If pain or restricted movement is interrupting your life, you may be considering physical therapy, the Amari Method, or both. Here is what you can expect from Amari and how it differs from licensed physical therapy.
The main difference
Physical therapy is healthcare provided by licensed professionals. It can include individualized movement, education, and hands-on care. Patients participate in their care; the approach depends on their needs and goals. Read how the American Physical Therapy Association describes physical therapy.
Amari offers one-on-one, hands-on guided movement to reduce pain and move more freely. You do the movements while Garrett Hewstan adjusts the setup and guidance around your feedback. Amari does not diagnose or treat medical conditions and does not replace medical care.
What happens in an Amari Assessment?
Your first visit is private, in person in San Francisco, and lasts 60 minutes. It costs $49. Start with the pain or restricted movement getting in your way and what you want to get back to doing. Garrett sees how you move and guides you through movements and positions, paying attention to your response. A substantial change can happen in the first session. You then discuss whether continuing would be useful. Read what happens in your first Assessment.
You take part in the work
You move, breathe, engage, and notice what changes. Garrett provides hands-on support and adjusts the setup as you go. Through continued participation, you can develop familiarity with movements to return to outside your appointments. See how the guided movement works.
Compare the practical details
| Detail | Physical therapy | Amari Method |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | An individualized healthcare plan. | Guided movement with hands-on support. |
| Participation | Movement and education tailored to your needs and goals. | Active movement, breath, and feedback as Garrett adjusts the guidance. |
| First visit | Ask the provider about the evaluation, length, and cost. | A private, 60-minute, $49 Assessment in San Francisco. |
| Continuing | Discuss the plan and progress with your physical therapist. | Discuss what changed in the Assessment and whether further guidance fits your goals. |
| Medical care | Licensed healthcare. | A movement practice that does not diagnose or treat medical conditions. |
When to seek medical guidance
Ask your clinician about new or worsening symptoms, an acute injury, recent surgery, or a serious diagnosis before booking. A website comparison cannot determine what is causing your pain or which care you need.
Can I continue physical therapy while trying Amari?
Discuss adding a movement practice with your physical therapist or clinician. Tell Garrett about your current care and any restrictions. An Amari Assessment is a separate experience; it is not a reason to stop prescribed care.
How many Amari sessions will I need?
There is no preset number or recovery timeline. Start with the Assessment, notice your response, and discuss whether continued guidance fits your goals. Further sessions build on the work.
Choosing your next step
If you need medical evaluation or rehabilitation, discuss that with an appropriate licensed professional. If you want to experience Amari's hands-on guided movement, start with a private $49 Assessment in San Francisco. You can experience the work before deciding whether to continue.
Garrett has spent 25+ years in hands-on practice. He built the Amari Method after using its own protocols to resolve his own carpal tunnel and plantar fasciitis.
