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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)?
Massage Therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario (see the Regulated Health Professions Act and The Massage Therapy Act for more information), and as such, massage therapy should be performed by a Registered Massage Therapist. All practicing Registered Massage Therapists must be registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).

The Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario defines an RMT as follows:

“A Registered Massage Therapist is an individual who has:
  • Completed competency-based education at educational institutions recognized by the Government of Ontario;
  • Studied anatomy, physiology, pathology, physical assessment, neurology, treatments, ethics and other subjects;
  • Completed a minimum of 150 clinical hours;
  • Successfully completed examinations from and has been ‘registered’ by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (the College) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act;
  • Maintained their registration by participating in continuing education and a Quality Assurance Program that assists them in the maintenance of high professional standards and quality care of their clients.

Only members of the College are permitted to use the title Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist or the designation of RMT or MT. Anyone using those titles or designations without being registered with the College should be reported to the College. All members of the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario must be registered with the College and are therefore licensed massage therapy practitioners.

The CMTO is the regulatory body for the profession of massage therapy in Ontario. Therefore, they set the policies and guidelines that must be followed by all RMTs in Ontario. Many of these guidelines can be found on CMTO.com and concern issues including client records, receipts, consent and all other regulations pertaining to RMTs.” (Source)

Do I Need a Physician’s Referral?
In most cases no, it is not required to have a physician’s referral in order to see an RMT. However, if you have benefits and/or insurance, it is always best to check with your provider to confirm your eligible coverages and amounts to avoid surprises.

What Should I Expect on My First Visit?
The most important thing to know is that nothing will happen without first receiving your consent. This is your medical treatment, and you’re in the driver’s seat at all times. If ever you’re uncomfortable for any reason, please speak up and I can do whatever it takes to adjust the treatment to make you more comfortable. In addition to discussing matters of consent, we’ll also discuss the injuries or health problems that have brought you into my office, as well as a discussion of the areas to be treated. After an evaluation, I’ll explain my recommended course of treatment, during which time you are free to ask any questions you may have. Finally, we’ll discuss the cost, your coverage by benefits or insurance provider, and other such practical matters. At any time during your appointments, you are welcome to ask questions you may have about any aspect of your treatment, but this is especially important during this first appointment. If I haven’t explained something to your satisfaction, please give me the opportunity to do so!

Choosing the right health care professionals to join your medical team is one of the most powerful tools patients have in their journey towards improved health. If at any point during or after your first visit you decide you do not wish to continue receiving treatment from me, you are under no obligation to continue. This in one of the main reasons why I offer a free initial consultation; I believe that choosing a health care professional who you feel comfortable and confident with is vitally important, and that you should have the opportunity to meet me and make that evaluation yourself without any cost to you.

Do You Offer Services in any Languages Other Than English?
I am fluent and comfortable in English, Ukrainian and Russian.

Do I Have to Remove All My Clothing?
Absolutely not. This is a personal choice that you will be able to decide without judgement, based on your own comfort level.

If I Am Pregnant, Can I Receive Massage Therapy?
Absolutely! In fact, many pregnant women receive regular massage and find it helps them greatly. If you are pregnant, please let me know and inform me about any complications you may have so that we can adjust your treatment to accommodate for them.

Do I Need to Make an Appointment, and How Do I Book One?
Appointments are necessary. Please call me at 905-975-5571 in order to book an appointment.

Can You Directly Bill My Insurance Provider?
In most cases, it is up to the patient to make a claim for reimbursement. In some WSIB and Motor Vehicle Accident Claims, it may be possible to set up direct billing. This will be discussed at your free initial assessment, so that you can get all of the information before you ever have to pay anything.

What is Your Cancellation Policy?
Unexpected things happen! In the event that you need to cancel, I ask that you give me as much notice as possible, but I do not penalize my patients for having to cancel an appointment.

What Questions Should I Ask My Insurance Company Before My First Appointment?
You should ask what your Overall Coverage limit for massage, what your Per Session Coverage Limit is and whether a doctor’s note is required in order to receive coverage.