ADVOCATE FOR MASSAGE THERAPY AS A RECOGNIZED & RESPECTED HEALTHCARE PROFESSION
Meet Chelsea Desouza, WSMTA Membership Director
As we step into 2025, we at the Washington State Massage Therapy Association (WSMTA) are thrilled to share our accomplishments from 2024 and give you a glimpse into what lies ahead. This year marks an exciting milestone—WSMTA's 10-year anniversary! We celebrate a decade of advocating for Massage Therapy as a recognized healthcare profession in Washington State, and we couldn’t have done it without your support.
Here are some of the key achievements we’re proud to share from 2024:
Advocating for the Massage Compact Bill:
We met with the legislative sponsor of the Massage Compact bill to express concerns about potential harm to the profession in Washington.
Educated LMTs across the state about the Compact—what it could and couldn’t do—and polled therapists on their understanding of its implications and personal impact.
Collaborative Efforts to Improve the Compact:
We initiated conversations with other interested parties, seeking ways to refine the Compact and make it better for Washington LMTs.
Educating on the "Cost of Living" Bill:
Partnering with the Washington State Chiropractic Association and other groups, we informed LMTs about this legislation, how it benefits our profession, and how they could support it.
Providing Expertise to the State Board of Massage:
By consistently offering historical context, data, and insights on key agenda items, WSMTA has become a trusted resource for the State Board of Massage.
Addressing Federal Legislation Concerns:
We informed LMTs about a federal bill that could have far-reaching effects, including fingerprinting mandates that might disrupt practices. By raising awareness, we’re ensuring LMTs are prepared and protected.
WSMTA COVID-19 Protocols:
Our protocols continued to lead the way, helping therapists and the public navigate safely as we progressed through the pandemic's impact on the profession
None of this would be possible without our incredible Members and Volunteers. Every one of our Board Members, Directors, and Facilitators is a volunteer who shares a passion for advancing the massage therapy profession.
If you’re not yet a member,we invite you to join us in this mission in 2025 and become part of the growing movement to elevate massage therapy in Washington State.
If you’re already a member and feel ready to give back, there are countless ways to get involved:
Advocating in Olympia
Networking with healthcare providers
Writing educational content for the next generation of LMTs
And so much more!
In the months ahead, we’ll share more relevant updates and insights about massage therapy in Washington State. Together, let’s continue to shape a brighter future for our profession.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a successful and impactful 2025!
Chelsea DeSouza WSMTA Membership Director www.mywsmta.org
WSMTA is committed to Advocating for Massage Therapy in Washington State. To stay informed with essential news for this profession learn more here.
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Advocate for Massage Therapy as a Recognized & Respected Healthcare Profession