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I'm a participant in the Respect Massage awareness movement. You might wonder why it even needs to be addressed, however the are many ways people don't respect massage. Heck, even the state finally stopped referring to massage therapy as "massage parlor" in business codes in 2022! The following entails some direct and very frank language because, unfortunately it needs to be to dissuade predators.
To begin, folks make a lot of assumptions about therapy that involves touch. I still get calls, texts, and emails making inappropriate requests. Some are direct and others use coded language. As an LMT, I'm licensed in NYS as a Health Care Practitioner. That means that LMT's follow guidelines set by the state. They include proper draping requirements to keep private parts private, while administering non-sexual therapeutic massage.
As a client there are things you can do to help keep me and other LMT's stay safe. Please follow appropriate scheduling etiquette, no texting. Always stay appropriately covered on the table. Never undress in front of or flash your therapist. Please follow basic personal space etiquette and have a seat in the chair provided for you. Don't block the door. Never touch yourself, grind on or relieve yourself on the table in any manner. Never seek or request work that arouses you. Leaving wet spots on the table is unacceptable. If there's a medically diagnosed incontinence issue please communicate that to your therapist. (Please empty your bladder before your session and wear your underwear/liner to eliminate/minimize accidents.)
When you're recommending an LMT to a friend or family member, be sure to explain that inappropriate actions, remarks, arousal seekers and solicitations aren't permitted. Any inappropriate requests or actions will trespass that person from my practice indefinitely. Zero tolerance.
Please help LMT's safely work by honoring and respecting massage therapy in your actions and in who you recommend to us.
