Massage Therapist or Masseuse

I am often asked about what the difference are between a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and a Masseuse. These lines can be a bit blurred as many RMT are working in the expanding spa industry, and with many private programs advertising “Spa Therapy” courses. Here in BC, only people that complete 3000 hours of clinical hours from an accredited college, upon passing the Provincial Board Exams can use the word “Therapist”.

Following suite, the only people allowed to use the words “massage therapy” are legally allowed to render massage as a therapy under primary healthcare. This is why only RMT’s are used under extended health care. Another common question I get is why spa technicians or other spa employees are legally allowed to do massage in BC spas? The answer is as they are only trained in Swedish or basic relaxation body work on healthy people for the soul purpose of relaxation. Often RMT’s will work in the spa environment to help generate income while building their own practices up, or will work there for the love of relaxation work. Although this can be confusing for the public when trying to differentiate between therapy and relaxation, it is also a great way to promote massage therapy and it is a common place for first massage exposure.

To ensure that you are getting your needs meet while in a spa be sure to ask if the person rendering your massage is an RMT, or someone focused on relaxation. Be sure if you do have any health concerns to let the spa know in advance so that they can have the best trained and most suited person provide your service. In regards to clinics, wellness centers and offices most will be RMT’s, however; it never hurts to confirm in order to ensure your reimbursement from you extended health.

Bev Spidle, RMT