Collingwood Massage Therapy That Eases Tension And Supports True Relaxation
Trauma-informed massage and dry needling for bodies that haven’t always felt safe.
Massage is often marketed as calming, but we know for many, it’s complicated.
Certain positions, body parts or types of pressure may feel uncomfortable or triggering. Undressing can bring up vulnerability. Sensory elements like lighting, sound or smell can heighten anxiety rather than reduce it.
For those living with eating disorders, chronic illness, hypermobility, trauma, neurodivergence or mental health challenges, massage isn’t always the relaxing, calming experience it’s advertised as.
If that’s been your experience, it makes sense.
At Eat Love Live, we invite you to experience massage and dry needling in a space designed with comfort in mind, and that’s inclusive of different body sizes, neurodiversities, gender, sexual orientation and mental health challenges.
Here’s how massage and dry needling at Eat Love Live is different:
Our experienced physiotherapist will work with you during an initial 60-minute massage session to understand your preferences, boundaries and accommodations, so your massage is a safe space on your terms, not ours.
This includes:
- Using a size-inclusive treatment bed – larger than standard, with a higher weight rating to accommodate all body types
- Your choice around undressing – massage can be done fully clothed, partially clothed, or directly on skin — whatever feels right for you, on that particular day.
- Flexible positioning – If lying face-down doesn't feel safe or comfortable, we work in other positions: side-lying, seated, or whatever allows you to relax.
- You decide how much communication happens. Chat, bring headphones and listen to music or a podcast, or have a completely silent session. The room adjusts to you.
- Sensory accommodations as standard – lighting is adjusted to your comfort. Fidget toys are available, and you are welcome to bring your own tools if they help you regulate.
- Breaks whenever needed – from physical touch, to move, to regulate, or for any reason at all. You don't need to explain.
What massage and dry needling can help with
As a trauma-aware eating disorder and chronic illness physiotherapist, Rebecca Gawler provides massage and dry needling that may support:
Relaxation
General massage to help with muscle relaxation, stress management and nervous system regulation.
Mental health conditions
Massage works well as a complement to psychology, EMDR, or other therapeutic modalities, and as a regular standalone practice for nervous system regulation and tension release.
Eating disorder recovery
Massage can help release muscle tension, regulate the nervous system and support reconnection with your body at a pace that feels manageable.
Injuries and pain
Your massage is led by our physiotherapist Bec, who understands injuries and pain conditions and can adjust massage techniques and dry needling to be safe and beneficial.
Chronic illness, hypermobility & chronic pain
For people with fibromyalgia, POTS, EDS, long COVID and ME/CFS, massage and dry needling can feel daunting. Bec’s specialised knowledge means she can adapt pressure, positioning, pacing and technique to accommodate fluctuating symptoms and sensitivities.
How massage and dry needling sessions work at Eat Love Live
Massage and dry needling sessions are in-person only at our Collingwood clinic. Telehealth is not available for these services.
For Every Session
Our physiotherapist Bec will take time at the beginning of each massage session to review your preferences and needs to ensure that you feel as comfortable as possible to proceed.
Bec will not proceed with any hands on treatment until you give full consent. If that means your sessions involve talking until you are comfortable with hands on treatment, that is ok.
Session fees
Sessions are 50 minutes of client-facing time, booked as 60 minutes in the calendar.
That additional time is when your clinician writes notes, liaises with your care team, and prepares for future sessions.
Initial assessment – $255
Standard Review – $240
We do not bulk bill. A gap payment applies to all Medicare and NDIS sessions.
Funding & Rebates:
Several pathways may help reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
Medicare:
You may be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a current GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).
Private Health Insurance:
Please check with your private health insurance provider to see if your plan covers Massage.
NDIS:
Physiotherapy through NDIS requires goal-setting and a treatment plan. Massage can be included within that plan—please book a standard physiotherapy session so NDIS requirements can be met.
For full details on payment, cancellation, and outstanding account policies, see our Fees & Policies page.
Massage led by Rebecca Gawler, Physiotherapist
Rebecca is an eating disorder and chronic illness physiotherapist who leads all massage and dry needling at Eat Love Live. Her clinical background means your session goes beyond relaxation; it’s one informed by your health history, your sensory needs, and your lived experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
You might be wondering...
How does the session structure work?
Sessions are 50 minutes of direct time with your clinician, booked as a 60-minute appointment. The additional time covers care coordination and documentation that happens on your behalf. For full details on fees, rebates, and how sessions work, visit our Fees & Policies page.
Can I access massage sessions through NDIS?
Physiotherapy through NDIS needs to consist of goal setting and a treatment plan. Massage can definitely be included in this plan. Please book a standard physiotherapy session so that the requirements of NDIS can be met.
What is dry needling, and do I need it?
Dry needling uses single-use, disposable needles inserted into muscles to reduce muscle tension. It may also support nervous system regulation and reduce pain.
After insertion, the needles can remain in place while you rest with or without additional physical touch.
You might consider dry needling if:
- Physical touch feels overwhelming or triggering
- You have a pain condition like fibromyalgia that makes physical touch painful
- You prefer muscle release without traditional massage methods
- You have stubborn, tight spots that don’t respond well to massage
Dry needling is always optional, but you are welcome to include it as part of your massage session.
How do I book a massage at Eat Love Live?
If you are interested in booking physiotherapy at Eat Love Live, you can book online using Rebecca’s online booking link or call reception on (03) 9087 8379 to make a booking over the phone.
Get support for your muscles and your nervous system
If you’re looking for massage and dry needling that is trauma-informed, size-inclusive and tailored to your lived experience, we would love to support you.
Or call us on (03) 9087 8379