How do I choose a massage therapist?

A: There are some important considerations when choosing a massage therapist.  

Credentials

First, look for or ask for their credentials. Most states require a therapist to be licensed. This generally means that they have completed their education at an approved school and have also successfully passed an exam for licensure approved by a regulating agency. In Florida that agency is the Department of Health.  

Continuing Education

Ask your LMT (licensed massage therapist) what modalities they are certified in. In many fields, professionals are expected to continue their education. Massage therapy is no exception. In massage school, Swedish massage is the standard taught. Most LMTs learn new massage modalities as a CEU (continuing educational unit). Massage modalities run the gamut and will be addressed in greater detail in an upcoming Q&A. To suffice, let’s say that a mother-to-be might seek a therapist who specializes in pregnancy massage or if you are in chronic pain, you might seek a therapist certified in Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release or Cranio-sacral. There are hundreds of modalities, so there is sure to be one that resonates with you and you particular needs. 

Referrals

Massage Therapy is a very personalized service. Referrals are perhaps one of the most comfortable approaches for choosing a therapist. Ask family and friends. You can also look for a therapist on the websites of massage associations. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and the Associated Bodyworkers and Massage Professional (ABMP) are two national massage associations.  Both refer massage therapists who are members of their organizations.* Many States also have associations with therapist referrals. 

Here is the web information for the nationals associations:

• AMTA www.findamassagetherpist.org
• ABMP www.massagetherapy.com

  Next month, please return to find out what to do before, during and after your massage session.