Written by Karen Menehan, the former Editor-in-Chief of MASSAGE Magazine with over 20 years of experience in the wellness and massage therapy industry, this article draws on expert insights to highlight the importance of professional titles in maintaining credibility and trust within the massage profession.

Using the correct titles, like ‘massage therapist’ instead of ‘masseuse,’ is important. It avoids negative connotations and boosts the profession’s credibility and trust. This clarity benefits clients who are looking for reputable massage services and helps maintain the integrity of licensed practitioners.

When a client introduces her massage provider as a masseuse or masseur, it can be awkward or educational, depending on how it’s handled. For instance, if a client requests a relaxation massage, it’s crucial to use the term ‘massage therapist’ to maintain the professionalism and credibility of the service provided.

An informal poll of therapeutic massage therapists by MASSAGE Magazine via social networks shows that they have developed new training techniques. Massage therapy students are often trained in techniques to handle these situations professionally, making sure that clients understand the appropriate terminology. These techniques help them guide conversations during a massage session when clients use outdated terms to describe their work.

The History of Masseuse and Masseur

The titles masseur and masseuse have a long and colorful history related to massage. Both terms were used to describe men and women, respectively, who provided massage in exchange for payment. But, since the 1950s, prostitutes have used “massage” to disguise their work. So, some terms, especially “masseuse,” are now tainted.

For over 30 years, massage professionals have worked to pass laws that protect the hard earned titles that reflect training and standards. Today, state laws protect titles like massage therapists and massage technicians.

Understanding Massage Titles by State and Legal Requirements

In most states, like California and New York, strict regulations make sure that only certified individuals may use specific titles. This is especially important for those offering relaxation massages, as misusing these terms can harm legitimate therapists and lead to legal issues.

  • ‘Licensed massage therapist’ (LMT).
  • ‘Certified massage practitioner’ (CMP).
  • Misusing these terms can harm legitimate therapists. It can damage their reputation and lead to legal issues.

State requirements for licensed massage therapists typically include the following:

Strict codes of conduct must be adhered to, and massage therapists who are found to have acted outside the law can lose their license. To learn more about specific state requirements, click here to visit Massage Magazine Insurance Plus’ comprehensive state requirements page.

The Evolution of Massage Titles: A Historical Perspective

The terms ‘masseur’ and ‘masseuse’ date back to the early 1800s. They initially described people who practiced massage therapy for stress relief, relief of pain, and relaxation. However, by the mid-20th century, they were linked to illicit activities, especially in the U.S.. They became synonymous with unlicensed, unprofessional services.

Still, the words masseuse and masseur live on as ways of describing the kind of touch not practiced by educated massage professionals. A search online for either word brings up references to services such as “sensual massage” and “massage by men for men only.” Such services should be steered clear of unless one is willing to participate in probably illegal activity.

“You can read a person’s body language when they are using the term masseuse as a means of being derogatory,” said massage therapist Robin Wooten, L.M.T., who practices in Phoenix, Arizona. “We massage therapists have a duty to educate the public regarding the benefits of massage therapy and wellness. It’s the uneducated public that uses terms we deem offensive—it is also the uneducated public who use offensive terms without knowing those terms carry a past connotation.”

“Educate, educate, educate,” Wooten added.

Professional Massage Titles and Their Modern-Day Implications

Today, titles like ‘massage therapist’ and ‘licensed massage therapist’ show a commitment to professional standards. These include a thorough education, ethics, and ongoing development. These titles help to distinguish real massage therapy practitioners from those who misuse the term ‘masseuse’ for non-therapeutic services.

Massage therapists agree that being polite is important for professionalism. This holds true even if a client or acquaintance uses the terms masseur or masseuse.

“Some people ask what term is correct, and in those cases, I explain we now prefer massage therapists,” said Danette Nelson, L.M.T., who practices in Lakeland, Florida. “If they look curious or ask, ‘Why?’ I sometimes explain that, unfortunately, ‘masseuse’ has negative links to prostitution.

“If they don’t ask, I simply use the term massage therapist when referring to myself during massage sessions, and after a couple of times, clients usually switch,” Nelson added.

Self-referencing as a massage therapist, as Nelson does, is a technique many practitioners use. It gently informs people of their correct title.

“I just use the term massage therapist in the conversation,” said Alice Sanvito, L.M.T., who practices in St. Louis, Missouri. “For instance, the other day, an elderly gentleman called and asked if I was the masseuse. I responded, ‘Yes, I’m the massage therapist.’”

Managing Client Conversations: Educating Without Offending

When a client uses outdated terminology, it’s important to respond with empathy and professionalism. Phrases like, “In our profession, we now use the term massage therapist,” can reframe the conversation without making the client uneasy. Offering informative brochures or links to professional organizations can further educate clients about the benefits of professional massage therapy.

Where Did Masseuse and Masseur Come From?

The original writings on Per Henrik Ling’s Swedish gymnastics system, a foundation of Swedish massage, used French terms to describe three massage techniques. They are stroking (effleurage), kneading (petrissage), and tapping (tapotement). Some say Johann Georg Mezger was more involved in its development—but that’s the topic of another article. The book The History of Massage: An Illustrated Survey from Around the World by Robert Noah Calvert (1946–2006), who also founded MASSAGE Magazine, states this. Perhaps this is how the French terms masseur and masseuse became ingrained in the American massage profession.

In French, the word masseur is related to the word masseur, meaning knead or rub. The masseuse is the feminine form of the masseur. These terms remained popular and in use in the U.S. throughout most of the 20th century until the push toward state massage laws took flight in the 1980s.

The Impact of Professional Terminology on Public Perception

Research shows that clients trust professionals with titles like ‘massage therapist.’ This term assures clients of the practitioner’s qualifications and ethics for treatment. It also assures them of a commitment to legitimate, therapeutic services.

Many states’ regulations were started to control prostitution. Prostitutes were advertising their services as massages and calling themselves masseuses. Today, according to MASSAGE Magazine research, 45 states plus the District of Columbia have laws regulating massage.

Building Trust with the Right Language

Language plays an important role in building trust. Using professional titles consistently, both in verbal communication and marketing materials, reinforces the therapist’s qualifications and the legitimacy of their services. It’s important for those who practice therapeutic massage techniques to gently and confidently correct misconceptions. This encourages a respectful client relationship.

Patience in the Face of “Masseuse”

Many therapists say title terminology is an effective way to educate potential clients about massage sessions. It shows the health benefits of massage techniques and the legitimacy of professional practice.

The public should know that individuals and the massage profession have worked hard to secure legal protection for massage and its titles.

Still, most registered massage therapists say that patience—and even a sense of humor—should be maintained when a correction is needed.

“I usually say, ‘Masseur is the same level to registered massage therapist as a stewardess is to the flight attendant,’” said massage therapist Scott Blackson, L.M.T., who practices in Milford, Delaware.

“They have to think about that for a minute, so it doesn’t usually come across as angry or condescending,” he added. “If they don’t catch on, I add, ‘I really don’t want to be called a stewardess.’”

Conclusion

Using the correct titles, like licensed or board-certified massage therapist, protects the profession. It also informs the public about the qualifications needed for therapeutic purposes in massage. Using terms like ‘masseuse’ or ‘masseur’ can perpetuate stereotypes as well as undermine the credibility of those with massage training and certification. By understanding and respecting the difference between these terms, both practitioners and clients can contribute to a more professional and respectful environment for massage therapy.

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FAQs

Why is the term ‘masseuse’ considered offensive?

The term ‘masseuse’ is linked to illicit services. It does not reflect the professionalism and formal training of a licensed massage therapist. Using the correct term helps uphold the integrity of the profession.

What is the difference between a massage therapist and a masseur?

A massage therapist is a licensed professional who provides therapeutic massages. “Masseur” is an outdated term. It lacks formal certification, continuing education, and recognition.

About the Author

Karen Menehan is MASSAGE Magazine‘s former editor-in-chief. She has edited and written for other publications and groups. They include Imagine Magazine, the Sacramento Bee, and the LIVESTRONG Foundation.