Frequently Asked Questions?
What to Expect when I'm new
For Mental Health Therapy & Coaching clients: you may request a free phone consult using my booking app, or by emailing me at ashley@embodybalancewellness.com
If you choose to book a full appointment following our phone call, I will give you detailed instructions about next steps depending on which services you are pursuing. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions, Most new client intake appointments last between 75-90 minutes.
What techniques and approaches do you use?
Massage & Bodywork: I customize all sessions to the clients needs and preferences. I integrate a variety of modalities when appropriate, including: Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point work, athletic and rehabilitative techniques, PNF stretching and range of motion, functional kinesiology, cupping, facial cupping, lymph stimulation, mindful breath work. I offer bodywork to wide range of clients from small children to pregnant women, triathletes, as well as elderly men and women.
Mental Health Therapy & Coaching: I customize and integrate Systems Theory, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strengths Focus, Motivational Interviewing, Meaning Making and a variety of Mindfulness and Somatic Therapies. We will co-create goals, and help you move from a place of struggle and survival, to a place of hope and health. I use the Wellness Wheel & Healthy Mind Platter to help guide the process.
How can I pay?
Massage, Bodywork & Coaching sessions are all self-pay at this time (cash, credit/debit card). You will be asked to enter payment information in when you book your appointments on my booking link . Payments are not charged until service is completed, you may choose to pay with a different method at the time of service if desired.
Mental Health Clients can use insurance or self-pay. I am licensed to serve clients in Illinois, Colorado & Missouri. In-Network Insurance options vary by state, please check my Psychology Today profile, Headway profile or contact me directly to inquire about specific insurance plans.
*Sliding Scale options available for self-pay client on a case by case basis, as needed.
How long do sessions last?
Massage & Bodywork Sessions can last between 20 to 90 minutes depending on the service chosen.
Mental Health & Coaching Sessions can last between 30 to 90 minutes.
Average session lengths are 45 minutes to 1 hour.
*Initial Intake sessions are 75-90 minutes long.
How long/many times do I have to come before I feel better?
This very much depends on your circumstances, and your goals!
For massage clients looking to relax, rest, destress.....clients usually start to feel the calming and regulating effects of the massage space within minutes.
For bodywork clients coming looking for relief from pain, many clients can notice improvements within one session, others may need several sessions, or bodywork in conjunction with other treatments ( physical therapy, chiropractic, etc..). Some choose to use massage & bodywork as an effective and immediate pain management strategy for chronic issues, knowing that complete resolution of all pain may not be achievable at this time.
For coaching and mental health therapy clients: client motivation, consistency, engagement and effort, both in and outside of session, all make a huge difference. Some clients report noticeable improvement after just a few sessions, while others navigating more complicated situations or long-term goals may require more patience and a more thorough process to start noticing the effects in their daily lives. Open communication is key in ensuring continual growth and progress toward your goals.
Additionally, therapy is a very vulnerable process, I will not be the best therapist for every person, and I welcome discussion about what is working/not working, and other options to try if after true effort and communication, we are not a good fit.
What are your hours?
As of March 2025,
I see clients in person in Southern Illinois Tuesday 12-6pm, and Wednesday/Thursdays 9am-7pm.
I see clients remotely (IL, MO, CO) Tuesdays 845 am-6pm, Wed/Thur 9am-7pm.
What do I wear to bodywork sessions?
You may come dressed in your regular clothing. I'll step out to let you undress for your session. During your session you'll be on the table, completely covered by a sheet and blanket except for the area I am working on at any given moment. Clients are welcome to bring gym shorts, sports bras, etc...if desired for comfort or certain services. Please come having addressed basic hygiene and sanitation practices prior to service.
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I do provide wet wipes & make up removal wipes for use before and after sessions as needed.
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I have a robe available, and disposable undergarments to be used as needed.
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Clients are welcome to bring comfortable clothes to change into following their session.
* For somatic healing touch sessions, separate from traditional massage, Clients will remain fully clothed at all times. Prior discussion and additional forms will be filled out for this type of service.
Where do we meet?
ALL IN- PERSON sessions, unless otherwise discussed, will take place in my office located at: 216 S. Buchanan St. Edwardsville, IL. 62025.
(I am on the 2nd floor above Seams For the Soul Boutique).
Enter the driveway on the south/right hand side of the Large white house, Parking is along the backside of the building.
Enter through the front door of the boutique, facing Buchanan St.
I will be notified that you have arrived, and will come down to greet you.
*My office requires the ability to climb stairs, I apologize for any inconvenience this causes, Please reach out to me if you have questions or concerns about this.
Remote sessions will take place by phone, zoom, or HIPAA compliant link for all therapy clients.
