12/10/2025
1000x times this. Thank you Wellness By Kate Lomnes and Keysha Stewart!
It’s funny how people say “it’s just a word”
…until that word crosses a boundary.
We are Registered Massage Therapists.
In Alberta, that means minimum 2200 hours of education, a 2-year diploma, extensive study of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, assessment, ethics, clinical skills — the whole package.
We’re regulated by professional associations and held to strict standards.
So let’s clear this up:
We are NOT “masseuses.”
That term is outdated, inaccurate, and tied to a history that s*xualized our work.
And yes — it directly affects our safety and the respect we receive.
We work with injuries, stress, chronic pain, postural dysfunction, trauma, and recovery.
We collaborate with chiropractors, physios, trainers, and other healthcare providers.
This is clinical work, not entertainment.
Words matter.
They shape how people treat us, how seriously they take healthcare, and whether a treatment room feels safe.
Massage continues to confuse the public when you can find us in spas, physio offices, clinics, and yes under the guise of “massage” that is really s*x work. So we don’t blame you and are not upset over your confusion. Education is how we invoke change, encourage respect, and get invited to the table.
So please:
If you’re booking a treatment or talking about the profession?
Say Massage Therapist.
Say RMT.
Not “masseuse.”
Not “massager.”
We’ve worked too hard to be minimized by a word that never represented us. A word that diminishes the countless hours of continuing education required to withhold good standing for our licensure, hours of clinical practice of experience, and exhaustive toll our bodies take to support the healing of yours.
Respect the profession.
Respect the title.
Respect the people behind it.
We are healthcare providers.
We are skilled.
We are educated.
We are legit.
Share if you appreicte your Masage Therapist or have one in your life that you love! Help us end the stigma and spread the word!
🎤 Message delivered.
Inspired by Keysha Stewart-original poster.
