ADVOCATE FOR MASSAGE THERAPY AS A RECOGNIZED & RESPECTED HEALTHCARE PROFESSION
I recently found myself hitting my head against the wall over a contract I had signed. As a small business owner, I don’t know what I was thinking when I agreed to a contract that locked me in for three years! I guess I had stars in my eyes, thinking nothing in my life or business would change and everything would be smooth sailing.
Oh, how wrong I was.
From being a solo practitioner to managing a full-time practice with five employees—and then back to solo again—my business has gone through many changes, I couldn’t have predicted any of it.
It wasn’t until I was sitting in one of the WSMTA LMT Support Group meetings, listening to other therapists vent about the contracts they had signed with insurance companies, that it finally clicked for me: I didn’t understand the contract I had signed either. I thought I had no negotiating power, so I just signed and (confession time) didn’t even read the fine print. Yet another forehead slap moment. And to make matters worse, this contract wasn’t even insurance-related!
I kept berating myself, thinking I should have known better. But as I listened to other LMTs, I realized—this is just part of being in business. Ideally, we’re working with companies that have their customers (us!) in mind, but the reality is, many contracts are filled with confusing language that can lead us astray (been there, done that, got the invoice).
Whether you’re credentialed with insurance or not, understanding the contracts you sign is essential. Some of the common contracts LMTs are entering into include:
Business insurance agreements
Laundry service contracts
Commercial leases
Independent contractor agreements
Partnership agreements
Retail or vendor agreements
Reseller or Wholesale Agreement
WSMTA has written several articles on understanding contracts, like this one on terminating an insurance contract or this one on Supporting House Bill 1589 Insurance Contract Fairness—but the same principles apply across the board. We’ve seen firsthand how contracts can make or break your confidence, income, and even your schedule.
Here are some tips to know before signing any contract.
Read the Fine Print (Yes, All of It!).
Before signing any contract, it’s crucial to read the fine print. We understand how tedious and time-consuming this can be, but take it from the thousands of LMTs who are currently stuck in unfavorable contracts—sometimes paying to work instead of getting paid for their labor. Don’t rush through the process. Take your time, highlight areas of concern, and ask questions if something doesn’t make sense.
Avoid Costly Audits.
Imagine being in a situation where an insurance carrier audits your practice, or you want to cancel a contract and they make you do a buy out, and you find yourself responsible for paying out hundreds to thousands of dollars—all because of a small clause buried in your contract. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too real for many therapists. That's why we offer our regular support group for clinic owners and managers, where you can ask questions, review contracts, and get the guidance needed to avoid these costly mistakes.
One of the most critical aspects of any insurance contract is the reimbursement rate. Ensure that the rates outlined in the contract are clear, consistent, and align with the standard rates for your services. Look out for language that allows the insurer to change rates without prior notice or agreements that lock you into low reimbursement rates for extended periods.
Contracts can sometimes include administrative fees or costs related to billing and processing claims. These hidden fees can add up, reducing your profit margins. Read the fine print and calculate how these costs could impact your bottom line.
Insurance companies often have specific billing and coding requirements. Missteps in this area can lead to rejected claims, delayed payments, or reduced reimbursements. Make sure you fully understand the required billing procedures and maintain accurate records to support your claims.
Termination clauses outline how either party can end the contract. Look for clauses that allow the company to terminate the contract without cause or with minimal notice. Ideally, you want a contract that provides a fair process for termination, giving you time to adjust and secure other resources.
Some companies may require you to sign an exclusive contract, preventing you from working with other companies of the like. This can limit your practice’s growth or financial stability. Aim for contracts that allow flexibility and autonomy in your business decisions.
Many insurance contracts include provisions for prior authorization or pre-approval for certain services. Failing to meet these requirements can result in denied claims and lost revenue. Familiarize yourself with these stipulations and create a process to manage them efficiently.
Understand what liabilities you are taking on by signing the contract. Some agreements may shift the burden of risk onto you, making you responsible for unpaid patient bills or discrepancies in claims. Avoid contracts with broad indemnity clauses that can expose your practice to undue financial risk.
A good contract should include clear procedures for resolving disputes. This might involve mediation, arbitration, or legal proceedings. Make sure the process is fair and that you are not waiving important rights by agreeing to specific terms.
Long-term contracts may seem like a sign of stability, but they can also trap you in unfavorable conditions. Understand the renewal terms and whether the contract automatically renews or if there is an opportunity to renegotiate.
When it comes to contracts, it’s easy to feel like you have to accept whatever is offered, but that’s not the case. You always have the option to accept the terms, negotiate for better conditions, or walk away if the contract doesn’t serve your best interests. The power to decide is yours, and it’s worth taking the time to make an informed choice.
Curious what my contract was for? Laundry services. Yep, a three-year contract I signed without batting an eye. I paid $2,400 annually for a service I barely used because my workload had changed significantly.
It was an expensive lesson, but one I’m now grateful for. It woke me up to the importance of reading every line, even in contracts that seem routine. Next time, you better believe I’ll have a pen, a highlighter, and maybe even a buddy with me to help review the details—so I know exactly what I’m committing to.
Learn from my mistake. Whether it's a vendor, lease, or insurance agreement—read it, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to say no. You have more power than you think.
Have you signed a contract you shouldn’t have? Join the conversation on Facebook!
At our Members Support group for clinic owners and managers, we dive deep into contract-related questions, offering a safe space to explore the fine print, share experiences, and learn from others. Whether you're considering a new contract or re-evaluating an existing one, our community is here to provide support, insights, and resources to ensure you make the best decisions for your practice.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a very popular topic of conversation lately, from coffee shop chatter to legislative hearings. As someone who actively uses AI in my massage therapy practice for many helpful purposes, I decided to take a step back and dig into the laws of Washington State to make sure I wasn’t overlooking any important logistics when it comes to using AI.
What I found was reassuring: with a few thoughtful safety precautions, LMTs can absolutely use AI tools to support their practices while staying fully legal and compliant. With the help of the Small Business Administration's guidance on AI and looking through the RCWS and WACS for Massage Therapy I was able to assess the risks and benefits of using AI.
And honestly, I’m excited to keep using AI for resources, brainstorming, and support, as long as I stay mindful of key areas like client confidentiality, professional boundaries, and advertising rules.
Here’s how you can, too!
Writing the same email a dozen times a week? AI can help you:
Draft warm, professional appointment reminders
Create follow-up emails after sessions (i.e., checking in on how they feel)
Send polite cancellation policy reminders (without sounding passive-aggressive )
Example Prompt: copy and paste this into your AI tool of choice.
“Write a friendly email reminding a client about their massage appointment tomorrow at 2 PM, including my 24-hour cancellation policy.”
You can even ask it to match your tone, whether you prefer crisp and professional or relaxed and conversational.
Consistent marketing is essential, but who has the time when you’re booked solid? AI can:
Brainstorm blog ideas (like this one!)
Draft Instagram captions and newsletter blurbs
Help you create seasonal promotions (without sounding salesy)
Pro Tip: Always double-check AI-generated content to make sure it stays within Washington’s advertising rules for LMTs (RCW 18.108.040). You are the Licensed Massage Therapist — not the AI — so your name and license number should still appear on any advertisements.
Need a new intake form or a stress-relief handout? AI can help you draft:
Updated health history forms
Client education sheets (like stretches or hydration tips)
New client welcome packets
While it won’t replace legal advice, it can give you a starting template that you can customize to stay WAC-compliant.
Feeling stuck on what CE classes to take next or how to plan a better self-care schedule? AI can assist with:
Summarizing new research articles
Brainstorming class topics if you’re teaching
Helping you plan future goals and priorities
Just make sure to fact-check anything AI suggests — especially when it comes to laws, CE requirements, and evidence-based practice standards.
Have a dream of launching a specialty program for prenatal clients? Want to rebrand your practice? AI can:
Help brainstorm names for your new services
Outline workshop ideas
Write rough drafts for brochures or course outlines
Think of it like having a creative co-pilot — but you’re still in the driver’s seat (and trust me, your car insurance will thank you).
Confidentiality first! Never input real client names, health information, or private data into AI.
Stay human. AI is a tool — you are the heartbeat of your practice.
Proofread everything. Sometimes AI gets a little… enthusiastic. Always review what it writes to ensure it’s legally accurate, ethically sound, and true to your voice.
License compliance. Make sure your license number and name are attached to any advertising or client-facing materials, per RCW 18.108.040.
When used wisely, AI can be an amazing sidekick for LMTs — freeing you up to focus more on what you love: helping people feel better in their bodies.
You don’t have to do it all alone — not anymore.
If you’ve already been using AI for your massage practice, Join the discussion on Facebook and share your favorite ways!
Let’s keep helping each other grow smarter (and a little less stressed).
If you’re like most massage therapists, “tariffs” sound like something out of a government textbook or a heated political debate. But the truth is — even if we never discuss them with clients — tariffs can quietly ripple into our practices. From the oils we choose to the costs of supplies, global trade can hit close to home... even when our work is deeply local.
Let’s break this down — in plain English — so you can feel confident talking about how tariffs may affect your business and your clients.
A tariff is a tax on imported goods. The idea is that by taxing foreign products, we encourage domestic buying.
Proponents say tariffs protect American jobs and businesses.
Critics argue they can raise prices on everyday goods and disrupt small businesses like ours.
I’m not here to debate policy — but I am here to make sense of how this affects your massage table, your wallet, and the way you serve your clients.
Massage therapists usually operate with low overhead:
Laundry? Local.
Rent? Local.
Clients? Definitely local.
But products? Not always.
Many of the best oils, essential blends, or even certain tools are imported. For example:
Organic jojoba oil from Argentina
Shea butter from West Africa
Essential oils from France, India, or Morocco
Heck, even Amazon might start charging more for our beloved therapy tools like that jade gua sha, hot stones, bolsters, or that one cupping set we swear we’ll use more often (right after we organize the linen closet).
I’ve seen it firsthand with my skincare line. A sudden tariff or trade delay can mean:
Price hikes (sometimes overnight)
Long shipping times
Limited access to certain ingredients
These effects don’t just hit product makers — they hit practitioners, too.
Tariffs don’t just touch your supply cabinet — they also contribute to inflation across the board.
When gas and groceries become more expensive, your clients may start re-evaluating their spending. And as we all know, self-care is often the first thing to go.
That doesn’t mean you need to panic — but it’s smart to stay financially nimble. Here’s how tariffs and inflation may trickle into your day-to-day:
Cash-paying clients might begin to space out appointments or ask about shorter sessions.
Insurance-covered clients may remain more stable, as co-pays are usually fixed.
Retail sales (like skincare or supplements) may dip if clients are cutting back.
Before making adjustments for others, start with your own stability.Put your own mask on first.
Review your business and personal expenses
Identify your non-negotiables (rent, marketing, product costs)
See where you can trim or streamline
Decide in advance what kind of flexibility you can offer clients — and where you need to hold your boundaries
Tariffs and inflation may feel out of your control — and to some extent, they are. But moments like these are powerful reminders to revisit your long-term business plan.
Ask yourself:
What systems do I have in place for price changes?
Do I have clear boundaries around cancellations, rescheduling, and late payments?
Am I prepared to shift my offerings if client needs or global circumstances change?
This could be the right season to:
Draft a clear pricing policy that includes how and when you might raise rates
Put terms in writing that protect both you and your clients
Think through your sustainability strategy — so you’re not caught off guard next time
We never know what tomorrow will bring. But when we take the opportunity to expand or adjust now, we create more stability in the future — for ourselves and for the clients who depend on us.
Being proactive now builds resilience later.
With some simple, thoughtful shifts, you can continue to care for clients — even when money is tight for them — without compromising your business.
Consider:
Sliding Scale Options — Offer a tiered payment system for those experiencing financial hardship
Payment Plans — Allow loyal clients to pay over time for packages
Mini or Maintenance Sessions — Shorter, lower-cost treatments to keep clients in care
Customized Treatment Plans — Offer bundled services that fit their budget while still delivering value
You don’t have to offer all of these — but thinking through a few options ahead of time helps you be both empathetic and prepared.
Here are some neutral, informative responses you can use:
“A lot of our products rely on global supply chains, and tariffs can change how fast or affordably we can get them.”
“We support local as much as possible, but some of the ingredients that make our treatments so effective are sourced from small farms around the world.”
“When prices go up, we always look at what we can do to maintain quality without compromising your care.”
These statements show you're informed — and that you care.
✅ Support Local Suppliers: Washington has some incredible small businesses supporting massage therapists - by doing a quick google search you can find a handful that will ship to your door. ✅ Educate Yourself (a Little): Just enough to feel confident — no need for a trade degree. ✅ Start Conversations: Clients appreciate transparency and trust. ✅ Connect With WSMTA: We’re always here to help you stay informed, empowered, and connected.
Your work is rooted in your community. But global events — including tariffs — can still find their way into your practice. You don’t have to know everything. But you can know enough to stay grounded, connected, and proactive.
Let’s keep the conversation going. Because informed therapists are empowered therapists. Want to get these updates in your inbox? Sign Up For Our Email List Here.
The beginning of the year is a great time to reassess intake forms and charting processes. You may want to clear space by removing outdated records that exceed legal retention requirements or updating consent forms for clients with significant health changes. As a healthcare-focused massage therapist, robust charting and thorough intake processes are fundamental to delivering effective treatments, ensuring continuity of care, and maintaining legal and ethical standards. Prioritizing these aspects of your practice enhances both client outcomes and your professional credibility.
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In Washington state, Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) are legally recognized as healthcare providers, not just service providers under Chapter 18.108 RCW . This distinction means that thorough documentation is critical to meeting professional standards, supporting clients' health journeys, and collaborating effectively with other healthcare professionals. Charting is an essential part of integrating massage therapy into the broader healthcare system and ensuring clients receive comprehensive, informed care.
A comprehensive intake process allows you to gain a clear understanding of your client’s health history, lifestyle, and specific concerns. While it may be tempting to rely on verbal check-ins, written documentation ensures accuracy, reduces the risk of missing key health indicators, and creates a professional standard for your practice.
Medical history: Chronic conditions, past injuries, surgeries, medications, and contraindications.
Pain and symptom assessment: Using pain scales, body charts, and functional assessments.
Lifestyle and occupational factors: Sedentary habits, repetitive motions, stress levels, and sleep quality.
Client goals and expectations: Understanding what they hope to achieve through massage therapy.
Informed consent and treatment plans: Clarifying boundaries, modalities used, and frequency of sessions.
A well-documented intake ensures that each session is tailored to the client’s evolving needs, providing a roadmap for effective treatments.
Charting is the backbone of tracking progress, adjusting treatment plans, and providing continuity of care. Detailed documentation not only helps you remember critical details but also demonstrates professionalism and accountability in the event of audits or insurance claims. Additionally, proper documentation allows LMTs to collaborate effectively with primary care providers, chiropractors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals who may also be working with the client.
SOAP Notes: Utilizing the Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan (SOAP) framework ensures structured and useful documentation.
Subjective: What the client reports about their condition (e.g., “Lower back pain, 6/10, worsens with prolonged sitting”).
Objective: Your observations and findings, including posture, range of motion, and palpation notes.
Assessment: How the client responded to the session, changes in symptoms, and patterns observed.
Plan: Recommendations for future sessions, at-home care, and any referrals if necessary.
Consistency and Legibility: Whether digital or handwritten, notes should be clear, concise, and recorded within 24-hours after each session.
HIPAA Compliance: If you store electronic records, ensure they meet privacy standards and are securely stored.
While SOAP notes are not explicitly required under Washington state law, WAC 246-830-565 mandates that LMTs maintain comprehensive and legible records within 24 hours of treatment, ensuring thorough documentation of each client session. (WAC 246-830-565)
Proper documentation isn’t just about good practice; it is also a legal safeguard. If a client has a reaction to treatment, disputes services, or requires continuity of care with another healthcare provider, your records become critical evidence of professional responsibility.
LMTs in Washington must follow the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) regulations regarding documentation. The following are required elements for legally compliant charting:
Client health history and initial assessment
Informed consent for treatment
Charting for each session
Objective findings and progress notes
Referrals and recommendations made to other healthcare providers
Contraindications and modifications made during treatment
Retention of Records: Washington state requires that client records be maintained for at least three years following the last treatment session (contracts with insurers may specify a longer period). (WAC 246-830-570)
Updating Intake Forms: Clients should complete a new intake form at least annually or whenever significant health changes occur.
Renewing Informed Consent: Consent for treatment should be reviewed and renewed at least once a year or whenever a new treatment approach is introduced. (WAC 246-830-500)
Recordkeeping Standards: Comprehensive client records must be maintained in alignment with Washington state standards for healthcare documentation. (WAC 246-830-565)
Failure to adhere to these requirements can lead to legal consequences, insurance claim denials, or professional disciplinary actions. Staying compliant with WAC regulations ensures ethical and professional integrity in your practice.
Clients appreciate a therapist who listens attentively and remembers their preferences, goals, and sensitivities. Strong documentation allows you to:
Show clients their progress over time, reinforcing the benefits of regular massage therapy.
Identify patterns in their symptoms that they may not have noticed.
Provide personalized recommendations for self-care, strengthening trust, and adherence to treatment plans.
Emphasizing detailed charting and thorough intakes positions you as a knowledgeable, responsible, and effective healthcare provider. By treating documentation as an integral part of your practice, you enhance the quality of care you deliver, protect yourself legally, and strengthen your role in the broader healthcare community.
WSMTA encourages all massage therapists to refine their intake and charting methods as part of their professional development. Investing time in these practices not only benefits clients but also elevates the massage therapy profession as a whole.
Are your charting and intake practices up to standard? Find us on Facebook and let us know how you ensure thorough documentation in your practice!
Washington State is unique in recognizing Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) as healthcare providers. This classification, established under the Health Professions Act (RCW 18.108), grants massage therapists a professional standing distinguishing them from personal service providers. But what does this mean for LMTs, their clients, and the broader healthcare system? In this article, we take a deep dive into Washington’s classification of massage therapists and explore the benefits of this status.
A healthcare provider is under the oversight of the Department of Health and is a licensed professional delivering medical or therapeutic care based on standardized education, regulatory oversight, and a defined scope of practice. Depending on their scope of practice, these professionals may diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions while being accountable to state health authorities.
A service provider is under the oversight of the Department of Licensing which regulates everything from architects, bail bonds, and cosmetologists to embalmers, private investigators, and vehicle dealers. These service providers are regulated and have laws and regulations to follow. While some of these service provider professions may focus on relaxation, aesthetics, or wellness they do not operate within the healthcare system or bill medical insurance.
Regulation & Oversight: Healthcare providers must meet state licensing requirements, maintain continuing education, and adhere to professional standards. Service providers have fewer regulations and typically operate under business licensure.
Insurance & Reimbursement: Healthcare providers, including LMTs in Washington, can bill medical insurance for medically necessary treatments. Service providers usually accept direct payments.
Collaboration & Integration: Licensed health care providers work with medical professionals, while service providers function independently.
Legal Protections: Healthcare providers are recognized under state laws with specific protections and responsibilities. Service providers do not share this legal recognition.
For an official definition of a health care provider, visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS):https://www.hhs.gov/ and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):https://www.cms.gov/.
Being classified as a licensed health care provider in Washington means massage therapists must meet rigorous education, training, and regulatory requirements. LMTs are overseen by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Board of Massage, ensuring adherence to professional standards, ethical guidelines, and ongoing continuing education.
As part of licensing requirements, Washington LMTs must:
Complete a Workforce approved massage therapy program with a minimum of 625 hours of instruction.
Pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or an equivalent test.
Adhere to HIPAA regulations for client confidentiality.
Fulfill continuing education credits, including training in ethics, infection control, and professional boundaries.
To maintain professionalism and fully embrace their role as health care providers, Washington LMTs must ensure their charting and intake forms comply with WAC requirements for LMTs. Proper documentation enhances credibility, protects both the practitioner and client, and ensures adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Additionally, LMTs should familiarize themselves with their city or county municipal codes to ensure their business operations align with local regulations. Understanding these municipal requirements can prevent legal complications and enable LMTs to operate with confidence.
This designation carries several advantages, both for therapists and their clients.
One of the most significant benefits of being a licensed healthcare provider is the ability to bill insurance for medically necessary massage therapy. In Washington, LMTs can work with:
Health insurance
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims from auto accidents
Workers’ compensation claims through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
This increases accessibility to therapeutic massage, ensuring those needing treatment for pain management, injury recovery, and rehabilitation receive care.
Because massage therapists hold recognized healthcare status, they can collaborate more effectively with other providers, such as physical therapists, chiropractors, and physicians. This allows for integrated treatment plans improving clinical outcomes and patient care.
LMTs benefit from credibility coming from being part of the healthcare profession. This classification differentiates them from unlicensed bodyworkers or spa service providers and reinforces the therapeutic nature of their work. Additionally, it provides legal protections under Washington state law, ensuring licensed massage therapists are recognized as legitimate medical providers rather than personal service workers.
Recognition as health care providers opens doors for LMTs to work in various settings beyond private practice, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, chiropractic clinics, and sports medicine facilities. This broadens career options, increases earning potential, and improves job security.
The Washington State Massage Therapy Association (WSMTA) is a vital organization advocating for LMTs and ensuring the profession remains recognized as part of the health care system. WSMTA provides legislative advocacy, professional development opportunities, and community support to help LMTs navigate changes in policy, insurance reimbursement, and practice regulations. By working closely with state lawmakers, WSMTA plays a key role in protecting massage therapists' rights and scope of practice.
On a broader scale, national organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) also offer professional support, education, and advocacy at a national and state level. These organizations help elevate the profession, create unified standards, and provide resources for continued growth and recognition of massage therapy as a legitimate healthcare service on a national level.
Washington’s classification of massage therapists as licensed healthcare providers is a significant recognition of the profession’s medical value. This status benefits LMTs by granting professional credibility, legal protections, and greater career opportunities, while also making therapeutic massage more accessible to the public. By ensuring compliance with WAC documentation requirements, understanding local municipal codes, and engaging with organizations like WSMTA and national advocacy groups, massage therapists can continue shaping the future of the profession and advocating for their rights within the health care system.
Washington State RCW 18.108 - Massage Therapists:https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=18.108
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-830 - Massage Practitioners:https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-830
Local Municipal Code Resource: [Insert Municipal Code Resource Link] In your preferred browser (google, mozilla, etc) do a search which includes the following two things: 1) the name of your city/town, and 2) “municipal codes”. When you pull up your municipal codes, do another search for “massage” and these will generally pull up any ordinances related to massage. If you have a home-based massage practice, you should also look up your municipality's home business ordinances to ensure you are in compliance.
Did you know you are a Health Care Provider? Join the conversation on Facebook!
Many of us are working in isolation. Even in clinics with multiple practitioners, schedules usually leave little opportunity to connect with other therapists. WSMTA’s Clinical Practices Program offers monthly meetings to inform, discuss, vent, problem solve, and support each other.
We invite you to join these meetings on Zoom, the 1st Monday of each month, from 7 to 8:30pm.
Meetings are open to members, and non-members. Depending on topics, CE credits will be available for free to WSMTA members. Non-members may join WSMTA to receive free credit as well.
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.
Washington State Massage Therapy Association Annual Meeting
Greetings Washington State LMT's!
Please join the WSMTA Directors, Government Relation Program and Clinical Practices Program for the 2024 Annual Meeting.
Date: September 29, 2024 9:30AM-3:30PM
WSMTA Membership is required to attend, free to WSMTA members.
REGISTER HERE
If you are not a member and wish to attend join here.
Annual memberships are $65
This Year's Theme: How to Improve Your Practice and Quality of Life Without Losing Your Practice Or Your Mind
Annual Business Meeting: We will have Reports from the Government Relations and Clinical Practices Programs on all that they have accomplished in the past year and what they will be working on in the future!
Presentations (4.5 CE Hours*):
Information on the Interstate Massage Compact and updates on HB1655 - Provider Compensation (the cost-of-living bill): Marybeth Berney and Robbin Blake
Understanding the legal nuances of being a massage therapist: John Conniff
Knowing when to pivot in your massage practice: Cherie Sohnen Moe
Learn to optimize your web presence to increase business: Tory Felkey
About Our Presenters:
Marybeth Berney, LMT has been a full-time licensed massage therapist in Washington since 1985. As soon as she was eligible (licensed for 3yrs.), she began working as an examiner for the Washington State Department of Health, Board of Massage.
From 1993 - 2001 Marybeth was a Washington State Board of Massage member. During those years she participated in rule writing, creating minimum curriculum requirements and creating an approval process for WA board approved massage programs. In 2007, Marybeth was appointed to the American Massage Therapy Association Washington Chapter (AMTA-WA) Board of Directors as Secretary. She spent almost 10 years as a volunteer for AMTA-WA serving as Secretary, Government Relations Director, 1st Vice President and President.
In 2015, Marybeth joined a bunch of other passionate WA massage therapists and became a part of what is now the Washington State Massage Therapy Association (WSMTA). She is the current President. Along with regulatory and association work during her career, Marybeth also provided Expert Consultant/Witness services. She contracted with the Washington State Department of Health-Legal Services Unit on many occasions, providing expertise in Standards of Practice in the massage profession. She has also contracted with several legal firms acting as an Expert Witness in civil cases involving massage practitioners.
Robbin Blake, LMT, Certified Aston-Patterner® is a graduate from the Brian Utting School of Massage 1000-hour professional licensing program in 2004. She completed an advanced certification program in Orthopedic Massage and a 750-hour training program to become a certified Aston-Patterner (structural bodywork with movement and ergonomics coaching). In total, Robbin has taken over 1,500 hours of continuing education.
Robbin has been the owner and operator of the Therapeutic Training Center, Inc. (TTCI) for the past 15 years. TTCI provides continuing education classes in massage therapy in Washington and Idaho. Robbin has also been a volunteer for the Washington State Massage Therapy Association for the past 9 years and its Government Relations Program Director since January 2019.
John Conniff, Attorney combines his broad background and practical knowledge to help his clients find workable solutions to difficult problems. For over 25 years, he has counseled individuals, businesses, professionals, legislators, and government officials.
His wide range of experience provides him with insight into the complicated connections between business and law. He has worked extensively on insurance regulation, health information privacy and security standards, health care regulatory compliance, managed health care, ERISA, and business transactions.
He represents diverse organizations, businesses and professionals including trade associations, employer health plans, insurers, and health care practitioners. In addition to currently having his own practice and having been in a partnership practice, John has been the:
Washington State Deputy Insurance Commissioner, Olympia, Washington (1993 – 2000) responsible for law and policy governing health insurance and health care reform.
Legislative Counsel, Olympia, Washington (1986 – 1993) with the Washington State House of Representatives, Office of Program Research. Responsible for laws governing insurance, managed health care, financial institutions, and related subjects including ERISA, antitrust, health care regulation, and tort liability.
Tory Felkey is a Digital Marketing Strategist with a decade-long focus on small and local businesses.
Built/launched more than 50 thriving local websites
Retained by over 20 brands to facilitate and execute sustainable growth and grow brand awareness
Preferred provider for Kitsap County 2020-2023 to educate entrepreneurs on how to build a brand using primarily free tools
Cherie Sohnen Moe is an author, business coach, and international workshop leader. She has been a successful business owner since 1978. Before shifting her focus to education and coaching, she was in private practice for many years as a massage and holistic health practitioner. She has served as a faculty member at the Desert Institute of Healing Arts (DIHA), the Clayton College of Natural Health (CCNH), and the Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ASAOM).
Cherie has written more than 200 articles that have been published in over 15 national and international magazines. She is the author of the book, Business Mastery. It is in its fifth edition, has sold more than 430,000 copies to date, and is recommended by more than 1,000 healing arts associations and schools worldwide (with 350 schools requiring it as a text). Cherie is also the author of Present Yourself Powerfully and the co-author of the ground-breaking book, The Ethics of Touch, which is used in more than 700 schools and associations with 200 requiring it as a text. Cherie and Lynda Solien-Wolfe recently co-authored the book, Retail Mastery. Cherie is a contributing author of Teaching Massage: Fundamental Principles in Adult Education for Massage Program Instructors.
Cherie holds a degree in psychology from UCLA and has extensive experience in the areas of business management, training, and creative problem solving—which combines well with her ability to support others to achieve what they want in life. Between her educational background and life experiences, the wisdom garnered from working with hundreds of clients and thousands of participants in her workshops and classes she has taught in schools, and the knowledge gained from researching hundreds of articles and several books, she is a strong resource.
She is active in many professional and community organizations and is Past-President of The Alliance for Massage Therapy Education (AFMTE). Among her honors she has received the Distinguished Service Award and the Professional Achievement Award from the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), the Outstanding Instructor Award at the Desert Institute of Healing Arts, and is listed in several editions of Who’s Who. Cherie is a 2012 Inductee to the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame. She lives in Tucson, Arizona with her husband, Jim.
*These CE hours count for Washington State remaining hours per statute.
Are you looking for a way to give back to/promote the massage profession in Washington State (and make a few bucks on the side)? If you have skills in marketing, business administration, sales or school admissions, then WSMTA is looking for YOU.
The WSMTA Board of Directors is looking for a Membership Program Director (see position description here, Volunteer Position Descriptions. You will be able to help create WSMTA’s Membership Program from the ground up. You will be a primary “face” of the organization, interacting with massage schools, current members and potential members. When certain membership goals are attained there will be a financial benefit for you!
If you are interested in being our Membership Program Director contact Marybeth Berney, WSMTA President, at mberney@mywsmta.org.
If you are curious about joining our band of passionate volunteers in clinical practices, government relations, editing and social media or as a Director– please email info@mywsmta.org and put “volunteer” in the subject line.
WSMTA is actively researching various insurance products and options you may be interested in for your practice, from Liability Insurance, Business, and Audit insurance products.
Watch this page for updated information and contacts for various insurance products for your practice.
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Advocate for Massage Therapy as a Recognized & Respected Healthcare Profession
