Your Questions, Answered

  • How do I book a session?

    You can book a session by

    How far in advance should I book?

    You can make a booking up to 24 hours ahead of your chosen appointment time. Same-day bookings may be considered but can’t be guaranteed.

    Do you offer same-day or last-minute appointments?

    If it’s possible to fit you in, this may be considered. Sarah will do her best to accommodate your booking but please be understanding that she may not be able to fit you in.

    Which areas do you travel to?

    Sarah works within a 10-mile radius of Monks Eleigh, Suffolk, IP7. However, she can visit you outside this radius - please note a £1-per-mile travel fee will apply for every mile beyond the 10-mile radius.

  • What types of treatments do you offer?

    Sarah offers:

    She also offers prescriptive facial treatments.

    Treatments can vary in length between 30 and 90 minutes. You can also combine treatments to extend the length of your appointment.

    How do I choose the right massage for me?

    Swedish massage is great for all-round relaxation, and can leave you feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.

    For chronic aches and pains, deep tissue massage can be more effective (although Swedish massage can also be very helpful), especially if received on a weekly basis for approx. 6 weeks.

    Lava Shells massage incorporates heated porcelain clam shells into the treatment. This added heat can have up to 3 times the effect you would get from a traditional massage, so can be deeply relaxing and restorative.

    If you are pregnant, you should opt for a pregnancy massage (please note that massage is not recommended in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy).

    Indian Head Massage is a shorter treatment that promotes relaxation and releases stress and tension. There is no need to undress for this massage.

    If you are living with or recovering from cancer, an oncology massage is the right option for you.

    Facials are not only deeply relaxing - they can also help you to meet your skincare goals, whether that’s promoting hydration, overcoming problem skin, or anti-aging.

    Can I request a custom treatment?

    Yes! If you have a specific problem or goal in mind, or there is a particular part of your body you’d like more attention paid to, Sarah can put together a bespoke treatment for you which may incorporate a range of massage techniques.

    Please also note that all Sarah’s massages are tailored to the client in some way, based on the answers given in your client consultation form.

    What products do you use?

    Sarah takes product provenance seriously and all products are vegan and cruelty-free. Where possible, they are also organic.

    Massage oils are selected based on your treatment type. You can opt for non-scented or aromatherapy essential oils on your client consultation form.

    If you have any allergies, Sarah will select appropriate products for you.

    For facial treatments, Sarah uses Eve Taylor aromatherapy skincare products.

    Do you offer treatments for men?

    Suffolk Massage Therapy offers mobile treatments to women only.

    Do you have a referral scheme?

    Yes - if you refer a new client to Sarah, you will receive a £5 discount off your next treatment!

  • What do I need to provide at home?

    Please ensure you have an appropriate space for Sarah to set up the massage couch and work in (ideally at least 1.5m x 2.5m).

    Ideally, an area free of interruptions from family members or pets will help ensure you have the most relaxing experience!

    Sarah will need access to hand-washing facilities (with hot water), and if you have opted for a heated mat on the massage couch, she will need access to a plug socket.

    How much space do you need?

    Sarah will need a minimum space of 1.5m x 2.5m to set up and work in.

    Do you bring your own table, linen, oils, and equipment?

    Yes - all you need to provide is the space, access to hand-washing facilities, and an electrical outlet if you would like a heated mat on the massage couch.

    Can you work in apartments or small spaces?

    As long as the space is large enough for Sarah to set up and work in, that is fine. If you live in an apartment, please let Sarah know any stairs she will need to climb with her equipment. Please also allow her additional time to set up and leave.

  • How long are the sessions?

    Sessions can be 30, 60, or 90 minutes long depending on the treatment chosen.

    You can also combine treatments for an extended treatment time.

    Does the session time include set up/pack down time?

    No - the session length as stated on each treatment is ‘hands-on time’. So if you book a 60-minute massage, expect a full hour from the moment Sarah begins to the very last stroke!

    Please plan for up to an additional 30 minutes on your appointment time to allow Sarah to set up and pack down.

    Should I shower before the appointment?

    You may feel more comfortable and relaxed if you feel fresh before your appointment; however, if you are unable to shower before your appointment, please don’t worry!

    Depending on your treatment, you may get some oil in your hair - therefore, please don’t wash your hair especially for Sarah before she arrives!

    What should I wear?

    For back, neck, and shoulder massages, you will be asked to remove the clothing from the upper part of your body.

    For full body massages, you will be asked to remove all of your clothing, aside from your briefs.

    Please note that Sarah takes your modesty very seriously and will leave the room while you undress/dress afterwards. You will lay underneath a sheet or blanket and when you are ready, Sarah will come into the room to begin your massage. During the massage, she will use draping techniques to only uncover the part of your body being massaged - both for your modesty and warmth.

    Sarah will do her very best to avoid any transfer of oils to any clothing. However, please note that oil transfer is possible, so it may be best to wear underwear which you do not mind getting oil on.

    For Indian Head Massages and Facials, a strappy top or camisole is ideal, as the straps can be pushed down easily to access your shoulders/décolleté. Otherwise, you will remain fully clothed throughout.

  • What are your prices?

    All pricing information is available on the Booking page.

    Are there travel fees?

    There are no travel fees if you are within a 10-mile radius of Monks Eleigh, IP7.

    If you live outside this radius, Sarah can still come to you - please note a £1-per-mile travel fee will apply for any mile you live beyond this radius.

    What payment methods do you accept?

    If booking online, payment can be at the time of booking (a minimum of 50% deposit is required when booking online).

    If booking via phone or email, Sarah will provide BACS details or an online invoice to pay your deposit.

    Balances can be paid at your appointment via cash, BACS, or via an online invoice.

    Do you require a deposit?

    Yes - please note a 50% deposit is payable at the time of booking to secure your appointment.

    What is your cancellation policy?

    You are free to cancel or reschedule your appointment up to 48 hours prior to your original booking free of charge. If you are rescheduling, your 50% deposit will carry over to your new appointment. If you are cancelling, your deposit will be refunded to you via the online booking system or BACS.

    Your deposit is non-refundable for any cancellations or changes to your booking made within 48-24 hours of your original appointment time.

    Please note that any cancellations or rescheduling made within 24 hours of your appointment will incur the full cost of your appointment to make up for any lost client time/travel expenses.

    If I arrive at your appointment and you are not at home (no-show), the full treatment cost will apply.

  • Are you fully qualified?

    Sarah is fully qualified in all the massage and facial treatments she offers.

    She holds a VTCT Skills (ITEC) Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy, a VTCT Skills (ITEC) Level 3 Certificate in Anatomy and Physiology for Complementary Therapies, and all further training is accredited with the Association of Beauty Therapists. Certificates can be provided on request.

    What COVID or hygiene protocols do you follow?

    Sarah takes great care with hygiene protocols. All linens which come into contact with your body are washed thoroughly between use. Any tools (such as Lava Shells and facial tools) are disinfected between use.

    She also holds a VTCT (ITEC) Level 2 Award in Infection Prevention (COVID-19).

    Are you a member of a professional body?

    Sarah belongs to the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT), one of the UK’s largest professional bodies for complementary therapists. As part of her membership, Sarah is required to complete annual continuing professional development (CPD) to keep on top of her skills and knowledge, giving you greater trust in her services.

    Are you insured?

    Sarah is fully insured with Hiscox Insurance, through her membership of the Federation of Holistic Therapists.

    Are you DBS-checked?

    Sarah holds a full DBS certificate, giving you peace of mind when inviting her into your home.

    Are you first-aid trained?

    Sarah holds a current certificate in First Aid in the Workplace and Paediatric First Aid.

    Is my personal information kept confidential?

    Sarah adheres to all GDPR regulation when handling your data. Personal information is held in a password-protected digital format, and deleted 5 years after your last appointment with Sarah.

    Your personal data will never be shared, sold, or misused in any way.

  • Is it safe to receive a treatment if I have a health condition?

    When booking your appointment, you will complete a client consultation form which will inform Sarah of any health conditions you may have. Sarah will review this information to ensure the treatment is safe for you to receive. If it is not safe for you to proceed with the treatment, an alternative treatment will be suggested or a full refund of your deposit will be made.

    Should I inform you of any injuries or medications?

    Yes please - there is an opportunity to do this on your client consultation form, completed ahead of your treatment. This will help Sarah adapt your treatment if necessary.

    Do you offer prenatal massage?

    Yes - Sarah is fully qualified and insured to offer massage during pregnancy (please note massage is not recommended during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy).

    Can massage help with specific issues (back pain, stress, recovery)?

    Yes it can, particularly if received regularly over a set period of time. You may not notice much of an improvement with just one session, and occasionally, an injury can be more painful after a massage session. Over time, however, and with regular treatment, you are likely to see an improvement in your symptoms.

  • Can I choose the music or ambiance?

    Yes - there is an opportunity to give your preferences on your client consultation form.

    Can I talk during the session or should I stay quiet?

    It’s completely up to you. Most clients seeking relaxation will benefit more from a conversation-free session. However, this is your session and if you want to talk during it, that’s completely your choice!

    What if I feel uncomfortable during the massage?

    If anything is making you feel uncomfortable during the massage, please let Sarah know and she’ll make any changes you need. Don’t worry about breaking the silence - it’s more important you speak up; Sarah will want to know if she can make anything better for you.

    Can I stop the session at any time?

    Yes - if you need to stop the session, please let Sarah know.

  • Do you offer gift vouchers?

    Yes - gift vouchers can be purchased for specific treatments, or as a set amount to use against a treatment of the recipient’s choice.

    They can be physical or digital, and sent to you or the recipient directly.

    Can you accommodate group bookings (such as hen parties)?

    Yes! Massages and facials are a perfect way to make a special occasion feel extra special. Please get in touch to discuss a bespoke package for your event.

    Do you provide services for events or corporate wellness days?

    Yes - please get in touch to discuss further.

  • What should I do after my massage?

    You’ll receive full aftercare advice following your treatment. However, try not to book a busy day afterwards - it’s best to take it easy, avoid physical exertion, eat light meals and avoid alcohol. Please also avoid the sun after your massage as your skin will be rich with oil.

    Will I feel sore afterwards?

    Some soreness in your muscles within 48 hours after a massage is common, especially if you have requested a firmer pressure or deep tissue massage. However, this should ease within a couple of days.

    How often should I get a massage?

    If you have a specific pain or concern, you may find a weekly massage over a course of 6 weeks is needed to overcome the problem. A monthly massage afterwards can be enough to then keep on top of things!