How to Verify if Your Massage Therapist Has Had Any Complaints Against Them

Ensuring that your massage therapist has a clean record can significantly impact your overall experience and the effectiveness of their treatment. To verify if there are any complaints against your therapist, follow these steps:

Check with the State's Massage Therapy Licensing Board

The state's massage therapy licensing board is a crucial resource for identifying any disciplinary actions taken against your therapist. These boards are usually required to maintain a registry of licensed massage therapists and their disciplinary history. You can visit their website or contact them directly to inquire about any complaints or disciplinary actions.

Search Online for Reviews

Online platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews offer valuable insights into your therapist's reputation. These reviews can provide both positive and negative feedback, helping you to form a comprehensive understanding of your therapist's performance. Pay attention to any specific mentions of complaints or issues that clients have raised.

Contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

The BBB is another excellent resource for verifying your massage therapist's background. They maintain a comprehensive record of complaints and can provide you with detailed information about any disputes or issues that have been reported. It's a good idea to reach out to the BBB to conduct a search and see if there are any unresolved complaints against your therapist.

Seek Referrals from Trusted Friends or Healthcare Providers

Heed the advice of your friends and healthcare providers when choosing a massage therapist. Often, these individuals have already worked with reputable therapists and can share their experiences. Their firsthand accounts can provide valuable insights into the quality and integrity of the massage therapist you are considering.

Ask the Therapist Directly

While it may be uncomfortable, directly asking your therapist about their history and any issues they have faced can be a straightforward way to ensure your peace of mind. If they are transparent and forthcoming, it may indicate a trustworthy and professional therapist. However, be prepared for the possibility of receiving an honest but unflattering answer.

Consider the Severity of Complaints:

How severe the complaints are, as well as whether they were justified, can significantly impact the therapist's career:

Severe Complaints: If the complaint involves anything of a sexual nature and the therapist is found guilty, they will lose their license. You can easily check if they still have their license by searching the state's license lookup online. License revocation is a permanent action, and it can be difficult to obtain it back. Unfounded Complaints: If the complaint was unjustified, you may never know unless the therapist is open about it. Some therapists may occasionally share unfortunate experiences during casual conversations. Company vs. Solo Practitioner: If the therapist worked for a company and the complaint was justified, they will not only lose their license but also their job with that company. In such cases, they will likely not be able to work for another company and may have difficulty finding employment within the massage therapy industry.

By following these steps and considering the potential implications of any complaints, you can make an informed decision about your massage therapist and ensure a positive and safe experience.