it is necessary during the session to adjust your position, the therapist will first make sure that you remain properly covered and then tell you what to do (such as turning over). If you feel the need to use the restroom during the session, just let the therapist know. This is your session and you should be comfortable at all times.

HOW WILL I FEEL AFTER MY MASSAGE?
After a massage, most people feel very relaxed and invigorated. You may experience a lessening of or even relief from aches and pains that have built up over weeks or even years. You may, however, have sore muscles for a day or two, especially if your treatment includes deep massage technique. This is normal due to the release of toxins.

WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER THE MASSAGE? 
After your massage is finished, you will be given privacy to allow you to dress. Get up slowly from the table. Massage can be profoundly relaxing, affecting all of your body's systems. You may want to sit on the table for a minute before getting up. Allow time to re-orient yourself or wake up. When you leave the session it is very, very important to drink lots of water. Drinking water will help flush toxins out of your system and minimize any aches you might experience.

WHAT ABOUT GRATUITY? DO YOU TIP A MASSAGE THERAPIST?
Almost all Massage Therapist are independent contractors (self – employed). As with most services, the first rule is that tipping is voluntary and so any amount is acceptable. Tips are appreciated by the therapist but not expected. Some business’, such as Day Spa’s and Salons who have massage therapist treat gratuities the same as they do with the stylists. Some may have envelopes by the register or tips can be left in the massage room.

WHAT IF I’M STILL NOT SURE IF MASSAGE IS FOR ME?
If you are still not sure about your massage experience don’t give up! Figure out what it was that you didn’t like. Was it the therapist, the surroundings, the type of massage? Ask for referrals from friends, visit different places, talk to other therapists and see if anything appeals to you. Keep trying. Massage Therapy is meant to be an all around positive experience.