Laura Dean, C.M.T.

About My Work

I integrate Swedish and Deep Tissue techniques into a customized massage based on your goals for the session. I also offer PNF and passive stretching to increase range of motion and ease of movement. My clients come to me for a range of needs, from therapeutic to deep relaxation.

I am proud to serve the queer and trans community.

Frequently Asked

• This is my first massage!

  If this is your first massage or you have any questions about what to expect, feel free to contact me. I have outlined a few of the most common questions in this section. I will also spend a few minutes with you before our session to explain what to expect, design a session based on your needs, and answer any questions you have.

• What if I like (or don’t like) what you are doing?

  Let me know! I am always listening and rely on feedback to create the perfect session for you. Let me know if you’d like more or less pressure, slower or faster speed, to stay in a particular area, go back to one, or skip something if it’s uncomfortable.

• If we discussed a plan and I change my mind during the session, is it okay to change what we are doing?

  Yes. What you feel during the session might be different than what you expected to feel. If after we have begun working you discover a better direction to go in, then let me know.

• What if I want to (or don’t want to) talk?

  Whatever helps you relax and feel comfortable. If you want to talk, that is fine with me. I’m also happy to keep our communication limited.

• Is Deep Tissue painful?

  Deep Tissue techniques can elicit more intense sensation, but should never make you hold your breath or tense up against my pressure. If you feel you are waiting for it to be over, it is possible the pressure or speed may be too much. The goal is to release and relieve. There are several ways to ensure this through a combination of pressure, speed and angle. I will work with you through this process to make sure you are comfortable, while still getting long-term and effective results from our session. If you notice any soreness after deep work, it is normal and should only last a day or two, but feel free to contact me if you are unsure about any sensation you are experiencing after our session.

• What if I can’t lie on my stomach or back?

  If you are unable to lie on your stomach or back, the massage can be done using side-lying position. Additional pillows will be placed to stabilize joints and help you feel supported and comfortable.

• What is side-lying position and who is it beneficial for?

  Side-lying is an extremely effective way to work on muscles like the IT band, thigh abductors and adductors, hip rotators and extensors, and inner calves. It is also used for anyone who is uncomfortable lying on their stomach or back. Pillows are used to stabilize joints and keep you comfortably on your side on the table.

• What do I wear?

  I use conservative draping to protect your privacy at all times. In full body sessions, I will typically have you disrobe to your level of comfort in order to work directly on the skin. Many people choose to leave their underwear or socks on. Sessions where work is only done on the neck, forearms, hands, feet or lower legs can be done without removing clothing. I encourage you to request any modifications to ensure you feel at ease.

• What if I need a tissue, the temperature changed, or to use the restroom?

  You might notice your sinuses reacting during a massage, especially when you are on your stomach for any length of time. You also might notice you get cooler or warmer throughout the session or that you need to use the restroom. Let me know if you would like a tissue, blanket or no blanket, table warmer on or off, or if you need to use the bathroom. It doesn’t take long and will make the rest of your session much more comfortable.

• What if my body reacts in a way that I didn’t expect?

  When our bodies relax, they tend to get to work making sure all systems are running well. There are many indicators that the parasympathetic nervous system is activated. Examples might include a change in breathing, increased digestion, the need to pass gas (totally fine with me,) a non-sexual erection, or the need to adjust yourself on the table or fidget. Moving around on the table is fine, especially if the work is releasing tension or a postural position that you need to adjust with. Falling asleep on the table is also fine and fairly common.

  Read more about the Parasympathetic Nervous System

• What do I do after the session?

  Get up slowly! Your perception of where you are in three-dimensional space may have changed in the past hour and you should enter vertical space-time mindfully.

  Notice how you feel in the moment and over the next few days. This is information you can use to learn what work is most beneficial for you.

  Staying well-hydrated is always important, so drinking a caffeine-free or otherwise non-dehydrating substance in its liquid state is suggested.

  Take a moment to integrate the work we’ve done. Take a walk or drink some tea or water in my waiting room.

  If you have questions about how your body is responding to the work or sensations you experience even a day or two later, I’m happy to answer any through phone or email, or at our next session.

• Are referrals important to you?

  If you appreciate my work, please take the time to write a review or tell a friend. I believe in the value of my work and the value of personal referrals, and most of my clients find me this way.

  Leave me Yelp review
• Is it appropriate to tip?

  While tipping is appropriate in a spa setting and for some therapists in private practice, I set my rates so that tipping is not necessary. I give the same attention and care to everyone.

• Can you diagnose my physical condition and prescribe treatment?

  I view massage as an important piece of a larger system of self-care and commitment to your physical well-being. While I am always expanding my knowledge of the body and health, I can not replace the role of your physician. However, while I do not diagnose or prescribe, I can always suggest stretches and other ways to compliment the work we do.