Frequently Asked Questions

Can Rolfing help me?

That depends on what you are looking for. Rolfing aligns the body, so if you need help with your posture or if you are seeking a holistic overhaul, Rolfing is absolutely the best modality. The benefits of Rolfing can improve your quality of life.

If you are looking for help with chronic pain or injuries, Rolfing can help. Most pain can be addressed by normalizing the connective tissue, called fascia, and the nerves. Some examples of problems that Rolfing can help: backache, sciatica, SI joint pain, scoliosis, pelvic asymmetry, headache, stiff neck, jaw pain, shoulder pain, whiplash, repetitive strain injury, insomnia, knee pain, foot pain, and many others.

If some other form of therapy would be a better fit for your situation, I will refer you to a skilled practitioner.

I'd be happy to discuss your concerns and give my opinion about whether Rolfing is right for you.

How much does it cost?
A typical session is $110, payable by cash or check (additional $4 fee for PayPal - see "First Visit"). This rate includes a $25 discount for payment at time of service. 

I also offer manual therapy for accident recovery, at $50 per 15 minute unit. If you have an Motor Vehicle Accident claim, I will bill your auto insurance at the standard rate set by that industry and the state of Oregon. Please see below for more information about MVA claims. 

I offer discounted rates of $50-75 for children under age 10. Sessions for children are typically 30-45 minutes, depending on the age and the individual child.

Short classes on topics such as healthy footwear, trauma & the nervous system, posture, and sitting, are 90 minute classes and cost $25 (in advance). Please add $1/class if paying online.  

Is Rolfing painful?

Sometimes. If you generally like bodywork, you will probably enjoy most of the work that we do. There may be some moments of intense sensation in places of injury or longterm strain. Sometimes simply working more slowly will help make it more comfortable. Gently calming inflamed nerves first is another great strategy for dealing with tender areas. We get the best results when the sensations remain at an intensity level where you can relax and breathe normally.  

Can you help me heal after a car accident?

Yes, we can address whiplash, pain, and misalignment that results from a Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA). I consider this injury-specific work "manual therapy" in contrast to classic, holistic Rolfing. In the process of helping you heal from your MVA injuries, you will also likely experience some holistic improvement. The MVA will generally pay for your treatment until your condition is at least as good as prior to the accident. This means you should be able to dance, hike, drive, work, and do every other activity as easily as prior to the accident.

If you have a MVA claim, my work is completely covered. In the state of Oregon, you may not need a prescription - ask your insurance company. If needed, you can get a prescription from any type of physican: medical doctor, osteopath, nurse practitioner, physician's assistant, naturopath, or chiropractor. I can give you a referral to a holistic physician. I will bill your insurance company directly, so please provide your claim number, agent name, and their phone number.  

If you were riding a bicycle and you were hit by a car (or car door), you can file a claim with their insurance.

Most car insurance companies are very helpful regarding these claims. Usually you don't need a lawyer, but if you do, I can refer you to an ethical lawyer who is familiar with motor vehicle claims.

Where is the Rolfing office located?

One block south of Hawthorne, at the corner of Market, 1707 SE 33rd, lower level. For detailed directions and a photo, please see the Contact page.

When can I get my first session?

On weekdays, my earliest appointment is 9 AM and last appointment is 4 PM. Sessions are about 60 minutes in length or slightly longer; please allow 75 minutes in case we need the extra time, especially for your first visit. I offer a free 30-minute consultation in my office if you choose.  If you have a printer, please print and fill out the intake form.  I often have appointments within a day or two if your schedule is flexible, or within a week if you need a specific time such as the popular 4 PM spot. 

How can I learn more about improving my posture?

Check out the Short Movement Classes which are open to the public regardless of whether or not you have had the Rolfing series.  Also there are several good books on this subject on the Links page.