Things to Consider when Choosing a Massage Therapist

When choosing a massage therapist there are many choices to consider.  For instance, style of massage, prior interpersonal relationships, travel time, safety, and level of comfort all play impactful roles when choosing a massage therapist.  

Depending on the country/region you reside in, there are varying levels of certifying bodies that allow one to legally practice massage therapy.  For example, if a massage therapist wishes to pursue a career in the state of New York, they must first obtain their state licensure from the New York State Department of Education(NYSDOE).  This comes in direct opposition to Kansas, which has no state-level regulation.  Without disregarding therapists that practice sans a certification/license, some clients do hold reservations towards practicing therapists who lack the same state/national awarded allowances to practice.  It is not to be assumed that therapists without certs/licenses are impotent therapists, but it is a factor that can sway the public perception of the public when viewing a massage therapist's credentials. 

Once you have checked a massage therapist's credentials and are satisfied with a legally practicing therapist, it is very important to establish boundaries, and listen to theirs.  Some therapists have a massage curfew time to dissuade client’s from inappropriate late-night temptations.  Others may turn away clients who possess health conditions the therapists may feel inept to work on.  Sometimes a highly skilled therapist simply doesn’t offer quite the touch you’re looking for, despite performing a very professional massage.  As convenient as it may seem to find one massage therapist and stick with them for as long as you wish to receive massage as a treatment, it may be worth reaching out to multiple massage therapists to meet your needs at different stages in your life.  

As alluring as a jack-of-all trades massage therapist may appear to a client interested in varying their treatment styles throughout time, I would suggest approaching a therapist who specializes, or at the least has considerable experience in the type of massage you wish to receive.  Fluctuating activities, injuries, and medical conditions can and will heavily influence the style of massage you will look to receive, and because of this, it is vital to encounter therapists who possess the specialty in which you are looking for.  

Lastly, for those actively searching for a massage therapist, I would suggest using the American Massage Therapy Association(amta) national locator service.  I offer good fortune to those of you in search of a massage therapist, whatever your bodywork needs may be.