FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I buy a gift certificate?
Yes. Gift Certificates are available for that special occasion! Mother’s Day, Birthdays, Christmas, Baby Showers…we’ve got you covered.
Simply click on "Gift Certificates" on the dashboard and follow the instructions to purchase one online. The GC will be emailed to you, the purchaser, to print yourself or to forward to the intended recipient. It's that easy!
Simply click on "Gift Certificates" on the dashboard and follow the instructions to purchase one online. The GC will be emailed to you, the purchaser, to print yourself or to forward to the intended recipient. It's that easy!
What is Massage Therapy?
The practice of Massage Therapy is defined as the assessment of soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function or relieve pain. (Massage Act, 1991)
Massage Therapy has been a regulated health profession since 1946. The College of Massage Therapy of BC (CMTBC) is our governing board. In order to maintain our accreditation, RMTs must take continuing education courses throughout the year designed to increase our practical (hands on) education as well as our professional development and ethical standards. RMTs all have liability and malpractice insurance.
The terms “Registered Massage Therapy” and “Massage Therapy” are reserved for RMTs actively registered with the CMTBC. When choosing a massage therapist, you can be confident that you are choosing a licensed therapist that is mandated to provide safe and effective health care.
Massage Therapy has been a regulated health profession since 1946. The College of Massage Therapy of BC (CMTBC) is our governing board. In order to maintain our accreditation, RMTs must take continuing education courses throughout the year designed to increase our practical (hands on) education as well as our professional development and ethical standards. RMTs all have liability and malpractice insurance.
The terms “Registered Massage Therapy” and “Massage Therapy” are reserved for RMTs actively registered with the CMTBC. When choosing a massage therapist, you can be confident that you are choosing a licensed therapist that is mandated to provide safe and effective health care.
What can I expect during a Massage Therapy appointment?
Your appointment will consist of an assessment portion, treatment portion, re-assessment portion and time for homecare/exercise instructions.
The assessment will include a chat about what you are here for, the goal of the treatment, and to obtain consent. We will be discussing the possible mechanism of injury and/or areas of discomfort and symptoms you may be experiencing. We may also include a number of special tests to further understand the pathology(issue). Range of motion testing and muscle strength testing are two such examples. We will also discuss any past injuries/surgeries that may be relevant and whether you are taking any medication that may alter our treatment. We will want to know if any systemic conditions may be influencing your symptoms as well.
Together we will formulate a treatment plan and you will be part of the decision making process. This plan may alter during future sessions as you heal or if there are new injuries/issues that need treating. A new treatment plan will be made with your consent.
The treatment portion could include any number of massage therapy techniques to aid in healing. Our therapists at Sunrise Health are trained in a wide variety of techniques:
Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, prenatal and postnatal massage, myofascial therapy, neuromuscular therapy, muscle energy techniques, visceral therapy, intra-oral TMJ massage therapy, CranioSacral Therapy, joint mobilization, hydrotherapy, trigger point work, scar tissue mobilization, and sports massage. Any combination of these may be used during a treatment session.
During this time, you will also be changing out of clothes and back into clothes to the degree that you feel comfortable. Please note, we only undrape areas of the body that we are treating at that moment. Our therapists will always ask your consent before treating near areas deemed "sexualized".
Re-assessment is always done post treatment either, verbally or by redoing a special test, to confirm any changes. These will be noted in your health file.
Homecare and exercises are typically given after re-assessment. We will show you how to properly stretch and/or strengthen a specific muscle or muscles to decrease your discomfort and prevent recurrence. We may also give homecare instructions such as; proper sleeping positions, postural corrections, proper work or activity ergonomics to name a few.
The assessment will include a chat about what you are here for, the goal of the treatment, and to obtain consent. We will be discussing the possible mechanism of injury and/or areas of discomfort and symptoms you may be experiencing. We may also include a number of special tests to further understand the pathology(issue). Range of motion testing and muscle strength testing are two such examples. We will also discuss any past injuries/surgeries that may be relevant and whether you are taking any medication that may alter our treatment. We will want to know if any systemic conditions may be influencing your symptoms as well.
Together we will formulate a treatment plan and you will be part of the decision making process. This plan may alter during future sessions as you heal or if there are new injuries/issues that need treating. A new treatment plan will be made with your consent.
The treatment portion could include any number of massage therapy techniques to aid in healing. Our therapists at Sunrise Health are trained in a wide variety of techniques:
Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, prenatal and postnatal massage, myofascial therapy, neuromuscular therapy, muscle energy techniques, visceral therapy, intra-oral TMJ massage therapy, CranioSacral Therapy, joint mobilization, hydrotherapy, trigger point work, scar tissue mobilization, and sports massage. Any combination of these may be used during a treatment session.
During this time, you will also be changing out of clothes and back into clothes to the degree that you feel comfortable. Please note, we only undrape areas of the body that we are treating at that moment. Our therapists will always ask your consent before treating near areas deemed "sexualized".
Re-assessment is always done post treatment either, verbally or by redoing a special test, to confirm any changes. These will be noted in your health file.
Homecare and exercises are typically given after re-assessment. We will show you how to properly stretch and/or strengthen a specific muscle or muscles to decrease your discomfort and prevent recurrence. We may also give homecare instructions such as; proper sleeping positions, postural corrections, proper work or activity ergonomics to name a few.
When should I bring my baby in for a massage?
Our recommendation is to bring your baby in for treatment as early as it works for your family, ideally in their first month. Babies can experience forces that contribute to misalignment and tension both from their in-utero position and their birth experience.
Identifying these issues early, even minor ones, can set them up for better feeding and sleep and prevent issues like torticollis (wry neck) and flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). If you don’t have concerns, we can give your baby more of a general treatment to support growth and development and give you tools to use at home.
Identifying these issues early, even minor ones, can set them up for better feeding and sleep and prevent issues like torticollis (wry neck) and flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). If you don’t have concerns, we can give your baby more of a general treatment to support growth and development and give you tools to use at home.
What does an Infant massage treatment entail?
When you bring your baby in for treatment, we will take time to listen to your concerns and observations about your baby. We will always work in a manner that is best for you and your baby, knowing that their needs come first. There will be an assessment portion where we will observe through facilitated movement where your baby may have restrictions.
We use gentle techniques and work with your baby to help restore balance and ease restrictions that we may find. Sometimes we will treat your baby fully clothed and when indicated, we may have you undress your baby to their diaper and may use oil as well. We often do an intra-oral assessment and treat here when appropriate. A gloved finger will be used to assess your infant’s palate and oral movements. A light touch is used to address any issues we identify. Communication and consent with parents is constant throughout the session.
We use gentle techniques and work with your baby to help restore balance and ease restrictions that we may find. Sometimes we will treat your baby fully clothed and when indicated, we may have you undress your baby to their diaper and may use oil as well. We often do an intra-oral assessment and treat here when appropriate. A gloved finger will be used to assess your infant’s palate and oral movements. A light touch is used to address any issues we identify. Communication and consent with parents is constant throughout the session.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has long been used to heal the body’s system from stress and anxiety, sleep issues, gastrointestinal disorders, migraines, gynaecological complications, pregnancy symptoms, and everything in between.
Acupuncture is the most studied alternative therapy today and has been shown to be effective at calming our sympathetic nervous system. When thrown off balance, it can cause serious complications, including chronic disorders and premature aging. Regular acupuncture therapy is able to reset the nervous system and encourage the body to heal.
A session of acupuncture therapy is surprisingly painless, extremely relaxing, and often provides noticeable results. Registered acupuncturists have extensively studied Chinese medicine and this ancient healing art and will incorporate acupuncture, cupping, and/or moxibustion into each individualized session for greater improvement.
Acupuncture is the most studied alternative therapy today and has been shown to be effective at calming our sympathetic nervous system. When thrown off balance, it can cause serious complications, including chronic disorders and premature aging. Regular acupuncture therapy is able to reset the nervous system and encourage the body to heal.
A session of acupuncture therapy is surprisingly painless, extremely relaxing, and often provides noticeable results. Registered acupuncturists have extensively studied Chinese medicine and this ancient healing art and will incorporate acupuncture, cupping, and/or moxibustion into each individualized session for greater improvement.
What can I expect during an Acupuncture & TCM appointment?
TCM stands for Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Your appointment will consist of a thorough assessment portion, treatment portion, re-assessment portion and a follow-up care plan.
An initial assessment can take anywhere from 5-20 minutes. It is important for you to have your intake form filled as this is reviewed beforehand and will take up less time during your appointment. We will go over everything from relevant history to current limitations, and ultimate goals. A tongue and pulse assessment may be had. I will spend a bit of time informing you about how acupuncture and/or other related modalities work and answer any questions that you may have.
Before starting your treatment, we will go over what to expect, sensations you may feel (if any), and ensure you are comfortable. Therapies used will include acupuncture, but may also include therapies such as cupping, or moxibustion. Modalities used will be catered to your specific symptoms and intended to amplify the body’s natural ability to balance and heal.
Your table will always be warmed to your liking, and you will always be properly draped to ensure your comfort and privacy. You are encouraged to ask any questions along the way or let us know if anything needs to be adjusted.
At the end of your session, we make some time to check in with the body, go over an end-of-treatment assessment and a follow-up care plan together to ensure a successful healing journey. As your body starts to shift, we will reassess together to make alterations in your care plan and ensure you are feeling comfortable and in control of the process.
Your appointment will consist of a thorough assessment portion, treatment portion, re-assessment portion and a follow-up care plan.
An initial assessment can take anywhere from 5-20 minutes. It is important for you to have your intake form filled as this is reviewed beforehand and will take up less time during your appointment. We will go over everything from relevant history to current limitations, and ultimate goals. A tongue and pulse assessment may be had. I will spend a bit of time informing you about how acupuncture and/or other related modalities work and answer any questions that you may have.
Before starting your treatment, we will go over what to expect, sensations you may feel (if any), and ensure you are comfortable. Therapies used will include acupuncture, but may also include therapies such as cupping, or moxibustion. Modalities used will be catered to your specific symptoms and intended to amplify the body’s natural ability to balance and heal.
Your table will always be warmed to your liking, and you will always be properly draped to ensure your comfort and privacy. You are encouraged to ask any questions along the way or let us know if anything needs to be adjusted.
At the end of your session, we make some time to check in with the body, go over an end-of-treatment assessment and a follow-up care plan together to ensure a successful healing journey. As your body starts to shift, we will reassess together to make alterations in your care plan and ensure you are feeling comfortable and in control of the process.
Will my extended health benefit plan cover Massage Therapy or Acupuncture?
Most extended health plans cover massage therapy by an RMT or acupuncture by a Registered Acupuncturist. The majority of plans cover 80% to 100% up to a certain amount per calendar year. Unlike in the past, the vast majority of plans do not require a doctor's note to get reimbursement.
Unfortunately, we are unable to verify your coverage for you. There are many different insurance providers and many different policies. Check online or call them directly to find out your particular coverage.
Unfortunately, we are unable to verify your coverage for you. There are many different insurance providers and many different policies. Check online or call them directly to find out your particular coverage.
Do you bill directly to Pacific Blue Cross and other extended health benefit plans?
Yes and No. Most of our therapists bill directly on your behalf to insurance companies, however some do not. Or some only bill to Pacific Blue Cross.
Please go to our dashboard and under 'About Us' you can check by clicking on 'Direct Billing' to see which plans your therapist bills to, if any.
*If your therapist does not bill directly to your specific plan, do not worry. Simply pay your therapist for the full amount of the service and you will be issued a receipt to submit for reimbursement yourself. It's honestly quite easy!
Please bring your policy # and ID # to your first appointment or add the information to your online Intake Form.
Please go to our dashboard and under 'About Us' you can check by clicking on 'Direct Billing' to see which plans your therapist bills to, if any.
*If your therapist does not bill directly to your specific plan, do not worry. Simply pay your therapist for the full amount of the service and you will be issued a receipt to submit for reimbursement yourself. It's honestly quite easy!
Please bring your policy # and ID # to your first appointment or add the information to your online Intake Form.
Do you accept ICBC and WCB claims?
ICBC: We welcome anyone with an ICBC claim to come in to our clinic for treatment. However, we do not bill directly to ICBC. We will issue you a receipt after your massage therapy session which can be submitted to your specialist (formerly called your "adjuster") for reimbursement.
This is a completely normal procedure that they are used to at ICBC. Most RMTs DO NOT bill directly to ICBC and patients have the right to seek care from the RMT they wish, regardless of if they directly bill or not.
As of April 1st 2023, ICBC has new treatment guidelines called Enhanced Care. Whether the accident is deemed your fault or not, ICBC will pay $94.50 for the next 12 sessions of massage therapy. These 12 sessions need to be done within 12 weeks of the date of the accident. You do not need a doctor's referral to access care. A Massage Therapy session typically costs more than $94.50. You will be able to submit the remaining amount to your extended health plan after submitting the receipt to ICBC. *If you haven't completed the 12 sessions in the 12 weeks or if you require further massage after having done 12 sessions, we can contact your specialist and provide a treatment plan. Approval of further treatment is decided by your specialist.
When booking your initial ICBC appointment online, please include your specialist’s (formerly called your adjuster's) contact information, your claim # and the date of the accident (the MVA) on our intake form. If this is a subsequent visit, please put this information in the "notes" section when booking. If you have a doctor's referral, which isn't required, please bring it in for us to copy for your case file.
WCB: We do not bill to WCB directly. Check with your WCB claims adjuster to inquire if you can get reimbursement from an RMT that doesn't bill directly to WCB. Most adjuster's will allow this. Alternatively, to find an RMT that accepts these claims in your neighbourhood go to the RMTBC website at rmtbc.ca.
This is a completely normal procedure that they are used to at ICBC. Most RMTs DO NOT bill directly to ICBC and patients have the right to seek care from the RMT they wish, regardless of if they directly bill or not.
As of April 1st 2023, ICBC has new treatment guidelines called Enhanced Care. Whether the accident is deemed your fault or not, ICBC will pay $94.50 for the next 12 sessions of massage therapy. These 12 sessions need to be done within 12 weeks of the date of the accident. You do not need a doctor's referral to access care. A Massage Therapy session typically costs more than $94.50. You will be able to submit the remaining amount to your extended health plan after submitting the receipt to ICBC. *If you haven't completed the 12 sessions in the 12 weeks or if you require further massage after having done 12 sessions, we can contact your specialist and provide a treatment plan. Approval of further treatment is decided by your specialist.
When booking your initial ICBC appointment online, please include your specialist’s (formerly called your adjuster's) contact information, your claim # and the date of the accident (the MVA) on our intake form. If this is a subsequent visit, please put this information in the "notes" section when booking. If you have a doctor's referral, which isn't required, please bring it in for us to copy for your case file.
WCB: We do not bill to WCB directly. Check with your WCB claims adjuster to inquire if you can get reimbursement from an RMT that doesn't bill directly to WCB. Most adjuster's will allow this. Alternatively, to find an RMT that accepts these claims in your neighbourhood go to the RMTBC website at rmtbc.ca.
Do you accept MSP claims?
MSP: We currently do not bill directly to MSP. However we welcome anyone with MSP into our clinic for treatment. You would pay us the full amount of the massage therapy or acupuncture session, then submit your receipts for reimbursement yourself either online or by mail. Alternatively, to find an RMT that does bill directly to MSP check the RMTBC website at rmtbc.ca.
MSP benefits are only for individuals with a Status Card and people earning less than $42,000 per year. MSP pays $23.00 per treatment, up to 10 treatments in a calendar year. This total of 10 treatments is shared with other disciplines such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy to name a few. So it isn't 10 treatments of each discipline, but 10 treatments combined.
MSP benefits are only for individuals with a Status Card and people earning less than $42,000 per year. MSP pays $23.00 per treatment, up to 10 treatments in a calendar year. This total of 10 treatments is shared with other disciplines such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy to name a few. So it isn't 10 treatments of each discipline, but 10 treatments combined.