Massage Therapy: Ethics and Etiquette
By Brittany at 4 November, 2009, 5:48 am
Individuals may seek a massage for a host of reasons, such as relaxation, stress relief, improved flexibility and rehabilitative purposes. The power of touch can provide a certain level of healing. Establishing a comfort level in a professional setting is a two way street. The therapist should set boundaries with the client to avoid a potentially embarrassing situation. Additionally, the client should express to the therapists his or her level of comfort during an intimate situation.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage therapists have a strict code of ethics that they must uphold in order to maintain a professional and safe environment for both the client and themselves.
Code of Ethics for Massage Therapists
1) No sexual activity between the client and the massage therapist is tolerable.
2) No harm must come to a client’s physical, mental or emotional well-being.
3) Respect the right to privacy and confidentiality
4) Do not discriminate or present prejudicial behavior towards patients or colleagues.
5) Project a professional image and perform all business and professional tasks within the scope of the practice.
6) Commit to providing the highest quality massage therapy.
7) Engage in continued education opportunities. Self-assess strengths, weaknesses and effectiveness on a continual basis.
Individuals who are new to massage therapy always express confusion about how much clothing is appropriate to remove. While it is perfectly acceptable to remove all clothing during a full body massage, some clients feel more comfortable remaining in their under garments. A professional massage therapist adhering to the code of conduct will ask the client to undress to their comfort level. Then the patient will lie on the table beneath a sheet, and the massage therapist will only uncover the part of the body that is receiving therapy.
Unclothed private parts are generally not considered appropriate during a massage therapy session. This restriction is outlined in the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. If the client is touched inappropriately or issues a sexual request, this can result in ethical and legal ramifications.
Privacy should be respected between client and therapist at all times. No one can be refused service for prejudicial reasons. It is not acceptable for a licensed massage therapist to engage in a romantic relationship or date a paying client. In some states, clients are not allowed to date therapists for two years after the last session to protect both parties. The client and the massage therapist should respect each other as if they were colleagues in a professional environment.
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