Rusty

Chicago, IL

Starting at $160 10 yrs exp 11 reviews
In-Studio Mobile (5 mi)
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Rates

Studio sessions are $160 for 60 minutes, which is below the Chicago average of $136. Mobile appointments within 5 miles of Chicago are also available at the same rate.

Duration At studio At your location
60 min Popular $160 Ask
  • Longer sessions available.
  • Amounts listed are base rates only. Actual rates vary based on distance travelled, services provided, etc.

Accepted Payments

Cash Venmo

Discounts

Discounts available for students

About

The Southwest Institute of Healing Arts in Tempe shaped what I do today. I spent 1000 hours there between 2015 and 2017 learning anatomy, technique, and how to listen to a body's needs. But the real education came after—over a decade now working with thousands of clients across luxury spas, healing retreat centers, and continuing workshops. I've learned that bodywork isn't a luxury add-on. It's essential. A good massage changes how you move through the world.

My practice here in Uptown Chicago reflects everything I've learned. Each session is custom-built for you, using whatever combination of techniques serves your body best. Some days that's deep tissue and ashiatsu. Other times it's craniosacral work, hot stones, and stretching. I trust my hands to find what's needed—my pressure can be subtle or deep, intuitive but always skilled.

You'll work in a clean, warm studio with an extra-wide heated table, organic oil, hot towels, and curated music. I use heated herbal compresses and hot stones as part of nearly every session because heat opens the body in ways nothing else does. I'm also mobile, so if you're within 5 miles of Chicago, I'll come to you and bring the same spa-quality experience to your home.

I've worked with everyone—CEOs, artists, people in recovery, the LGBTQIA+ community—and I promise you'll be met with professionalism and genuine care. No judgment. No rush. Just skilled hands and a safe space to let your body finally rest.

Techniques

Testimonials

It was a beautiful experience. His presence is calm and intuitive, and his approach flows seamlessly from one moment to the next. I've never felt anything quite like it.

Dec. 30, 2021 · Chicago, IL · in-studio

I found a real gem. The quality of his massage is unlike anything I've received before. He's nurturing and skilled, and the whole session felt luxurious—heated table, hot towels, hot stones, warm oil. I feel lucky to have found him and grateful for what he brings to his work.

Nov. 28, 2021 · Chicago, IL · in-studio

His combination of ashiatsu, stretching, and heat therapy completely transformed my back pain. He has warmth and skill in equal measure, and I'm grateful to have found him.

April 02, 2023 · Minneapolis, MN · in-studio

Hemasseur's Take

Clients consistently praise Rusty's technical skill, warm presence, and ability to combine multiple techniques in ways they haven't experienced before. Specific outcomes mentioned include softened muscles, dropped and released shoulders, transformed back pain, and deeper relief than found with other therapists.

The spa-quality environment—particularly the heated table, hot stones, hot towels, and organic oil—is cited repeatedly as a key part of what makes sessions feel restorative and special. Across all testimonials, a clear picture emerges of someone who listens carefully, works intuitively, and brings both strength and genuine care to every session.

Education

Aug. 2015 - Jan. 2017

1000 hr Massage Therapy Program

Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, Tempe, AZ

Location

Mobile within 5 mi

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Hours

9 a.m. - 10 p.m. every day

Details

In-Studio Amenities

CandlesHot TowelsDrinking WaterMassage TableFree ParkingPrivate RestroomShowerHeated Massage TableMusicAromatherapy Enhanced

Mobile Extras

CandlesHeated Massage TableHot TowelsMassage TableMusic

Affiliations

Esalen Massage and Bodywork AssociationNational Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork

FAQ

How much does a massage cost in Chicago at Rusty's studio?

Studio sessions are $160 for 60 minutes. Payment is accepted in cash or Venmo, and student discounts are available.

Does Rusty offer mobile massage in Chicago?

Yes. Mobile appointments are available within 5 miles of Chicago at the same $160/60-minute rate. Rusty brings a heated table, hot towels, candles, and music to your location.

What techniques does Rusty use in his massage sessions?

Sessions typically blend deep tissue, Esalen, Swedish, craniosacral, Hawaiian, ashiatsu, stretching, trigger point work, reiki, myofascial release, and lymphatic drainage. The combination is customized to what your body needs.

Is there same-day availability for massage in Uptown Chicago?

Rusty is available 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, including weekends and holidays. Same-day bookings depend on current schedule, so reach out directly to check availability.

What makes Rusty's massage different?

Over 10 years of experience working with thousands of bodies in luxury spas and healing centers, combined with formal training from the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts. Sessions include spa-quality touches like an extra-wide heated table, hot stones, organic oil, and hot towels in a clean, welcoming private studio.

Is the studio LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Yes. Rusty guarantees a safe, welcoming, and nondiscriminatory environment for all people. The LGBTQIA+ community can trust they are in professional, caring hands.

What should I expect during my first massage in Chicago?

You'll arrive at a warm, clean private studio in Uptown with free parking and a private restroom. The session is customized to your body's needs using organic oil, heat, and whatever blend of techniques works best for you. Expect about an hour of calm, skilled work in a quiet, music-filled space.

From the Hemasseur Team

Rusty is a massage therapist in Chicago, Illinois with over 10 years of professional experience. He trained at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts in Tempe, Arizona, where he completed a rigorous 1000-hour massage therapy program. Since then, he has worked with thousands of clients across luxury spas, healing retreat centers, and continuing education workshops, developing an intuitive and skilled approach to bodywork.

Based in Uptown Chicago, Rusty offers both studio and mobile services within a 5-mile radius. His sessions blend deep tissue, ashiatsu, Esalen, craniosacral, Hawaiian, and other techniques, using spa-quality amenities including an extra-wide heated table, organic oil, hot stones, hot towels, and heated herbal compresses. He maintains a safe, welcoming environment for all clients, including the LGBTQIA+ community.

Clients seeking relief from tension, deeper tissue work, or a spa-quality healing experience benefit most from working with Rusty. His combination of formal training, decade-long track record, and intuitive pressure makes him well-suited for anyone from athletes to people in recovery to professionals seeking sustained body care.