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We suggest that the male student be extra careful about informed consent, about boundaries, about professional dress and about communication in general, Schwartz continues.

She also says they let male therapists know that they will probably have an easier time if they work in a medical or sports-oriented setting because employers and clients in both of those areas are accustomed to male practitioners. Schwartz says one school also suggests that the male students consider doing chair massage as an introduction to their table massage, so that the client becomes more comfortable with and trusting of the male therapist. Other schools make sure to have a successful male therapist on business panels so that the students can ask specific questions about these issues, she adds.

WHAT'S A THERAPIST TO DO?

Gender preference or bias, with its enigmatic origins and complex personal issues, does seem to be a roadblock for some men in massage therapy. Whether client preference for male or female massage therapists is based on past experiences, social norms or fears, many massage schools recognize that they need to prepare their studentsespecially malesfor what they may encounter after they graduate. However, schools can only do so much to prepare massage therapists for these issues when they start to practicethe rest is up to the individual.

[At Bancroft] we let male therapists know the reality is that they may run into this issue of people wanting female therapists a lot but not to let it discourage them, says Hurd. He says the important thing is how you respond to that rejection, noting it often takes up to three years to develop the client base you would like. Hurd also emphasizes the importance of marketing to the clients you want to see. You should also put your marketing efforts into getting the clients you want. When [youre] clear on that, seek that client. What do those clients do? Where do they go? What do they read?

Scott Lesieura therapist licensed for nine years who works at a hot springs resort and spa in Washington says he frequently encounters women who request female therapists at the spa where he works. So he decided to build good word-of-mouth by coaching the people who schedule the appointments. They can say [to a hesitant client], You know, Ive had Scott work on me. Its easier when they are comfortable with my touch, he says.

Another invaluable tip Lesieur received was to start off with a less intimate massage, so he purchased a chair. If you touch people with clothes on, they are more likely to feel comfortable and then come back. After five minutes of working on their shoulders, they think Well, maybe I will let a male work on me, Lesieur says.

Which may hint at the key aspect of all successful strategies weakening negative perceptions about male massage therapists might need to be accomplished one client at a time. Female massage therapists certainly dont find working in the field effortless either, and of course, all lines of work have their own trials and rewards.

If youre an independent contractor, no matter what business youre in, you will face obstacles, says Hurd. They can either bring you down and destroy your business or you can get past them. If you really have the desire and drive to be a massage therapist, you will be one if you stick to it.

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