Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1208028
58 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k m a r c h / a p r i l 2 0 2 0 1. Stop the treatment using assertive behavior. Assertive behavior means you address the client with body language congruent with what you say verbally. Make eye contact if possible, stand in a relaxed yet grounded manner, and use a firm voice. Do not shrink and get quiet (passive) or violate your client through yelling or touching inappropriately (aggressively). 2. Make sure the client is properly covered (i.e., re-drape the body part being attended, adjust client's clothing/ gown). This provides a literal boundary that reassures both client and practitioner. Additionally, if touch has contributed to a sexually aroused state, this ensures that you're stopping a potential cause of the stimulation. 3. Maintain your safety. Store your belongings, including a cell phone, in an easily accessible place. If the client's behavior feels intimidating, don't stay too close to the client and position yourself so that you have easy access to your exit door. Leave immediately if the client actively threatens you and then call 911. If you're in a spa or clinic with others on-site, go to the front desk. If you're in your private office or doing an in-home or hotel session, leave the premises—you can return later, accompanied by someone, to retrieve your equipment and supplies. 4. Describe the behavior(s). Respond directly to the client's verbal or nonverbal communication by verbalizing to them what you just experienced. Describing a behavior lets the client know you're paying attention without judging the behavior. Examples of this kind of communication are: • "I notice you're tightening your muscle and grimacing when I pass over this area." • "I am aware that you made a comment about my appearance, then made a sexual joke, and now you have an erection." Interventions "If we are to be taken seriously and respected for our commitment, we must stand up and speak up to all inappropriate behavior," as one practitioner said. Here is what you need to say: "I'm not comfortable with what's going on here, and it's time for you to leave." Depending on the severity of the situation, therapists describe doing the following when a client behaves inappropriately: • Promptly stop massage, explain why through the closed door, and tell the client to leave. • Tell a supervisor immediately. • Call law enforcement. There is also something called "The Intervention Model"—a communication model developed by Daphne Chellos for practitioners to use when verbal or nonverbal communication from a client is unclear or when practitioners feel their boundaries are being violated. The Intervention Model is a gender- and orientation-free process. Depending on the situation, you may be able to stop after one step, or you may need to go through all the steps.