Do you offer online appointment scheduling?
Yes, simply click the link below.



Do you have any same day massage appointments?
Sometimes. You can check online via the link above or call me in the morning to see if I have any same day openings. (Please note that I may not always be able to return calls the same day if I have a full schedule).

Do you have weekend or evening massage appointments?
Not at this time. My latest weekday appointment is generally around 5pm.

What happens at a first massage session with you?
I will ask you to fill out a Health History form (or you may download one here to fill out at your leisure), which I will review with you when you come to my Rockville, MD office. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early for your first massage appointment if you are planning to fill out the Health History form immediately prior to the appointment. Together we will discuss your past and current health and work together to design an appropriate bodywork session that meets your needs.

Why do you need to know about my health history?
I want to get as complete a picture of the whole you as possible. Past and current injuries and illnesses can have an effect on that picture. That information will help me to work with you in designing a bodywork session that is more specific and effective for you.

Why do you need to know what medications I'm taking?
Medications can affect your body in numerous ways. Knowing what medications you are taking can help me tailor your bodywork session appropriately.

Do I have to get undressed?
No. I can work on you fully clothed, if you prefer. If you choose this option, please wear comfortable, non-binding, non-baggy clothing with some stretch (yoga clothes, gym shorts, t-shirt, etc.). If you choose to undress, you may do so to your level of comfort. I will exit the room so that you will have privacy while you undress and get under the sheet.

If I am undressed, will I be covered or draped during the session?
I always use appropriate draping for your comfort and security during bodywork sessions. Only the part of the body I am working on will be exposed. At no time is there any genital exposure (if you are looking for an undraped massage, I am NOT the massage therapist for you).

What part of my body will you work on?
You and I will discuss your goals and desired outcome for the massage. Together we will decide what parts of your body will be included in the session.

What exactly will you be doing during a massage session?
That depends on you -- how you are feeling, your health, and your goals. Together we will agree on the type of massage and bodywork I will use during the session. Much of my work incorporates myofascial release (gentle connective tissue massage, sometimes incorporating active or passive movement to release tension) and stretching (both passive and active). I may also incorporate Swedish (general circulatory massage) and deep tissue (slow, focused massage utilizing glides and compressions) techniques.

Will you use oils or creams during the massage?
Much of my work incorporates myofascial release and stretching, neither of which require the use of oils or creams. I do use a hypoallergenic cream for Swedish or deep tissue work (if you prefer oil, please let me know when you make your appointment so that I can be sure I have it stocked when you come in). I rarely use any lubricant on the neck; as a result, you don't leave my office with oily "massage hair".

What should I do during a massage?
Make yourself comfortable and relax. Depending on the type of work we are doing, I may ask you at times to move a part of your body or ask you how something feels for you. Your comfort is always foremost in my mind and my communication with you facilitates that.

I have a chronic illness or physical condition. Can I still get a massage?
In most cases, yes. If you have any specific questions regarding massage and your condition, please feel free to contact me. I may ask to consult with your physician or other health care professional so that I can treat you appropriately. In some cases, I may refer you to another practitioner who may have particular expertise with your condition.

I am confined to a wheelchair. Can I receive massage/bodywork?
Your wheelchair is no obstacle to receiving a massage. As with all of my clients, provided you have no medical contraindications for massage, you can receive massage either in my Rockville, MD office (wheelchair accessible) or in your office or home (house call rates may apply for the latter -- please call me to discuss your particular needs or the needs of a loved one).

Do you specialize in any particular conditions or clients?
I am qualified to work with most conditions. I do have particular interests in athletes (especially distance runners, triathletes and equestrians), sports and other injuries (including repetitive stress injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), postural and balance issues, and general stress relief. I have personal and profession experience with Fibromyalgia (FM) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), and welcome clients with chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS. I also maintain an active network of other specialized massage therapists to whom I refer clients based on their needs.

I just found out that I am pregnant. Can I receive massage/bodywork from you?
Yes, although not during the first trimester. Massage can be very beneficial during the rest of a pregnancy. I can also refer you to massage practitioners who specialize in pregnancy massage.

Do you massage children?
Yes, absolutely. I do require a minor child's parent or legal guardian to consent to the bodywork and to be present during the session.

Do you massage infants?
No. However, I am happy to refer you to other bodywork practitioners who can provide this service as well as parental instruction for infant massage.

Do you massage animals?
Yes! I am an Equinology Certified Equine Body Worker® and offer equine massage and bodywork throughout central Maryland. For more on my equine practice, please visit my animal massage website. (Although the Md. Boards of Veterinary Medical Examiners and Chiropractic Examiners had previously prohibited licensed massage therapists from practicing massage on animals, I joined with the Institute for Justice and successfully challenged that unlawful prohibition).

Looking for more information about massage & bodywork?
Visit MassageTherapy.com, the consumer website for Associated Massage & Bodywork Professionals (ABMP).

Other questions? Please contact me.
301-216-2612 or mercedes@probodyworker.com