As a massage therapist or student, it is essential to understand the professional boundaries of what you can and cannot do. Practicing within your legal limits protects your clients and ensures you provide treatments which are within your skillset and area of expertise. But the concept of scope of practice isn’t always straightforward, and it can vary depending on your state and training. Misunderstanding or ignoring these boundaries can put your license at risk and affect your reputation and relationship with clients.
What is the scope of practice for massage therapists? The massage therapist scope of practice is defined by the specific techniques and services they are legally allowed to perform, according to rules and regulations set by state licensing boards. This typically involves the manipulation of soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and fascia to improve mobility and circulation, reduce pain and tension, and promote relaxation. It excludes activities such as diagnosing medical conditions, prescribing medications, or performing invasive procedures like acupuncture or chiropractic adjustments. The scope of practice varies depending on state laws, and massage therapists are expected to refer clients to other healthcare providers when issues fall outside their expertise.
In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know about the concept of scope of practice for massage therapists. We’ll cover the legal and ethical boundaries, the techniques that massage therapists are typically allowed—and not allowed—to perform, and how to stay compliant with your state’s regulations. Whether you’re new to the profession or planning to get licensed in another state, this guide will provide practical advice on staying within your professional limits and protecting your career.
Understanding Scope of Practice
Scope of practice refers to the defined boundaries that professionals must operate within in their specific field. It outlines the tasks, responsibilities, and procedures that individuals are qualified to perform based on their education, training, and legal regulations. Adhering to the scope of practice ensures that professionals remain within their area of expertise, safeguarding both the public and the practitioners from potential risks associated with exceeding their qualifications. Understanding relevant massage terminology is also important, as it helps clarify the specific techniques and treatments that fall within a therapist’s scope.
Each profession operates within a defined scope of practice, particularly in fields like healthcare, law, and licensed trades such as plumbing or electrical work. In healthcare, for example, a nurse’s scope of practice includes administering medications and monitoring patient conditions, while a physician’s responsibilities extend to diagnosing illnesses and prescribing treatments. These boundaries are especially important in health and wellness professions because they protect the public from potential risks by ensuring that only those with the appropriate training and licensure perform specific tasks. This distinction helps maintain safety and ensures professionals work within their competencies.
Regulatory bodies, such as professional licensing boards or government agencies, define and enforce the scope of practice. These regulations differ by region or state and are often updated to reflect advancements in technology, evolving societal needs, or new knowledge in the field.
Understanding scope of practice is essential for professionals to recognize their legal and ethical boundaries, fostering collaboration and referral when tasks exceed their qualifications. This framework is critical to promoting safety, competence, and the integrity of professional services.
Scope of Practice for Massage Therapist
The scope of practice for massage therapists defines what they are trained and legally allowed to do, primarily focusing on the manipulation of soft tissues such as muscles, skin, fascia, tendons, and ligaments. Their techniques aim to relieve pain, promote relaxation, and improve mobility. Common practices include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage (DTM), trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. Therapists may also incorporate massage tools such as hot stones, cold packs, T-bars, electromechanical massage devices (e.g., percussion massager like a massage gun, or vibration massager like the Jeanie Rub), as well as liniments, essential oils, hot or cold compresses, hydrotherapy, and lubricants based on the treatment plan and client needs. While therapists help clients manage muscle tension, soreness, and stress, they are not permitted to diagnose medical conditions, perform joint manipulation, or prescribe medications.
Scope of practice is regulated on a state-by-state basis, meaning licensing requirements can vary. Typically, massage therapists must complete a designated number of massage training hours, pass a licensing exam, most often the MBLEx, and pursue continuing education to maintain an active massage license. These requirements ensure therapists are properly qualified to perform therapeutic techniques while remaining within their scope of expertise.
Recognizing when to refer clients to other healthcare providers is equally important. If a client presents with a condition beyond the therapist’s scope of practice, such as acute injuries or serious underlying medical issues, the therapist should refer them to a physician, physical therapist, or other appropriate provider. Adhering to these boundaries protects both the client and the therapist.
How to Find Your State’s Massage Scope of Practice
Massage therapists can find details about their scope of practice by consulting their state’s licensing board or regulatory authority, which typically provides comprehensive guidelines on what is legally permitted. The best source for this information is usually the state’s Massage Practice Act, available on the massage board’s website. Within this document, the ‘Definitions‘ section often outlines the scope of a massage therapist’s practice, specifying permitted techniques and services based on their training. Additionally, the Act typically includes a section listing prohibited activities, helping therapists clearly understand what falls outside their legal boundaries. Regardless of the massage setting where you work—whether clinical, spa, or even mobile chair massage—it’s essential to understand these rules to ensure compliance. While professional massage organizations like the AMTA or NCBTMB offer resources on scope of practice, reviewing your state’s Massage Practice Act directly from their own website or documentation remains the most reliable way to ensure compliance with current rules and regulations.
Since the scope of practice varies from state to state, each state sets its own laws and rules regarding the techniques and services therapists can provide. For instance, some states may permit therapists to perform advanced techniques like joint mobilizations, while others limit these practices. It’s important to regularly check your state’s massage therapy licensing board for updates, as regulations shift over time, ensuring that therapists remain within the safe edges of their legal scope of practice.
Approved Treatments and Techniques in Massage Therapy
A massage therapist’s scope of practice is shaped by their training and legal restrictions. Within these boundaries, they focus on non-invasive techniques that promote soft tissue health, reduce stress, and manage pain. Understanding the various types of massage within this scope—such as Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, and neuromuscular therapy—and their effects helps therapists offer appropriate treatments tailored to client needs. Although scope of practice varies by state, most allow the following treatments, modalities, and areas of client education:
- Manipulation of Soft Tissue: Massage therapists primarily focus on manipulating muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia to improve circulation, reduce tension, and promote relaxation.
- Client Assessment & Consultation: While they cannot diagnose medical conditions, massage therapists can use various client assessment techniques like visual assessment, palpation assessment, range of motion (ROM) assessment, posture assessment, and gait assessment to identify muscular, joint, or movement issues, as well as pinpoint areas of tension or discomfort for targeted treatment. They are expected to consult with clients about their health histories and specific concerns and may refer clients to other healthcare professionals when issues fall outside their scope, such as if they detect a potential injury or medical condition that requires further evaluation.
- Therapeutic Techniques: They may use a variety of manual therapy techniques, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, cupping therapy, sports massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, assisted stretching, lymphatic massage, and joint mobilization (except HVLA manipulations). Each technique has specific benefits and purposes, from general relaxation to aiding recovery from injury.
- Pain Management: Massage therapists can help manage chronic or subacute pain by reducing muscle tension through techniques like deep tissue or trigger point therapy. These techniques can alleviate discomfort by relaxing tight muscles and promoting the body’s natural release of endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers.
- Wellness and Stress Reduction: A large part of the LMT role involves improving clients’ overall well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing mental health through relaxation techniques. In addition to providing a relaxing massage, therapists can instruct clients in techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and even exercise and stretching routines. These practices can help clients manage stress between sessions, improve their self-awareness of tension in the body, and promote long-term relaxation and mental health benefits.
- Therapeutic Modalities: Massage therapists can also incorporate therapeutic modalities to complement their sessions, such as aromatherapy massage, which uses essential oils to enhance relaxation or stimulate the senses. Heat therapy treatments, like paraffin wax dips, hot stone massage, or hot packs, can help increase circulation and loosen tight muscles before or during a massage session. Cold therapy, such as ice massage or applying cold packs, can reduce inflammation and numb areas of pain or injury. These therapeutic modalities are often used alongside massage techniques to enhance the overall treatment and provide additional physical and mental relief.
Prohibited Practices in Massage Therapy
While massage therapists offer a wide range of therapeutic techniques, there are strict limits on what they are legally and ethically allowed to do. These restrictions help define the boundaries between massage therapy and other health professions, ensuring that each professional stays within their area of expertise. An essential part of staying within these boundaries is recognizing when massage is not appropriate, also known as massage contraindications. Working outside of these limits not only risks legal consequences but also endangers client safety. Below are the key areas where massage therapists must be cautious.
Medical Diagnoses:
One of the most important restrictions for massage therapists is that they cannot diagnose medical conditions. While you may assess an abnormality like areas of muscle tension, spinal curvature, decreased ROM, or skin lesions, assigning a label to a condition —such as diagnosing a torn ligament, scoliosis, or arthritis—is beyond your scope. Only licensed medical professionals like doctors are authorized to make such diagnoses. This also includes mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, which are formal psychiatric diagnoses that can only be made by licensed mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed counselors. Massage therapists can, however, share their observations and recommend that clients seek medical evaluation if needed. They can also document that a client demonstrates signs or symptoms consistent with a particular issue, such as limited range of motion or muscle tightness. This is simply making and describing observations without claiming that a specific condition is present.
Prescribing Treatments or Medications:
Massage therapists are also not permitted to prescribe any kind of treatment plan that involves medication, supplements, or even specific over-the-counter (OTC) remedies like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen. This includes recommending particular vitamins, herbal supplements, or medications for health conditions. Suggesting specific products or medications—even common OTC options—can lead to legal issues, as this falls under the domain of licensed medical professionals. Stick to offering general wellness advice that promotes relaxation and muscle recovery, without crossing into medical recommendations.
Invasive Procedures:
Most hands-on techniques or treatments that are considered invasive (meaning no penetration of the skin or entry into the body) fall outside of a massage therapist’s legal scope. For example, procedures like acupuncture, dry needling, and electrical stimulation require additional qualifications and licensing, which are typically held by acupuncturists, physical therapists, or chiropractors. Techniques such as spinal manipulations, ultrasound, or laser treatments are similarly restricted to those with specific licenses. Attempting any of these without the proper credentials can result in serious legal and professional consequences.
Psychological Therapy:
While massage therapy often contributes to a client’s overall sense of well-being, it’s important to remember that providing emotional or psychological counseling is beyond your scope. Massage therapists may offer a calming environment and support relaxation, and it’s perfectly fine to listen empathetically to clients. However, you are not qualified to provide psychological therapy or counseling services. Clients dealing with stress, anxiety, or emotional trauma should be referred to licensed mental health professionals like psychologists or counselors for proper care.
Dietary Advice:
Massage therapists are not qualified to offer specific dietary recommendations or develop meal plans. While general guidance like encouraging clients to maintain a healthy, balanced diet is acceptable, offering tailored nutrition advice or prescribing supplements is considered beyond your expertise. Clients seeking nutritional advice should be referred to a registered dietician, nutritionist, or naturopath who has the appropriate training and licensure.
Scope of Practice for Other Health and Wellness Providers
It’s helpful for massage therapists to have a basic understanding of the scope of practice for other health and wellness providers. Every profession has its own distinct boundaries that define the specific duties and responsibilities professionals are trained and legally authorized to perform. These limits ensure that practitioners stay within their area of expertise, upholding safety and ethical standards while delivering optimal care. Recognizing these distinctions helps prevent overstepping and encourages effective collaboration. By understanding the scope of practice for other providers, massage therapists can make informed referrals, ensuring clients receive appropriate care from the right professionals—maintaining professional integrity and keeping everyone ‘in their lane’.
Nurse
Nurses provide a wide range of medical care, from administering medications and monitoring vital signs to assisting with minor procedures. Their scope of practice is determined by their level of education and licensure—ranging from licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). While most nurses do not diagnose conditions, nurse practitioners (NP, a type of APRN) are authorized to diagnose and manage treatment plans independently in many states. Nurses at all levels play a critical role in patient education and can manage treatment plans under a physician’s supervision when required.
Physician
Physicians (MDs, DOs) have the broadest scope of practice in the medical field, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. They can prescribe medications, perform surgeries, order and interpret tests, and manage complex health issues. Physicians undergo extensive education and training, including medical school and residency, to gain expertise in diagnosing diseases and formulating comprehensive treatment plans. Physicians often collaborate with specialists, nurses, and therapists to deliver comprehensive care. Their scope is regulated by medical boards and includes both general practice and specialized fields like cardiology or orthopedics.
Chiropractor
Chiropractors (DCs) specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, primarily focusing on the spine, joints, and nervous system. Their scope of practice includes performing spinal adjustments and manipulations, using hands-on techniques to improve alignment and alleviate pain. Chiropractors may also provide therapeutic exercises, lifestyle advice, and nutritional counseling to support overall health. They do not prescribe medications or perform surgery but may order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to assess conditions. Chiropractors often work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to manage patient care, particularly when issues fall outside their expertise. Their scope is regulated by state laws and chiropractic boards.
Naturopath
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) focus on holistic and preventive medicine, using natural remedies alongside conventional treatments. Their scope includes nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, physical therapies, and acupuncture. In some regions, licensed naturopaths may also order diagnostic tests and prescribe certain medications, though their scope is generally more limited than that of a physician. However, naturopaths are not licensed in every state, and their recognized training and allowed practices can vary significantly. They emphasize prevention and often treat both acute and chronic conditions using alternative methods.
Acupuncturist
Acupuncturists specialize in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques, particularly the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance the body’s energy, or “qi.” Their scope of practice includes performing acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, providing herbal remedies, and other related therapies to treat pain, stress, and various health conditions. Acupuncturists may also provide dietary and lifestyle advice based on traditional medicine principles. While they do not diagnose pathophysiological medical conditions in the conventional sense, they assess imbalances in the body and work to restore harmony. Acupuncturists are licensed in most states, and their practice is regulated by state laws and acupuncture boards.
Esthetician
Estheticians focus on skincare treatments, including facials, waxing, exfoliation, and other cosmetic procedures. Their scope of practice is centered around improving the appearance and health of the skin through non-medical procedures. Estheticians are trained in the use of professional skincare products and devices. They are not permitted to diagnose skin diseases or provide invasive treatments. Their practice is regulated by state boards, often requiring licensure based on specific training hours and continuing education.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists (PTs) specialize in the rehabilitation and physical recovery of patients with injuries or disabilities. Their scope of practice includes assessing and treating mobility and movement disorders, injuries, designing therapeutic exercise programs, developing rehabilitation plans of treatment, using modalities like heat or electrical stimulation, and using manual therapy techniques to improve movement and function. PTs also play a critical role in pain management and injury rehab. They are licensed and regulated by state boards and often collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Personal Trainer
Personal trainers typically work in fitness settings and design and implement exercise programs to help clients improve fitness, strength, and overall health. Their scope includes performing fitness assessments, teaching proper exercise techniques, and offering general advice on health, nutrition, and wellness. Personal training is not a licensed profession and trainers are typically not required to be certified, although most employers prefer or require some form of certification (e.g., CPT, CSCS). Personal trainers are not qualified to diagnose medical conditions or provide treatment for injuries and should refer clients to healthcare professionals if issues arise beyond their training or expertise.
Psychologist / Counselor
Psychologists and counselors specialize in mental health care, providing therapy to address emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues. Their scope includes conducting assessments, offering psychotherapy, and developing treatment plans to help clients manage conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Psychologists may also conduct diagnostic testing and research, but they do not prescribe medications, as that falls under the scope of psychiatrists (medical doctors specializing in mental health). Counselors focus on talk therapy and providing support for personal and emotional challenges.
Dietitian
Registered dietitians (RDs) are experts in food and nutrition, with a scope that includes creating individualized nutrition plans, advising on diet for health conditions, and providing guidance on healthy eating habits. They can work in clinical settings, helping manage conditions like diabetes, obesity, or heart disease, or in wellness settings offering preventive care. Dietitians often collaborate with physicians, particularly when dietary changes are part of medical treatment.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists are licensed healthcare professionals responsible for dispensing medications prescribed by physicians and offering guidance on their proper use. Their scope of practice includes reviewing prescriptions for accuracy, educating patients about potential side effects, and managing medication therapy. In some cases, pharmacists may also administer vaccines or provide basic health screenings, but they do not diagnose medical conditions. They work within a highly regulated environment to ensure patient safety and the proper handling of medications.
Expanding Your Skills Through Continuing Education and Certification
Continuing education and certifications can enhance your skills as a massage therapist, allowing you to offer a wider range of treatments. While most states don’t require additional training for specialized services like sports massage, prenatal massage, or oncology massage, pursuing these certifications improves client safety, marketing potential, and overall effectiveness. Ongoing education keeps you current on new techniques and allows you to meet the needs a broader range of client needs.
Specialty certifications such as medical massage or manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) provide focused training that makes a difference in how you handle specific client populations. For example, working with post-surgical clients, or those with certain diagnoses like multiple sclerosis (MS), lymphedema, or TMJ disorders requires knowledge that goes beyond basic massage techniques. Other specializations, like geriatric massage or structural integration, involve in-depth training that allows you to address more complex client needs with confidence.
Keep in mind, though, that while these certifications can improve your outcomes, they generally don’t change your legal scope of practice. Instead, they allow you to deliver specialized care within your existing boundaries. Be sure to review your state’s regulations to ensure you stay compliant as you expand your massage skills and services.
How to Protect Yourself Legally
As a massage therapist, there are several practical steps you can take to protect yourself legally, beyond simply staying within your scope of practice. One of the most important measures is obtaining massage liability insurance, which covers you in the event of a client claiming injury or dissatisfaction with your services. However, it’s essential to remember that this insurance only applies if you’re performing treatments you are legally qualified to offer. If you provide services outside your scope, it may invalidate your coverage.
Another key safeguard is maintaining thorough documentation. Keeping detailed SOAP notes, including the treatments performed, client feedback, and any modifications made during the session, can help protect you in case of a dispute. Accurate records establish a clear history of your interactions and demonstrate that you stayed within the agreed-upon scope of treatment. Documenting changes and obtaining consent for those changes ensures you have evidence if anything is questioned later.
Informed consent forms also play a vital role in protecting your practice. These massage forms establish a clear understanding between you and the client about what the session involves, any potential risks, and the boundaries of your practice. A well-drafted consent form ensures that clients understand massage therapy does not involve diagnosing or treating medical conditions, reinforcing your professional boundaries from the beginning.
Practical Tips for Staying Within Your Scope
- Know Your Qualifications
Always operate within the boundaries of your training and licensure. Make sure you’re familiar with what you’ve been formally educated to do and the limits set by your state’s massage therapy board. This will help you stay clear of any unintentional overstepping. - Refer Clients When Needed
If a client comes to you with an issue outside your expertise—such as chronic pain that doesn’t respond to massage—it’s best to refer them to a qualified healthcare provider. Doing so not only keeps you within your scope but ensures the client receives the appropriate care. - Be Transparent About Your Role
Set clear expectations with clients from the start. Let them know what massage therapy can and cannot do, especially when it comes to diagnosing or treating medical conditions. This helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps both parties on the same page. - Stick to Massage, Not Medical Advice
Offering medical advice, like recommending supplements or treatments for specific conditions, is beyond your role. Focus on providing advice related to muscle care, relaxation, and overall wellness. If clients need more, direct them to professionals who are qualified to give medical or nutritional recommendations. - Ask for Guidance When Unsure
If you’re in a situation that challenges your understanding of your scope, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a mentor or an experienced colleague. This ensures you make informed decisions without compromising the limits of your practice. - Keep Up with Regulations
Scope of practice laws can change, so it’s important to regularly review updates from your state’s licensing board or professional associations. Staying informed helps you avoid unknowingly stepping outside legal boundaries.
In Summary
Understanding and respecting your scope of practice is essential for ensuring both the safety of your clients and the longevity of your massage therapy career. Adhering to professional boundaries not only shields you from legal risks but also fosters trust with your clients. As highlighted throughout this post, knowing your limits, communicating effectively, and following legal guidelines are central to delivering safe and effective massage services.
Key Takeaways:
- Operate strictly within the limits of your training and licensure.
- Refer clients to qualified healthcare providers when issues fall outside your scope.
- Set clear expectations with clients about what massage therapy can and cannot do.
- Avoid offering medical advice or recommending treatments outside your expertise.
- Document sessions thoroughly and ensure clients understand and consent to all treatments.
- Regularly review state regulations and stay updated on changes to your scope of practice.
- Seek guidance from mentors or colleagues when faced with uncertainty about your scope.
FAQ
What should I do if a client requests a service outside my scope of practice?
If a client requests a service outside your scope of practice, the best course of action is to politely explain that the requested service is not something that you are licensed to provide. Suggest an alternative that fits their needs but is within your qualifications, or refer them to another licensed professional who can meet their request. For example, if a client asks you to adjust their spine, which is not within a massage therapist’s scope of practice, or provide a treatment like intra-oral TMJ massage which you might not be trained in, explain that you can offer alternative treatments or recommend a specialist who can address their needs. Always keep your client’s well-being in mind and document any conversations where you suggest alternative treatments, clarify boundaries, or recommend other professionals.
How should a therapist handle client requests for advice on medications or medical treatments?
If a client asks for advice on on things like medications, including over-the-counter drugs, dietary recommendations, or natural treatments for medical conditions, it’s important to explain that these topics are outside your scope of practice as a massage therapist. Instead of offering specific advice, redirect the conversation to focus on what you are qualified to address, such as relaxation, muscle tension, or stress relief. For example, if a client asks for a natural remedy for arthritis, you can suggest they consult a healthcare provider, but offer a massage technique that may help with general discomfort. Document any such discussions in your client records to ensure clear communication and boundaries.
What’s the difference between diagnosing a medical condition and performing a client assessment?
Diagnosing a medical condition involves identifying and labeling a disease or disorder, typically performed by physicians, such as MDs or DOs, who specialize in diagnosis and are licensed to identify pathophysiological conditions. These professionals, often referred to as diagnosticians, examine symptoms, conduct tests, and interpret results through a process known as differential diagnosis to rule out other potential causes. While other healthcare providers, like nurses or physical therapists, can assess and evaluate patients, they generally cannot make formal medical diagnoses unless they are advanced practice providers.
In contrast, a massage therapist’s client assessment focuses on understanding the client’s current condition, state of health, and identifying their physical concerns, such as muscle tension, stress, or discomfort, in order to develop an appropriate treatment plan and provide appropriate massage techniques. Massage therapy training does not include differential diagnosis, as it is outside the scope of practice. For instance, if a client reports shooting pain that radiates from their lower back through the buttocks and into one or both legs, you can address symptoms of pain and muscle tightness but cannot diagnose the underlying cause, which could potentially be sciatica. This is important because the pain could stem from other causes, such as a herniated disc, piriformis syndrome, sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction, spinal stenosis, or even a tumor, each of which requires specific medical evaluation and diagnosis.
Can massage therapists legally perform cupping therapy or other alternative therapies?
Whether a massage therapist can legally perform cupping therapy or other alternative therapies depends on their state laws. Some states include cupping within the massage therapy scope of practice, provided the therapist has the proper training. In others, additional certifications or licenses may be required to legally offer these treatments. It’s important to verify with your state’s licensing board and check whether your liability insurance covers the therapy. Offering cupping or similar treatments without proper qualifications or coverage can lead to legal and financial risks.
How do I know if a service is within my massage therapy scope of practice?
To know if a service is within your scope of practice, start by reviewing your state’s Massage Practice Act and your own training. If the service wasn’t part of your formal education or isn’t explicitly allowed by your state’s licensing board, it’s likely outside your scope. For instance, common massage techniques like Swedish, deep tissue massage, and bamboo massage are generally allowed, but more invasive treatments like acupuncture or dry needling require separate licensure (e.g., L.Ac., MD, DO ,PT). You should also check with your massage liability insurance provider to confirm you’re covered before offering any new service.
What legal consequences do massage therapists face for working beyond their scope of practice?
Massage therapists who exceed their scope of practice risk legal consequences such as fines, suspension or loss of their license, and potential lawsuits. If a therapist performs a service they’re not qualified for—such as a medical procedure—they could be held liable for any harm to the client, resulting in costly legal action. For instance, performing a spinal adjustment without proper credentials could lead to civil penalties, especially if an injury occurs. Additionally, liability insurance won’t cover services outside the approved scope, leaving therapists exposed to significant financial risk.
How does being dual-licensed affect a massage therapist’s scope of practice?
Being dual-licensed allows a massage therapist to offer services from both fields, but each license has its own distinct scope of practice. For example, if you’re an LMT and an esthetician, you can provide massage and skincare treatments, but must avoid offering services that go beyond what either license permits. Similarly, as a personal trainer and massage therapist, you can offer fitness coaching and bodywork, but you need to ensure your services stay within the legal limits of both professions. Keeping the boundaries clear between roles ensures that you comply with regulations for each license.
If you live and work near a state border and offer massage services in both states, it’s important to be aware of any differences in scope of practice between the two jurisdictions. State regulations may vary, with some services allowed in one state but prohibited in another. Being mindful of these variations and staying compliant with both sets of regulations is essential to protecting your licenses and providing safe, legal services in each state.