As a client, it can be hard to find a massage therapist who is the right fit. There are many options to choose from and it can be hard to know who is in fact “authentic” in their practice.
It’s quite a lucrative job market out there in RMT land these days. With more schools in BC now pumping out more new grads then ever, advertising campaigns for massage colleges offer grads “the job of a lifetime”, “almost 100% hiring rates” and “be your own boss”. Sounds great, sign me up!
What many therapists don’t realize is that in reality, building a practice is actually a HUGE amount of work. Just because you get a job, doesn’t mean you will be busy or making any money.
This is an example of where the lines of authenticity can be blurred. Massage therapy in many respects, is a business as well as a practice. As with other health care practitioners such a Chiro, Physio, Acupuncture and so on, the pressure to fill the schedule with returning clients is high.
Guidance from your therapists about re-booking treatments for your individual needs and care is helpful and necessary. Depending on the reason for your visit, multiple treatments may be suggested. That being said, if you get the feeling that you’re more the target of a  pressured sales pitch, this should raise a red flag.
As a client, if you’re unsure if your RMT is the right fit, assessing whether the vibe you get from your therapist is authentic or not may help you find an RMT that can better compliment your needs. An authentic therapist is holding your best interest in mind, will take the time to get to know you, understand your lifestyle and personality and with that, create a treatment plan and booking schedule that is right for you.
What are some of the ways that your massage therapist shows they are authentic?
Carrie