Sonya Gurtler LMP
Need a massage but can't make it to a masseuse or chiropractic clinic? Think your schedule is too busy? Maybe it is just physically difficult to get out of your house for one? Then call Sonya Gurtler who is offering mobile massage to her clients.
The Herald caught up with Sonya to see what her business is all about.
Herald: Please tell us about your background and training in massage.
Sonya: I graduated from Everest College with my training in Massage Therapy in 2011 and have been actively working in my field ever since. For the majority of my career I have worked in chiropractic or medical offices focusing on the therapeutic aspects of massage.
Herald: What sparked your interest in this field?
Sonya: I was a theater major that knew I would need something reliable in between productions. With costuming being my first love, I wanted a trade skill that would allow me time for sewing and creating. When I started massage, I had no idea how much of an impact it would have on my life and the lives of the clients I would meet.
Herald: How did you discover the niche of mobile massage?
Sonya: Over the course of my career I started to notice that going to an office was a huge hurdle for a surprising amount of clientele. Everyone from full time employees, stay at home parents, those with chronic conditions and mobility restrictions, being able to carve out 90 minutes minimum in their day to go to the massage office, have their hour and then get back to their day was sometimes too much. I thought if I could come to them instead, I could take a little of that burden off, give them the opportunity to enjoy their massage without having to worry about the dozen other things going on.
Herald: When did you start your mobile business?
Sonya: I started my business "Self Care with Sonya'' in May of 2019, renting a room in a Chiropractic office with a few mobile clients. After the events of 2020, my mobile clients were the ones that really solidified for me that this was a very real need in the massage market. When my husband and I moved to Raymond in September 2020, the shift to exclusively mobile massage just seemed like the best thing for my business.
Herald: What is it like to haul your equipment place to place? What equipment do you have and how does it fit in most people's living spaces?
Sonya: The massage table itself isn't nearly as heavy as it looks. I've carried bags of dog food that weighed more! It's more bulky than anything else, and I have a massage board with wheels to help me out in that regard. Everything else I need either fits conveniently in a rolling suitcase or has a carry case.
The table is about the size of a twin mattress, so I am able to make most living spaces work. In the event of no table space, I have a mattress adapter for the face cradle so the client could lay on their own bed while I work. I've even set up outside on decks or in yards during nice weather. As long as the client is comfortable and I can maneuver safely, I can make most living spaces work.
Herald: What types of massage do you offer?
Sonya: Traditional relaxation and Swedish of course. I'm also certified in seven different styles of cupping therapy, have additional training in hot stone as well as hot bamboo. I have an intraoral endorsement, which means I can massage inside someone's mouth to relieve TMJ issues or chronic migraines. I've been learning Thai yoga massage, which is a floor based modality that combines standing pressure with yoga stretches. Very excited about that one!
Herald: How can someone contact you for a massage?
Sonya: Calling or texting my business line (360)276-1766 is always a good way to reach me. Texting will get a faster response, since I can't answer a phone call while working or driving. Clients can also go to my booking site sonyalmp.square.site to see availability and request an appointment. I have to confirm all appointment requests due to travel time, so I will reach out to confirm the address and how long it could potentially be for me to get to them.
I accept appointments Monday through Friday between the hours of noon-ish and 8ish pm. I do charge a travel fee outside of Raymond/South Bend city limits that is dependent on travel time.
Yes, you do deserve a massage!
To contact Sonya call 360-276-1766 or email her at sonyagurtlerlmp@gmail.com. To book an appointment with Sonya visit https://sonyalmp.square.site.