Issues in Massage Therapy
One of the things I’m really sensitive about as a massage therapist is the unfortunate and continuing association with prostitution. The Alabama Board of Massage Therapy has regulations that govern the manner in which we can advertise and how we conduct our business. These laws are in place in order to foster a sense of professionalism, legitimacy and to disassociate our profession with that of the older one. These laws also serve as a resource pointing to changes being made and asking the public to examine their preconceptions. This is an issue in massage therapy that’s been around for a long time; it’s time to change it.
So when I watched the local news this morning I was dismayed to see that two separate “spas” were raided and arrests were made for allegedly promoting prostitution. Reading the story online (link is unfortunately, broken) made me pretty sure that none of the people arrested are trained and licensed massage therapists.
Perhaps you’re one of us who don’t think of massage therapy and prostitution in the same realm. Unfortunately, we are the exception. Even my own grandmother was worried when I took up this new path into massage therapy.
So what can we do?
Well, if you get a massage, tell people. Tell people how it made you feel better and safe. Good PR never hurts.
If you experience something during a massage that makes you suspect you’re being propositioned or if someone blatantly offers you a sexual favor, report it to the local authorities and the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy.
When stories like this hit the airwaves, I cringe inside and wonder if we’ll ever win this battle. I choose to believe, though, that every day is an opportunity to educate someone to the benefits of safe, therapeutic touch making the pool of like-minded individuals larger than it was yesterday.
If you’re interested in reading more about this topic, check out the articles and resources I’ve linked below.
A Client’s Bill of Rights
How to Get a Massage Therapist License in Alabama
End Human Trafficking – Alabama
National Human Trafficking Task Force – 1-888-373-7888
Updated: 12/16/2023
Sharon Bryant at Harvest Moon Massage Therapy
is Decatur’s Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage Therapist!
I know this sounds odd, but our local massage school combated this “feeling” by teaming up with the local running and triathlon groups. They’re the ones that give massages after the bigger races.
The school’s logo is on all of our race brochures/t-shirts/etc. and so now it has more of a “sporty” feeling than a red light district.
I love them!!