Why Standards of Practice Matter for Massage Therapy

AMTA is taking the lead in developing National Standards of Practice for massage therapy—an important step toward advancing safety, consistency, and quality across our profession. Once in place, these standards will provide a clear framework for delivering client-centered care that is ethical, informed, and aligned with best practices, no matter where you practice.

What the Massage Therapy Standards of Practice Will Do:

• Support ethical, client-focused care by guiding professional boundaries, respecting client autonomy, and safeguarding privacy.
• Set expectations for professional conduct including hygiene, communication, and documentation.
• Protect the public by ensuring safe, effective treatment and preventing harm.
• Strengthen trust in the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client.

How Standards Will Shape the Massage Profession:

• Establish benchmarks for training, competency, and professional development.
• Outline minimum qualifications for licensure—including education, examination, and specialized training.
• Emphasize important knowledge in pathophysiology, contraindications, and evidence-based practice to tailor care to each client’s needs.
• Encourage lifelong learning and continuing education, fostering professional growth.

Why This Matters to Massage Therapists:

• Will align massage therapy with legal and regulatory requirements nationwide.
• Promote collaboration with other healthcare providers.
• Enhance public confidence in massage therapy as a respected healthcare profession.
• Reduce liability risks and help the profession adapt to emerging health challenges.

Be a Part of the Change

This AMTA-led initiative is more than a set of guidelines—it’s a shared commitment to quality, accountability, and the advancement of therapeutic care. Your voice is essential in shaping these standards so they truly reflect the needs of massage therapists and the clients we serve. Throughout this process, we will actively engage with coalition partners, industry leaders, allied organizations, and our members to ensure every perspective is heard and valued. Stay tuned for more information.