Tennessee law has been passed such that there are some basic measures of safety and requirements for decency for those getting therapy from a massage therapist. Massage therapists in Tennessee have been required to be licensed through the Massage Licensure Board since 1995. Use of the titles “Licensed Massage Therapist” or L.M.T. and “Massage Therapist” or M.T. is restricted to those who have been licensed by the board. Those who use those titles without possessing a license face legal action from the Tennessee government. Every person who practices massage therapy must be licensed by the Board. These licenses are not transferable to others and can be taken if the establishment fails an inspection or refuses inspection. The license should be displayed within sight. If it isn’t, you can ask to see the license. If your massage therapist refuses, this is a red flag.
Therapists are required to provide some form of coverage such as drapes or gowns to cover the patient with during massage. Before the massage begins the therapist must inform the patient of the draping techniques to be used during the procedure. Typically, drapes and covers will be removed from the area being massaged, and then replaced. Some massage therapists offer massages performed without requiring any removal of clothing for those who are uncomfortable with undressing. Discuss your options and comfort level with your massage therapist, they should instruct you to undress to your level of comfort. Further, there is no sexual activity of any kind allowed on any massage therapy premises as enforced by Tennessee State law. Anything beyond the scope of massage therapy or “the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the intention of positively affecting the health and well being of the client.”, is not allowed.
Personal licenses do not extend to the entire facility. The head massage therapist, or business owner, is responsible for getting and keeping a facility license through the same Board. Lawmakers made sure to point out that even though the responsibility for the premises lies with the license-holder, maintenance is also the responsibility of other therapists on location. The responsibilities they have for the facility are outlined below.
Facilities are required to have a waiting room that is adequate for seating clients, must maintain a fire alarm and easily accessible fire extinguisher. The premises are also required to be kept clean, and kept free of dust and other “unclean substances”. Bathrooms must also be available on the premises, and if the area is shared with other businesses the therapy office may substitute local bathrooms with the shared facilities so long as they are within 300 feet of the establishment. You can see this requirement in action at malls where there are massage booths. They will almost always be near a public bathroom to meet this requirement.
Therapists must have the ability to clean their hands within 20 feet of the treatment area. A sink with hot and cold running water, as well as clean towels or a blow drier, and a trash can must be kept near the sink. The entire bathroom area must be kept clean, well lit, ventilated, and pest free.
These are all legal requirements for the treatment areas for massage therapy. You are legally guaranteed a clean environment and safe conduct from the therapists according to Tennessee State law. It is also worth noting that each licensed therapist must complete a minimum of 48 hours of continuing education every two years pertaining to massage therapy, local and federal laws about massage therapy, and much more in order to keep their license.
Can I trust any massage therapist with my care?
It can be difficult for first time clients to feel comfortable undressing and having a stranger touch them, but legal policies exist to protect clients. Ensuring your therapist and their facilities are licensed is a great first step to ensuring a safe and relaxing massage.
Because of the training and licensing requirements in the State of Tennessee there are reasonable safeguards in place for the patient and the therapist alike. These legal safeguards ensure that all who are granted a license to practice massage therapy in Tennessee, and specifically massage therapists in Nashville are reviewed by the board or a board selected official and licensed or refused license accordingly. The requirements for training and clean environments for those who are granted licenses are an attempt to protect clients and require a healthy environment for the practice of massage.
While it is always useful to get recommendations from family and friends, or search for online reviews, talking to your therapist and viewing their license is a good way to guarantee they have adequate training and facilities to perform their job.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us immediately.
