American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

When communicating feelings, what should a massage therapist strive to do?

1. Be as specific as possible

2. Use reflective listening skills

3. Adhere to HIPAA regulations

4. Use you-messages

The correct answer is: Be as specific as possible

A massage therapist should strive to be as specific as possible when communicating feelings. Specificity in communication allows for clearer understanding and expression of emotions, which can help build trust and rapport between the therapist and the client. When feelings are conveyed in a detailed manner, it reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and provides a more accurate representation of the therapist’s thoughts and emotional state. This direct approach can be particularly beneficial in a therapeutic setting, where nuances in communication can significantly impact the client's experience and the effectiveness of the treatment. Therapists can utilize specific examples or situations that capture their feelings, fostering an environment where open dialogue can thrive, ensuring that clients feel heard and understood. While other options, like using reflective listening skills, adhering to HIPAA regulations, or using you-messages are important aspects of communication, they serve different roles in the context of therapist-client interaction. Reflective listening focuses on understanding and mirroring back what the client has expressed, HIPAA regulations govern the confidentiality of health information, and you-messages can sometimes create defensiveness. Specificity in communicating feelings directly enhances the therapeutic relationship and contributes to a more productive session.