ADVOCATE FOR MASSAGE THERAPY AS A RECOGNIZED & RESPECTED HEALTHCARE PROFESSION
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.
Insurance Resources
Dear Massage Therapists and Massage enthusiasts,
Back in 1990-91, while I was enrolled at Seattle Massage School, I attended a transformative event where I was witness to the dedication and passion of AMTA-WA Chapter board members. It was during that board meeting that I realized the pressing need for active involvement in our profession. I pledged that, once licensed, I would dedicate myself to volunteering and contributing to the growth and progress of massage therapy.
In 1992, I embarked on my volunteer journey with AMTA-WA, a commitment that extended until the early 2000s. The demands of advocating for our profession led to burnout for some, causing them to step back and focus on their practices. Yet, the external pressures on massage therapy never ceased. This underscores the importance of a continuous cycle of dedicated volunteers stepping up to ensure the well-being of our profession, fellow LMTs, and the patients we serve.
From my firsthand experience, I observed the unwavering commitment of our professional leaders, including educators, clinic owners, and practicing LMTs, who selflessly devoted their time despite the challenges and the additional time taken from their practices, classrooms, and businesses. Fast forward to today, and we continue to grapple with many of the same pressures on our profession. Issues like inadequate insurance coverage and access, the challenge of human trafficking under the guise of massage, and persistent uneven treatment in local regulations, to name but a few – all demanding our collective action and advocacy.
In 2015, we took a significant step by establishing the Washington State Massage Therapy Association (WSMTA) to champion our profession at the local state level. This organization provides an independent platform for advocacy, free from potential constraints by other professional associations and outside stakeholders. While we aim to collaborate with other associations, provider groups and stakeholders whenever possible, our primary focus remains on the advocacy and advancement of massage therapy in our state.
Over the years, WSMTA has emerged as a respected and influential voice in Washington State, with a dedicated membership that fund our operations for the benefit of all State LMT’s. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support, which empowers us to continue our tireless advocacy efforts on behalf of the massage therapy community. Allow me to share a brief list of past and ongoing achievements:
My ask is for you to join the movement and contribute to the betterment of our cherished profession. If you have ever found yourself contemplating a solution while facing a challenge, you already possess the seed of volunteerism within you. Your unique perspective, insights, and dedication are needed now more than ever. Together, we can shape the future of massage therapy, ensuring its growth, recognition, and fair treatment.
Join us in advocating for a stronger, more vibrant massage therapy community in Washington. Your voice matters, your actions make a difference, and your commitment will leave a lasting impact. Let's come together and propel our profession to new heights. Reach out to us today at info@mywsmta.org and be a part of this exciting journey.
With heartfelt gratitude and anticipation,
Carl Wilson
Director and Treasurer
Washington State Massage Therapy Association (WSMTA)
For four days over October 20-23, 2022 there is a free vision clinic offering free vision exams and prescription eyeglasses. Anyone from the Seattle/King County region who struggles to get access or afford healthcare is welcome.
This is a first-come, first serve clinic that starts at 6am each day of the clinic and is held at Seattle Center. All medical professionals and staff are volunteers. For full details, click on this link:
https://seattlecenter.org/patients/
This clinic has been occurring annually since 2014 and has provided free medical, dental and vision services. It took a hiatus during the pandemic. This is the first year it is operating again, but only as a vision clinic as they navigate such a massive healthcare undertaking through COVID. It is possible they may offer free health and/or dental services again in future annual clinics, so keep this website in mind for 2023 if you or someone you know might benefit from their services.
Currently, in a massage practice or clinic, blankets are defined as a single service item, meaning that after every use, the blanket must be laundered. The Board of Massage had considered changing how often a blanket must be laundered but decided in it's July 29, 2022 meeting to keep blankets a single service item.
WAC 246-830-005 Definitions subsection (12) defines linens. The WAC currently states:
"Linens" means sheets, blankets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, face cradle covers, and other nonimpervious fabrics used in the practice of massage.
WAC 246-830-500 Equipment and Sanitation subsections (5) and (6) currently state:
(5) A massage therapist must provide single service materials or clean linen such as sheets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, and all other linens used in the practice of massage. (6) Linens must be stored in a sanitary manner. All towels and linens used for one client or patient must be laundered or cleaned before they are used on any other client or patient.
(5) A massage therapist must provide single service materials or clean linen such as sheets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, and all other linens used in the practice of massage.
(6) Linens must be stored in a sanitary manner. All towels and linens used for one client or patient must be laundered or cleaned before they are used on any other client or patient.
The Board of Massage has been in the process of amending 5 WACs, which also included WAC 246-830-500 Equipment and Sanitation. The Board of Massage had planned to amend the language to read:
(5) A massage therapist must provide single service materials or clean ((linen such as sheets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, and all other)) linens used in the practice of massage. Linens must be stored in a sanitary manner. (6) All ((towels and)) linens ((used for one))that come into direct contact with a client or patient must be laundered or cleaned before they are used on any other client or patient. Blankets used on a client or patient must be laundered at least once a day or when the blanket comes in direct contact with a client or patient or becomes soiled.
(5) A massage therapist must provide single service materials or clean ((linen such as sheets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, and all other)) linens used in the practice of massage. Linens must be stored in a sanitary manner.
(6) All ((towels and)) linens ((used for one))that come into direct contact with a client or patient must be laundered or cleaned before they are used on any other client or patient. Blankets used on a client or patient must be laundered at least once a day or when the blanket comes in direct contact with a client or patient or becomes soiled.
However, in the July 29, 2022 Board of Massage meeting, the Board of Massage decided to keep blankets a single service item, which requires laundering after each client use.
On September 27, 2022, the Department of Health sent an email out to every massage therapist it has an email address for. The email stated:
Continuing Education in Person Training Waiver Ends December 31, 2022Dear Interested Party: At its September 23, 2022 meeting, the Board of Massage (board) voted to not extend the expiration date for Policy Statement BOM 20-01.6 Continuing Education Requirements During the COVID-19 Response. The policy, which is in effect through December 31, 2022, waives the requirement for an LMT to obtain in person and directly supervised massage skills training as part of their continuing education. Beginning January 1, 2023, to renew their license, LMTs will be required to complete the CE requirements as provided in WAC 246-830-475, subject to the exception outlined below. ExceptionAn LMT whose CE reporting date is after December 31, 2022, will not be found non-compliant with their CE if they obtain their CE hours in accordance with the allowances of the policy while it is in effect. ExampleAn LMT who must report their CE by February 20, 2023, will not be required to obtain eight hours of in person training if they complete all CE requirements in accordance with the policy’s allowances before December 31, 2022. Their next CE reporting date would be February 20, 2025. In addition, the Board will continue to exercise its authority in WAC 246-12-210 to review extenuating circumstances that may prevent an LMT from meeting their CE requirements. Davis Hylkema Interim Program Manager Washington State Board of Massage massage.therapy@doh.wa.gov
At its September 23, 2022 meeting, the Board of Massage (board) voted to not extend the expiration date for Policy Statement BOM 20-01.6 Continuing Education Requirements During the COVID-19 Response. The policy, which is in effect through December 31, 2022, waives the requirement for an LMT to obtain in person and directly supervised massage skills training as part of their continuing education.
Beginning January 1, 2023, to renew their license, LMTs will be required to complete the CE requirements as provided in WAC 246-830-475, subject to the exception outlined below.
ExceptionAn LMT whose CE reporting date is after December 31, 2022, will not be found non-compliant with their CE if they obtain their CE hours in accordance with the allowances of the policy while it is in effect.
ExampleAn LMT who must report their CE by February 20, 2023, will not be required to obtain eight hours of in person training if they complete all CE requirements in accordance with the policy’s allowances before December 31, 2022. Their next CE reporting date would be February 20, 2025.
In addition, the Board will continue to exercise its authority in WAC 246-12-210 to review extenuating circumstances that may prevent an LMT from meeting their CE requirements.
Davis Hylkema Interim Program Manager Washington State Board of Massage massage.therapy@doh.wa.gov
Click on the link, https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WADOH/bulletins/32f45fa to read the email in an official format.
A shorter version of this email is also published on the Department of Health, Massage Therapist page, just click on https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/massage-therapist to read it.
The Washington COVID state of emergency will end on October 31, 2022. The rest of the Governor’s Proclamations, that are still in effect, will come to an end on this same date. Here is a link to the latest news release from Governor Inslee’s office about the ending of the COVID state of emergency.
https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-announces-end-remaining-covid-19-emergency-orders-and-state-emergency-october-31
But (there is always a but) it is important to understand that the requirement to mask in healthcare settings is an order from the Department of Health and as of this writing, this requirement will continue past October 31 (see below).
The state wide face covering order issued by the state Department of Health will remain in place for health care and long-term care settings, as well as correctional facilities under certain circumstances after the state of emergency ends. The governor is also looking at options to ensure there are protections for workers who choose to wear a mask in their workplace.
As updates are available, we will post them here. Until then masking is still required in all massage therapy places of business.
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Advocate for Massage Therapy as a Recognized & Respected Healthcare Profession
