FAQs

Answers before you book

Pricing, what to expect, and how booking works. If your question isn't here, call or text 858-682-0063.

Before you book

What new clients ask first

01

How much does a massage cost?

New clients pay $79 for 60 minutes or $119 for 90 minutes with any therapist except Toni and Estrella. After the first visit, price depends on the therapist's tier.

Session60 min90 min
New client intro$79$119
Tier 1$100$150
Tier 2$120$180
Tier 1 package, per session$90$135
Tier 2 package, per session$110$165
02

What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 therapists?

Every PBTM therapist is CAMTC certified and trained in deep tissue and myofascial work. The difference between the tiers is experience.

Tier 1
Skilled bodywork that gets results

High-quality, effective treatment for pain relief, athletic recovery, and relaxation. A strong choice for most clients.

Tier 2
More years, wider range of experience

Therapists with more years in practice and experience across a greater variety of injuries and pain points. The higher rate reflects that depth of experience.

Not sure which fits? Read about each therapist and their approach on our team page. Still unsure and want guidance? Call or text 858-682-0063.

03

What happens in my first session?

You start with a short conversation about what brought you in, what your week looks like, and what you want to change. Your therapist then works on the areas that matter and adjusts pressure as you go.

04

How deep is the pressure? Will it hurt?

You set the pressure. Deep tissue work can feel intense in tight spots, but it should stay at a level where you can keep breathing normally. Ask your therapist to go lighter or deeper at any point.

05

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the problem. Some people feel a clear change after one session. Chronic pain or an old injury usually takes a few sessions, and your therapist will tell you what to expect after your first visit.

06

How do packages work?

A package is three sessions paid upfront at $10 off per hour, used within 6 months. A package is yours alone and stays attached to your client profile, so it can't be shared. You can book with any therapist in the tier you chose, and package price depends on that tier (see the price table above).

07

Do you take HSA, FSA, or insurance?

We do not bill insurance or take HSA and FSA cards directly. Pay by debit or credit card and we will give you an itemized receipt to submit to your plan. Some plans ask for a doctor's note.

08

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. Changes inside 24 hours and no-shows are charged 100% of the service total.

09

How do I book, and when are you open?

Book online any time here. We are open seven days a week, 8 am to 8 pm. You can also call or text 858-682-0063.

10

Where are you located?

3517 Del Rey St #110, San Diego, CA 92109. We're located in Pacific Beach, right off the 5 freeway. Street parking and a garage are both a couple of minutes' walk from our suite. In the garage, immediately to the left as you enter, you can park in the last 3 spots on the left.

Pain and body areas

What we work on

Common areas and how we approach them.

What types of massage do you offer?

Therapeutic, sports, and deep tissue massage, plus myofascial release, trigger point work, Swedish, and TMJ work. Sessions can focus on one area or cover the full body, and your therapist adjusts the work to what you need that day.

What is the difference between therapeutic and relaxation massage?

Therapeutic massage works on specific muscles, fascia, and movement patterns to change how something feels and moves. Relaxation massage uses lighter pressure for general stress relief. If you have pain or a goal, book therapeutic. If you only want lighter pressure, tell your therapist.

Can massage help with low back pain and sciatica?

Yes. Low back pain often involves the hip flexors, glutes, hamstrings, and the muscles along the spine, so we work those together. For sciatica, therapists work the piriformis and the surrounding hip muscles. Massage does not replace medical care for numbness, weakness, or pain that keeps getting worse.

Can you work on neck, shoulder, and desk-related tension?

Yes. Desk work tightens the upper traps, neck, pecs, and rhomboids. Your therapist usually works the chest and upper back together, since they pull on each other.

Can you work on hips, hip flexors, and quads?

Yes. Hip flexors and quads tighten from sitting, running, and cycling, and they pull on the low back and knees. We work them along with the glutes.

Can you work on hamstrings and calves?

Yes. We use deep tissue release, stretching, and myofascial work on hamstrings and calves, which are common problem spots after running, lifting, and long days on your feet.

Can you work on a specific muscle?

Yes. Tell your therapist which muscle or area you want worked, such as the psoas, traps, rotator cuff, IT band, or plantar fascia. They will tell you if a different area is the better place to start.

How long do results last?

It depends on your activity and what is causing the problem. Weekly or every other week is common while you work on a specific issue, and many people space sessions out once it improves.

Is massage safe if I have an injury or medical condition?

Massage is generally safe, but tell your therapist about injuries, surgery, and medical conditions when you book or arrive. Some conditions and recent surgery need clearance from your doctor first.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No, you can book directly. Some insurance, HSA, and FSA plans ask for a doctor's note before they reimburse you, so check with your plan.

What can I do at home between sessions?

Your therapist may suggest stretches, mobility drills, or recovery tools to use between sessions. They help the work last longer.

Everyday details

Good to know

Short answers for once you have decided to book.

What session lengths do you offer?

60 or 90 minutes. Choose 60 for one focused area and 90 for a full body session or two problem areas. Marcus also offers 120 minutes for $200.

What should I wear?

When it's time to begin, your therapist will step out of the room while you undress to your comfort level and get under the sheet. You are draped the whole session, and only the area being worked is uncovered. For some bodywork, such as sports work, athletic clothing is fine. If you'd rather keep all of your clothing on, that's fine too, and we'll work with it. Ideally, avoid thick fabric like jeans.

Is my session private?

Yes. Every session is in a private room, and what you tell your therapist stays confidential.

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes. Buy one on our Gift Cards page.

Still have a question?

Call or text 858-682-0063 and we will answer it.

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