What to look for in a qualified massage therapist

Massage therapy has been used for millennia for its therapeutic benefits. Today, it often sits alongside other healthcare practices such as physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic. But did you know that massage therapy as an industry is unregulated in the UK?

Unlike osteopathy, chiropractic and physiotherapy, massage therapy is not currently regulated by law. Those professions have protected titles and must meet strict standards in education, training and practice in order to stay registered.

Because of this, it’s important to know what to look for when choosing someone to work with your body safely and effectively.

Massage therapy is different. Instead of statutory regulation, therapists can choose to join voluntary regulatory bodies such as the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), or Professional Associations such as the Sports Massage Association (SMA) and the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT).

These organisations hold voluntary registers and set Codes of Conduct covering professionalism, qualifications, insurance, and ongoing CPD (continuing professional development).

Many therapists are highly dedicated to their craft - keeping up to date with new developments, learning new modalities, and working hard to provide safe, effective, personalised care.

What to look for in a massage therapist

Finding the right soft tissue therapist can feel overwhelming. A helpful way to narrow things down is to check that they are::

·        Fully qualified (Level 3, 4 or 5 — and now Level 6 is also available in the UK)

·        Insured

·        A member of a recognised Professional Association

Asking a therapist about their qualifications is a good starting point as comprehensive training is delivered practically, over months, rather than as a weekend course or online.

Professional Associations also require insurance and set minimum CPD requirements, so asking which association a therapist belongs to, and whether they complete CPD annually, can give you a good sense of their professionalism and dedication to their craft.

Despite all of this, one of the most important factors in effective treatment is trust.

At Movement Matters, we aim to ensure you feel comfortable, listened to, and fully informed. We’re honest about our areas of expertise and we work holistically to support your wellbeing.  Sometimes the best course of action is referral to another practitioner whose skills are better suited to your needs. We want the best outcome for you: a pain-free, healthy, and happy existence. 

Working with us

Dagmar is a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) and Ruth is a member of the Sports Massage Association (SMA).

We are both insured and complete annual CPD. Dagmar is continuing her studies by completing a Level 5 in Sports & Remedial Massage at the North London School of Sports Massage (NLSSM) part-time. 

Ready to work with a qualified therapist you can trust?

If you’d like to learn more about how massage therapy can support your wellbeing, we’d love to help. Book your appointment online now.