If you’re searching for "RMT near me," "registered massage therapist Vancouver," or "massage therapy in South Granville," chances are you’re looking for pain relief, stress reduction, or support for an injury — but you may not know what actually happens during a first RMT appointment.
This guide walks you through exactly what to expect from your first Registered Massage Therapy (RMT) session, so you can arrive informed, comfortable, and confident.
Many first-time clients book massage therapy for practical reasons.
Common reasons include neck and shoulder pain, lower back pain, muscle tension from desk work, stress and poor sleep, sports recovery, or rehabilitation after an injury. In Vancouver, especially in South Granville, many clients are professionals, parents, and active individuals looking for therapeutic massage, not spa treatments.
If you’re searching for:
—you’re in the right place.
Your first RMT appointment always starts with a health intake and assessment. This is one of the biggest differences between a Registered Massage Therapist and a relaxation spa massage.
Your RMT will ask about:
This allows your therapist to create a personalized treatment plan based on your body, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Once the assessment is complete, your RMT will explain the treatment approach and leave the room so you can get comfortable on the table.
You will always be professionally draped, and only the area being treated is exposed. Communication is encouraged — pressure can be adjusted at any time.
Depending on your needs, your session may include:
If you’re seeing an RMT for chronic pain, sports massage, or injury rehab, treatment may feel more focused and specific than a spa massage — and that’s intentional.
This is one of the most searched questions around massage therapy.
A therapeutic massage should feel effective, not overwhelming. Some techniques can feel intense, especially when treating tight muscles or long-standing tension, but your RMT will always work within your comfort level.
Pain is never required for results.
After the session, your RMT may recommend:
It’s normal to feel relaxed, lighter, or even slightly sore the next day — similar to how your body feels after a workout.
There’s no universal answer, which is why people often search: “How often should I get massage therapy?”
It depends on your goals. Some clients benefit from short-term care for pain relief or injury recovery. Others choose ongoing massage therapy to manage stress, posture, or physical demands from work or sport. Your RMT will guide you based on progress.
RMT vs Spa Massage: What’s the Difference?
Registered Massage Therapists are regulated healthcare professionals. Treatments are clinically focused and often covered by extended health insurance. At Therapy X, we are able to direct bill for your RMT session for ICBC and most major insurance companies.
If you’re searching for:
—an RMT appointment is the correct choice.
If you’re looking for a registered massage therapist in South Granville, our clinic offers evidence-based massage therapy in a calm, professional environment.
Our RMT team works with:
Whether this is your first massage therapy session or you’re returning to care, we’ll meet you where you’re at.
If you’re searching for "RMT South Granville," "massage therapy Vancouver," or "therapeutic massage near me," online booking is available and new clients are welcome. You can also call us to speak with one of our clinical coordinators to schedule your RMT appointment.
Your first appointment starts with understanding your body — and building from there. We’re looking forward to meeting you in the clinic!
With Care,
Therapy X Collective