Jay
River Forest, IL
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Rates
Sessions start at $125 for 60 minutes in studio, or $175 for 90 minutes—in line with the River Forest standard. Text to book, and we can discuss what length works best for your needs.
| Duration | At studio | At your location |
|---|---|---|
| 60 min Popular | $125 | Ask |
| 90 min | $175 | Ask |
- Amounts listed are base rates only. Actual rates vary based on distance travelled, services provided, etc.
Accepted Payments
About
Conscious breathing paired with firm, skilled hands—that's often how a session begins here. I've spent over a decade learning how different techniques speak to different bodies, and I've found that the real work happens when a client feels safe enough to breathe into the tension.
I came to massage through college-level training and more than 700 hours of formal study in massage and bodywork. That foundation, combined with thousands of hours working in both clinical and recreational settings, has taught me how to read a body—to find not just the obvious knots, but the deeper patterns underneath them. I work with athletes managing sports injuries, people recovering from surgery, clients carrying chronic pain, and plenty of folks who simply need relief from the weight of stress and anxiety.
My studio in River Forest is quiet and easy to reach. There's ample parking, and public transit gets you here without fuss. The room itself is warm—soft lighting, clean linens on a comfortable table, gentle music playing—designed so you can actually relax instead of tensing up wondering if someone's about to walk in. I finish each session wrapping you in warm towels, which sounds small until you feel it.
I work with all walks of life. My space is non-judgmental and LGBTQIA+ friendly, and I don't care about age, body shape, race, or gender identity. Your safety and comfort matter to me, and that starts the moment you text to book.
I offer a range of techniques—Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point, neuromuscular work, sports massage, Thai bodywork, and conscious breathwork—because what works for one person's back won't work for another's. I also offer meditation coaching if you're interested in pairing that with your sessions.
Text me to set up an appointment. That's usually the fastest way.
Techniques
Testimonials
I found Jay, an experienced masseur just minutes from my home in Oak Park, and was thrilled. His studio is welcoming, and he was knowledgeable from our first meeting. The 90-minute massage was heavenly. Jay has strong, skilled hands and clearly has years of experience—he instinctively knows how to work with the human body. He focused on my problem areas, and the tension just melted away. Jay's warm, soothing personality makes you feel genuinely comfortable. At the end I felt wonderful, mellow yet refreshed, with my tensions and stress gone. I slept better that night than I had in a long time. I've since become a regular, and those 90 minutes with Jay always feel like luxurious, soothing magic. I highly recommend him.
Jay greeted me warmly with a genuine smile that put me at ease immediately. His studio is intimate, very clean, comfortable, and private—everything felt accommodating. He started by asking about areas of concern and shared details about his bodywork experience and style. He was respectful when allowing me to undress in private, and I really appreciated him asking permission before re-entering. My Swedish massage began with breathing exercises and calming work. His touch and medium pressure were soothing from the start, and I soon realized I was in a safe place with a true professional. When the hour ended, I felt deep gratitude for his unique talents and clear love for his work. Jay showed he genuinely cares about making clients feel comfortable and valued. I recommend him completely and plan to return.
I had a 90-minute appointment with Jay this afternoon. His apartment was immaculate, his technique was flawless, and his massage was incredible. I can't wait for my next visit. Do yourself a favor and make an appointment with Jay.
I was so into his massage that it reminded me of my favorite masseur back home—it was really good and satisfying. I fell asleep during the back massage and woke up just as he was about to ask me to flip over. Treat yourself and hire him. His place is really good, and the ambiance is soothing.
I met Jay today, and I'm a tourist visiting Chicago for 10 days. I needed a good, deep massage. I called Jay, and our first meeting won't be the last. He has great hands. The massage was the best I've ever had. I'll meet him again soon.
Jay is a very nice guy and very professional. He took time to discuss my issue—a pinched nerve—and get to know me before the massage. He checked in during to make sure I was comfortable and the pressure was right. I left feeling relaxed with a sense of healing. I will definitely go back.
Jay was professional from the first text through goodbye. His setup is cozy, and after a few deep breaths, I relaxed and escaped. He checked in to make sure the pressure was right and met my needs after a long work week and travel. He was knowledgeable, and it came through in his technique. After the massage, we talked about the tense spots he noticed. I'm looking forward to my next session with Jay.
All the other reviews of Jay are spot on. He is professional, well-trained, and personable. The massage itself was incredibly relaxing, with close attention to the problem areas you specify. Definitely worth a visit.
While visiting Chicago, I was looking for a good massage therapist. Jay's reviews stood out, and combined with the value in price and session length, I decided to contact him. Setting up an appointment was easy. He greeted me warmly, and his studio and massage space were immaculate. He checked in throughout the session, especially about areas that needed attention and pressure. I zoned out several times as he worked on my back and shoulder blades. The whole experience was excellent. I'd definitely recommend Jay and look forward to booking him again when I return to Chicago.
I've had several massage sessions with Jay. He spends time on a real assessment and customizes each session to your specific needs. His space feels like a spa, and you always leave feeling fantastic.
Thank you so much. I've stayed mostly pain-free even with a lot of time in cars and various hotels. After teaching martial arts for two straight days, I'm still in decent shape. Thanks for your hard work on my back. That was a really effective massage.
Jay helped arrange our appointment even though my schedule was complicated. He made me feel secure and really comfortable—like I was right at home. I was enjoying the massage so much that I asked him to extend it. I'd definitely use Jay again when I'm back in Chicago.
Jay is a first-rate professional massage therapist with excellent technique and an immaculate studio. He has an exceptional gift for finding problem areas and working on them effectively but with gentleness. He's also a genuinely nice person. I make time to see him whenever I'm in the Chicago area.
My second time seeing Jay and I'll be back again. From his expert massage to his impeccable studio, you'll find yourself so relaxed and refreshed.
Jay was friendly, intuitive, and had exactly the right touch. Great massage, and I'm looking forward to booking him again.
My third massage from Jay was deeply enjoyable, and like the first two, he keeps getting better. Jay is the master. He has a supreme understanding of the human body and sees his work as a calling. He genuinely cares about you and bringing excellence to your body and its muscles. Thank you so much, Jay, for becoming a masseur and creating such a safe and beautiful space to do your work.
Best massage I've ever had. Jay made me feel completely relaxed, checking in with me and making sure I was comfortable. His studio is very calming, his touch intuitive. I will definitely return. Jay was wonderful.
Jay is a treasure. He's highly intuitive with his massage and was able to focus on my chronic shoulder issues as well as hip and leg pain, relieving both through his thorough bodywork approach. His space has a beautiful, calming, spa-like feel. Treat yourself to a session with Jay that you won't forget soon. Thank you, Jay—hopefully I'll see you before my next birthday.
Jay was great from scheduling to the actual massage. Friendly, checked in to make sure the pressure felt right. His space is warm, relaxing, and soothing. I almost fell asleep once or twice. Looking forward to future massages with him.
Jay does an amazing massage. This was my first time, but it won't be the last. His space is great and he has the perfect touch. He used so many different techniques—it was so relaxing. I think I fell asleep once or maybe twice. The room was nice, private, warm, and clean. It didn't feel like a crowded living space. It was a dedicated massage studio. Call Jay today and get the best massage of your life.
I've been getting 90-minute massages from Jay several times now, and each one feels healing. Jay is welcoming, friendly, and professional—easy to talk with. He's an excellent communicator. At our first meeting, he immediately made me feel relaxed. Before starting, he took real time asking about the type of massage I wanted and what I hoped to feel. I felt comfortable asking him questions too. His facility is immaculate with a calming, relaxing environment. His hands are healing, and he finds the tension I didn't even know I was holding. He checked in regularly during the massage about how I was doing and whether the pressure was right. Days afterward, I could still feel the benefit of his work. Plenty of parking and very reasonable rates.
Jay is one talented masseur. From the moment you walk in, he makes you feel welcomed. His massage space is beautiful, clean, and zen-like—just like being at a spa. He massages head to toe and has the most amazing, magical hands. Jay checks in with you throughout. I loved my time there and can't wait to go back.
I've had several appointments with Jay. He's responsive, kind, and brings real care to his work. The studio is welcoming and private. His massages strike a nice balance—medium to deep pressure where needed, then lighter, calming touches elsewhere. He's a warm person who clearly values his clients and their experience.
The best massage ever. From the moment I met Jay, he made me feel welcomed. He was so professional and really worked out all the soreness that brought me in. I'll definitely be back.
I've been visiting Jay for several months now. He's one of the most professional massage therapists I've encountered. He's incredibly thoughtful about keeping everything comfortable for me throughout the session. His studio is spotless—the equipment, floors, and air quality are all immaculate. I highly recommend him without hesitation.
The massage I got exceeded what I expected and matched Jay's description perfectly. He was responsive and flexible with scheduling, answered all my questions, and took time during the intake to learn about my preferences and desired results. His technique really attends to each client's uniqueness, giving more or less attention based on what that person needs. He adjusted pressure based on my input. The environment is calm, clean, and very professional. I plan to come back often.
I saw Jay for the first time in July. He's a wonderful masseur. His bodywork has good medium to deep pressure. He found knots and kinks in my back and shoulders that no other masseur has ever located. He gave me suggestions on how to deal with them and prevent them going forward. I hope to see him again soon. He was easy to schedule with and on time. His studio is well equipped with a dedicated, professional layout that doesn't feel like a crowded living space. Don't miss out on a session with Jay.
I had the great pleasure of getting a massage from Jay. He's very courteous, respectful, and very good with his hands. I usually like deep tissue massage, and he did it exactly the way I wanted. He's very thorough, making sure he works every muscle in your body. The place is comfortable and cozy, feeling like you're in a spa. I highly recommend him for anyone needing a great and relaxing massage. I'll definitely be back and make him my regular. Book him now and you'll see what I mean. Jay, you're awesome and thank you.
Jay is an excellent massage therapist with a warm demeanor that shows from the moment you book through the end of your session. I was able to get a same-day 90-minute massage, which isn't always possible and I really appreciated it. He communicated well and was great at assessing needs and potential problem areas before beginning. When I asked for deeper pressure on my upper back and neck with medium pressure elsewhere, he delivered perfectly. He really helped relieve stiffness in my back that had been bothering me for weeks. Beyond his talent, Jay creates a soothing space with comfortable temperature and warm lighting—a true spa experience in his home. His skill and the atmosphere he creates are available at very affordable rates, making it easy for me to come back again and again. Thank you, Jay.
After two visits with Jay, each massage just gets better. His studio is excellent, clean, and very welcoming. He stays attentive throughout the session, checking in regularly to make sure you're doing well. His massage skills are outstanding, and I'm really glad I found him. I'll definitely be back.
Great massage. Nice atmosphere, good technique, flexible scheduling, and Jay takes time for a brief intake and gives you information after the session. Definitely worth coming back.
Jay creates a very relaxing environment. I felt really comfortable in his studio. He asked several questions before starting and customized the massage to my needs. He was attentive and responsive. I'll definitely be back soon.
Jay is simply the best. He's experienced and understands exactly what his clients need. Whether it's that annoying discomfort in your neck or sore muscles, he handles it. The atmosphere is really relaxing, and he's never been late or unprepared. If you want to ease body stress and muscle pain, I'd strongly suggest booking time with Jay. I'll be coming back for a long time.
This was my seventh massage with Jay, and I don't even live in his city. I keep coming back because of how precise, caring, empathetic, and therapeutic his work is. With each visit, the massage gets even better. You won't find a better masseur, and the more often you go, your body becomes better known and even more wonderfully treated. His massage space is immaculate. He's polite and professional, warm and compassionate. He has expert knowledge of muscle groups and the body as a whole. I'm astounded and grateful.
Jay was very pleasant. His massage room was really nice. He asked about areas to concentrate on and how much pressure to apply. The massage was very relaxing. I will certainly return.
Jay was very nice and flexible, fitting me in on short notice. I'm so happy I'm moving here so I can come to him more often. I went in at stress level 10 and left without a care in the world.
After five years as a client of Jay's, I can say he's intuitive, methodical, knowledgeable, intelligent, professional, and genuinely one of the kindest massage therapists around. Do yourself a favor and book with him. Chances are good you'll become a long-term client too, just like I have.
My fourth massage with Jay, and there will be many more. This masseur is incredible. My first massage was great, but he keeps getting better and better. I thought my earlier sessions were the peak, but Jay's pursuit of excellence and outstanding communication have put him at the very top. His sensitive, keen ability to read my back muscles relieved pent-up tension that was causing headaches. He did the needed deep muscle work with real expertise. Then, layering on that firm pressure, he brought thoughtful, compassionate attention to other tense regions. He cares, he excels, and he's truly the best of the best.
Wow. Everything about this massage is relaxing, and the ambiance alone makes a real difference. He's very professional and lets you know about your comfort level. He's very respectful and attentive to your needs. He gives a really great massage. I requested a deep massage, so he started with mild touch and progressed to deep pressure, which felt wonderful. I'd wanted a 90-minute session, but with his tight schedule, he fit me in for 60 minutes, which I really appreciated. I'd suggest scheduling a day or two in advance. Thanks Jay, and I hope to get another massage with you after a long day's work.
I reached out to Jay hoping to book within a day or two. He called back promptly and worked out a time that worked for both of us. Unfortunately I had to cancel a few hours before due to severe weather causing flooding and a power outage in my area. When I contacted him to apologize, he was totally understanding and told me not to worry. He then fit me into his schedule the very next day. From the moment I walked in, he put me at ease. I walked in with lots of spasms and pain and walked out pain-free. He gave me a non-rushed, extremely thorough massage, finding every single spasm and working on each one until it released. Jay's personality is as wonderful as the massage itself. This was my first visit and definitely won't be my last. If I could afford it, I'd see him weekly. Don't hesitate to book with Jay. You won't be disappointed, and I'm sure you'll become a regular too.
Hemasseur's Take
Clients consistently praise Jay for his professionalism, thorough bodywork, and ability to locate and release deep tension—particularly in the back, shoulders, and neck. He's known for checking in throughout sessions, creating a calm and immaculate studio space, and making clients feel genuinely cared for and safe.
His 11 years of experience and diverse skill set allow him to balance firm, deep work with gentle, intuitive touch tailored to each person. Clients return repeatedly, often becoming long-term regulars, and note that their sessions with Jay improve over time as he comes to know their bodies better.
Location
Lake Street & Harlem Avenue, River Forest
Hours
9 a.m. - 8 p.m. today
Details
In-Studio Amenities
Additional Services
FAQ
How much does a massage cost in River Forest, Illinois?
A 60-minute session is $125, and 90 minutes is $175. Both rates include time for intake and assessment, so you're not paying for paperwork—you're paying for skilled hands on your body.
What massage techniques does Jay offer?
I work with Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point, neuromuscular, sports massage, Thai bodywork, and conscious breathwork. I blend techniques based on what your body needs, not just what you request on the phone.
Is Jay's massage studio wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the studio is fully handicapped accessible. There's ample parking and an easy entry, and I'm here to help make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Can I book a same-day massage in River Forest?
It depends on my schedule, but texting is the quickest way to find out. I do try to squeeze in clients when I can, and I've been known to rework my day if someone's in real need.
What should I expect during my first massage appointment?
We'll start with a conversation about what brought you in—whether it's pain, stress, recovery from surgery, or just tightness you've been living with. I'll ask about pressure preferences and areas of concern. Then you'll have privacy to undress, and I'll check in before re-entering the room. The massage itself flows based on what I find, and I check in throughout to make sure the pressure and pace feel right for you.
Does Jay offer mobile massage in River Forest?
Yes, I do offer mobile massage and can come to your home. Contact me to discuss your location and availability.
What payment methods do you accept?
I take cash, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and all major credit cards—Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
Is Jay's studio LGBTQIA+ friendly?
Absolutely. My work and workspace are non-judgmental and open to any age, race, body shape, or gender identity. You'll be treated with respect and care.
From the Hemasseur Team
Jay is a massage therapist in River Forest, Illinois with over 11 years of professional experience and more than 700 hours of formal training in massage and bodywork. With thousands of additional hours working in clinical and recreational settings, Jay specializes in blending techniques—from conscious breathwork and deep tissue to myofascial release, trigger point work, sports massage, Thai bodywork, and neuromuscular therapy. This range of skills allows precise responses to individual client needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Jay works with clients managing stress and anxiety, chronic or congenital conditions, pain, physical dysfunction, and post-injury or post-surgery recovery. The River Forest studio is fully handicapped accessible, features ample parking, and sits in an easy-to-reach location by both car and public transit. Sessions take place in a clean, warm, private room equipped with professional-grade linens, soft lighting, gentle music, and warm towels at the close. Jay also offers meditation coaching to complement massage work.
Clients most benefit from working with Jay when they need both clinical skill and genuine care—when attention to safety, comfort, and privacy matters as much as the technique itself.
