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Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have.

 

Meanwhile, here are some FAQs which might provide a faster answer...

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Qu: Do you have Free Parking?

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Yes! Clients can park on my private driveway for the duration of their appointment. This off-road parking is exempt from Kingston parking charges. Please ensure your car is fully on the driveway and not overhanging onto the pavement, as our local parking wardens are known for their efficiency.

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If you're cycling, you can secure your bicycle to the iron railings on the side of the driveway.​

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Qu: What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

 

Please let me know as soon as you decide not to attend an appointment. 

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Rescheduling:  It is possible to reschedule appointments with more than 24 hours notice. Clients who reschedule appointments frequently are declined future bookings.

 

Cancellation: Cancellations ahead of 24 hours before the appointment incur no charge. If you cancel an appointment with less than 24 hour's notice you will be liable for your full treatment fee & unable to re-book until payment has been received.

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No-Shows: If you do not attend a confirmed appointment, you will be liable for your treatment fee and will be unable to re-book until payment has been received.

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These policies are in line with most local private healthcare providers (eg dentists, physiotherapists, cosmetic clinics etc) and will be exercised in good faith.

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Qu:  What if I am late for my appointment?

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If you’re running late, please call or text to inform me. If no communication is received, I will call you to check if you’re on your way.

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As a courtesy to the next client, your appointment will still end at the scheduled time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, the appointment may be cancelled, and the full fee will still apply. However, time is built into each session for activities like changing, so arriving a few minutes late may not affect your treatment significantly.​

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Qu: How long will I be at my appointment?

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At Richmond Park Therapies, when you book an hour-long treatment, you receive the full hour on the couch, so please allow an extra 10 minutes for discussing your treatment plan, changing, and settling in. For example, a 60-minute treatment typically requires 70 minutes on-site.​

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Qu: When should I complete my new client health form?

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New clients are required to complete the health form upon reserving their initial appointment. If the form is not submitted after one reminder, the appointment request will be automatically cancelled; this is prevent false bookings.

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For future visits, any changes to your health or medication can be communicated via email, the booking system, or upon arrival if minor.

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Qu: What payment methods do you accept?

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• Appointments: Preferred methods are cash on the day or direct bank transfer in advance. Credit/debit cards are accepted (with a £2 surcharge for American Express), but please note that due to frequent connectivity issues, cash or bank transfer is preferred.

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• Multiple appointment bookings & MLD packages: Payment by advance bank transfer.

 

• Gift Vouchers: Bank transfer, which must be cleared before the voucher is sent.​

 

Qu: Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

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Unfortunately, no. To protect immunosuppressed clients who may be visiting, additional guests (including children) cannot accompany you into the treatment room - there is no waiting room. 

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Exception: Clients with special needs requiring a carer may bring one person. Please notify me in advance so that I can prepare seating.

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Qu: Should I leave a tip?

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No, thank you. Instead, if you enjoyed your treatment, a Google review would be greatly appreciated and immensely helpful!

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Qu: Do you sell Gift Certificates?

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Yes! Gift certificates are available in both paper and electronic formats. You can:

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• Purchase a general certificate that allows the recipient to choose a treatment.

• Book a treatment for a specific date and time.

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Certificates are valid for six months from the date of issue. To request one, click here​

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Qu: I have a Gift Certificate, do I need to bring it with me to the appointment?

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No. You'll be asked to provide the certificate's Reference Code at the time of booking, which is enough to redeem your certificate.

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Qu: I have a Gift Certificate, but I want a longer/different treatment, is this possible?

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Yes. Please book the treatment you wish to receive and quote your certificate reference code when booking, any additional amount due to make up the difference in treatment prices can be paid at the appointment in cash, eg If you have a gift certificate for a 60 minute Massage but would prefer to have a 90 minute Combined Therapy treatment, your gift certificate value (as paid for its purchase) will be deducted from the cost of the treatment you book and the remainder will be payable by you in cash on the day. This will all be clarified in your confirmation email.

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Qu: Can you travel to me for my treatment?

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Home visits within a reasonable distance of the practice can be specially arranged for clients who are post-surgical or unable to travel due to ill health. These cannot be booked online.

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An off-site treatment quote can be provided and will include:

• The standard treatment fee.

• Travel time (both directions).

• 30 mins setup and breakdown time for equipment.

• Any parking fees.

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Additional time is currently charged at £60/hour. Mobile therapists may offer more economical options if price is your main priority.​

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Qu: What are your nearest public transport links?

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• Train: Kingston train station is just a 7-minute walk.

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• The No.65 Bus:

  • Towards Kingston: Alight at "Kings Road" (near The Oak Pub). Walk: Less than 1 minute.

  • Towards Ealing Broadway: Alight at "Kings Road," cross Richmond Road and walk to the clinic (approx. 3 minutes).

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Qu: How often should I get a massage?

 

The ideal frequency of massage depends on your personal goals, health condition, and lifestyle. Here's a general guide to help you decide:

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For General Wellness & Relaxation: individuals in good health using massage to maintain overall wellness, I recommend scheduling a session once or twice a month. Regular massage allows each session to build upon the benefits of the last. People who consistently receive massage tend to experience faster and more noticeable results compared to those who schedule infrequently.

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For Stress, Anxiety & Depression Relief: Studies show that massage therapy can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve sleep quality. If you're navigating a challenging life situation or working in a high-stress profession, consider weekly or bi-weekly sessions to manage your mental well-being effectively.

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For Physical Health Issues: like arthritis, muscular injuries, or postural pain, a more frequent schedule is required to achieve tangible results. Typically, I recommend:

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• Once or twice a week for the first four weeks.

• Gradually increasing the time between sessions as symptoms improve, transitioning to a maintenance schedule.

This approach ensures lasting improvements in mobility and pain reduction. Think of massage therapy like exercise—consistency is key to achieving long-term benefits.

 

​In Pregnancy: Optimal frequency for pregnancy massage depends on individual needs and the progress of the pregnancy. Many women find that weekly sessions during the third trimester effectively reduce stress and alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, such as backache, headaches, swollen ankles, and sciatica.

 

For Enhancing Athletic Performance: Massage is a fantastic tool for athletes aiming to boost performance, recover faster, and prevent injuries.

- During periods of intense training: Schedule two or more sessions a week.

- During the off-season: Opt for monthly or bi-weekly sessions to maintain flexibility and muscle health.

 

​The Bottom Line: Your massage schedule should reflect your goals—whether for relaxation, recovery, or performance. Those addressing specific conditions will require more frequent sessions than those using massage for enjoyment.

 

However, even if you can't commit to an ideal schedule, remember: Some massage is always better than none! Ask yourself how you felt after your last session. When you're ready to experience that feeling again, book your next appointment.

 

Note: Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage follows different guidelines entirely. Please contact us for advice tailored to your specific needs.