Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1451559
M obile massage therapy appointments have been on the rise since the pandemic has confi ned many people to their homes. Many massage therapists are leery about going into a stranger's home because they have little control of what they are walking into, while others don't think twice about providing in-home massage appointments. When I started my mobile massage career 22 years ago, I was the latter. Looking back, I realize I wasn't doing anything to protect myself. I wanted all the clients I could get. I didn't care about the location or the time, and I didn't do anything to screen potential clients before I arrived. The world has changed a lot since those days. Throughout my entire career, I have had numerous family members, friends, and massage therapists question my sanity as to why I am so comfortable going into someone else's space that I know nothing about. This never bothered me until a good friend was sexually assaulted in the middle of a massage and had to run from the home, leaving all her belongings to call the police. Since that day, I have implemented many safety and screening protocols to ensure I am only accepting clients who will not cross the line. What questions should you ask when screening a potential client? What protocols can you put in place to differentiate between those looking for massage therapy and those looking for "extras"? How can you ensure safety? THE MORE INFORMATION, THE BETTER As a mobile therapist, you need to decide whether you want to offer online booking and allow anyone to book a massage with you, hire an answering service, or screen and schedule the appointments yourself. Whatever model you choose, it is a smart idea to have a screening protocol and require a booking fee to hold the appointment time—or require full payment pre-appointment. Each new client should fi ll out a health history form, a consent form, and an expected conduct form. Many predators do not want to share their personal information, so requiring all this information at time of booking is a wise idea and can deter those looking for something other than massage therapy. When screening and scheduling, it is important to get as much information as possible. You should ask as many questions as you want until you are satisfi ed with the information you have received. When I have a new inquiry, I thank them for inquiring about my mobile massage services. I reiterate that I offer professional therapeutic massage therapy and that I am licensed with the Department of Health in Florida. Then, I proceed with my screening and send them the forms I need them to complete. L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 45 KEY POINTS • As a mobile massage therapist, you need to make thoughtful decisions about which clients you'll accept. • Asking prospective clients seven specifi c questions can deter or stop sexual predators. • Watching for red fl ags and following your gut can help keep you from entering a dangerous situation. ABMP PODCAST: EP 187 – MOBILE MASSAGE WITH MICHELLE ROOS 1. Open your camera 2. Scan the code 3. Tap on notification 4. Listen! GIORGIO TROVATO/UNSPL ASH