If you’ve ever booked a massage in Kitchener, odds are you’ve noticed options to book with a registered massage therapist (RMT) or a non-registered provider. For many people, the differences between the two are unclear, other than for insurance purposes. However, is extended health coverage the only distinction, or is there more that separates an RMT from non-RMTs? Let’s explore.
What is a Registered Massage Therapist?
As the name suggests, an RMT is a registered professional. But this is more than just a title. Registered massage therapists are trained medical professionals governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). In order to receive this professional designation, RMTs must complete an accredited massage therapy program, pass a certification exam, and register with the CMTO. In addition to these requirements, maintaining RMT status requires therapists to complete continuing education hours and participate in professional development activities.
While most RMTs are identified as such, other titles reserved for registered massage professionals include Massage Therapist, Registered Massage Practitioner, and Massage Practitioner.
What About Non-Registered Massage Therapists?
Unlike RMTs in Kitchener, there is no professional organization governing non-RMTs. While many have undergone formal training, they have not registered with the CMTO. Because there is no regulatory body, formal training, or certification required to become a non-RMT, most insurance companies will not cover these services as medical treatments and, therefore, services rendered by non-RMTs are ineligible for extended benefits.
Key Difference Between Massage Therapy Services in Kitchener Offered by RMTs and Non-RMTs
Treatment Types
While there is some overlap between RMTs and non-RMTs, the former generally specialize in massage treatments aimed at relieving medical conditions and improving physical health. Their extensive training and knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology allow them to identify and treat muscle imbalances, chronic pain, tension, and postural issues.
With a more clinical approach, RMTs often focus on specific areas of pain or concern, using techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, or myofascial release to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote overall healing.
Non-RMTs, on the other hand, typically focus on more relaxation-based services. These include Swedish massage, hot stone therapy, and aromatherapy, which are designed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve general well-being.
Insurance Coverage
For the reasons outlined earlier, including education, certification, and regulatory oversight, only services provided by RMTs are eligible for reimbursement through extended health insurance plans. RMT treatments are recognized as medical services, and as licensed professionals, RMTs can provide receipts for insurance claims.
Most extended health insurance plans do not cover services from non-registered massage therapists because they do not meet the medical treatment criteria required by insurance providers. Clients generally need to pay for these treatments out of pocket.
Custom Treatment Plans
Another key aspect of registered massage therapy is the ability for practitioners to implement customized treatment plans tailored to patient needs. RMT therapy is often used in conjunction with other forms of physiotherapy to help treat chronic pain and other conditions. However, even as a standalone treatment, massage therapists in Kitchener can provide targeted care to address injuries, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
Most clients visiting a non-RMT do so for relaxation-focused treatments. These bodyworkers typically work in spas and other non-clinical settings where stress relief and general wellness and not physio rehabilitation, are the main focus.
Ultimately, both RMT and non-RMT providers play an important role in delivering massage therapy services to their clients. However, RMTs are the only ones considered to be medical professionals overseen by a regulatory board. As such, clients can benefit from treatments designed to support long-term physical health as well as the therapeutic benefits.
If you’re looking for a therapeutic approach to manage pain, recover from an injury, or improve mobility, an RMT in Kitchener is the best choice.
