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Choosing the right Massage Therapist can be challenging.  It is not uncommon to hear comments from individuals who have considered massage therapy, but were concerned it may result in a costly disappointment.  I understand this concern - especially in these economic times.  Perhaps the following tips will ease the process of finding the best practitioner to meet your alternative healthcare needs.

Step 1:
If you have never experienced Massage Therapy, you may want to consider the type of massage you are seeking.  Do you have specific areas of discomfort that effect your daily life or are you looking for some time to simply unwind and relax?  Relaxation is a significant element, however, Massage Therapy is much more than a luxury or spa treatment.  It has become a widely used tool in the medical field and offers various modalities.  The benefits can have an enormous influence on our bodies ability to maintain and heal itself.  If you are searching for relief in a specific area, briefly communicate any symptoms or issues to the therapist.  A licensed practitioner will customize a treatment session to meet your needs.


Step 2:
Make a list of practitioners in your area.  Start with friends and family members for possible referrals. Also check on-line with massage therapy organizations such as American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)  http://www.amtamassage.org/findamassage/locator.aspx.  Each state has certification or licensing requirements.  If you live in Ohio, a massage therapist must have an Ohio state medical license.  A Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) is trained to treat specific areas of pain and dysfunction in addition to relaxation.

Step 3:
Call each prospect on your list to speak directly with the therapist before scheduling an appointment.  You may want to prepare a list of questions in advance.  I've included a few sample questions to get you started.

    1. What are your massage credentials and experience?  (Does the therapist have a license to perform massage and do they have experience in the type of massage you are seeking?)

    2. What is the actual "hands on" time period?  (If you are paying for a 60 minute session, you deserve 60 minutes of therapy.  Not all establishments or therapists share this philosphy as paperwork and dressing time is often included in the scheduled session period.)

    3. What kind of oil or lotion is used?  (This can be critical if you have skin allergies or are sensitive to ingredients.  It is important to inform the therapist of these issues when making the appointment.)

    4.  What kind of environment is provided?  (Examples of preferred amenities might include: a quiet room with a peaceful setting; a building with easy access or minimal traffic; first floor entrance or elevator access.


  
Step 4:
Evaluate your findings from the phone interviews and schedule an appointment.  If you end up with several possibilities, go with your gut.  Hold on to the other names and numbers for future reference.

Step 5:
Know the exact location of the appointment and arrive a few minutes early.  Take a deep breath - and enjoy!