What to Expect at SOMA

our MASSAGE approach + process

SOMA is different than a Bozeman spa. While a massage treatment here can be a very relaxing experience, we practice a more integrative approach, more focused on overall healing than in-the-moment tranquility.

Our Approach to Massage

The treatment itself will likely include multiple modalities tailored to both your physical and emotional preferences. You are invited to allow yourself the gift of this time to return to your own body.

We are always happy to share our passion for anatomy the physiology of healing. Should you have questions about an injury, an unusual sensation, or any other subjects related to your body's musculoskeletal systems, we would love to help clarify the mechanics and empower you to further address issues outside of our time together.

Your Massage Appointment

View our COVID-19 safety promise + policies

At SOMA’s convenient Bozeman location, we welcome each patient into a clean, warm, supportive environment. Massage therapy is not one-size-fits-all — your individual comfort comes first. We start with how you are feeling when you enter the office. Our thorough intake process includes your health history, goals, assessment, special tests, and preferences for the day, allowing us to create a specific game plan for your session, as well as following sessions, should you choose to return. 

SOMA promises every client:

  • A clean, safe and comfortable environment before, during, and after the massage

  • Respect, courtesy, confidentiality, and dignity

  • Privacy while changing and right to remove clothing only to their level of comfort for the massage

  • During the session, to be draped appropriately by a sheet, towel, or blanket, to create safe and clear boundaries of the area of the body to be addressed

  • A fully licensed/registered/certified professional massage therapist, working within my scope of practice and in an ethical manner

  • Opportunities to ask questions of the massage therapist at any time, and receive professional responses

  • The choice between conversation, music, or quiet during the massage

  • A clear explanation of the nature of the massage and techniques to be used, before starting the massage

  • The right to consent to the massage techniques and approaches, including appropriate pressure, used in the massage

We ask that clients:

  • Arrive on time for your massage therapy appointment

  • Fully and accurately disclose any relevant health or medical conditions

  • Communicate any expectations or concerns you might have

  • Communicate with therapist during treatment in regards to pressure, discomfort and other feedback being asked of client

  • Pay at the time of service, unless you are receiving treatments related to an auto or workers comp insurance claim

  • If cancellation is required, please give reasonable notice (typically 24 hours) in advance

 SOMA Massage Frequently Asked Questions

+ What is your cancellation policy?

We have a 24 hour cancellation policy. Please call to cancel. Do not text or email, if you wish to cancel. As much time you can give us of your change in plans, the easier it is for us to fill the time slot. If you cancel within a 24 hour time period and we are unable to fill your time slot, you will be charged in full. If you do not show up for your appointment, you will be charged in full.

+ What if I’m sick before my massage appointment?

Please call us, and we can cancel or reschedule your appointment. We have many high risk clients that we need to protect. So, we appreciate that you let us know and do not come to your appointment if there is any chance you are contagious.

+ What can I expect if this is the first massage I have ever experienced?

Most people are excited and perhaps a little nervous going into their first massage therapy session. When you arrive for your appointment, we will conduct a thorough health intake and perform a comprehensive assessment to determine the best course of action. We will work together to come up with a massage plan that you are comfortable with. We will explain to you what will happen during your massage and what to expect. We are happy to answer any questions you may have — before the massage, during, or after.

+ Do I need to completely disrobe for the massage?

Some people choose to completely disrobe and other folks feel more comfortable leaving their underwear on. Regardless, we will never expose you. We create clear boundaries using the sheet and draping techniques.

+ Do you offer deep tissue massage?

“Deep tissue” is often a misused term in the profession of massage therapy. The depth of massage techniques is subjective. Some people may require very little pressure to experience the feeling of deeper work, while others require more pressure to create the same sensation. We work with our clients to achieve a therapeutic experience. We can position the tissue in such a way that allows us to access deeper structures without hurting you. You should never see bruising or experience significant pain the day after a treatment. The bottom line is that our work goes deeper than just “spreading oil” — but not so deep as to injure you, either.

+ Can you work with my other health care practitioners?

Many times we work in conjunction with clients’ physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractor, etc. We feel very comfortable communicating with other health care practitioners. Our goal is to support you as part of your integrated health care team.

+ Can you bill my health insurance for my massage?

Unfortunately, even if you have a referral from your primary health care provider, health insurance companies in the state of Montana will not cover massage therapy. The exception is if you are a government employee. If you are employed by the State of Montana you can submit a receipt for a partial reimbursement. We are able to provide you with the detailed receipt required.

+ May I use my HSA card to pay for my massage?

Yes.

+ Can you bill auto insurance policies for my massage, in case of a motor vehicle accident or whiplash?

If you have been in a motor vehicle accident and you have an open claim with the auto insurance company, we are able to provide SOAPs (medical documentation) and bill the insurance company for full payment directly.

+ Do you sell massage packages at a discounted rate?

If you purchase four or more treatments, we provide a 10% discount. All four massages must be paid for at the first appointment of the package.

 “My wife and I have been clients of Nicole's for approximately a decade. Nicole's service is part of our regular back maintenance program.  Her expertise has allowed us to continue our outdoor lifestyle.  We highly recommend her!”

— Robert Blake, MD