I use massage therapy extensively, both in Canada & the US, and Essential Massage Therapy has one of the best stables of therapists around.
I personally enjoy very deep, athletic work, and they have quite a few therapists that cater well to that, such as Erika and Lisa. My wife prefers relaxation massage, and they have therapists for that as well.
If you have an area of concern, they will actually focus on that rather than give a standard treatment to everyone. That said, most of them are good enough to figure out by feel what you need even if you don't.
The staff is friendly, the waiting area pleasant, with warm red tones on the walls. It avoids spa pretension while still giving a relaxing atmosphere to unwind and relax your muscles. This is not a day spa--it is for getting a very good massage at an excellent price.
Their rates are $60/hour, which is very competitive. When you go to a place such as LifeTime, or God help us, an exclusive spa, rates can go up to nearly double, and while they may give you a nice robe to borrow, the quality of massage usually comes close at best. I find that feeling of getting ripped off when I know there's a better deal can actually add to my tension :-p
Great for Ferndale residents, but even if I lived in Rochester, I would make the drive down. If you can't park on the street, there's a lot around the corner.
Pros: Best therapists, great price
Cons: Small waiting area, although not uncomfortable. Metered parking
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