Guidelines for Practice

New York State defines the practice of massage therapy as “engaging in applying a scientific system of activity to the muscular structure of the human body by means of stroking, kneading, tapping and vibrating with the hands or vibrators for the purpose of improving muscle tone and circulation.”

Massage therapists are required to maintain a commitment to providing the highest quality of care to those who seek their professional service. They are expected to acknowledge the limitations, precautions and contraindications (see Cautions) for practice and refer clients to other health care professionals when client needs are outside the scope of practice of massage.

There are many techniques that fall within the practice of massage therapy. These include, but are not limited to:

• Swedish massage

• Medical massage

• Shiatsu

• Connective tissue massage

• Tuina

• Amma

• Neuromuscular massage

• Acupressure

• Reflexology

• Manual lymph drainage

Practice of any of the above requires a license in massage therapy. In advertising or on business cards practitioners should say "licensed massage therapist" or have the initials L.M.T. after their names, followed by a list or description of specific kinds of practice.

For more information

Detailed descriptions for "Guidelines for Practice" can be found at New York State Education Department's Web site at www.op.nysed.gov/mtguide.htm. 

Massage therapist services are described at www.op.nysed.gov/prof/mt/mtbroch.htm.

To locate a practitioner contact Meg Darnell, Dean of Alumni and Student Services at alumni@swedishinstitute.edu or 212.924.5900 ext. 142.

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