What is an RMT?

Source: The Registered Massage Therapists Association of Ontario

A Registered Massage Therapist is an individual who is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professionals Act and the Massage Therapy Act. Only members of the CMTO are permitted to use the title of Registered Massage Therapist or Massage Therapist, or the designation of RMT or MT.

A Registered Massage Therapist:

• Is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO)

• Has completed competency-based education at a recognized school of massage therapy

• Has successfully completed examinations to ensure that they have the necessary competencies to safely and effectively offer massage therapy care

• Maintains their registration by participating in continuing education and a quality assurance program to ensure they maintain their high professional standards and quality of care

The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) is the regulatory body for Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) in Ontario. They protect the public interest by ensuring the competency and quality of care provided by Massage Therapists. All RMTs in Ontario are required to be registered with the CMTO. Individuals who are not registered with the CMTO are not permitted to practice massage therapy in Ontario or call themselves Massage Therapists in Ontario.

Look for this symbol on display:

Our RMT team is currently composed of Male Massage Therapists or Non-Binary Massage Therapists. This is not by design -- Zazen Massage + Wellness is an inclusive space that welcomes therapists and patients/clients of all genders.

When we look for new therapists to join the team, we welcome all, but the vast majority of applicants so far have happened to identify as male.

We mention that we have Male Massage Therapists several times on our website and blog because we are aware that there are people who are not comfortable receiving treatment by a male therapist, there are some who feel more comfortable with a male therapist, and of course there are also those who have no preference. For those who have a preference, we try to be up-front to avoid confusion and save time as people search for a comfortable massage therapy experience.

For your comfort, you are welcome to wear whatever you feel most relaxed in. All treatments begin with a brief check-in, then your therapist will leave the room to wash up and give you some time to get change or undress and get under sheets.

For Thai Massage, you remain clothed for the treatment. We recommend that you wear a comfortable shirt that allows your upper body and arms to move feely. You can bring loose shorts or athletic/stretchy/jogging pants, or we offer loose Thai Massage pants if you prefer.

For most other services, you can undress to your level of comfort or remain fully or partially clothed under the sheets. If you undress, your therapist can use oil to allow for gliding techniques directly on the skin, and you will remain covered by the sheets except for areas that are being actively treated. If you choose to remain clothed, your therapist can still provide an effective treatment using specific pressure points, broad pressure, stretching, and various other techniques.

Our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) and Naturopathic Doctor prioritize your comfort and will always ensure you feel safe and relaxed throughout the session.

For your first appointment, you will complete a brief health history form so that your RMT can understand your specific needs and goals. Your therapist will then discuss your health concerns, review your posture or movement as necessary, and create a personalized treatment plan for your session. The massage itself will be tailored to your preferences, with your therapist checking in with you regarding pressure and comfort.

While tipping is appreciated, it is completely optional and not expected. Our focus is on providing you with the best care and treatment possible. If you choose to tip, it’s at your discretion.

We accept a variety of payment options, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Debit, Cash, e-transfer, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. We aim to make the payment process as easy and convenient as possible for all clients. Please check our website for any updates on payment methods.

We also offer Direct Billing to most major insurance companies. For more info about how to get set up, please visit the Direct Billing page of our website.

Yes, we offer direct billing to most major insurance companies. Our team can submit your claim directly to your insurance provider, simplifying the process for you. Please review the Direct Billing page on our website for instructions before your appointment. We provide insurance receipts for all treatments.

Yes, we provide insurance receipts for all treatments. Rates are subject to 13% HST, and you will receive an insurance receipt after your session. You can submit your insurance receipt to your provider for reimbursement if applicable.

Massage therapy can often be beneficial in relieving the symptoms of a pinched nerve. By reducing muscle tension and inflammation around the affected area, a massage can help alleviate pressure on the nerve and promote healing. Please consult with your therapist about your specific condition so we can plan an effective treatment for you and refer you to another health professional if needed.

While massage can help reduce the tension that may be contributing to the pinched nerve, it doesn’t “massage the nerve out.” Instead, massage works on the surrounding muscles to relieve pressure and discomfort. If you suspect a pinched nerve, your RMT will tailor the treatment to address the issue and provide relief. Always consult with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive treatment plan.

For nerve pain, deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy can be effective, as they target the deeper layers of muscle and tissue that may be pressing on the nerve. Your RMT will work with you to determine the best approach based on your specific pain and discomfort.

Prenatal massage is designed to be safe and relaxing throughout pregnancy. While there are some acupressure points designed to stimulate labor, a qualified prenatal therapist will avoid these areas during your session. If you have concerns or questions about receiving a massage near your due date, please consult your healthcare provider.

It’s generally recommended to wait at least 6 weeks after a C-section before receiving a massage. Once you’re cleared by your healthcare provider, massage therapy can help with scar tissue healing, pain management, and overall recovery. Be sure to discuss your recovery status with your therapist beforehand.

Yes, massage therapy is one of the most effective treatments for most common causes of lower back pain. Techniques like deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, or myofascial release can help reduce muscle tension, improve posture and balance, improve circulation, and alleviate discomfort. Your RMT will assess your condition and provide a tailored treatment to relieve your back pain. Always consult with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive treatment plan.

The best massage for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for relaxation and stress relief, a Swedish or Hot Stone massage may be ideal. If you’re dealing with chronic pain or muscle tension, Deep Tissue massage might be a better fit. Your RMT can recommend the most suitable treatment based on your goals.

Here are some helpful post-massage tips to ensure you get the most out of your treatment at Zazen Massage + Wellness:

1. Stay Hydrated and well-nourished: While different people have different nutritional needs, make sure to give your body enough hydration and good nutrition after your massage. This reduces the chance of muscle soreness and promotes overall wellness.
   

2. Take It Easy: Give your body time to adjust and fully benefit from the massage by avoiding strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Gentle exercise and stretching can help maintain the relaxed state of your muscles.
   

3. Pay Attention to Your Body: Notice how your body feels in the hours and days following your massage. Mild soreness sometimes happens, like the kind of soreness that is felt after a new workout, but we use techniques appropriate for you in order to avoid this. If you experience any discomfort or have concerns, feel free to reach out to your therapist for advice.
   

4. Apply Heat or Cold as Needed: If you feel any muscle soreness after your massage, sometimes a warm compress can help to relax. Conversely, a cold pack can help reduce swelling if there's any inflammation. Your therapist should offer self care advice that is appropriate for you after your treatment, and please feel free to reach out to your therapist for advice.
   

5. Stretch Regularly: Incorporating gentle stretching into your routine after a massage can help maintain the flexibility and relaxation gained from your session. Your therapist can advise stretches that are most beneficial for your specific needs.
   

6. Continue with Proper Posture: After a massage, focus on maintaining good posture, especially if you’ve received treatment for back or neck pain. Proper posture will help extend the benefits of your massage and prevent tension from building up again. Ask your therapist if you would like specific advice about maintaining and improving your posture.
   

7. Schedule Regular Massages: To maintain the benefits of massage therapy, consider scheduling regular sessions. Consistent treatment can help address ongoing issues, such as chronic pain, stress, or muscle tension, and improve your overall wellness. Your therapist can recommend a frequency plan that is right for your body and lifestyle.
   

By following these tips, you’ll maximize the benefits of your massage as you continue with your life activities!

These terms generally all refer to a Registered Massage Therapist. While Masseuse or Masseur are frequently still used to refer to an RMT, these have not been officially used by our profession since the very early '90s.

A Masseuse is a term that was used by female massage therapists and Masseur was commonly used by male massage therapists. In 1991, the College of Massage Therapists (CMTO) was established, and they updated our title to the non-gendered Registered Massage Therapist or RMT.

We understand what you mean when you use any of these terms, so feel free to go with the one that is most comfortable for you!