Inclusion Wellness WNY | Massage is Life, LLC

Inclusion Wellness WNY – Information & Updates (All Inclusion Wellness WNY Information is on this page only)

🚨 Now Accepting Bookings! 🚨

Exciting news—Inclusion Wellness WNY is officially open for bookings! 🎉 If you or a loved one could benefit from adaptive therapeutic massage and wellness services, now is the time to schedule your in-person consultation and get started.

✅ Mobile therapeutic massage tailored to individual needs
✅ Designed for individuals with disabilities, mobility challenges, and post-surgery recovery
✅ Safe, inclusive, and adaptive care in the comfort of home or residential settings

📌 Before booking, please take the time to read all the important information on this page to ensure a smooth process.

Important Booking Information

📌 Inclusion Wellness WNY is run by a solo practitioner who also operates an in-office practice, Massage is Life. Due to this, appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

📌 Depending on demand, consultations may temporarily close, and a waitlist may be implemented. If you are interested in booking services, it is recommended to schedule your consultation as soon as availability opens.

Please note that Inclusion Wellness WNY operates on a separate booking platform from Massage is Life.

Welcome to Inclusion Wellness WNY

Hi, I’m Angela Jessie, and I created Inclusion Wellness WNY because I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, adaptive, and inclusive massage therapy. Before becoming a licensed massage therapist, I worked in the human services field, providing direct care to individuals in group homes, residential & Day Hab settings. I’ve seen firsthand how stress, anxiety, and sensory overwhelm can impact everyday life, and I wanted to create a service that truly meets people where they are—both physically and emotionally.

I originally started offering these services back in 2018, but at the time, my business went in a different direction. Then the pandemic changed everything. My in-office massage business hasn’t been the same since, and for a long time, I struggled with figuring out my next step. Recently, I prayed and asked God to guide me—to give me a sign that would bring clarity and purpose back into my work. That prayer led me back to this—to a field I truly loved, dedicated many years to, and to the individuals I served with so much heart.

That’s why I created Inclusion Wellness WNY—a dedicated service for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, sensory sensitivities, and physical limitations. Unlike traditional wellness spaces, which may not always be accessible or comfortable for everyone, I bring Inclusion Wellness WNY directly to homes, group homes, and community settings. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and individualized experience where each person feels respected, understood, and cared for in a way that works best for them.

Massage therapy isn’t just about relaxation—it offers stress relief, emotional regulation, sensory integration, and improved well-being. This work is deeply personal to me, and I know this is where I’m meant to be. I am honored to serve the Western New York community by providing a service that fosters dignity, inclusion, and comfort for all.

I invite you to learn more about how Inclusion Wellness WNY can support you, your loved ones, or your organization. Let’s work together to create a wellness experience that truly meets the needs of those who need it most.

A Solo Practice with Lived Experience

Inclusion Wellness is and will always remain a solo practice—a deeply personal approach to care built on firsthand experience. While I have received extensive training through agencies, my true expertise comes from the thousands of hours spent working in direct care—witnessing the daily challenges, understanding the unspoken moments, and navigating the realities that no amount of classroom instruction can teach.

My background spans working with children at The Summit Center to supporting elderly and medically frail individuals requiring total care, including lifting, transferring, and assisting with daily needs. I have also provided care in homes where individuals experience self-injurious behaviors, elopement, and other complex needs. These experiences have given me a unique, hands-on understanding of the complexities of care, allowing me to provide specialized, compassionate support that truly meets each individual where they are.

This isn’t just a profession—it’s a calling. I bring both skill and lived experience to every session, ensuring that each person receives care that is thoughtful, informed, and rooted in real-world understanding.

I also have an office space (Massage is Life, LLC) that is currently transitioning to take regular clients only. Because I am a solo practice, Inclusion Wellness has limited spots available each month, and they will be first come, first served. If demand is high, a waitlist may be implemented.

Individuals Served by Inclusion Wellness WNY

Inclusion Wellness WNY provides specialized mobile massage therapy and stretch services for individuals with different abilities who may not have access to or feel comfortable in a traditional wellness facility. These services are designed for individuals who require adaptive, in-home, or on-location care to support their unique needs.

Services are available for individuals ages 6 weeks and up with a medical diagnosis, including but not limited to:

✔️ Infants (6 weeks & up) with medical needs (e.g., prematurity, muscle tone imbalances, developmental delays)

✔️ Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
✔️ Sensory Processing Differences
✔️ Developmental Disabilities
✔️ Intellectual Disabilities
✔️ Down Syndrome
✔️ Cerebral Palsy
✔️ Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis)
✔️ Spinal Cord Injuries
✔️ Genetic Disorders affecting mobility and muscle tone
✔️ Physical Disabilities
✔️ Mobility Challenges (Wheelchair users, limited mobility, etc.)
✔️ Spasticity and Muscle Tightness
✔️ Chronic Pain Conditions
✔️ Individuals with Limited Verbal Communication
✔️ Medically Complex Individuals (with physician clearance if needed)
✔️ Bedridden or Low-Mobility Individuals
✔️ Individuals Recovering from Injury or Surgery (with medical approval)

My Background & Qualifications

I have dedicated my career to serving individuals with different abilities, both in human services and massage therapy.

✔️ Licensed Massage Therapist (Since 2017) – Fully licensed in New York State and insured through AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association)
✔️ Certified Infant Massage Therapist & Instructor – Providing hands-on therapy and caregiver education for infants with medical needs
✔️ Certified Stretch Therapist (NASM) – Completed a Stretch Therapy Certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) to enhance mobility and flexibility services
✔️ Trauma-Informed Care Training – Completed a 40-hour Trauma-Informed Care Course to enhance my ability to provide safe, supportive, and individualized care
✔️ Continuing Education – Earned multiple certifications since graduating from massage school, expanding my expertise in adaptive and therapeutic massage techniques
✔️ Human Services Background – Worked in day habilitation programs, group homes, and school settings in both direct care and supervisory roles
✔️ Massage Therapy in Residential Settings – Provided in-home and on-site massage therapy for individuals with different abilities through my business

Certified Infant Massage Therapy & Instruction

As a Certified Infant Massage Therapist and Infant Massage Instructor, I specialize in providing therapeutic touch for infants with medical needs. In addition to hands-on sessions, I also offer infant massage instruction for parents and caregivers, teaching safe and effective techniques to:

✔️ Promote bonding and attachment
✔️ Support healthy digestion and circulation
✔️ Reduce discomfort from gas, colic, and growing pains
✔️ Encourage relaxation and improved sleep patterns
✔️ Aid in sensory and motor development

Where Services Are Provided

Services are fully mobile and can be provided in:

🏡 Private Homes
🏠 Group Homes & Residential Settings
🏥 Medical or Rehabilitation Facilities (with approval)
🛋️ Community Centers or Accessible Locations

Medical Diagnosis Requirement

A medical diagnosis is required to receive services. In some cases, medical clearance from a primary care provider may also be necessary, especially for individuals with complex medical conditions or mobility restrictions. This helps ensure that massage and stretch services are safe, appropriate, and beneficial for each individual’s specific needs.

Each session is adapted to meet the unique needs of the individual to ensure a safe, comfortable, and beneficial experience.

What to Expect

Customized Approach – Sessions are adjusted based on mobility, sensory preferences, and individual comfort levels to ensure a positive and effective experience.
Adaptive Positioning – Services can be provided on a massage table, floor mat, medical bed, recliner, or wheelchair as needed.
Soothing Environment – The use of soft lighting, calming sounds, and other sensory-friendly modifications helps create a relaxing atmosphere.
Flexible Communication – Respect for nonverbal communication methods, use of visual cues, and working at the client’s pace to foster comfort and trust.
Gentle & Intentional Techniques – Focused on comfort, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits without overwhelming the nervous system.
Integrated Communication for Children – Especially when working with children, a communication component is incorporated into sessions, ensuring engagement, comfort, and trust-building through verbal or nonverbal interaction.
Special Considerations for Medically Frail Clients – Extra care and adaptability are used for clients with limited mobility, fragile skin, circulatory concerns, or chronic conditions to ensure safety, comfort, and appropriate therapeutic techniques.

Techniques Used

✔ Gentle & Rhythmic Compression – Ideal for clients with sensory sensitivities, helping to provide calming deep pressure input.
✔ Slow & Intentional Effleurage (Gliding Strokes) – Encourages relaxation, improves circulation, and soothes tension.
✔ Joint Mobilization & Passive Stretching – Helps improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and support mobility.
✔ Proprioceptive Input Techniques – Deep pressure touch to help individuals with sensory processing challenges regulate their nervous system.
✔ Manual Lymphatic Drainage (as needed) – Light touch therapy to reduce swelling and support circulation for medically frail clients.
✔ Hand, Foot, & Scalp Massage – Focused techniques to promote relaxation in clients who may not tolerate full-body massage.
✔ Adaptive Seated or Bedside Massage – Tailored for clients who cannot comfortably receive traditional table massage.
✔ Breathwork & Guided Relaxation (if appropriate) – Helps regulate breathing patterns and promote stress relief.
✔ Delicate Touch Therapy for Medically Frail Clients – Light, intentional techniques that focus on comfort, circulation, and minimizing pain or discomfort for those with fragile health conditions.

Every Session is Unique

Each person’s needs and preferences are different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every session is carefully adjusted based on the individual’s comfort, medical conditions, and sensory preferences to create a safe, effective, and positive experience.

The Benefits of Massage Therapy & Stretch Services for Individuals with Different Abilities

For individuals with different abilities, access to therapeutic touch and movement-based care is often limited, yet these services can be profoundly beneficial for physical comfort, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. At Inclusion Wellness WNY, I provide adaptive massage therapy and stretch services designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism, developmental differences, sensory sensitivities, and mobility challenges—helping to promote greater comfort, relaxation, and quality of life through compassionate, personalized care.

How Massage Therapy Supports Individuals with Different Abilities

✔️ Reduces Stress & Anxiety – Many individuals experience heightened stress levels due to sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, or challenges with communication. Massage helps activate the body’s natural relaxation response, lowering stress hormones and creating a sense of calm.

✔️ Provides Sensory Regulation & Comfort – For individuals with autism or sensory processing differences, therapeutic touch can be grounding and help the nervous system process sensory input in a way that feels safe and predictable.

✔️ Eases Muscle Tension & Discomfort – Many individuals with cerebral palsy, muscular conditions, spasticity, or limited mobility experience muscle tightness, contractures, or chronic discomfort. Massage helps reduce muscle stiffness, improve circulation, and promote relaxation to enhance movement and ease daily activities.

✔️ Supports Emotional & Behavioral Regulation – Consistent massage therapy sessions can help improve mood, decrease agitation, and support emotional balance by promoting the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine.

✔️ Encourages Connection & Positive Touch Experiences – Many individuals receive frequent medical interventions that involve clinical or procedural touch. Massage provides an opportunity to experience non-invasive, calming, and therapeutic touch, helping to foster a more positive relationship with physical contact.

✔️ Facilitates Communication & Social Engagement – Especially with my younger clients with autism, massage therapy sessions are more than just physical care—they also provide opportunities to work on communication and connection. Whether through verbal exchanges, alternative communication devices, or nonverbal cues, I encourage engagement in a way that is comfortable and natural for each individual. This helps build trust, increase body awareness, and create a more positive sensory experience.

How Stretch Services Benefit Individuals with Different Abilities

✔️ Improves Mobility & Reduces Stiffness – For individuals with limited range of motion, spasticity, or muscle imbalances, assisted stretching helps increase flexibility, reduce discomfort, and support better movement patterns.

✔️ Supports Circulation & Reduces Swelling – Many individuals who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility experience reduced circulation, which can lead to swelling, numbness, or discomfort. Gentle stretching improves blood flow and reduces muscle tension.

✔️ Enhances Posture & Body Awareness – For those with different mobility needs, scoliosis, or postural imbalances, stretching can support better spinal alignment, muscle balance, and overall comfort while seated or standing.

✔️ Promotes Comfort & Injury Prevention – Individuals with neuromuscular conditions or limited movement may be at higher risk for muscle tightness and joint stiffness. Regular stretching can help maintain flexibility, support daily function, and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury.

Making Wellness Accessible for All

Many traditional wellness spaces are not designed with sensory-friendly environments or adaptive techniques in mind. Inclusion Wellness WNY bridges that gap by bringing massage and stretch services directly to individuals—whether in group homes, residential care settings, or private homes. Each session is customized to accommodate sensory preferences, mobility needs, and individual comfort levels, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and empowering experience.

Every individual deserves access to care that prioritizes their comfort, dignity, and well-being. Through compassionate, adaptive massage and stretch therapy, I am committed to helping individuals with different abilities feel better, move better, and experience the healing benefits of therapeutic touch in a way that meets their needs.

In-Person Consultation: A Required First Step for Personalized Care

At Inclusion Wellness WNY, every individual has unique needs, preferences, and comfort levels when it comes to therapeutic touch and movement-based care. To ensure the best experience possible, an in-person consultation is required before booking any services. This initial visit allows me to understand the specific needs of each individual, create a customized approach, and determine the most appropriate session length and techniques.

The consultation also provides an opportunity for caregivers, family members, or support staff to ask questions, discuss adaptations, and ensure that the individual feels safe and comfortable before receiving services.

About the Initial In-Person Consultation

The mandatory in-person consultation lasts approximately 45 minutes. This time allows me to:

✔️ Meet the individual and establish comfort and trust
✔️ Go through the intake questionnaire to understand needs, preferences, and adaptations
✔️ Create a personalized plan for services based on the consultation
✔️ Provide access and instructions for the booking site so you can easily schedule the recommended services

What to Have on Hand for the Consultation

✔️ Medical Clearance– If the individual has a primary care doctor’s (PCD) recommendation or any medical conditions that may require clearance for massage therapy and/or stretch services, please have this documentation available.

✔️ List of Restrictions – Any known mobility limitations, medical conditions, or sensory sensitivities that may impact services should be noted so we can adjust sessions accordingly.

Why This is Necessary

Obtaining medical clearance when required helps ensure that massage or stretch services are safe and beneficial for the individual. Certain medical conditions, such as recent surgeries, circulatory concerns, or neuromuscular conditions, may require modifications or physician approval to proceed. This step helps create a secure, informed, and tailored approach for the best possible wellness experience.

Why an In-Person Consultation is Required:

✔️ Safety Considerations – Understanding any mobility challenges, behavioral considerations, or sensory sensitivities helps create a safe and effective session plan.

✔️ Comfort & Communication – Every individual communicates differently. The consultation allows us to establish preferred communication methods (verbal, nonverbal, AAC devices, etc.) to ensure clear understanding and comfort.

✔️ Adaptive Needs & Setup – Some individuals may receive services on a massage table, floor mat, medical bed, wheelchair, or recliner. The consultation allows me to assess which setup is best for their needs.

✔️ Sensory Preferences & Tolerance – Touch preferences, pressure levels, and tolerance to stimuli (such as warm towels, gentle stretching, or specific textures) vary from person to person. This helps me tailor the experience accordingly.

✔️ Medical & Health History – Any medical conditions, past injuries, muscle tightness, or sensitivities are reviewed to ensure the service provided is appropriate and beneficial.

✔️ Determining the Best Service & Duration – Some individuals may benefit from a shorter session to start, while others may need specific modifications. The consultation helps determine the best approach for a successful and comfortable experience.

✔️ Assessing the Setting & Location – Knowing where the session will take place allows me to be fully prepared with the appropriate setup, whether it’s a private home, group home, or community setting. This ensures I bring everything needed to provide a safe, accessible, and seamless first appointment.

This consultation is an essential part of ensuring a safe, effective, and personalized wellness experience. Once completed, individuals and caregivers will have access to booking services that are tailored to their specific needs.

Payment Policy: Private Pay Only

Inclusion Wellness WNY is a private pay service, meaning payment is required at the time of booking. To ensure a smooth and secure payment process, we accept the following forms of payment:

✔️ Credit/Debit Cards
✔️ HSA (Health Savings Account) Cards
✔️ Independent Health Benefit Cards

Please note: At this time, I am no longer able to bill agencies through Self-Directed Payment due to New York State’s reduction in payout amounts. All services must be paid directly by the client, caregiver, or responsible party.

Understanding the Cost of Services

Each service rate reflects more than just hands-on time—it includes:

✔️ Travel to and from the appointment
✔️ Gas, vehicle upkeep, and wear & tear
✔️ Setup time before the session
✔️ The full service time
✔️ Take-down and packing time after the session

Travel Fee Policy

All services include a travel fee covering up to 10 miles from my office, located at 1201 Colvin Blvd. Any appointments requiring travel beyond 10 miles will incur an additional fee based on mileage.

By keeping services private pay, I can continue to provide high-quality, adaptive, and specialized care without the administrative delays and restrictions often associated with third-party billing.

If you have any questions regarding payment or travel fees, please feel free to reach out. I appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing a supportive and personalized wellness experience!

Inclusion Wellness WNY Price List

🔹 Initial Mandatory In-Person Consultation –Starting at $50
(Required before booking any services)

Individual Services (Based on Duration)

✔️ 20-Minute Service – Starting at $55
✔️ 30-Minute Service – Starting at $70
✔️ 45-Minute Service – Starting at $90
✔️ 60-Minute Service – Starting at $110

All service rates include a travel fee covering up to 10 miles from 1201 Colvin Blvd. Additional mileage fees apply for locations beyond 10 miles.

For questions or assistance, feel free to reach out. I look forward to providing a supportive and personalized wellness experience!

Reasons Why Services May Be Declined After the In-Person Consultation

At Inclusion Wellness WNY, the in-person consultation is a crucial step in determining if services are a good fit for the individual. While I strive to provide inclusive and accessible care, there are situations where services may be declined after the consultation, including but not limited to:

Ineligibility Based on Service Criteria – Inclusion Wellness WNY is specifically for individuals with mental, intellectual, or physical disabilities, mobility challenges, or those recovering from surgery who cannot receive traditional massage therapy.
- Recovery from surgery does not include post-op massage for elective procedures such as BBL, tummy tucks, or other cosmetic surgeries. These services are focused on rehabilitation, mobility, and range of motion (ROM), not aesthetic recovery.
Health or Medical Concerns Beyond My Scope – If a client has medical conditions, wounds, skin infections, or other concerns that make massage unsafe, services may not be appropriate. In such cases, a doctor’s clearance may be required.
Behavioral or Safety Concerns – If a client exhibits aggressive, unsafe, or unmanageable behaviors that pose a risk to themselves or me, services may be declined for safety reasons.
Unsuitable or Unsafe Environment – If the home or facility presents hazards, cleanliness concerns, or an inability to set up safely, I may be unable to proceed with services. This includes uncleared snow/ice, debris, or unsafe conditions upon arrival.
Lack of Cooperation or Communication – If essential information is not disclosed, or the individual receiving services is unable to tolerate or participate in sessions, services may not be a good fit.

Please Note: The in-person consultation is a non-refundable appointment, as it involves a full assessment and the development of an individualized care plan. If it is determined that services are not a good fit, I appreciate your understanding that the consultation fee covers the time and expertise put into the assessment process.

If you have any questions regarding eligibility, please reach out before scheduling a consultation. My priority is to ensure a safe, effective, and beneficial experience for all clients.

Scheduling Updates & Mobile Booking with Noterro

Noterro will soon be rolling out a dedicated mobile therapist feature, but I wanted to start accepting appointments as soon as possible. While I don’t anticipate significant changes on the user end, this update will make mobile scheduling much easier for me.

Since my in-office appointments for March and April were already open for booking, I am currently working around those existing bookings as I balance both in-office and mobile appointments. Because of this, I do not have set hours for mobile services in March and April, but in May, I will establish a structured schedule based on the needs of both my regular in-office clients and mobile clients.

At this time, I am actively scheduling in-person consultations for March for new clients interested in mobile services. After your in-person consultation, you will have access to booking your recommended service.

📍 Please book your in-person consultation according to your mileage. I am located at 1201 Colvin Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14223. If you are more than 20 miles away, please contact me first before booking.

Thank you for your patience as I fine-tune my schedule to ensure the best service for everyone!

Booking Rules & Requirements

To ensure a smooth booking process and that services are provided to those who truly need them, please review the following booking rules:

1️⃣ The account must be in the name of the person receiving services – All bookings must include the client’s full name and information, not the caregiver’s or guardian’s details.

2️⃣ Select the correct mileage for the in-person consultation – When booking your consultation, choose the mileage category based on the distance from my location:
📍 1201 Colvin Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14223
If you are more than 20 miles away, please contact me first before booking.

3️⃣ A diagnosis from a doctor is required – Clients must have a documented diagnosis from a medical professional to receive services.

4️⃣ This service is strictly for individuals with specific needs – Inclusion Wellness services are designed exclusively for individuals with:

Mental, intellectual, and physical disabilities
Different abilities that require adaptive care
Those recovering from surgery
Individuals who are bedridden or have low mobility
Clients who cannot receive massage therapy in a traditional setting

5️⃣ Consultation Review Policy – The in-person consultation is required to determine eligibility and create an individualized plan. If during the consultation it is determined that the individual does not fall within the required guidelines, they will not gain access to booking, will be removed from the system, and no refunds will be given for the consultation fee.

If you have any questions regarding eligibility, please reach out before booking your in-person consultation.

Ready to Get Started?

If you or your loved one meets the eligibility requirements, the first step is booking an in-person consultation to create an individualized plan and ensure the best approach for care.

📍 Book Your In-Person Consultation Today!

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