I've had more massages than I can count over the past five years, and Taylor stands head and shoulders above them all. He has magic hands--which is striking when those hands belong to a 6'4" gentle giant who moves your body with the precision and tenderness of a craftsman. He reads what you need almost immediately and delivers it with total confidence: deep pressure that actually goes deep, stretches that find the exact angle, movements that feel both powerful and completely safe. What makes him exceptional is the combination--technically masterful, genuinely kind and grounded, and humble about being this skilled. His space is thoughtfully designed, from the lighting to every small detail that makes it feel warm and inviting. Easy parking, fair rates. I hope you can squeeze into his almost always full schedule--do it, take whatever spot he gives you, you will be glad you did! read more

Taylor is an outstanding massage therapist. Great deep tissue work! The location and parking was easy and accessible.

I've been going to Taylor for about 2-3 years now for massages about every 2 months. I originally sought someone who does deep tissue and learned that Taylor exceeded my expectations, as he performed medical massage, which had much more to do with other elements of the body (that go beyond my expertise). I had been to other massage therapists, who may have specialized in something more relaxing, but given I wanted something to serve me for my health and functional well-being, Taylor has been a great fit for me. I leave almost every time feeling looser and more connected with my body. Aside from the massage part, I enjoy Taylor's personality, including quips and wittiness. I do not mind conversation during massage, as I believe human connection (even during a massage) is more enjoyable than falling asleep during it. I know this may not be for everyone, but it has worked out for me on many fronts. Given my criteria, I highly recommend Taylor. read more

Absolutely amazing! I am almost 50 years old and Taylor is the most educated and professional massage therapist I've ever worked with. I do really physical work for my job. He is great at targeting problem areas, which mine tend to change with every visit. He can deliver a strong or light touch depending on what you need. I've referred him to my husband and my sister who all agree that he is the BEST! He did a prenatal massage for my sister and she was not disappointed. It can be difficult trusting someone right away when you are 7 months pregnant, but he took great care of my sister and she said she finally slept really really well! I reluctantly submit this review just because Taylor works too much! His fees are too reasonable for the high quality of his work. He's been a long standing local business with a great reputation. More than 5 stars! read more

TLDR; Dude is legit. As a massage therapist myself I am very picky when it comes to massage, so I actually don't get very many. The first thing he said to me when we begun the massage was basically "Whatever you want in the massage I will do if you to walk me through what you want I'll do my best." That is super rare, and I've only had one other massage therapist ever say that to me. It's also the mark of a good massage therapist. Extra bonus points is we did actually get to do my style of massage, or at least as close as I could instruct and I left feeling way better than I came in. He also employed quite a few techniques that I myself find super helpful in a massage that I don't see many others use. Not a shocker but Taylor is booked out basically months in advance as well as a wait list, so if you want a same day appointment it might be hard to get a session. read more

Taylor is such a good choice!! He is very professional and knows what he's talking about. He's really attentive during the massage and focuses on areas that may need a little help. He even gives you tips on managing the issue and is really invested in how you progress. read more

Taylor is great! He as very professional and made me feel safe with all the precautions he's taking due to COVID restrictions. He's very social and likes to talk to you, which makes the session more fun and interesting. His massage is strong and firm, and really did wonders to help me relax and feel better. You can tell he's very experienced and knows what he's doing. Will come back here next time I need some knots worked out! read more

It is a fact: Taylor is one of the best massage therapists I have ever encountered. I have a very short list of people who I would recommend without hesitation and he's on it. Taylor has about a bajillion hours of training - despite this, he has managed to retain a sensitive and intuitive touch in his massage practice. He will go as deep as you need and is great about sensing the limits of his clients. Personally, I prefer deep, therapeutic massage - leave all the frou-frou fluttering spa crap where it belongs -- I want my muscles stretched in the right places so they can relax in new ways without getting back into bad habits. Taylor is the man to do this - and reminiscing on his massages for this review makes me wonder - why haven't I scheduled a massage yet? Why haven't you? read more

Taylor is so good at his craft that he's booked out 7 months. My wife and I have tried many different massage therapists over the years and are very thankful we found Taylor. He's truly the best. We both see him regularly for therapeutic bodywork -- he is incredibly strong, understands body mechanics and leverage, and knows how to find knots you never knew existed and really get in there. The fact that he's also funny, interesting, and can hold a conversation is a bonus! read more

I will agree with all the other reviews that Taylor is not the guy you want if you're looking for a relaxing, spa-like experience. However, thanks to my fellow Yelpers, I was able to figure out that he would probably be good to help me relieve the chronic pain in my neck and low back. Taylor combines a number of massage styles to achieve the goals you discuss at the beginning of your session. He describes his philosophy/style pretty well on his website. I've had mostly deep tissue massages previously, but Taylor's style is more active and geared towards increasing mobility and working out kinks. He will stretch your limbs in various directions while working muscles and trigger points. He definitely checked in with me frequently about the amount of pressure, especially during some of the more intense trigger points. I can't believe he managed to get my chronically contracted neck and low back muscles to relax! The other great thing about Taylor is the hours he offers. He works evenings and weekends. I went to the Downtown Berkeley location, and it was very conveniently located across University Ave from the Trader Joe's. I'll definitely be back, probably for the multi-session discount. read more

I found my time with Taylor to be the most helpful, effective and rewarding of any bodywork I've received. An injury had left me with chronic pain, frozen shoulders, lower back and hip pain. For 3 years I worked with orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, an osteopath and a physiatrist. They were all helpful in different ways. Still, I walked with a cane and often needed help with mundane tasks. Obviously my situation was horribly complex and it took time to sort out. Over the course of a few months working with Taylor my range of motion returned to that of an average person (still working towards pre-injury flexibility), and my pain became much more manageable. As my activities increased sometimes I'd overdue it, but Taylor always brought back the balance and alignment... it was like he guided my body back to what it was supposed to be. I fondly remember leaving after my first session, thinking to myself... I feel like a house that's just had its foundation shored up... all angles and underlying structure true again. And I swear I was at least an inch taller. In short, Taylor addresses the body as a whole, with an educated and grounded understanding of structures and function. He skillfully guides the body back to where its supposed to be... and bodies everywhere thank him for it! read more

What else could I say about Taylor that I haven't already said? In the past 4 months I have increased the frequency and intensity of my workouts, in addition to training for a half marathon. Additional hours spent hunched over my laptop haven't helped things much either. Taylor is able to fix all the tension and knots I've accumulated in my hips, hamstrings and shoulders. His work now lasts about 6 to 8 weeks which allow me to go back and abuse my muscles all over again! When you leave his table, he is genuinely concerned that your issues have been addressed, not just in that moment, but for the weeks and months to come. Having been the recipient of some less than stellar services from other providers recently, those experiences have made Taylor stand out more for being professional, punctual, courteous, sincere, a great listener and telling the corniest jokes I've ever heard (they are needed to distract you from the pain he is about to inflict on some poor unsuspecting muscle). After 3+ years of his massages, I would still highly recommend his services. read more

If you want a nice relaxing massage that will put you to sleep, don't go to Taylor. If you want to feel results for days after the massage and are OK with a little pain to get those results, Taylor is the guy for you. I started going to Taylor when I was about 7 months pregnant. My body was jacked. He was very knowledgeable about how to work on a pregnant body and generally made me feel SO much better. Now that I've had my baby, I don't get to see him as much, but he also understands how to work on a postpartum body (i.e. making sure you're able to get comfortable, engorged breasts and all). In my experience, it's hard to find people who really get these special needs and anticipate them for you and don't make you feel like an alien for requesting special accommodations. Tip: Taylor's schedule is crazy full, so plan ahead! Actually, please don't go to Taylor. It's already hard enough for me to schedule time with him! read more

This is SERIOUS bodywork! This is no fluffy, touchy, feelly stuff. Deep tissues; get to the point, stretch them, flip them, melt them. Your tension and knots are twisted and turned, prayed and pushed. This is no spa fluff. Your senses are awaken. You are on the threshold of pain and pleasure. You won't be falling asleep. Though I am sure Taylor can "fluff" and put you to sleep as well. But that would be a waste of his talents. Taylor is one of the few best that I have my body worked on. If you are a seasoned, frequent bodywork receiver, give Taylor a try. read more

Taylor is the kind of doctor that I want for me and my family. He is caring and nice and his work is fantastic. He listens first and adapts to what is best for you and your body. I went there because I was suffering from moderate back pain. Right after the massage (obviously not a relaxing massage) my back still hurt, which is what is supposed to happen when your muscles have been stretched considerably. After a few days all the pain is gone and I feel wonderful. Seriously, a great deal. He has some bundles you can benefit from if you need massages often. I will get one of the bundles for sure. read more

Taylor's massage is by far the most effective bodywork I have ever received. If you are seeking a spa-style relaxing rubdown or a spiritual mental experience, do not book with Taylor. His style won't be right for you, and you will take up space in his busy schedule for people who truly need his unique work. If you are seeking lasting results in your body, are willing to be an active participant in your massage, and can handle a little intensity, stop searching and call Taylor. He'll make you feel worse, but then you'll feel much better. read more

This is a very unique massage that is utalitarian in style. If you need a spa atmosphere, aromatherapy, reiki, or any other of the typical trappings of the bay area massage circuit, this is not it. If you need serious, deep tissue work that will truly unravel the knots and kinks, then come see Taylor. Bring your sense of humor and don't forget to breathe. This is not the kind of massage you will doze off through. Will definitely be returning. read more

I went to see Taylor for the first time today, he did a great job. He works hard to make everyone feel comfortable and takes his time to work through your aches and tension. Definitely will be back. read more

My girlfriend and I found Taylor about a year ago, when we stumbled upon him on Yelp. She was looking for the next great massage therapist that would erase all the pain she was feeling at the time, and I was intrigued by the availability of in-home massages. I saw him work out her muscles in a different way than I had ever seen in traditional massages, and after seeing that he wasn't a creeper (we had never had an in-home massage before) and honestly pretty funny and obviously very good at what he does, I started getting a session after my girl's. We both saw how he helped so much with the pain and tightness of our muscles, and has uncanny knack for getting in those spots that I had always wished massage therapists would really dig into and get that damned muscle to release! We see him regularly and it has done wonders for the pain in my upper shoulders/back from a desk job. He puts up with our dog being ridiculous during sessions, has a great and interesting outlook on life, and the only drawback is that now the 'traditional' massage you get at a spa just doesn't sound appealing anymore after having experienced Taylor's method of bodywork/massage. Taylor has truely helped two people who sits in front of a computer at least 10 hours a day! Tip: Buy the packages! It's a really good deal. read more

Taylor is the best! I get constant pain in my back and shoulders that often leads to terrible migraines/tension headaches, and a lot of regular uncomfortableness in my daily routine. I have seen him twice in the last 30 days (one 30min and one 60min treatment) and I am feeling so loose and relaxed. The nagging knots I have had in my upper back the last few months are almost nonexistent now. I feel like it is now easier to crack and stretch because I am feeling loose...this is extremely helpful in releasing any tension I feel coming on. Taylor can get very deep and intense, but if you can't hack it just tell him so and he will take it down a few notches to where you are comfortable. If you need someone to dig deep and really focus on your problem areas, he is the guy. He has the skills, talent and vigor to make you feel like you are walking on a cloud when you are done. Thanks Taylor! I'll be seeing you once a month! read more

I work at a desk and my back and shoulders are constantly a mess. I've tried all sorts of massage, but no one has been able to actually work the tension out. Much like fast food, I thought massages were always oily and unsatisfying. That's not a problem with Taylor. I now see him regularly, and always leave his office with a new range of motion because he has gotten normally stubborn muscles to relax. He's also funny, which helps. Highly recommended. read more

I'm thrilled to have found Taylor! His work is incredibly effective - the best I've experienced! As a fellow massage therapist, I can speak highly of his professionalism, knowledge and technique. I look forward to each appointment with Taylor as he helps put my body and mind back in line to better serve my own clients, better take care of my family, and help me with my own self-care needs. Currently, I'm pregnant and am so happy that Taylor is still able to manipulate my muscles and joints to alleviate discomfort associated with pregnancy and not just provide a "spa relaxation" massage that I would personally benefit less from at this uncomfortable time. Book in advance - he's popular! read more

Taylor reached out to me and sent a very nice note apologizing for my experience. He also offerred to remedy the situation via a refund or another massage. I thought that it was a) good business but it also seemed b) very genuine. I chose the refund and it came promptly. To me that warranted another star for his customer service. As I said in my first review, he is a nice guy and he is good at what he does, and it sound like from his communication he aims to remedy my complaint. read more

Taylor is magic, pure and simple. He's an amazingly intuitive massage therapist and I find he can work out kinks like no one else. I'm very sensitive, and my muscles seize up when most massage therapists attempt anything beyond light to medium pressure. Taylor has always been able to simply 'work in' very gently, and get amazing deep tissue results. read more

It was a happy coincidence that I woke up the morning of my scheduled appointment feeling stiff in my neck, as well as having my usual lower back pain. That way I got the most out of my session. I felt listened to. Taylor worked out knots that I hadn't even been aware of prior to the massage. Couldn't really have asked for more from my experience. I am generally broke but I definitely see myself returning when I can afford to do so. read more

My wife and I have been going to Taylor for his great massage work for over a year now, and I can't tell you how glad we are to have found him. His work is not fluffy or spa-y (at least not for us - he might be able to if you beg!) but it is exactly what we need: focused, knowledgable, and very effective. His schedule is very booked, but it's worth the wait. Think about it - you're going to want a massage in six months - book your future self one now and future you will thank past you in six months!! (Just don't take my time slot!!) read more

I'm what you might call a lifetime user and abuser of spa services. I play a lot of sports...keep messing up different parts of my body (rotator cuff, low back, neck). Then I find a good therapist...have them fix me up, and head right back out to do it all over again. Needless to say I really need someone to work me over when I receive massage therapy. Really work the kinks and knots out in a pleasure/pain threshold sorta way. I found exactly what I was looking for with Taylor. I talked with Taylor and he listened. All my issues front and center. And gave me one of the best massages, let alone first time massages, that I've ever had. He really knows his stuff! I felt refreshed, renewed and re-energized. Ready for more! Its WELL worth the short trip over the Bay Bridge. read more

I had my first massage with Taylor and bought a package soon there after. I had been looking for good massage therapists in the East Bay for 2 years and hadn't found anyone decent at all. There are so many massage therapists who don't use enough pressure or know how to really work with muscles, deep tissue, sports injuries, etc. Taylor is strong, he's experienced and knows how to find muscle tension and figure it out. He's also a super down to earth guy, and is fun to chat with! read more

Professional. On time. Strong and healthy. Excellent 'bedside' manner. I am a giggler during massage because I tickle easily, his method didn't trigger any of that. Excellent deep tissue pressure. Helped to heal my neck strain from a month long motorcycle trip. read more

Stress, a sedentary office job, and a pinch of aging thrown in for good measure, provide me with a recipe for stiffness and aches. So, I need to get a good massage now and then. Actually, I should get a good massage much more often than I do... After reading some of the reviews here, I decided to contact Taylor. He is in high demand, but I lucked out with a couple of cancellations and have seen him twice in the past couple of months. And I have been more than pleased--in awe, really--with, first and foremost: his talented HANDS. But he has impressive knowledge and communication skills as well. He knows his stuff, is happy to share what he knows, and he asks what I need and checks in as he goes along. He is sweet, smart, strong, professional, and the icing on the cake--he has a great personality and sense of humor! After a session with Taylor, I feel like I have been taken apart and rebuilt: from my scalp, to my problematic trapezius, to my fingers and toes. But don't take my word for it--go see him! read more

Today I had my second massage with Taylor and "wow." Being no fan of wimpy spa massages and looking for someone who can get in there with depth, skill and sensitivity, I am thrilled to have found Taylor. I am a man who works out a lot and have had a hard time finding massage therapists that can work very deeply to get out the kinks resulting from weightlifting, years of martial arts and long periods of meditation practice. With Taylor it seems I have found the right person. I was referred to him by my acupuncturist who referred to him as a master of bodywork. That description has been true to my experience. read more

I can walk again! Taylor was recommended by a friend and I am grateful for the suggestion. I have some degeneration going on in my foot that leaves me unable to walk except with pain. Taylor gently, and intuitively, worked through the problem, leaving me able to walk without limping and feeling marvelous! For the moderate pricing, it's well worth a more expensive massage by far. Thank you Mr. Taylor! [yes, I will return for another session] read more

Taylor is the real deal! I read the reviews on Yelp and set up an appointment. I've gone twice now and it was no fluke! For sure it was not one of those fall asleep on the table massages - and that isn't what I wanted. Taylor did say he could take it down a notch or two but I figured "in for a penny, in for a pound" and let it ride. I'm glad I did. I had some serious lower back pain and now it is gone. Just like that - for reals. Nice place, quiet, easy parking (though I ride my bike) and generally a really good experience all around. Do it! read more

I've been seeing Taylor for years; it would be hard for me to find anyone more respectful of my body and mind. He's receptive to feedback, and I leave feeling looser and more limber every time. He's also an excellent conversationalist on a wide range of subjects and has become a good friend over the years. The only disadvantage is how far in advance he's scheduled, but if you're willing to wait, it's absolutely worth it. read more

I cannot give enough praise to Taylor for his skills with massage. To make things even better, he has moved to a new office closer to my home! I work a sedentary job, am not in super great shape, and have issues with my neck and shoulders from an old workplace injury. His work may hurt sometimes, but he will always pull back if you ask, and checks in often if you are not piping up enough to guide his work. I have been seeing him for a while now and count myself very very lucky. I always feel revitalized the following morning and this continues on into the week. Mobility and pain level are always improved after a session with him. He is a genuinely nice guy and is a fun conversationalist. This makes a big difference when you come to a therapist in pain and you know that the treatment will involve a little pain to encourage the body to behave again. Thank you Taylor! read more

I've seen at least a dozen different massage therapists over the years and Taylor is definitely the best. If you want a spa massage, you should probably look else where. But if you have some trouble spots that need work, hee really knows how to work out the kinks! He's also a pretty funny guy and makes me chuckle a few times pretty much every appointment. read more

The best deep tissue massage I've ever received. Taylor knows how to release the most stubborn knots. If you're looking for a gentle Swedish massage this is not for you. If you want deep work to release tension, stress and deeply locked knots he's the guy to see. Great location, easy to find, good package price and no questions asked when you submit through FSA - the package was approved automatically. He's definitely submitted all his credentials, medical cods - sure made it easy as no questions were asked and immediately approved. Highly recommend. Appointments hard to come by as he's in high demand but it sure is worth getting on his wait list. read more

Taylor is a man of mad skill! I've been to many massage therapists over the years and Taylor impresses me every time with his knowledge and therapeutic hands. He has the 'know how' to work on specific, isolated areas and the strength to work incredibly deep for those who love it! Taylor doesn't distract you with any fluff but get's down to business to help you with your 'target' areas. I feel absolutely amazing when we've finished our session. The best part is that he'll come to your home too! read more

Taylor is a gifted massage therapist. He has a knack for finding the stuck "stuff", and getting it un-stuck. Incredible deep tissue work. I always feel grounded, seen, heard, and like my range of motion has massively increased (probably because it has!) after I leave. read more

I just wanted to update this review - It's been a few months since I've started seeing Taylor and it's still a wonderful experience. When I feel like something is getting sore and/or just not feeling right (from either the EDS-Hyper-mobility or the fibro), I make an appointment. I feel so much better afterwards - not just that day either but for a couple of weeks. Seeing him has led me to be able to do more physical therapy stuff for my condition which has led to overall better functioning. I've also been to both of his spaces (Berkeley & Albany). Berkeley is closer to me and a nice place but like the feel of the Albany office a bit more. PS If you are looking for a very "spa" type, soft/petting massage, Taylor may not be for you. I have absolutely nothing against that kind of massage but it just doesn't do it for me. read more