Andrea Smith RMT

12/13/2025

Here is the link to sign the petition supporting the removal of HST from massage therapy.

This week, a Private Member's Bill supporting HST exemption for Ontario RMTs was introduced, a direct result of RMTAO advocacy and member efforts this past year, notably at our October 2025 Queen's Park Day.

MPP France Gélinas, the NDP Health Critic, introduced the Massage Therapy Tax Act, 2025. Under this Act, the Minister of Health is mandated to take every necessary measure, including introducing legislation, to bring the tax treatment of massage therapy services provided by Ontario RMTs into alignment with the tax treatment of services provided by other practitioners.

The Bill has already passed its first reading, marking an exciting first step. While additional readings are required for it to proceed, this early success is an important step forward, thanks to our advocacy efforts.

To increase support for the Bill as it goes through the legislative process, MPP Gélinas has created a petition to support the removal of HST from massage therapy services. We encourage you to sign this petition and share it widely with your networks to support the Bill's success.

Sign the petition: https://francegelinas.ca/remove-the-hst-from-massage-therapy-services-retirez-la-tvh-des-services-de-massotherapeutes/

MPP Gélinas also shared a press release today to increase awareness of and support for this issue. This would be a great resource to share to help spread the word.

Share the press release: https://www.ontariondp.ca/news/mpp-g-linas-calls-hst-be-removed-treatments-delivered-registered-massage-therapists

This is an important and encouraging step in our efforts towards HST exemption. This was made possible due to the support of members who have continued to bring this issue forward, as well as the culmination of continuous advocacy efforts by the RMTAO.

We will provide you with updates as soon as they become available.

12/08/2025

Turned back on the way to work this morning. I am sending big apologies to my wonderful patients, for canceling last minute, and for a second snow day this month! Can’t keep ahead of the shovelling. On another note, the dogs are loving it so it makes for a better day!

11/24/2025

The finance minister is now reviewing the petition to remove tax from massage therapy. Thank you to Jonathan Rowe - Terra Nova-The Peninsulas for presenting this petition in the House of Commons

11/16/2025

Setting up a new home practice space!

11/16/2025

We are finally making headway in setting up my new massage therapy home practice in Kennetcook. My parents’ beautiful dining room, no longer used, and such a welcoming space, is complete with a handmade china cabinet built by my Dad, Andrew. I remember installing it with him many years ago. Gone are the days of family meals here, filled with laughter and everyone talking at once. I would like to thank my cousin Karen White for the suggestion 2 years ago when she visited. We are happy to be putting this beautiful space to good use soon!

08/30/2025

Here is information on the legalities of being a massage therapist in Nova Scotia. For instance, there is a high level of training involved, liability insurance is required, and we must pass criminal record checks in order to belong to an association. We must follow all association requirements and be in good standing with yearly renewals. This is to protect the public. These steps allow massage therapists to bill to insurance companies. Not all massage therapists offer direct billing but they must follow the rules.
Massage therapy is becoming very expensive, as is everything. The rate for therapeutic massage is around $110 hourly.
If you do not have health insurance or cannot pay the full fee, please contact me and we can come up with a treatment plan for what is affordable for you.
There are other types of massage but those practitioners cannot use the title of massage therapist.
There is a $15,000 first fine, with $30,000 subsequent fines for those in violation of this act.
You can read more about it here in Bill 193 passed in 2019.

BILL NO. 193 (as introduced) 2nd Session, 63rd General Assembly Nova Scotia 68 Elizabeth II, 2019 Government Bill Massage Therapist Titles Protection Act The Honourable Randy Delorey Minister of Health and Wellness

08/17/2025

NS Widfires