American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

How should a therapist approach personal discussions initiated by a client during a session?

1. Redirect to massage topics only

2. Politely set boundaries if needed

3. Engage fully in the conversation

4. Use the opportunity for personal sharing

The correct answer is: Politely set boundaries if needed

When a client initiates personal discussions during a massage session, it is important for the therapist to establish and maintain professional boundaries. Politely setting boundaries helps create a safe and effective environment for healing. While it can be tempting to engage in personal conversations, doing so may distract from the therapeutic process and create an imbalance in the client-therapist relationship. This approach allows the therapist to acknowledge the client’s feelings or needs without delving into personal matters that may not be appropriate or relevant to the massage. By maintaining professionalism, the therapist ensures that the focus remains on the client’s wellness and the goals of the massage therapy session. This is essential for fostering a therapeutic alliance that is respectful and conducive to healing. Engaging fully in the conversation or using the opportunity for personal sharing can lead to blurred lines between professional and personal relationships, which can undermine the effectiveness of the session. Redirecting to massage topics only may dismiss the client’s feelings, which could lead to them feeling unheard or unvalued. Therefore, setting polite and clear boundaries is the most balanced approach in facilitating a healing environment while respecting the therapeutic relationship.