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Scratch Therapy FAQ
(Back Scratch Massage & Skin Tracing Explained)

Scratch Therapy is one of the most unique experiences offered at Stretch & Soothe.

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Because it’s different from traditional massage, many people are curious about what it feels like and how it works. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about Scratch Therapy to help you feel comfortable and prepared for the experience.

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What is Scratch Therapy & Why Stretch and Soothe Belmont?

Scratch Therapy is a gentle relaxation treatment using light, rhythmic scratching and skin tracing techniques along the back, arms, scalp, and lower legs. The goal is not deep pressure or massage, but to create a calming sensory experience that encourages the nervous system to relax.

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Stretch and Soothe is the first ever studio in the whole world to ever offer such a curious session. SInce opening in 2023, we have perfected this experience and have seen many others attempt to copy. It's such a necessary service for sure, yet we know we have the ultimate ASMR recipe that keeps drawing clients from afar. Therefore, we are still the best back scratchers in the world :))

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Often described as an ASMR back scratch or back scratch massage. 

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(NOTE: This is strictly a non-sexual, sensory relaxation service for ASMR ONLY.)

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Curious why people book this treatment? Read: Can You Pay Someone to Scratch Your Back?

Is a Professional Back Scratch Ticklish?

It can be to start with! Yet never torturous and our practitioners can adjust techniques to suit. It’s designed to soothe rather than stimulate ticklishness . Techniques are soft, repetitive, and tailored to your comfort—always adjusted based on feedback to ensure it feels calming, never too ticklish or intrusive.

Can scratch therapy help with anxiety or sensory overwhelm?

Many clients seek Scratch Therapy for its calming effect.

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The slow, repetitive nature of the touch can help the body shift into a more relaxed state, supporting moments of quiet, stillness, and nervous system reset.

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While it’s not a medical treatment, it can feel like a gentle pause — especially during times of stress, mental fatigue, or sensory overload.

What happens during a Scratch Therapy session?

Your session begins with a short check-in to understand your comfort level and preferences.

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From there, you’ll be guided into a relaxed face-down position on our comfortable, padded, heated massage bed. After some helpful guidance, our therapist leaves the room while you prepare. On return, your therapist will ensure your comfort and begin using gentle scratching and skin tracing techniques in slow, rhythmic patterns. The experience is unhurried and you'll be listening to a delicate playlist that allows your body to gradually settle into all the sensations and fully relax. We always include a back exfoliation with heated towels too!

Our 30min sessions are upper body focused, yet if a longer session, it can include just above the knees and towards the ankles and/or some time dedicated to hairbrushing or relaxation massage. You can let our therapists know on the day.

Is scratch therapy the same as massage?

No & also Yes—scratch therapy focuses on light, sensory touch to engage the skin's receptors, offering grounding and relaxation without deep pressure. It's more about calming the senses than targeting muscle tension. In saying that, during a longer session, we can include some time for relaxation massage as well.

Is Scratch Therapy the Same as an ASMR Back Scratch?

Yes, in essence. Our Scratch Therapy uses the same gentle, rhythmic touch that triggers ASMR-like tingling sensations, combined with skin tracing and a warm salt scrub finish.

Is scratch therapy suitable for everyone?

Scratch therapy is generally safe and nurturing, though it may not suit if you:

  • Have active skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, open wounds)

  • Are highly sensitive to light touch or tactile stimulation

In such cases, we adjust our techniques or suggest an alternative sensory ritual.

What areas of the body are included in Scratch Therapy?

Scratch Therapy usually focuses on areas where the sensation feels most calming, such as:

  • the back

  • shoulders

  • arms

  • scalp

  • lower legs to ankles

Your session can be adjusted depending on your comfort, with each treatment tailored to feel safe and relaxing for you.

NOTE: Sessions are conducted face-down only. Your back and lower legs (if included) are exposed during the treatment

Where can I experience Scratch Therapy in Geelong?

Stretch & Soothe is based in Geelong, in Belmont, welcoming clients from nearby areas including Torquay, Ocean Grove, Drysdale, and Barwon Heads and afar.

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Clients often book not just for the treatment, but for the feeling of calm they carry with them afterwards.

Is Scratch Therapy safe for sensitive skin?

Yes — Scratch Therapy uses light, controlled touch rather than pressure. If you have sensitive skin or specific skin conditions, simply let us know before your session so we can adjust the treatment to suit your needs.

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Your comfort is always the priority.

About
Scratch Therapy

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