American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

How should a massage therapist address a client's consistent tardiness to appointments?

1. Inform the client that her tardiness is affecting her care and question her dedication to getting better.

2. Continue treating her but lengthen her sessions by 15 minutes, cutting into the next client's appointment.

3. Inform the client that it is affecting her care using non-threatening but direct statements.

4. Continue treating her as usual, for 10 minutes at a time in each session.

The correct answer is: Inform the client that it is affecting her care using non-threatening but direct statements.

Addressing a client's consistent tardiness to appointments requires a thoughtful and professional approach. By informing the client that her tardiness is affecting her care using non-threatening but direct statements, the therapist takes a constructive path. This approach encourages open communication and helps the client understand the implications of her lateness on her treatment progress. Using non-threatening language fosters a supportive environment where the client is less likely to feel defensive. It empowers the client to reflect on their behavior and make necessary adjustments without feeling judged or criticized. This can lead to increased accountability and a stronger therapeutic relationship, promoting better outcomes for the client’s health journey. This option also maintains professional boundaries and respects the integrity of the therapist's time and the schedule of other clients. By bringing up the issue directly and compassionately, the therapist is taking an active role in ensuring that both the client's needs and the operational requirements of the practice are met effectively.