Massage Envy Salaries, Bonuses and Benefits.

Everyone, No job is perfect. It may be very demanding and stressful. You may feel unappreciated. There are good employers and bad employers. You may not like your coworkers. There will always be someone unhappy with their pay. You may have a long commute and forced to contend with traffic. You may not like your boss...etc. The point is there will always be something you dislike. Just be happy with what you do. You are helping people. Don't focus on your pay. I have worked 8 years as a Respiratory Therapist side by side with Physicians in the medical field. I perform EKGs to help determine how a patient's heart is functioning. Using a sterile syringe I take samples of blood(ABG-Arterial Blood Gas) from a patient's artery to help determine PH, Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide...etc. levels. I Administer aerosol breathing treatments to help patients with shortness of breath. Checking patients' vitals and using a stethescope to listen for breath sounds I Assess patients' conditions. I perform Chestphysiotherapy-using a percussor, vest or my cupped hands, I pound on a patients' chests to loosen phlegm while moving patients in various positions to help drain phlegm from lungs, then have them cough or using a sterile catheter I suction it out. I help critically ill patients in the ICU who cannot breathe on their own by inserting a breathing tube into their throats and connecting them to a ventilator and setting tidal volume(how big a breath), frequency(how fast the breath is given), FIO2(level of Oxygen given), Pressure Control(How the Oxygen is pushed in)...etc. I perform Spirometry(volume and flows-how fast air is expelled), Diffusion Capacity(how well Oxygen transfers from lungs into blood stream). Maximal inspiratory(MIP) and (MEP)Expiratory Pressures(breathing muscle strength)..etc. This is just a sample of what I do. My job is very overwhelming, stressful, and fast paced. I feel inadequately compensated. But I like what I do, the people I work with and I enjoy helping people.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: LMT/NMT from Atlanta, I agree with Latisha from Edmonds Washington. Medical Professional? Did you attend college courses such as Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry..etc. with required laboratory classes?, clinical hospital rotations?, how about earn a degree?, pass your national boards and obtain your state license?. Have you worked in a hospital ICU with critically ill patients?, ever attach a patient who can't breathe on their own to a ventilator and set paramaters such as tidal volumes, frequency, FIO2..etc.?; do you know anything about pressure control?, do you know how to perform EKGs, Arterial blood gases?, have you ever maximally exercised a patient on a treadmill to collect VO2 data?. This is just a part of what we as healthcare professionals do. Even with my 8 years of experience in the medical field I would never compare myself to a physician as you have with no experience in this field.

first of all yes we did take anatomy and physilogy. some did take chem. some have done labs. Yes we did take a state national to get a license. So deal with it, we are here to stay. we ARE medical professionals regardless what you others think. I work in a hospital everyday caring for critically ill. So don't act like you are superior cause you have a different title.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: The hyoid is found in the throat area, inferior to the mandible in the anterior neck. If I can recall this so can a Physician. With the amount of information they are required to study there is no way anyone can immediately remember. But everything we learn is always stored in our long term memory. When given the opportunity we can recall any stored data. While attending school to be a Respiratory Therapist I was required to study Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology with Labs, Composition, Speech..etc. along with my required Respiratory Therapy courses and Clinical Hospital Rotations. It is a tremendous amount of information. And it is only a fraction of what physicians have to study. I graduated, earned my Degree, passed my National Board Exams and obtained my State License. I have been working 8 years as a Respiratory Therapist. For the last 7 years I have enjoyed working with excellent, greatly skilled and very knowledgable physicians at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla. I am continually learning from my patients, coworkers and especially our Physicians.

That's great for you. I can tell you first hand, I work at St Lukes and speak with Physicians everyday. Some of them dont remember the anatomical terms for a few things. I'm not belittleing them. I have alot of respect for the doctors that deserve it. I also hear the doctors complain about their nagging patients. Ive had many doctors tell me and several other nurses not to disturb them. I respect every field cause none of them are easy. But as a massage therapist I will not be belittled either.

For everyone who says LMTs are not medical professionals......ask the state why they license us as such. We took a state exam just as all other medical professionals. We took anatomy and physiology. Honestly i'm not gonna waste my energy trying to convince anyone. I will say if we are not Medical professionals why are we in every chiropracters office?? Why do people see us for medical conditions?? Why are most hospitals now hiring Massage Therapists??? I busted my hump studying just as much as the physician you all defend. None of the medical professions are easily acquired. When will everyone finaly accept that we are in that field??

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: Many of you on this forum have compared yourselves with Physicians. If that is not elitist thinking then I don't know what is. Massage Therapists should never compare themselves with Physicians. Their Education, Knowledge and Skills are nowhere near Physicians'. Even with my 8 years experience working as a Respiratory Therapist side by side with Physicians in the medical field I would never be so bold as to compare myself with them. They are the experts. I am continually learning from my patients, coworkers and the Physicians I am privileged to work with.

Once again, I never compared myself to a Doctor. I am a nurse also and know both sides of the argument. I think what people are trying to say is that a therapist has more schooling and knowledge than most think. We have to get licensed and Nationally Nertified, as well as continuing education. Respect works both ways.

I have had as many as 10 LMTs working for me and they usually averaged $20/hr. I would never hire anyone right out of school. I respect the education and credentialing that goes into Massage Therapy. However, it is just wrong to compare massage to a medical doctor's place in the healthcare paradigm. Medical doctors have seen their incomes drop dramatically in the last 2 decades. Was it too high before? Probably.
If you want to compare a medical doctors training, sacrifice, time(8-9yrs), and responsibility(life/death), to where a massage therapist fits into those categories, you will see where your avg. yearly income should fit in the health care pie.
If you are an entrepreneur and try to make it on your own, go ahead. I think you'll find that $15/hr plus tips with a steady flow of work, and benefits to be a pretty good deal, especially if you can get hired right out of school.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: LMT/NMT from Atlanta, I agree with Latisha from Edmonds Washington. Medical Professional? Did you attend college courses such as Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry..etc. with required laboratory classes?, clinical hospital rotations?, how about earn a degree?, pass your national boards and obtain your state license?. Have you worked in a hospital ICU with critically ill patients?, ever attach a patient who can't breathe on their own to a ventilator and set paramaters such as tidal volumes, frequency, FIO2..etc.?; do you know anything about pressure control?, do you know how to perform EKGs, Arterial blood gases?, have you ever maximally exercised a patient on a treadmill to collect VO2 data?. This is just a part of what we as healthcare professionals do. Even with my 8 years of experience in the medical field I would never compare myself to a physician as you have with no experience in this field.

Rolinda,

You are just like the owners and managers at Massage Envy, you don't know anything about massage therapy! Please just worry about respiratory therapy and let us worry about about our very important part of healthcare. Also, try and get some sleep.

Cheree in Rochester, Minnesota said: first of all yes we did take anatomy and physilogy. some did take chem. some have done labs. Yes we did take a state national to get a license. So deal with it, we are here to stay. we ARE medical professionals regardless what you others think. I work in a hospital everyday caring for critically ill. So don't act like you are superior cause you have a different title.

See what I mean, elitist thinking. Like I said even with my 8 years experience as a Respiratory Therapist working side by side with Physicians in the medical field helping critically ill patients I would never dare to compare myself with Physicians. My point is if you're not happy with your career, change careers instead of complaining about it. I like what I like what I do. I enjoy helping people. This is why chose this field.

Therapist - Clinic Owner in Wilmette, Illinois said: Rolinda,

You are just like the owners and managers at Massage Envy, you don't know anything about massage therapy! Please just worry about respiratory therapy and let us worry about about our very important part of healthcare. Also, try and get some sleep.

I'm on paid vacation and using my free non-sleepy time to browse the internet. Think about it, if you're unhappy with your career, change it.

Cheree in Rochester, Minnesota said: For everyone who says LMTs are not medical professionals......ask the state why they license us as such. We took a state exam just as all other medical professionals. We took anatomy and physiology. Honestly i'm not gonna waste my energy trying to convince anyone. I will say if we are not Medical professionals why are we in every chiropracters office?? Why do people see us for medical conditions?? Why are most hospitals now hiring Massage Therapists??? I busted my hump studying just as much as the physician you all defend. None of the medical professions are easily acquired. When will everyone finaly accept that we are in that field??

My point is even during my 8 years experience as a Respiratory Therapist working side by side with Physicians helping critically ill patients, I hear the same complaints from my coworkers. We also are not satisfied with our salaries, feel unappreciated, overworked...etc. Speak with a Nurse, or a Physician and you'll hear the same things. You will find this in any profession. No job is perfect. Be happy with what you're doing and if you're not, change careers. I chose my career as a Respiratory Therapist and overall I like what I do and I enjoy helping people.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: See what I mean, elitist thinking. Like I said even with my 8 years experience as a Respiratory Therapist working side by side with Physicians in the medical field helping critically ill patients I would never dare to compare myself with Physicians. My point is if you're not happy with your career, change careers instead of complaining about it. I like what I like what I do. I enjoy helping people. This is why chose this field.

Whoops, let me fix this. See what I mean, elitist thinking. like I said, even with my 8 years experience as a Respiratory Therapist working side by side with Physicians in the medical field helping critically ill patients I would never dare to compare myself with Physicians. My point is if you're not happy with your career, change careers instead of complaining about it. I like what I do and I enjoy helping people. This is why I chose my field.

Cheree in Rochester, Minnesota said: That's great for you. I can tell you first hand, I work at St Lukes and speak with Physicians everyday. Some of them dont remember the anatomical terms for a few things. I'm not belittleing them. I have alot of respect for the doctors that deserve it. I also hear the doctors complain about their nagging patients. Ive had many doctors tell me and several other nurses not to disturb them. I respect every field cause none of them are easy. But as a massage therapist I will not be belittled either.

In every profession you will find flaws. No job is perfect. I hear the same complaints from my coworkers, Respiratory Therapists, Nurses, even Physicians. I have experienced the same things. Lack of respect, Unhappy with pay, Overworked...etc. But overall I like what I do and I enjoy helping my patients. You will find this in every profession. Be happy with what you do and if you're not, change careers.

Cheree in Rochester, Minnesota said: first of all yes we did take anatomy and physilogy. some did take chem. some have done labs. Yes we did take a state national to get a license. So deal with it, we are here to stay. we ARE medical professionals regardless what you others think. I work in a hospital everyday caring for critically ill. So don't act like you are superior cause you have a different title.

Some, not all Massage Therapists had Chemistry or Labs? Then there is no way they should ever be comparing themselves with Physicians who are highly educated. And the fact that they are doing so demonstrates their elitist thinking. Most medical professionals are required to take and pass these courses in order to Graduate and earn their Degrees.

Cheree in Rochester, Minnesota said: first of all yes we did take anatomy and physilogy. some did take chem. some have done labs. Yes we did take a state national to get a license. So deal with it, we are here to stay. we ARE medical professionals regardless what you others think. I work in a hospital everyday caring for critically ill. So don't act like you are superior cause you have a different title.

Every state national exam has a difficulty level based upon chosen profession and education. It is wrong to compare Massage Therapists with Physicians or any other medical profession.

Chiropractor in Ormond Beach, Florida said: I have had as many as 10 LMTs working for me and they usually averaged $20/hr. I would never hire anyone right out of school. I respect the education and credentialing that goes into Massage Therapy. However, it is just wrong to compare massage to a medical doctor's place in the healthcare paradigm. Medical doctors have seen their incomes drop dramatically in the last 2 decades. Was it too high before? Probably.
If you want to compare a medical doctors training, sacrifice, time(8-9yrs), and responsibility(life/death), to where a massage therapist fits into those categories, you will see where your avg. yearly income should fit in the health care pie.
If you are an entrepreneur and try to make it on your own, go ahead. I think you'll find that $15/hr plus tips with a steady flow of work, and benefits to be a pretty good deal, especially if you can get hired right out of school.

$20/hr sounds pretty good to me considering that as a Respiratory Therapist working in the medical field for 8 years I am earning $26/hr.

LMT/CMT in Phoenix, Arizona said: The same goes for those of you who dont really care how much therapists make and say they should be doing it for the love of the porofession not the money. We shouldnt care about money, but aparently YOU care about the money when it comes down to paying for the service. So its ok to expect a break on pricing but the therapist should expect nothing? Interesting.

Considering I have worked as a Respiratory Therapist side by side with Physicians helping critically ill patients for 8 years and earning $26/hr, Massage Therapists are doing very well. No job is perfect. Be happy with what you're doing or change careers.

Rolinda wrote-Some, not all Massage Therapists had Chemistry or Labs? Then there is no way they should ever be comparing themselves with Physicians who are highly educated. And the fact that they are doing so demonstrates their elitist thinking. Most medical professionals are required to take and pass these courses in order to Graduate and earn their Degrees.

Rolinda-you are the one who sounds elitist! The fact is that massage therapists have the opportunity to address the whole being- mind, body and spirit. Often, we are the first ones to let our clients know that something they have or are experiencing healthwise may not be normal. You administer treatments that you are told to administer by some random physician working at a corporate run hospital thats making a profit from illness. That is the business you are in. Without sick people you would be out of work. It is the greed that is western medicine as we know it today. You work on the very poor or the welthy who can afford insurance and treatment. You are part of an ugy machine. Massage therapist on the otherhand assist people in taking an active role in their health. We inspire people. Hospitals often expire people...for a profit.

you earn $26 with benefits and 40 hours right? Full time for a MT is 20 hours without paid benefits my dear. You have it made but you still work for a business that needs sick people in order to thrive. Sick isn't it?

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: Rolinda wrote-Some, not all Massage Therapists had Chemistry or Labs? Then there is no way they should ever be comparing themselves with Physicians who are highly educated. And the fact that they are doing so demonstrates their elitist thinking. Most medical professionals are required to take and pass these courses in order to Graduate and earn their Degrees.

Rolinda-you are the one who sounds elitist! The fact is that massage therapists have the opportunity to address the whole being- mind, body and spirit. Often, we are the first ones to let our clients know that something they have or are experiencing healthwise may not be normal. You administer treatments that you are told to administer by some random physician working at a corporate run hospital thats making a profit from illness. That is the business you are in. Without sick people you would be out of work. It is the greed that is western medicine as we know it today. You work on the very poor or the welthy who can afford insurance and treatment. You are part of an ugy machine. Massage therapist on the otherhand assist people in taking an active role in their health. We inspire people. Hospitals often expire people...for a profit.

You just proved my point. Elitist thinking. My whole point is no educated healthcare professional familiar with a Physician's Education, Knowledge and Skills would ever dare to compare or place himself/herself at the same level as a Physician. And yes I help people, rich, poor, no matter who they are or where they're from. Even you, if you ever need help. I never put anyone down as you just did.

we alert our clients that they may need to seek further medical attention as we are trained to do. I am not comparing myself or any mt to a physician. I am not putting you down I am stating my opinion about the medical industry of which you happen to be a part

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: you earn $26 with benefits and 40 hours right? Full time for a MT is 20 hours without paid benefits my dear. You have it made but you still work for a business that needs sick people in order to thrive. Sick isn't it?

Any decent employer should provide benefits for their full time employees. Even as a full time employee I still pay for part of my benefits which is taken from each of my paychecks. 20 hours is not full time, it's considered only part time. That explains why your employers are not required to provide you with benefits. I don't agree with the policy, part time employees are usually required to pay for their own benefits if they want it. What a lucrative racket your employers have going. You're right; I have it made. There will always be an influx of ill people and with the aging population, job security. May be you should consider changing careers.

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: we alert our clients that they may need to seek further medical attention as we are trained to do. I am not comparing myself or any mt to a physician. I am not putting you down I am stating my opinion about the medical industry of which you happen to be a part

Advising our patients is what we all do. Respiratory Therapists, Nurses, even Physicians will refer patients to other Specialists. I speak with all my patients about their Medical history, Smoking history, Take their vitals, Listen to their lungs and Assess their condition. When I see Heart Arrhythmias on an EKG during a Pulmonary Stress Exercise Treadmill Test I alert not only our assigned Caretaker/Physician for immediate care but also contact the patient's referring Primary Physician. It is the nature of the job. It is our responsibility.

brian "the breather" in Houston, Texas said: Kelly,

I've gotten a massage from 3 of the therapists at the West U. location, and only one of them was any good (Krista... she's excellent). If you don't mind my asking, which one do you go to?

Hi Brian:

The best person to get a massage from is Brian. In my opinion he is better with Krista. You may not be able to get an appointment with him right away, because he is so wonderful, but I am willing to wait a few days to get him!! However, after what I am reading from these posts he may leave. Hopefully if he leaves he will let me know where he goes. I would be willing to pay extra for him once my husband gets his masters from Rice and gets a "real" job!!
I used to get a massage from David at River Oaks. He was as good as Brian, but he left to go to medical school. I think he will make an excellent doctor. he gave me excercies I could do at home to strength my back muscles.

brian "the breather" in Houston, Texas said: Hi, Kelly. You do realize that the West U. Massage Envy is newer than the one in River Oaks, right? How long do you think it'll take for the West U. location to go downhill, too?

Brian:

You are probably correct; however it is my understanding that the cost went up to $49.00 an hour. Will it make a difference? I don't know, but hopefully with the membership increase therapist will make more money.

Can anyone tell me how the front desk office staff are treated? I was thinking about getting a part time job at a Massage Envy, but now I am not sure

Host said: What are the average starting salaries, bonuses, benefits and travel requirements like at Massage Envy?

What do you like best about working at Massage Envy? Are there any great perks or special treats for employees?

I have been working for Massage Envy in South Florida for one year now, the average starting salary is $15.00- $20.00/ hr. plus $5.00 for every patron of yours that becomes a member. They offer a mini medical plan at no cost to the employee, if you work over 20 hours a week. most do not do out calls or require travel, unless you choose to transfer.
What I like best about working at Massage Envy is that I am able to provide healing therapy and massage to the people that need it the most, the average stressed, overworked person, at a cost that most can afford. and that all three franchise owner's that I have worked with have been approachable, nonintimidating, warm, appreciative people. It has been a very pleasant work enviroment. Although the clinics may pay less than other spa's, (because they charge less), they are always usually busy year round so you always have plenty of work from the locals (may be because they are so affordable) , and they are not seasonal like the resorts, so they are never are slow or dead in the summer. I have been a therapist for ten years and have worked for a big golf resort and spa in Miami for seven years, and another in Aventura for a couple of years before that and I can tell you honestly that this is the best job that I have had and the best company that I have worked for. At the big corporate spa's it is a much colder work enviroment. you feel much less respected and appreciated. The quality of the experience for both the therapist and the guest has been less (almost like a "factory"). At Massage Envy they do respect the needs and comfort of the therapist. They do ask you how many massages can you do in a row before you need a break ( if you need half an hour or an hour), in a day

Thank you for your informative and respectful comments. It sounds like $20 is the magic number for an acceptable base pay amount for massage therapy. Unfortunately most of us aren't guaranteed an eight-hour paid day, even a one-hour day for that matter. I don't like include tips but since massage therapist rarely get on-the-job training or employer-sponsored training like other health-care professionals, tips are necessary. Wouldn't it be interesting if doctors were paid a base and had to depend on tips reflecting their customer's satisfaction. Let's see, $200 for a successful gall stone removal? (just kidding guys). The world is getting flatter, for all of us. Some of my other job duties are now being done by someone from India who received training in the U.S. Instead of returning to India after receiving an excellent, discounted education he decided to stay here. Now I have to pay out of pocket to take the same courses he received. Yup, massage isn't the only profession feeling the impact of globalization and consolidation. Ayn Rand (Atlas Shrugged, Fountainhead, etc.) must be chuckling.

continued.. reguarding time off, if you need a few days, they ask you to fill out a request form 2 weeks before and if you need more than a week request a month in advance. and because there is always enough therapists on staff your requests are approved. The schedule is very flexible, (they are open 7 days a week m-f 8am-10pm, sat 9am-8pm and sun 10am-6pm) therapists usually make their own schedule according to the hours they are available. tips are usually $5-$20. ( i get plenty of both and inbetween) your coworker's are very pleasant the type of therapists that really love what they do and sincerely care for the well being of other's. very stress free, laid back working environment, no strict protocols like some spas, but very neat, clean, professional, organized, simple. the ownwer's are looking into providing continuing education courses at a reduced rate to you or at no cost. At least in my experience they have been sincerely interested in their employees satisfaction, well being, and happiness. They are aware that a happy employee provides better service and makes the experience better for everyone. Massage Therapist are allowed to trade when not busy. and although I have never worked for a chiropractor as a therapist, I have heard that they pay about the same $15. to 20./hr and there is no tips. and they work you harder, several people an hour, one after another, spot areas. At Massage Envy they only do 1/2 to 2 hour massages (mostly swedish), no body treatments (like in the spas.)(The therapist can choose to be available for two hour sessions or not)If really busy or short staff they may ask if you are interested in working more hours but never require you to. When I first started working for Massage Envy the only thing I really didn't like was the name "envy" because it is so negative. but i realize what they mean by envy is, the experience that everybody wants, and that is true..

Jes in St. Paul in Saint Paul, Minnesota said: Thank you for your informative and respectful comments. It sounds like $20 is the magic number for an acceptable base pay amount for massage therapy. Unfortunately most of us aren't guaranteed an eight-hour paid day, even a one-hour day for that matter. I don't like include tips but since massage therapist rarely get on-the-job training or employer-sponsored training like other health-care professionals, tips are necessary. Wouldn't it be interesting if doctors were paid a base and had to depend on tips reflecting their customer's satisfaction. Let's see, $200 for a successful gall stone removal? (just kidding guys). The world is getting flatter, for all of us. Some of my other job duties are now being done by someone from India who received training in the U.S. Instead of returning to India after receiving an excellent, discounted education he decided to stay here. Now I have to pay out of pocket to take the same courses he received. Yup, massage isn't the only profession feeling the impact of globalization and consolidation. Ayn Rand (Atlas Shrugged, Fountainhead, etc.) must be chuckling.

$20. does not include tip. that is what they pay the therapist per massage. the front desk always asks the guest if they would like to charge the gratuity or leave cash and almost everyone tips usually $5-$20. so you can make any where from $20.-$40. a massage. I work 5 days a week, 6 hours a day, average 4 to 6 massages a day. and make about 800./wk and i enjoy my job.. :o)

being of light 1111 in Jupiter, Florida said: $20. does not include tip. that is what they pay the therapist per massage. the front desk always asks the guest if they would like to charge the gratuity or leave cash and almost everyone tips usually $5-$20. so you can make any where from $20.-$40. a massage. I work 5 days a week, 6 hours a day, average 4 to 6 massages a day. and make about 800./wk and i enjoy my job.. :o)

I guess it depends on the location. Not all ME pay the same starting wage. Depending on the area, the tips can vary quite a bit. Also being a female therapist vs male plays a big role also. Put in enough hrs and all could make good money, but that many hrs of massage could burn you out fast especially if you are the therapist they give the Deep Tissue massages to. Yes you can make money at ME, I just dont think its worth it. ME is feeling the crunch. There is a new franchise coming to AZ, same set up same contract. They offer different services such as hot stone and others. and pay therapists more because they charge more for those services. We have 6 ME people working with us. They are quiting and jumping ship. ME has even tried to spy on the operation to get numbers and ideas. For those of you that think ME is infalable, think again. They are losing their clients and therapists to new franchises. Good luck ME!

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: Rolinda wrote-Some, not all Massage Therapists had Chemistry or Labs? Then there is no way they should ever be comparing themselves with Physicians who are highly educated. And the fact that they are doing so demonstrates their elitist thinking. Most medical professionals are required to take and pass these courses in order to Graduate and earn their Degrees.

Rolinda-you are the one who sounds elitist! The fact is that massage therapists have the opportunity to address the whole being- mind, body and spirit. Often, we are the first ones to let our clients know that something they have or are experiencing healthwise may not be normal. You administer treatments that you are told to administer by some random physician working at a corporate run hospital thats making a profit from illness. That is the business you are in. Without sick people you would be out of work. It is the greed that is western medicine as we know it today. You work on the very poor or the welthy who can afford insurance and treatment. You are part of an ugy machine. Massage therapist on the otherhand assist people in taking an active role in their health. We inspire people. Hospitals often expire people...for a profit.

I truly hope this is not how all Massage Therapists feel. If it is, it's no wonder they are not accepted as Medical Professionals. Truth in Atlanta, Georgia insults not just me a Respiratory Therapist but every Medical Professional working in the healthcare industry including Physicians. Many of us entered this field wanting to help people, not kill people or as Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said "Expire people"

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: Rolinda wrote-Some, not all Massage Therapists had Chemistry or Labs? Then there is no way they should ever be comparing themselves with Physicians who are highly educated. And the fact that they are doing so demonstrates their elitist thinking. Most medical professionals are required to take and pass these courses in order to Graduate and earn their Degrees.

Rolinda-you are the one who sounds elitist! The fact is that massage therapists have the opportunity to address the whole being- mind, body and spirit. Often, we are the first ones to let our clients know that something they have or are experiencing healthwise may not be normal. You administer treatments that you are told to administer by some random physician working at a corporate run hospital thats making a profit from illness. That is the business you are in. Without sick people you would be out of work. It is the greed that is western medicine as we know it today. You work on the very poor or the welthy who can afford insurance and treatment. You are part of an ugy machine. Massage therapist on the otherhand assist people in taking an active role in their health. We inspire people. Hospitals often expire people...for a profit.

You are limited in the number of people you help since most of us cannot afford your services with our High cost of living, Mortgages, Property taxes, Car payments...etc. And isn't profit also in your industry? Isn't that what this blog is all about? Massage Envy?

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: it's no wonder they are not accepted as Medical Professionals.

Rolinda,

Who says Massage Therapists are not accepted as Medical Professionals? You? As a skilled Massage Therapist, I have earned the respect of many therapists and physicians alike. I've been able to successfully treat conditions that others couldn't treat, including respected physicians. And I'm not alone, there are many excellent massage therapists out there who do amazing work.

People like Massage Envy threaten to distroy an excellent area of healthcare by cheapening it. I was just at a Massage Envy the other day and I had a bad experience, again. That makes 6 times in a row.

I think it's pretty darn arrogant of you to come in here as a respitory therapist!?!? Huh? and start questioning how acceptable we are. Please, just worry more about your own area of healthcare and try and get some sleep! ok?

Therapist & Clinic Owner in Wilmette, Illinois said: Rolinda,

Who says Massage Therapists are not accepted as Medical Professionals? You? As a skilled Massage Therapist, I have earned the respect of many therapists and physicians alike. I've been able to successfully treat conditions that others couldn't treat, including respected physicians. And I'm not alone, there are many excellent massage therapists out there who do amazing work.

People like Massage Envy threaten to distroy an excellent area of healthcare by cheapening it. I was just at a Massage Envy the other day and I had a bad experience, again. That makes 6 times in a row.

I think it's pretty darn arrogant of you to come in here as a respitory therapist!?!? Huh? and start questioning how acceptable we are. Please, just worry more about your own area of healthcare and try and get some sleep! ok?

If you read this entire blog you will see that other massage therapists have themselves said that they have experienced not being accepted as medical professionals. I am simply pointing out that if all massage therapists feel the same way about medical professionals and the healthcare industry as Truth in Atlanta, Georgia you have you're reason why. She hates the industry. She has plainly stated this read it yourself. As she said "We Expire People....For profit". This says it all as far as I am concerned.

Therapist & Clinic Owner in Wilmette, Illinois said: Rolinda,

Who says Massage Therapists are not accepted as Medical Professionals? You? As a skilled Massage Therapist, I have earned the respect of many therapists and physicians alike. I've been able to successfully treat conditions that others couldn't treat, including respected physicians. And I'm not alone, there are many excellent massage therapists out there who do amazing work.

People like Massage Envy threaten to distroy an excellent area of healthcare by cheapening it. I was just at a Massage Envy the other day and I had a bad experience, again. That makes 6 times in a row.

I think it's pretty darn arrogant of you to come in here as a respitory therapist!?!? Huh? and start questioning how acceptable we are. Please, just worry more about your own area of healthcare and try and get some sleep! ok?

I meant no offense to any massage therapists who do not hate medical professionals and the healthcare industry. Truth in Atlanta, Georgia stated that I am part of an ugly machine that expires people....for a profit. You just have to read it yourself to understand how I feel. I as did my peers entered the medical field to help people; not kill them.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: See what I mean, elitist thinking. Like I said even with my 8 years experience as a Respiratory Therapist working side by side with Physicians in the medical field helping critically ill patients I would never dare to compare myself with Physicians. My point is if you're not happy with your career, change careers instead of complaining about it. I like what I like what I do. I enjoy helping people. This is why chose this field.

First off name 1 time i compared myself to anyone........I never compare my education to anyone elses. I haven't complained about my job. I'm defending my title as a LMT. You are the one that said LMTs are inferior to all. They have no grounds to be called medical professionals. When we deserve it as much as all others. Some have taken chemistry by choice not because they were made to. As I have said numerous time LMT is my side job. I work full time in a hospital. Both of my jobs are equally as important. I work on several car wreck victims who were medicaly referred to see a LMT. We are equally as important in the medical profession. So yes we are here to stay. If you don't like it Sorry.

Taking things personally does cause an awful mess doesn't it? I really am speaking of the whole ugly corporate machine, you know, not directly at you. The kind of ugly unpersonalized world of 'medicine' that thinks grieving should be done in secret. 'Death is a bad word'. The medical profession is no longer about supporting the person to heal. When the healing arts became a 'profession' that became the problem. And lets face it, Rolinda, that was a very long time ago. MT's that are in it solely for the money never facilitate healing either. No offense Rolinda. Namaste.

Happy 4th of July everyone! Well my paid vacation has ended and I'll be back at work tomorrow. One last comment: Avoid comparisons; you'll be happier. Help everyone; it will fulfill your heart. Like what you do; feelings are reflected in behavior and attitude. Respect everyone; it will be returned. Be thankful you are employed. Many of our brothers and sisters are not. The claims our Government makes about our country's unemployment rate are not true. Many of our unemployed are at their breaking point and it is not due to their lack of ambition, education, or skills. Log onto www.youtube.com/watch? to find out how our own American corporations are eliminating jobs for Americans. "Outsourcing" is an ugly word. Good luck everyone.

I apologize everyone. My mistake. Here is the correct site to log onto www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCbFEgFajGU tro watch that video.

Truth in Atlanta, Georgia said: Taking things personally does cause an awful mess doesn't it? I really am speaking of the whole ugly corporate machine, you know, not directly at you. The kind of ugly unpersonalized world of 'medicine' that thinks grieving should be done in secret. 'Death is a bad word'. The medical profession is no longer about supporting the person to heal. When the healing arts became a 'profession' that became the problem. And lets face it, Rolinda, that was a very long time ago. MT's that are in it solely for the money never facilitate healing either. No offense Rolinda. Namaste.

Apology accepted. I think we have the same goals. Many of us truly want to help people and make a contribution to our community. It is unfortunate this sentiment does not ring true with everyone in our industry. I feel I make a difference and each time a patient returns to thank me, hug me, bring in boxes of cookies and doughnuts to share with my coworkers, I know I have. Our profession can be quite rewarding when our hearts are truly in it. Have a great 4th of July!.

Rolinda in Chula Vista, California said: Happy 4th of July everyone! Well my paid vacation has ended and I'll be back at work tomorrow. One last comment: Avoid comparisons; you'll be happier. Help everyone; it will fulfill your heart. Like what you do; feelings are reflected in behavior and attitude. Respect everyone; it will be returned. Be thankful you are employed. Many of our brothers and sisters are not. The claims our Government makes about our country's unemployment rate are not true. Many of our unemployed are at their breaking point and it is not due to their lack of ambition, education, or skills. Log onto www.youtube.com/watch? to find out how our own American corporations are eliminating jobs for Americans. "Outsourcing" is an ugly word. Good luck everyone.

Let me correct an error in my statement in which I left a couple of words out. The sentence...Many of our sisters and brothers are not. Was suppose to read...Many of our sisters and brothers are not so fortunate.

What is the name of the new franchise that allows for extra services?

This is not a good job. Don't ever apply or work here. The Sales Associate position is really a glorified receptionist.

N/A in Saint Paul, Minnesota said: This is not a good job. Don't ever apply or work here. The Sales Associate position is really a glorified receptionist.

That's right. It's just like the old saying, "you can't polish a turd!"

NA in St Paul
Just curious, what did you expect the position to be more like vs greeting clients, making appts, selling and procesing packages, duties as assigned (from my observation as a MT.) Personally, I was looking for a MT/Admin fulltime position to replace my current MT and full-time job. I was told that individuals like yourself who start at the front desk will have the first shot at higher positions as new locations open. This is logical and with plans underway for opening more ME in Minn. (Eagan, Apple Valley, Eden Prairie, Stillwater, etc.) I would think you would have all kinds of opportunity to move up in ME. Have you applied for other positions "higher" in the organizational sructure or visited with other franchise owners?

Jes in St. Paul in Saint Paul, Minnesota said: NA in St Paul
Just curious, what did you expect the position to be more like vs greeting clients, making appts, selling and procesing packages, duties as assigned (from my observation as a MT.) Personally, I was looking for a MT/Admin fulltime position to replace my current MT and full-time job. I was told that individuals like yourself who start at the front desk will have the first shot at higher positions as new locations open. This is logical and with plans underway for opening more ME in Minn. (Eagan, Apple Valley, Eden Prairie, Stillwater, etc.) I would think you would have all kinds of opportunity to move up in ME. Have you applied for other positions "higher" in the organizational sructure or visited with other franchise owners?

No you don't have any opportunities to move up. I don't think that the higher positions are any better. They work in the same conditions and for the same pay as fast food managers. The only people who would move up are the favorites of all the fransize owners. They owner the store and with some minor expectations they control who moves up. Look some were else for a full time job. The onwers promice great things in the in the interview but they don't deliver on those when you start the job. Its not the sales associate job which truly made me see Massage Envy for the scam it is. They were truthful with that. But the higher opportunity is not that good and the only true people who benefit are all the francise owners. Since they primarly hire people who are young, inexperenced and don't have degrees.

Jes in St. Paul in Saint Paul, Minnesota said: From my experience as a therapist at ME thus far I would suggest the following:

1. Be sure to ask the client if they enjoyed their massage. If they answer in the affirmative hand them a tip envelope while asking if they would like to leave a tip. If they indicate they were not happy, hand them a customer survey (assuming ME has one) and them they don't have to sign it if they want but that it has been your experience that massage therapists (and mgmt) want to improve their service and are always concerned if someone isn't happy. (Surely ME provides you with some procedure for this.)

2. I provided a chart for our front staff when were busy two weekends and the room schedule was a mess. Because ME wants to book every room every hour they needed a different schedule to "sign out" rooms - one that accounted for every hour.

3. Our front staff controls the ac in the building so while the massage charting/break/laundry room was hot they were as cool as cucumbers.

3. Work as a team. When a MT pitches in and helps you with your assigned tasks, say 'thanks'. One of our front staff simply asked how things were going on a hectic day and that was a nice touch.

4. Keep an eye on the chart/lotion pickup area. We don't want to bother you while you are helping a client. However, we have very little time to work and don't have time to wait for assistance.

Thanks for asking ... you will be a welcomed addition in any facility. (And hopefully, the MT will occassionally share some of those tips you help generate.)

tipping. I have been in the service business many years over 20.I think hkanding a client a tip envelope is way to pushy. everyone tips. I had the worse massage i have ever had at MEyeaterday, my regular guy who is great was off. the mt who gave me my massage just got out of school i think and needs training, tech, how to deal with public and the list goes on. he fumbled his way through the whol

Ok, I've heard a lot of things here, and I'd just like to point out some of the realities of the industry. A little about myself. I have owned, run, and worked for just about every type of office there is. From running the massage therapy division of an orthopedic surgeon's office to staff therapist at a 5 star resort, to doing outcall freelance and working for a chiropractor, to owning and running my own clinic. I've practiced in 5 states, I have over 2000 hours of training, and 22 years in my field.

First, an office is NOT cheap to open or run. If you get through the buildout on a 3 room office for under $30,000 you did good. Full scale spas spend $125-150 PER SQUARE FOOT.

Whether or not ME is a good "value" for the consumer depends a great deal on what you're looking for. If you have significant health issues, mutliple surgeries or chronic pain, I wouldn't recommend it. Most therapists at ME have less than 2 years experience on 500 hours of training, and frankly, it's not enough.

How much of a "value" is it for a customer to get "cheap" massage (anywhere) that isn't taking care of the issue? The sad thing is that most clients have never had top quality massage and don't know the difference. If all you want is to destress, then a spa is right up your alley. If you're in pain, you need a specialist, and that's exactly what I am. Time and time again, I've had patients tell me they are THRILLED to be regaining function they thought gone forever, and they ask me why the other therapists never did this for them.

Having been on both sides of the owner/therapist equation, I'll tell you that $15/hr is insultingly low. For a new therapist, $20 is more reasonable, and that rate goes up depending on specialty training, experience and certifications. ME is in business to make money, plain and simple. They are not there to serve the public. By the time a business gores franchise, the soul is usually long gone.

As to whether or not we are "medical professionals"....

Massage therapy provides a number of proven health benefits, but that doesn't make every therapist a "medical professional". Remember that in most states, therapists have 500 hours of education, very little of it clinical. Palpation skills geared toward finely tuned evaluations are rarely taught in school. Most therapists cannot remember half their basic anatomy. I know, I've interviewed several hundred of them.

There are those of use who have a real love for the clinical end of this business and we have taken LOADS of extra classes and certifications, from l00-500 hours each. I'm talking about Vodder or Upledger classes in lymphatic drainage, classes in oncology massage, pre-natal work etc. Are we a part of the medical profession, yes. Do we know our place in it? YES! Not in a million years would I compare my education to that of an MD, an oncology nurse, or even a PA. That being said, I know more about Trigger points, adhesions and fascial anatomy (and how they cause pain) than most professionals who don't deal with sports or rehabilitative medicine. But that's where my knowledge ends. I have no clue how to do nerve conduction tests, and I won't pretend otherwise. Medicine a a VAST field. It's not possible for one human being to know all of it. Honestly, would you go to a podiatrist for brain surgery?

There are those of us who love the clinical, and those who don't. There is room for all of us at the table. I'm more than willing to send a client who needs something I'm not trained in to a specialist. I love my work with all my heart, and my FIRST job is to see to it that patient gets the help they need, whether it comes from me or not. Anything less is cheating your patient.

To: A Male Therapist": Anyone who knows their anatomy can pass the "National Certification Exam". I had harder anatomy exams in high school. It's nothing to brag about. As for your doctor friend? What is his specialty? I'm sure he can run rings around your knowledge in that field.

To the client in Vineburg: Most therpaists have 500 hours. Only Ohio, NY, and NV require more as a state. Some municipalities require more, but not many. Many california municipalities require 250 or less.