Time to leave a review- John has been my go to my massage therapist for years... He keeps me moving and pain free. John is very talented and knows his stuff. read more

This person is super unprofessional, I booked a massage and he never showed up, I called multiple times sent text messages and he never answered or sent a message back, I read his reviews and he seems super creepy and unprofessional so I'm glad he didn't show up, I would definitely stay away from this place, though, he is not dependable. read more

Upon reflection as I write this, I'm actually glad I didn't have a session with him. I don't know what caused him to behave like this, but he would have brought that energy into my session and it would be worse to be stuck 1:1 in a vulnerable position with this person. I booked through ClassPass and had a strange and upsetting experience today. I followed the instructions and showed up 15 min early. He met me a couple minutes after the start time, but no big deal. Problem was that instead of any type of greeting he yelled "ID?!" at me. "I don't have my ID on me" I said. "Have a good day" he said and then turned around and started to walk away. Confused I said "are you John?" He raised his voice aggressively and said "Part of walking around is that you have ID on you. If you don't have ID then I'm not working with you!" and then walked away as I stood there super confused. So I burned 40 credits, have a bad start to my day, and am trying to figure out how/why this happened, and how to make sure others don't have a similar experience. He has good Yelp reviews, so I expected good service. Maybe he doesn't like ClassPass or maybe there was something about me he didn't like? I don't know, but please consider this information and similar reviews before booking with this person. read more

I've been going to John since June, 2012 and over the years, he has been in tune with my body and what needs to be done. Because I dance Zumba, Brazilian and ballroom dance and work-out at the gym 6 days a week, my muscles are usually tight and need to be loosened up. I like the fact that he spends time on my neck and shoulders which are usually tense from stress and works out the kinks in my tight muscles. John has strong hands and instinctively knows what areas need work. I look forward to my monthly Swedish massage as I feel it is necessary for my physical and emotional well being. The office is located on the second floor in a multi-purpose building so there are no frills but John makes the room comfortable and serene. There is free parking in the rear of the building and his hours are convenient and booking online for an appointment is easy. read more

John Porter, CMT - Massage Near Me - Oakland, California

I've taken a week to think about what happened and if I wanted to post a review, but I think I should. I had a similar experience to some others who've posted on here. I booked through ClassPass for a 10 am appt. The ClassPass reservation said to arrive 15 mins early. I did this and the building was completely locked. There was one sign that said enter through the parking lot, but this was gated shut. There were other signs on the building it was closed to the public. I tried to call the number in the ClassPass reservation and it was disconnected. I found another number online and it went to voicemail. I waited for another 10 minutes, but there was no one there and ClassPass charges a no show fee. So I emailed ClassPass and went home. Around 10:10 I got a call from John (also an unprofessional call) and after so back and forth about me showing up too early he said I could come then. I went back to the building and met him upstairs by his massage room. He let me in and told me to get situated and that he would be back in a few minutes, but knock on the door. I got undressed and situated on the table and waited. He opened the door and was immediately angry and said "do you want to leave". I was pretty confused and said no, I didn't want to leave. He continued to yell at me and told me to get my money back. I was undressed as you are for a massage and asked if he could shut the door so I could get dressed. He yelled at me that I already had clothes on, but eventually shut the door. I got dressed as quickly as I could. I asked again what happened as I left and he responded good day. I struggle to mess with someone's livelihood. But this was an incredibly unsettling experience. Massages are vulnerable anyways, but I felt unsafe and uncomfortable. I was yelled at without explanation. If there was a problem, there's a lot of ways to address that professionally or really in any way that allowed open dialogue. I would tell anyone I knew not to go here, but especially if you're a woman. It's an exposed situation with someone who might get very angry without warning. read more

I've been have issues with my hands aching due to a desk job. My wife is a regular patient and she has been telling me to go see John! She booked me an appointment by surprise, I learned to know I have been missing out all this time! I don't have any aches and pains so far with my hands and the full body massage was so relaxing and it was what I needed. I'll be back. *If you're looking for a message and a real good one that will heal your body, look no further and book him now. Thanks John. read more

Please don't go here. I had a very scary and confusing experience where I was yelled at while naked under the massage sheets for having my head touch the face cradle. It seem like my experience was a lot like other people from reading recent reviews. He yells at you until you leave and pockets the ClassPass money. He's got a scam going on. I'm shocked to read that anyone gave him more than 1 star. Don't get yourself into a dangerous situation with this man that may be mentally ill. read more

I was able to get a same day appointment! The massage room was clean, he had a mask, very polite and great prices! There was also free parking. The massage was wonderful! I was totally relaxed and felt amazing after -- definitely will be going to him again. read more

my review was great the first time 2022 and second time 2023 .....i speak proudly of his technique ....i think the class pass people have a n agenda ....is he stoic yes ...but thats no big thing ........this guy is an artist with massage read more

Let me start by saying I am new to massages. I got introduced to ClassPass from my girlfriend and used it to book this. My original class cancelled last minute, so I booked this one same day. I went up to the building, all doors locked. There was a sign to go to the back, so I went to the back and that door was locked. There was a keypad there with flyers everywhere, so I thought that was just for employees or janitors for security reasons. I called in and left a voicemail. I got a call back! I saw him and he guided me back to the back door again. He started by asking if I was okay. Weird question to start off an appointment if you ask me. Then gave me grief about the keypad and implied only stupidity couldn't figure it out. Oof! Went went up to suite 202....when the directions said suite 101. We got in and he left. I took off my hat and shirt and laid down. He comes back in pissed! I was shocked, more in disbelief in the reaction. I wasn't under the sheets, oh well man! I'm new to these massages and it's hot as hell out. Not to mention awkward entrance. He kicked me out without any response. It escalated from there when I asked why he was kicking me out from not being under the sheets (which is reasonable considering...). He provided no answer and tossed my water bottle off the table onto the floor as I was putting my shirt on. Then stepped up to me as in he was looking to fight me! HAHAHA this was wild people, you have no clue. There's nothing else to say. Don't go here. Unprofessional. The guys a whack job. read more

He knows his stuff but will follow your pt or sports doc's instructions. Strength to do deep tissue on tough tight muscles which other therapists thought was post op scar tissue despite pt and ortho saying it was not. Excellent value. Easy to park in gated lot. read more

I have seen John Porter many times over many years. Unfortunately, he went all crazy on me today, because I merely asked whether I could use my wife's spot who had to cancel last minute, which she had booked with Class Pass. He kicked my out -yelling- while I was trying to understand how I can pay him since I didn't have cash on hand for it, and he said I couldn't use hers... I understood his point and was willing to pay; he didn't want to discuss it. He just freaked out! Really really strange and uncomfortableto saythe least! Never going there again, as if massage therapists were not easy to replace... read more

John Porter is one of the best massage therapists in the Bay, hands down. To me it is clear he is a small business owner, and while his infrastructure might be minimal he is really good at his craft and that's what matters most. I would book him again, and I've recommended him to others. read more

I went to John after being fed up with long term pain in my neck. John spent most of the hour working on my neck with a hot stone treatment and left me feeling like a new man! I had been dealing with the pain for almost a year so it was a major relief. I slept well and woke up feeling great. Thanks so much John! read more

I had been so tense from months of being mom, teacher, and being indoors due to the pandemic. Thankfully I was referred to John and I am so glad I was. Such a great experience and I definitely will be returning. You can't go wrong with giving him a try. read more

I would give a half star if possible. Service was prepaid for already and since my girlfriend was the one who signed up for it and she wasn't there he wouldn't do the service. Seemed like a creep would not recommend to anyone. Wasted my time and showed up to meet me 5 minutes after my service should have started. read more

PLEASE DO NOT GO HERE. I found here via class pass and the class pass policy said i need to arrive 15 mins before the appt. we arrived 20 mins before and he was being very passive aggressive by asking us back what time it was (as if he was very angry that we are there 5 min early). With that awkward intro, i entered into the massage room (which was very small). As he was setting up the massage bed, I apologized him for coming a bit early and he told me its ok. And then i asked him if he accepts venmo or credit card for the tip and that's when he suddenly flipped out and got so mad. He said that he already told me about this before (which he didn't, obviously) and he was pointing his index finger at me and said he can be nice or he can be rude. I was sooo confused and thought maybe he misunderstood me. I clarified two more times i am just trying to understand the payment method for the tipping. But no use - he kept saying he will be rude and literally he shut the door and yelled at me saying "GET READY." I mean under this circumstance, who would possibly get ready and get a massage from him? I am a petite girl and i was very threatened by him and was very close to calling a cop. I decided to leave the place and just called my fiance who was waiting for me and he came up to pick me up. On the way out, we met john again and i told him i am very confused about the situation and clarified myself one more time but the answer was the same. He said he already told me and he will get rude if i keep asking. And then he just walked away without listening to what i say and we left the building too. We will request for our money back from classpass but honestly this is the ultimate worst experience that you can get from a massage place. PLEASE PLEASE DONT GO HERE. read more

I've been going to John for a long time now and every single massage I've gotten has been amazing. I work as a waitress and my body takes a beating often. John works out all of my muscle tension and even loosens knots I didn't know existed. Do your body a favor and set up an appointment. read more

I've been going to John Porter for 7 years and wouldn't go anywhere else. He's cared for me during pregnancy with prenatal massage, injuries, with therapeutic hot stone massage and general well being. Swedish massage. He is highly experienced and professional. His online booking is very convenient and his prices can't be beat. He has knowledge about the body and muscles and I've always left feeling relaxed and refreshed. read more

The best. He really listens and communicates. And incredible hands elbows and techniques. Mr. Porter has a true gift and has helped my body so much read more

It was one of the best massage I have ever had. John is very good at his craft. I will definitely return. Thank you!

John is the best therapist I have ever worked with. He is incredibly intuitive and knows exactly what I need each time and I always leave feeling amazing! He is a master with the hot stones I highly recommend! read more

So, so incredible. John is truly an excellent, no-nonsense masseuse! I was a reluctant massage client for a very long time based on some lackluster and costly "spa" experiences and several horror stories of more intense, therapeutic massages causing injuries, but John's knowledge and skill have assuaged all fears. John truly listens and tailors his massage to the client's needs and desires. He also reads the body and muscles and knows what needs extra work and what requires a gentler approach. All my experiences with him have been healing, professional, and relaxing. The lights are dim and he does play soft music in a small, nicely-appointed but decidedly no-frills room. There is no extraneous "stuff", which signals to me that what I'm paying for is a deeply-skilled human's time and effort, as opposed to a floofy space and atmosphere. I've recommended John to all my friends and all who have tried him are now ongoing clients. If you're looking for an excellent massage for an excellent price from an excellent human, this is where you'll find it. read more

Excellent. I echo everyone's comment about the strong hands. You have to be strong and skillful to do an effective deep tissue massage. I used my entire month's worth of classpass points to book an appointment with John (+$25 cash tip) and it was totally worth it. He's amazing. I asked for a full body massage. He doesn't waste time with chit chat and went to work as soon as you're under the massage table sheet. I was sooooo sore afterward, but it was much needed and I felt great a couple days later. He said I had some serious problem spots so he did a mix of Swedish and deep tissue on me. He didn't skip any spots, he really means FULL body massage, glutes and all (no private parts of course). Ladies, don't hesitate, he's all business and works with the lights off. I felt like raw clay that he had to skillfully mold and press back into shape. I'll be coming back again but on a more regular basis so I don't have to get my butt kicked with a deep tissue massage. (If you can't handle too much pressure, just ask for medium). read more

All I can say is wow! Now I don't have regular massages so I'm no expert, but I know a good massage when I see one! As much as I was relaxing I was also fascinated by how he works! Unbelievably professional and he's absolutely incredible at what he does. He actually closes his eyes, I assume to really feel the muscles. I cannot recommend him enough! If you're thinking of going to him, do not second guess yourself.... GO! You won't be disappointed!!! In response to the one review, yes he is a little... hard to read, but I think he's just so focused on the massage so don't take offense to it. The location? Ya not the best but when you're in the middle of his massage you forget where you even are so honestly it didn't affect my experience. I would rather have a sketchy building and an incredible massage than a fluffed up massage parlor and a mediocre massage but to each their own. read more

John makes it easy for a massage newbie like me to feel comfortable with the experience. I have chronic neck and upper-back tightness, but his skill and welcoming attitude have really helped! He's very responsive and easily adjusts to my specific needs. I highly recommend his services! read more

John gives by far the best massages I've ever had. And I've sampled quite a few in the bay area. I've been going for sporadic massages for about 1 yr. John effortlessly delivers the right amount of pressure each and every time. I always leave feeling really relaxed and not wanting to leave the table. His (online) scheduling is an added bonus - he's always available + offers last minute appointments. He is extremely professional + checks in with you during the massage to ensure that your needs are being met. Highly recommended. read more

John is one of a kind. He really listens to my concerns and areas of stress and works to fix them bit by bit. I live an active lifestyle and my body holds some long term injuries from sports. After a few visits with John, my body is more aligned, my shoulders and lower back feel significantly less tense and this makes it all the more easier to actually continue to build strength and train. Thank you John! read more

I've been going to John for a few years now after first finding him on Groupon. His ability to recognize knots and work diligently and effectively to loosen and remove those knots and tightness are major reasons why I continue to patronize John's business. Sometimes it takes a while to find a great massage therapist. I am happy to have found John. read more

I work in a pretty physical job and see a masseuse Every other week. That being said I've traveled from Sacramento, Napa and San Diego to have John take care of my knots. I am now done with local spas that never cut it, or held me over. John always amazes me how he works my muscles, sometimes finding spots others have missed. I only hope that I'm half as good as he is once I've practiced a fraction of the time he has under his belt. Needless to say I've canceled my memberships and I have a standing biweekly spot with him. He's definitely a master and will help your overall well being! read more

As my niece said yesterday, "when John was finished I felt like a whole new person". He only worked on her neck and back!! THAT is how HEALING John's therapeutic massage is. I personally always leave feeling relaxed and relieved of tension and discomfort I arrived with. I found John about 8 years ago and am do glad I did. Not only is he excellent at body work but he also offers affordable pricing. Do yourself a favor and book an appointment. You won't be disappointed. If your looking for a "spa" setting, ambiance and all that, you might be disappointed. If you aren't looking for the frills and can handle just getting down to business...John is the man with the magic hands!!! read more

John is amazing! No bs, strong guy, great massage. I've had a few with him - I'm 6'2, 200lbs and I do sports so he gets deep and works all my crap out great! Great prices too read more

Tried John in an emergency situation just from his reviews on Yelp. My shoulders, upper back and neck were in a very painful way, and I had a 11 hour plane ride ahead of me. He really worked some magic with some very deep tissue work. I would definitely go back. read more

It was my first time receiving a massage and I was very pleased with the experience. John was gracious and focused on a lot of the areas I named before the massage. My shoulder had been hurting me and the massage definitely helped to work out those sore muscles. I will be back soon! Thanks read more

I LOVED John Porter massage service. John was very amazing at getting all my tension spots, particularly my upper back and shoulders. In addition John was very accommodating when i was running a few minutes late getting to my appointment. I would highly recommend using John Porter for your next massage needs. read more

! He's having a great promo for March! Hot stone massage deal my favorite, such a good massage therapist check him out!

John is amazing! He is the best massage therapist I've ever experienced. His deep tissue massages are out of this world and I leave feeling like I can fly. Location is great and easy to get to. He's always right on time. Highly recommend him. read more

I have gone to see John a couple of times and every time I feel leaving 1000% better. I weight lift and climb so my back is always out of sorts. He focuses on what is ailing me and gets all the kinks out of my back and shoulders. Great masseuse! My husband also sees him pretty regularly and swears by him! Can't really praise his work enough! read more

This is the same CMT I went to under the business Oakland Massage Therapy, so you can read my detailed review there. For someone so robust, his technique was too gentle. His deep tissue felt like a Swedish...Also, he is not friendly. Period. Unprofessional....no rapport. He looked irritated when he met me, instead of inducing a positive vibe like normal massage therapists are trained for. Unrelaxing ambience. The place is in a shady neighborhood. To be safe, I was obligated to tip. These glowing reviews about John Porter must be done by his "friends" bc this is not the presence and professionalism he projected when he did my massage. See that smile. That was nonexistent before. read more

John is a gifted massage therapist, strong hands with a steady energy. I come for my chronic pain and I've felt so much better after his Deep Swedish massages. The hot stones are heavenly. Definitely recommend! read more