Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Registered Massage Therapist? Is there a difference between an RMT and a massage therapist?

Registered Massages Therapists (RMTs) or Massage Therapists (MTs) are equivalent protected titles that designate individuals licensed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). These health professionals practice under the CMTO’s rules and regulations.

The use of these titles is restricted under the Regulated Health Professions Act 1991, (RHPA) and the Massage Therapy Act, 1991 (MTA). In order to become members of the CMTO and practice massage, RMTs complete a training program from a Private Career College under the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Upon completion of their studies, they must successfully pass two registrations exams (a practical and a theory-based component) issued by the CMTO.

Why get a massage?

Your massage therapist plays an integral part of you comprehensive multi-disciplinary healthcare team.

Although massage is mostly known to help with relaxation and muscle tension, it is a very versatile modality that can help with and treat a variety of conditions.

Who should book a massage?

Massage therapy is for all ages.

Individuals with physical or mental conditions/challenges can be treated so long as the therapist thinks the client has the ability to make informed decisions on their behalf. They may be accompanied by a substitute decision maker as defined by the Province of Ontario. If a substitute decision maker has not been designated, the following individuals, ranked in order, may be present: guardian of the person, spouse or partner, child, parent, access parent, sibling, other relative.

What should I expect during my first visit?

For your first visit, you will be asked to complete a confidential health history form. This will be reviewed with you in the treatment room; your therapist may ask you additional questions in order to obtain a clearer picture of your situation and provide you with the best possible care.

If you are seeking treatment for a specific condition, there will likely be some testing and assessment that will allow your therapist to establish an individualized plan of treatment.

Your massage therapist will be using their hands, forearms, and elbows to treat your body.

What should I wear during my massage?

When it is time to start the massage, your massage therapist will leave the room to let you settle on the table, under the sheets. At this point you may remove as much or as little clothing as you are comfortable with. Usually people tend to keep underwear on; some do not. Your massage therapist will only ever undrape the areas being worked on

In situations where individuals are not necessarily seeking relaxation but a more active and cooperative approach to treatment, they may wear athletic shorts and a sports bra if needed and the treatment may not be under sheets.

What oil/lotion will be used? What if I’m allergic to certain ingredients?

If you are aware you have allergies, please advise your RMT before your treatment.

Depending on the treatment, gel, lotion, wax, or cream may be used. If you have a specific preference, please feel free to bring your own to the treatment.

What if I don’t like what the Massage Therapist is doing?

The quality of the treatment received will largely be influenced by the level of communication between you and the practitioner. Your therapist will check in regularly concerning pressure, techniques being used, and areas being treated, however you may also inform them of your preferences, concerns, and changes of heart; although you may have agreed upon a certain treatment with your massage therapist, you always have the right to rescind that consent and change your mind even once the treatment has started.

Please feel comfortable asking questions or requesting clarifications, asking for more or less pressure at any time during your appointment.

Please let your therapist know if you would rather they avoid getting lotion in your hair, or if there are certain areas you would like excluded from the treatment.

How long should I book for?

Appointments can be 45, 60, 75, or 90 minutes.

A full body massage or a massage treating at least 3 areas of the body will require at least 60 minutes.

When is massage therapy a bad idea?

Massage therapy is completely contraindicated with the following conditions:

• Fever, acute infections, or any contagious disease

• Contagious or undiagnosed skin conditions

• Signs of thrombosis (blood clot)

It is locally contraindicated with:

• Bruises, cuts, open wounds, or burns

• Broken bones

• Acute inflammation

• Varicose veins

Tips for a successful treatment

Please turn off your phone before entering the treatment room. Save for emergency calls, it is a distraction to both you and the practitioner.

Please remove all jewelry around your neck, fingers, wrists, ankles, and toes if they are areas you would like treated in your massage.

*Cancellation & Late Policy*