How TO Find a Reliable Massage Therapist?

No matter you are a long time patron or new to massage therapy, there comes a time when we all need to seek the services of a massage therapist. But here a big question is how will you go to seek the services of a trusted one? Should you make research online? Should you ask for referrals to your well wishers? Should you take your chances from phone books? Should you go through print media ads? Should you rely on the promotional ads of a beauty spa? There is indeed a volley of such questions that can confuse you making a right choice.

To find a reliable massage therapist, it is important to consider your need first. Below are some steps that will ease your path of selection.

Identify your health status & personal goals -

The first and foremost thing you need doing is to set goals for the massage session(s).  Make sure you are interested in….

• Reducing muscle contractions or tightness?
• Reducing stress?
• Living without chronic or acute pain?
• Enhancing your general health and wellbeing? 
• Improving your work performance?
• Improving your ability to participate in sports?

Another big thing that you need to chew over is why you want to see a massage therapist

• Are you managing any conditions your doctor is not aware of but you believe that massage can alleviate it?
• Did a licensed medical professional such as medical doctor, physical therapist or chiropractor have advised you try massage?
• Do you know anyone personally who had been dealing through same aches and pains as you have but has got benefited through massage therapy?

Once you get sure on all these points, your search to find a right massage therapist will be pretty easy. 

Consider your personal preferences -

Based on personal preferences, you might to include or exclude potential therapists. For example -

•  Are you ready to drive through miles or prefer to find one close to your workplace or home.
• Would you be most comfortable with a female therapist or a male professional? 

Try to find out more about the therapist -

If you don’t know much about the therapist you are going to approach, call and ask about

• Philosophy of care
• Style or techniques used
• Years in practice 
• Training, advanced certification 
• Specialty areas
• Which organization the therapist is belonged to

Also ask about logistics -

• How far in advance do you require making an appointment?
• What does the scheduled time mean - when you should be ready to start the massage or when you should arrive at the place?

Ask about the costs & time -

Since time and money are the big consideration for everyone, be sure on both these points….

• How much the therapist will charge in return of his/her services?
• What lengths of sessions are available and what is the fee for each.
• Are there different fees for different techniques?
• Are there any additional fees or taxes?
• Do they offer any special or discounted package rates?

Once you go through all these steps and be sure on all these points, finding a massage therapist will be a lot easier and a fun job