Charlie
East Riverdale, MD
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Rates
A 60-minute session is $135; 90 minutes is $180. Discounts are available for students, active military, and massage therapists.
| Duration | At studio | At your location |
|---|---|---|
| 60 min Popular | $135 | Ask |
| 90 min | $180 | Ask |
Accepted Payments
Discounts
About
Twenty-eight years of working hands-on with clients has taught me what relief actually looks like. It's not just the technical skill, though that matters deeply. It's knowing when to ask the right questions before you even lie down on the table, reading what your body's telling me as I work, and checking in constantly so you feel safe and heard.
I'm Charlie, and I've spent nearly three decades learning how to blend different techniques to match exactly what you need in that moment. Acupressure, deep tissue, Swedish, Esalen, conscious breathwork — I draw from all of them, adjusting my approach based on what I find in your body and what you tell me matters most.
My studio in East Riverdale, Maryland is a calm space where you can actually relax. The table is heated, the music is right, there's free parking on the street, and I use clean sheets and professional-grade Biotone cream every time. No hidden fees. No upselling. Just real work from someone who genuinely cares about how you feel when you leave.
I serve mostly but not limited to the LGBT community, and heterosexual and questioning men are absolutely welcome here. I work with cis men, FTM, MTF, and non-binary clients. What matters to me is that you feel respected and that your body gets the attention it deserves. I don't discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status — that's just who I am.
Over nearly three decades, I've learned that a good massage isn't mechanical. It's about presence, skill, and genuine listening. If that resonates with you, I'd like to work with you.
Techniques
Testimonials
From February 2022: I enjoyed meeting you and have to say you give an incredible massage. That was just what I needed. I was a bit nervous at first but you do a great job of communicating. After a glass of wine on my patio I'm fondly looking back on how it played out. I was unsure how it would go and want to thank you again for the incredible massage and the stretching was so much better waiting toward the end after you got me warmed up. That was intense. I was inexperienced and glad I found someone I can trust and feel at ease with. I'll sleep like a baby. Still on cloud 9.
From October 2025: I asked for deep tissue and got that and much more. It was exactly what I needed even if I wasn't sure beforehand. I appreciated the stretching and yoga suggestions. You also turned up the heat when I said I like it hot, and listened to my specific requests. That was a great 90 minutes.
From October 2023: I've spent a lot of money on massage over the years. I tried Charlie because of good reviews. I had doubts: his rates seemed too low for the DC area, he was older than therapists I'd seen, he was further away than I normally go. He assured me there was free on-street parking and there was. It was by far the best massage experience I've had. Most guys I've seen don't really know how to give a massage. Charlie showed me that massage can be therapeutic without being overly painful. He flowed smoothly between deep tissue and relaxing Swedish strokes. His home is nice and in a fine neighborhood in the suburbs. I felt safe, secure, and welcomed. I genuinely believe he likes what he does. He's easy going but definitely in control. I felt comfortable asking questions. He was accommodating and let me know the limits. He's fairly popular so my first choice wasn't available but he offers weekday daytime discounts.
From November 2019: I've had regular massages for years but this one was particularly effective. I'm new to the area and this was my first with Charlie. I waited a couple days to assess results. Whatever he did to my neck and upper back has made my chronic annoying pain abate almost entirely. What relief. Also his expert stretching of my joints and tendons has given my whole body a pleasant feeling of elasticity and physical well-being that I'm still experiencing.
From April 2025: I've seen Charlie 2 to 3 times and each massage was excellent. He's an absolute sweetheart who radiates gentle kindness. He specializes in deep tissue massage and likes to chat before starting so you can mention concerns. Charlie adjusts his massage constantly based on what he finds in your body. He checks in frequently to make sure you're comfortable. Very personable with skilled hands.
From July 2023: That was one of the most sensational massage experiences I've ever had. Thank you. I needed that so much. The time there was outstanding and everything more than I expected. The massage helped my anxiety tremendously. You are an artist and a true professional. Please don't move away anytime soon. Thanks again. I look forward to future sessions.
From March 2021: I had one of the best massages this week. Charlie immediately welcomed me into his home. He followed COVID protocols with masks during the session. He asked about my well-being and if I had aches or pains. He offered the bathroom and water before, during, and after. I disrobed on the heated table, he laid a warm towel over my feet and began a wonderful experience that surpassed most I've had. He asked many times if techniques were too hard and how I was feeling. He respected my boundaries. There isn't anything negative I can say. At the end he went over areas needing further attention and seemed happy with progress since our last session. Charlie has never failed to cater to my needs. He does a superb massage and I was totally limp and relaxed.
From January 2025: Charlie asked before we began if I had aches or pains and any areas I didn't want touched. I really appreciated that. He told me he uses a variety of pressure and I should speak up if it was too much. When I asked him to ease up, he did immediately. He checked in often and offered water halfway through. He included good stretches and told me which ones to focus on. His table is heated, which is nice in cold weather. At the end he asked if anything was missed, wiped away excess cream, and covered me while washing his hands. He helped me up and gave an assessment while I drank water. Each session is different though his roadmap stays the same. Sometimes we talk, sometimes not. There's always a friendly connection.
From June 2024: At 68, I finally decided to get my first massage from a male therapist. I was nervous and terrified, but I chose Charlie because of reviews. He made me feel so relaxed. It was nice to hear him ask how I was doing throughout. It makes for a great time when you feel the masseur really wants to help you feel better. That was awesome. I've had massages by women before but this was so much better. I was emotional when it ended and Charlie was comforting. He taught me a stretch for my sciatica. I will see him again as often as I can.
From September 2020: Thank you for making me feel so safe during massage time with you. It was a wonderful massage and I feel like a whole person again. Thank you as well for taking precautions during COVID.
From September 2024: Thank you for a really loved massage. You're definitely a very skilled masseur. I was nervous at the beginning but you made me feel at ease and helped me relax. You found all my sore areas, especially shoulders and upper body. I will remember the hip openers. I got more than I expected.
From September 2019: Thank you for today and every day that I see you. I come back to you again and again because you give a great therapeutic massage. However you do so much more. You listen when I need to talk. You ask if I have issues before starting and pay attention. You read my body to find what it needs. You check in often to make sure I'm alright. You make me feel like I'm someone special. I've tried other therapists and always come back. When I told you, you encouraged me to look around and find what I like best. I love how the more I see you the more comfortable I feel and the better the massage seems.
From August 2016: If you're looking for a great massage, look no further. He knows what he's doing and is great at it. Can't wait to get on his table again.
From May 2019: I can't say thank you enough. I was having sciatic issues and pains in my neck. Charlie managed to work out those issues and still massage the rest of me within 90 minutes. He's the real deal. He checked in constantly to make sure pressure was okay and works deep when and where needed. I felt so much better afterward. He's a nice guy. Quiet unless I wanted to talk. Intelligent. Treated me like a good friend even though we had just met.
From March 2024: Charlie is the most caring, kind, and talented masseur I've ever been to. Upon arrival he greeted me warmly, asked about specific areas needing attention, and solicited questions. I was immediately at ease. The massage was targeted and intuitive. Charlie listens to his instincts and your body simultaneously. He checks in, offers stretch suggestions, and explains his technique. I live 60 miles away but he's worth every minute. Highly recommended.
From November 2015: Charlie is a really good therapist. I wish I could get more massages from him but I travel too much.
From March 2026: Charlie found and worked on all my stress points with a great blend of Swedish and deep tissue. The massage was wonderful. I loved the music and warm room, and he kept my feet covered so they stayed warm. There's plenty of free parking. He checked in throughout and offered water. So friendly. Thank you for your skilled hands.
From July 2025: Thank you for such a nice meeting. It was one of the best massages ever. I felt I could release muscle tension while relaxing, and your warm presence made me feel safe and not alone. As a dancer I need massages often. I loved the music and art on the walls.
From April 2023: I'm a 77-year-old man and have been going to Charlie monthly for the last 15 and a half years. I've been to other masseurs but not since seeing Charlie. Our sessions are very helpful and enjoyable. I love being with Charlie. He's a great all-around guy I can talk to and discuss things with. He's compassionate and caring, always asks about your condition before starting, and checks on how things are going throughout. His table is heated and he gives you water during the massage. His style is highly integrative with many techniques including deep tissue, long strokes, stretching, and light touching. He evaluates your condition and gives health recommendations afterward.
From January 2022: Having experienced massage in 3 other countries and 5 other states I assure you, Charlie is the masseur you seek. He's professional, strong, intuitive and thoughtful. He's sporty but casual. He's reasonable yet treasured. Stop clicking and get to Hyattsville. You will thank me.
From September 2022: That was an amazing massage and just what I needed today. I'll remember to ask for the deep tissue special next visit. You really got in there and loosened up areas that have never been worked like that before. Magical. I've seen Charlie several times and he's a really nice guy. He called me back when he wasn't available and suggested another masseur by name. Who does that? He actually knows how to give a real massage. He only does in-calls in the suburbs but there's free street parking and a cute little house. When he opens the door, he's wearing a black t-shirt and gray shorts. Soft lighting, music, candle burning. My first impression was of a father figure. There's understanding and knowledge of the human body from experience. He has really great energy. Friendly and inviting, asks if you need the bathroom, lets you know water is available. He asks about aches, pains, illnesses he needs to know about and if you have questions before starting. He lets you know your draping options. He excuses himself to wash hands while you undress on the heated table. He drapes your feet to keep them warm and gets to work. He uses unscented massage cream that absorbs, never oils. His touch is firm and sure and he checks in often. Music is great. His touch alternates between firmly working knots, long connecting strokes, and light fingertip strokes. When done, he towels you down and lets you relax while he washes hands again. He lets you get up slowly, have water, and talks about what he found. He gives a hug and reminds you to contact him with questions or comments anytime. He's the most reasonably priced masseur considering everything you get. Too many times I've paid a premium for someone who didn't know how to massage but had a pretty face. I always feel rejuvenated by a close friend.
From December 2023: Thank you very much for an incredible massage. Very kind and gentle. You're the kind of person I feel safe and comfortable with, a very decent person. Honest and fair. A truly great value in the DC area. Your training is obvious and our connection seems very real. I love the feedback at the end and I truly believe you care.
From October 2015: As a CMT who travels more than I'm home, I refer guys looking for a good massage to Charlie since he's one of the best in DC even though he lives in the suburbs.
From January 2021: I have a very stressful job and carry lots of stress in my upper shoulders. I asked Charlie for a firm massage to help loosen tension. I was pleased he could apply strong pressure in the right way. Charlie conducted a thorough assessment before beginning and constantly checked on me throughout. He demonstrated solid knowledge of body musculature and educated me about stretches to help avoid muscle spasms. I got the 90-minute massage for $140. No surprise pricing. Money well spent.
From October 2021: I enjoyed meeting you and have to say you give an incredible massage. That was just what I needed. I was nervous at first but you do a great job of communicating and putting me at ease. Charlie is a friendly and charismatic therapist. From the moment you enter his space you feel relaxed. More importantly, you feel like he'll customize the next couple hours to what you need. He constantly checks to make sure pressure is correct and engages in interesting conversation. He also knows when to let silence go on. Music is part of the charm. If I had to pick one characteristic that distinguishes him it's the use of his thumbs and elbows as he stretches and rubs your body. After the session he offers practical advice about posture and wellness based on what he discovered.
From July 2022: I really appreciate so many things about Charlie's work. First, it's legit massage. Second, he's so friendly I sometimes open up about personal things. Third, he listens and seems genuinely interested. Fourth, he checks in often asking if pressure's okay. Fifth, he asks before each session what aches or pains he needs to know about, what areas I don't want touched, ticklish spots. Then he asks if I have any questions or comments. You have no idea how many times I felt too shy to say something but Charlie makes it comfortable. And he means it about asking anything. Sixth, when the massage is over he checks in again and gives practical advice. As you leave he reminds you that you can text or email with questions or comments. Who does that? And he means it. Seeing Charlie is not just about getting a great massage, which you do, but about feeling comfortable with a new friend. I wish I could see him every week.
From June 2019: Thanks as usual. I enjoyed spending time with you very much. The massage was wonderful. Your touch is thoughtful and kind, qualities that mean a lot to me. I really appreciate the warm, friendly environment when I come to you. You're overly kind and giving. I carry lots of issues and weight and tend to hold it all inside. Thanks for enabling me to drift away for that time.
From January 2026: I was recommended Charlie by a friend. His place is very welcoming and he's a kind person who listens carefully to what you need. I've had many massage therapists, but very few are as good as him. He left me feeling refreshed with a lasting sense of relief.
From June 2018: I read great testimonials about Charlie and finally decided to find out for myself. Charlie is undoubtedly one of the best masseurs around. He's a great guy who takes time to make sure you're comfortable, doing a brief assessment of problem areas and expectations. His style is highly integrative of many techniques including deep tissue, long strokes, stretching, and lighter touch where one suspends thought and sensations take over. He certainly raises the bar on what massage is. I left feeling quite relaxed. Charlie was kind to offer stretching tips in post-massage conversation.
From May 2021: With a plethora of DC massage therapists, I was glad I chose Charlie. After a week driving in monotonous traffic and sitting through hours of meetings, my body needed work. When I visited, he inquired about specific regions needing attention. While on the table he had an innate ability to effectively pinpoint and work on problem areas, kneading knots in shoulders, lower back, hips while providing a thoroughly relaxing full body massage. Masterful in conversation while balancing the healing importance of silence, Charlie had a knack to make me feel completely at ease like visiting a familiar friend. Thank you for sharing your gift of touch. You're one of the few people I've met who could work out aches and pains while letting me destress from a long work week. My body feels thoroughly worked on. Loved the deep tissue and stretching for shoulders, lower back, hips, especially helpful on a long flight home. I enjoyed the unhurried fantastic care. You have intuitive healing hands and are a great conversationalist.
From August 2018: I visited Charlie when I had a chronic, severe back issue. He made time to see me on short notice and upon arrival wanted to know more detail about what was bothering me. As he massaged, he regularly checked in to ensure I wasn't in discomfort. At the end he took time to show me stretches and made recommendations to help avoid the issue in the future. I felt much better after my visit and would recommend Charlie to anybody who wants to feel better.
From November 2022: Charlie truly exceeded all expectations and was full of magical surprises. From booking to saying goodbye you're handled with utmost respect, professionalism, and care. The massage was one of the best I've experienced. Charlie demonstrates mastery of techniques, pressure, and body knowledge. His strokes flow about you causing you to melt into the table. He's very in-tuned to you, knowing when to carry conversation with humor and when to welcome silence. He's very attentive to your needs, not the clock, and thorough in mapping your full body.
Hemasseur's Take
Clients consistently report that Charlie combines genuine technical skill with an unusually warm, attentive presence—he asks detailed questions before you start, checks in throughout the session about pressure and comfort, and offers post-massage stretching advice and follow-up support. His ability to blend deep tissue with longer relaxing strokes, identify problem areas intuitively, and work on chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, hips, and lower back while keeping the overall experience calming and rejuvenating is noted across decades of reviews.
What stands out most is the emotional safety clients feel in his space: people report feeling heard, respected, and cared for rather than processed, and many have been returning for years or traveling 60+ miles specifically to work with him.
Location
59th Avenue & Jefferson Street, East Riverdale
Hours
9 a.m. - 8 p.m. today
Details
In-Studio Amenities
FAQ
How much does a deep tissue massage cost in East Riverdale, Maryland?
A 60-minute deep tissue session is $135; 90 minutes is $180. These rates include no hidden fees or upselling. Discounts are available for students, active military, and licensed massage therapists.
What techniques does Charlie offer?
Charlie blends acupressure, conscious breathwork, deep tissue, Esalen, and Swedish massage techniques. He customizes each session based on your needs and what he finds in your body during the work.
Is Charlie available for same-day appointments in East Riverdale?
Charlie's current hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Note that he has no appointments June 19–21 and June 23. For availability outside those dates, contact him directly to check same-day options.
What makes Charlie's massage different from other therapists?
With 28 years of experience, Charlie combines multiple techniques and checks in constantly to ensure your comfort. He listens carefully before and during the massage, offers post-session stretching advice, and creates a genuinely welcoming space where you feel heard and cared for.
Does Charlie offer mobile massage in East Riverdale?
Yes, Charlie offers both in-studio and mobile massage services, serving East Riverdale and surrounding areas.
What payment methods does Charlie accept?
Charlie accepts American Express, Apple Pay, cash, check, Google Wallet, Mastercard, and Visa.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Before the massage, Charlie will ask about any aches, pains, illnesses, sensitive areas, and what you hope to get from the session. During the work, he checks in regularly about pressure and comfort. After, he offers practical stretching tips and time to ask questions or follow up later by text or email.
Is the studio welcoming for LGBT clients?
Yes. Charlie serves the LGBT community and welcomes cis men, FTM, MTF, and non-binary clients, as well as heterosexual and questioning men. He does not discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
From the Hemasseur Team
Charlie is a massage therapist in East Riverdale, Maryland with 28 years of professional experience working directly with clients. His distinctive strength lies in his deep integrative practice: he seamlessly blends acupressure, deep tissue, Swedish, Esalen, and conscious breathwork techniques, adapting each session based on what he feels in your body and what you communicate beforehand. Charlie serves East Riverdale and surrounding areas through both in-studio and mobile massage appointments.
Clients consistently note his skill in locating and releasing tension while maintaining an environment where they feel genuinely safe and heard. He uses a heated professional table, clean sheets, and unscented Biotone cream; offers heated foot coverage, bottled water, and a private restroom; and follows each session with practical stretching advice and time for questions. Charlie welcomes all clients—he serves the LGBT community, as well as heterosexual and questioning men, with explicit respect for gender identity and sexual orientation. His rates are transparent, with no hidden fees. He is particularly valued by clients seeking a therapist who listens carefully before starting, checks in frequently during work, and treats each session as a collaborative healing experience rather than a mechanical service.
