Articles tagged with 'business'

Caring for elderly clients requires the massage therapist to have a keen awareness, not only of the characteristics unique to the client but also of the various members of the client’s care team.

Taking on too much can be a natural instinct. Reining in your over-functioning process can help you find your flow.

A treatment plan is what elevates massage therapy from a service to a therapeutic profession. It is the tangible output of our clinical reasoning.

To align your practice with your passions, values, and strengths, create your idea of the perfect client who describes your niche.

Leslie DeJesus's Afro-Caribbean background played a role in her becoming a massage therapist.

Negotiating can be nerve-racking for many people. These five strategies can help you prepare for your next negotiation or business contract.

The number of massage schools and massage school graduates have climbed over the last two years.

Learn how to integrate these systems to help you book clients and track your budget, income, growth, and returning clientele.

Instead of fretting about finding new clients, focus on the ones you already have.

Support groups can not only help you personally, they can also help you grow professionally.

Word of mouth is one of the most powerful forms of marketing on the planet. Knowing how to make referrals happen consistently—without feeling weird about it—is the key.

Debbie Pennington is an LMT who owns her own practice in West Virginia. Learn about her background and work in our Faces of Bodywork column.

With the digital noise getting louder, direct mail marketing has become a "unique" method to implement alongside digital marketing strategies.

Putting yourself in a better headspace can lead to better focus on your client.

There are both challenges and rewards to transitioning to a full-time massage practice. Taking that step is one that requires a change of mindset, marketing, and mechanics.

These tax tips could help you navigate your taxes as a small business owner for the 2024 tax season.

Kimberly Pettway found her way to massage while she was in the Air Force.

As the boss of your own business, what do you want as your own employee?

Building a connection from the moment you come in contact with a client can lead to a healthy, long-standing business relationship.

Wanting to offer the AIDS community modalities that could make a difference in their lives, Bill brought Reiki into his practice.

Make an effort to notice the days and weeks that feel good to you and when your schedule doesn't feel so great so you can make adjustments to suit your needs

Deep tissue massage changed the course of massage therapist Kei Yumoto's career.

Legislatures across the country are returning to work in January—here's updated info about legislature focus to stop human trafficking as it's related to massage.

Heather Topoly has worked in a wide range of massage businesses, including chiropractic, PT clinics, corporate, and hospice.

Consider employing new techniques and strategies with clients in order to remain fresh and mentally invigorated.

Artificial intelligence can be used by massage therapists to aid in business communications and marketing, but it should be used wisely and with a sharp eye for editing.

Carelessness can negatively impact your business and your reputation.

Networking might not be the most comfortable thing to do, but it's a great way to grow your small business (and other small businesses) in the community you serve.

Providing accoutrements such as hair ties, feminine hygiene products, breath mints, and hand sanitizer can make a big difference in your client's mind.

Don't complain about your obligations. Instead, own your career and show it through your professionalism.

Adriane Maxwell is passionate about creating inclusive and welcoming spaces where women from all walks of life can come together to learn, heal, and grow.

The care practitioners extend to clients, combined with dedication to their craft and skills, creates a powerful healing force.

All small businesses need to be online to attract new clients and keep current clients informed of updates.

Massage therapists have stress like everyone else; self-care is not selfish.

FSMTB executive director Debra Persigner talks about their mission is to support members in their work of public protection, ensuring that massage therapy is provided to the public safely.

Standard Precautions have changed over the years as agencies have attempted to limit exposure to pathogens.

Proper cleaning before and after sessions creates a safe work environment and lets clients know they are entering a disinfected space, creating peace of mind.

Networking with providers outside your field can benefit your client treatment process and add to your repertoire of valuable resources and referrals.

Even if you are a longtime massage therapist, you can benefit from a communications tune-up.

When done thoughtfully, a rebrand can be beneficial to your business and your future potential.

A shift in perspective as an interviewee could result in a shift in the physical and emotional response you normally have heading into a job interview.

The work in hospitals focuses on human connection to ease patient suffering, with the emotional highs and lows of working with palliative care patients and supporting other therapists through Healwell.

Having a user-friendly business—from your website organization to your treatment room instructions—will keep clients coming back.

After experiencing trauma, a deeper understanding of massage's healing power emerged, with advice for new practitioners to stay persistent and embrace their unique style despite challenges.

Johnathan Twidell, aka, Shiatsu Guy, doesn't see shiatsu or what I do as work. It's such a part of me that it's just what I do, and I love doing it.

Recognizing what we dislike about our work can help us be more efficient with those tasks and keep our business on track.

Take the time to get organized and be proactive so you don't get caught without your supplies, your session preparation, or, worse, a book of clients.

Seek out one of many available solutions when language or communication barriers are an issue.

A truly superior therapist is client-centered and not caught up in their own ego.

While treatment planning still involves asking your client about their needs, it calls for establishing long-term goals that can potentially create a dramatic change in their quality of life.

Disability insurance is important for MTs to understand because our incomes depend on bodies that can do the work. And if we ever unable to massage, our financial security is in jeopardy.

Valuing the inherit worth, rights, and dignity of each individual includes other massage therapists.

"I enjoy my connection with people."—Lee Hodges

Be consistent in funding yourself through savings accounts and the future you will thank you.

When you've gained enough experience as a bodyworker, it's time to turn the tables and help others and be a mentor.

"Each of us has one body that presents us with all the experiences we will ever have in this form; your body is precious and should be cared for with respect and reverence."

When you pay yourself with intention, you can make better decisions about the direction of your business and your personal budget.

When possible, respond quickly and politely to resolve negative online comments.

4 Nineteen Education & Training was founded to support professional growth in massage therapy, while the Black Massage Therapists Facebook group and Conference were created to build community and address challenges faced by Black therapists.

If you start to think of your business as an asset you manage, and not an inseparable part of your identity, you will focus on ways to make it more valuable.

Volunteering and other civic involvement within the community you live and work not only brings personal satisfaction, but can also help build your massage business.

Massage therapists have a responsibility to have a plan about the logistics of their business in the event of their death or disability.

Like many arrangements, there can also be downsides to partnerships. Let's review some pros, cons, and considerations of running a massage business together.

A frequent complaint from therapists who work as employees is that their employer is not supportive when it comes to maintaining ethical boundaries.

Here are 10 ways to keep your practice safe.

At some point in your massage career, you'll probably be looking for office space to rent, which can be an overwhelming experience if you're not prepared for it.

Whether you already use social media and whether you are a fast learner, learn these simple and effective strategies to leverage Instagram to attract and retain clients.

These sexual assault prevention guidelines provide a road map to maximize the safety of both clients and therapists for massage clinics, day spas, franchisors, franchisees, or those looking to expand their solo practice.

Avoid falling into the sunk cost trap, which describes our tendency to irrationally follow through on an activity that is not meeting our expectations.

The concept of a marketing funnel is pretty simple and can be effective for a massage practice in certain cases.

Attentive listening means being fully present, using all five senses, and coming from a place of wanting to authentically understand someone else. When a client feels heard, they feel more at ease.

Massage practices generally fall into one of three types of business entities, and each type comes with differing tax savings and liabilities.

Though it may feel uncomfortable at first to receive feedback from a client, it is important to teach them that it's not only OK, but encouraged to ensure they get the massage experience they're seeking.

It's always best to respond in a professional manner. When a client is getting to you, take a deep breath before responding. Keep an even tone.

One of the challenges facing the profession today is how to appropriately credential practitioners for personal-care service and health-care service.

She has been called the "godmother of wellness," the "mother of the modern spa," and a "pioneer in the mind/body/spirit movement." Meet Deborah Szekely, mother of the modern spa.

All businesses must comply with Title III of the ADA. There is also an ethical consideration—it is good and right to do everything we can to make massage accessible to everyone, and that includes people with disabilities.

Designing the perfect massage job is a fun, creative, and self-explorative process. Whether right out of school or already in practice, here are 20 tips to help you find your niche.

Planning for financial independence when the time comes to scale back on working or you're ready to retire.

If you've ever meandered through your membership package, you've likely seen the ABMP Code of Ethics. Reading through the ABMP Code of Ethics made me think about what I would put in my own code...

Charting involves keeping a clinical record of the important details and facts about a client session, specifically a problem-focused session. Here we'll review the what, the why, and the how of SOAPs.

It seems clear: We should not disclose who our clients are, when they come in, or why they see us. Except . . . it's not that clear.

What's one of the best ways to relate to someone else? Put yourself in their shoes. The same goes for massage therapy; in order to be a better therapist, consider what it's like to be a client too.

Terrance Bonner's faith, determination, indomitable spirit, and zest for life led him to his first calling, massage therapy, and then to esthetics...all spanning a 36-year career.

Starting a business is a project that often leaves us running through a gamut of emotions—from excitement and happiness to fear and anxiety. Here's how to approach planning, paperwork, and more...

ABMP's Government Relations department advocates on behalf of our members in all 50 states. In this article, we'll answer some of your most frequently asked questions.

For many therapists, The Money Pit movie is a good analogy for our relationship with money in our massage practice.

We're all familiar with the shortages of oil, gas, computer chips, lumber, and, most recently, baby formula. But back in April 2020, at the height of COVID-19 uncertainties, massage and bodywork product wholesalers were predicting supply chain woes.

Competition can conjure a sense of uneasiness, but looking at it in a different way can help you come out of the situation with a renewed sense of self and motivation to grow.

As a mobile massage therapist, you need to make thoughtful decisions about which clients you'll accept. Watching for red flags and following your gut can help keep you from entering a dangerous situation.

Getting to the why behind your to-do list is key, as that can be the extra motivation you need to move forward on bigger tasks.

To achieve repeat bookings, practitioners must (1) understand client goals, (2) deliver value for clients, and (3) design effective treatment plans.

Shifting the way you talk to yourself (especially in challenging situations) precedes successful communication with others.

In March 2021, ABMP conducted a survey of US massage therapists and bodyworkers. Nearly 3,000 professionals were generous with their time and participation. Following is an overview of highlights from

Massage and bodywork are heart-based, caregiving professions. In this article we consider the less tangible aspects of practitioner-client relationships.

When I think about reopening my massage practice, I worry. I've been in my pajamas for about six months at this point, and now it feels like all I've ever known. I vaguely remember being a massage therapist in the distant past, but it might have been a dream.

What can you do when caught with a request—or demand—that requires assistance outside of your work-time parameters?

"I can't believe how much better that feels!" A client says. For all of us massage therapists, hearing comments like this produces incredible satisfaction. And today, those words were even more powerful.

By now, you've put in place a pretty strong financial foundation for your massage practice. So, what's next?

Understanding the laws, etiquette, and considerations regarding these service dogs will prepare you for treating clients who rely on them—while also building their trust in you.

Learn some key components in building a strategy to track business income and expenses.

You make money, pay your business bills, pay taxes on the remainder, and take home what's left. But let's look at some details about how tax deductions really work.

I frequently hear about employers who do not give therapists time to conduct proper intakes or fill out post-session notes, or worse, they do not require them at all. But these practices are the law. Here are some good guidelines to keep in mind.

Now is the time for you and your clients to embrace contactless payment technology. Learn how easy it is to adopt this cleaner, safer way to pay—and to get paid.

Having had your practice closed for months due to COVID-19, you can see how critically important it is to be prepared for any disaster through additional income diversification, as well as alternative ways to deliver your therapy services.

In July 2020, competitive massage will cross the Atlantic Ocean and come to America. The debut of the American Massage Championship (AMC) takes place at the World Massage Festival in Indiana.

Cash flow management sounds kind of tedious—maybe even a little complicated and scary—but what is it really?

A wellness room is a peaceful space designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness, offering a quiet retreat where individuals can decompress. Best of all, they can be incorporated into almost any space: a home, classroom, workplace, and more.

Learning how to be mindful of—and manage—money is one of the most valuable skills to develop. Those who manage money intentionally, mindfully, and gain financial literacy have a distinct advantage in business and in life.

If you accept tips for your services, there are basic guidelines to keep in mind, whether you are an employee, sole proprietor, or business owner.

McLaughlin's first inspiration for beginning her bodywork practice was her grandmother; her second, touring with musicians. She found out how to combine travel, music, and a bodywork practice into one.

I recently read a financial book, David Bach's The Latte Factor, cover to cover. Here's what I learned.

It's so easy to say yes to new opportunities. But saying no is an art, and doing it well will gain you respect and build a helpful sense of confidence.

Email is a double-edged sword. When used well, it's a fast and easy way to communicate. When it's done wrong, email can be annoying.

The resources we can give (money, time, energy) vary depending on what else is happening in our lives. What inspires you to give?

Massage professionals are in a gray area when it comes to complying with the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Let's review how to keep records private and stay in compliance.

Should you bill insurance companies for the services you provide? At some point in almost every practitioner's lifetime, they ponder this question.

The fact that each client is unique makes the job of the massage therapist and bodyworker more interesting and diverse. But there are some qualities that run dominant in the universe of massage clients, and it's smart business to know what they are.

The goal of this article is to keep budgeting simple, but also offer up a few new techniques that will help support you in budgeting for your business.

Imposter syndrome and its related feelings can be something many business owners experience. Let's break it down, shall we?

"If you want to write a book, then pick a subject that fascinates you, then do the work and write it," Leon Chaitow, author of Fascial Dysfunction, always said.

How many of you have strong feelings when you see others treat your profession like it isn't valuable? We all should be compelled to take our profession seriously and treat each other and our clients with respect...and that includes not doing these things.

Providing massage to family and friends can cause boundary challenges for many massage therapists. Here's how to navigate some common issues that can arise, and how to better set boundaries.

Are you ready to become more mindful about money? Turn your intentions into actions!

"Do no harm" is a core principle in all health-care professions. But what does the Hippocratic oath have to do with the precautions we take before we see clients?

Some therapists will say tipping is absolutely necessary to the culture and business of massage. Others think it's an outdated pricing model. So who's right?

Changing our perceptions and beliefs (even about money) is possible, but it takes self-awareness, courage, and commitment to shift our thinking.

Is your massage license valid when you cross state lines? Learn all about license reciprocity and how and when you can practice in other states.

What type of business owner are you? Active business owners plan, change, and adapt, while passive business owners sit back and let things happen.

Raising rates (and talking about that with clients) can be tough. But we need to remember that we're running a business and we should charge a fair price for the service offered.

We are living in a culture fueled by consumerism. Turning our attention inward and practicing mindfulness can help us connect. But what about money mindfulness?

While you may learn some basic ways to use the bolster in school, there are other effective ways to take your bolstering skills and your client's comfort to the next level.

Massage therapy is a sometimes lonely profession. It's an unspoken truth that isn't addressed in schools or discussed among therapists. Understanding this lonely dynamic might be just as important as other skills you've learned over the years.

What advice do therapists who currently work with professional athletes have for other therapists? Let's explore what it takes to make it in the world of elite sports massage.

Learn the basics of podcasting (it's easy!), where and how to find popular massage therapy podcasts, and how this digital resource can help grow your practice.

Practitioners often say the idea of marketing their practice feels overwhelming and panic-inducing. But know that it doesn't have to be!

There are so many moving parts to an independent massage business. It's easy to lose track of details, so here are some organizational tips to help keep you focused and on track!

Take a moment to consider all the places you receive money from, and make a list (you don't have to show it to anyone). Then read through your list and notice how you feel about each source of income.

Many massage therapists assume the paths open to them are limited: start a private practice; work in a chiropractic/physical therapy office; or work in a franchise. But there's another option—opening a clinic built on a team-based approach to massage.

Feeling stuck, like you're trying the same marketing tactics as every other massage therapist out there? The key to standing out is specialization.

Jeff Bartels felt the healing power of massage with his own hands before he ever had formal massage training. In the 1970s, he was working as a psychiatric aide when a new method of treatment emerged on scene—massage.

Have you ever thought to yourself, "I'd really like to make more money this year"? Of course you have! But did you set an actionable goal?

Massage therapists get asked to work at all sorts of events, especially charitable fundraisers. Some business owners say we should never work for free, others say we should be generous with our time and services.

When taking care of anything, consistency is key. This applies to your finances too!

Running your business is time consuming and costly—luckily, help is just a click away. Whatever the task at hand, there's probably an app for that!

It took me many years to notice the pattern of various financial deadlines in the spring. When I did, it took me a few more years to make a change in my habits to prepare for the inevitable. Here's what helped me get on track.

As important as examining and upgrading our beliefs is, there is also a component of action that is just as important. So how do we take action, especially when it comes to our finances?

An issue that always sparks discussion is massage therapy and tipping—but the topic isn't black and white.

You know when you have things to do or have been meaning to do, but keep putting them off? No good. Use this process for every idea you feel stuck on!

She developed a unique modality and was subsequently recognized as the best lymphatic drainage massage therapist in the Bay Area: meet Michelle Bravo.

When most people think of the phrase retirement planning, they probably don't visualize something glamorous. However, it's incredibly important to help you plan and save for life.

Beginning in 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provides several tax-saving opportunities for businesses of all shapes and sizes—most notably, a new tax deduction for small business owners.

Although damage from hurricanes and forest fires tend to make headlines, most claims for ABMP members involve miscellaneous theft and damages. Read about a claim from a member and learn how you can protect yourself and your business in a similar situation!