Social media gives Registered Massage Therapists/Massage Therapists (RMTs/MTs) opportunities to connect with clients, expand professional networks, and create engaging content. However, it is important for RMTs/MTs to use social media professionally and always maintain clear boundaries with clients.

CMTO recently released Social Media Guidelines, providing RMTs/MTs guidance on how to use social media while still meeting professional obligations. The following are common questions and answers about social media usage.

What should I do if a client asks to connect with me on my personal social media account?

RMTs/MTs must keep professional and personal social media accounts separate and not connect with clients on personal accounts. Allowing or inviting a client to interact with you on your personal social media accounts can blur professional boundaries and compromise professionalism which could impact the client’s trust in Massage Therapy.

Am I allowed to advertise products or services on my social media accounts?

Recommending a product or service on your professional social media account would be viewed as an endorsement which is not permitted under the Advertising Regulation. Receiving financial benefits from posting advertisements on social media also creates a conflict of interest, which must be avoided in Massage Therapy practice.

Can I post pictures or digital recordings of clients in assessments/treatments on my social media account?

RMTs/MTs must safeguard interactions with clients during assessments/treatments and must not post pictures/recordings (including video and audio) of clients online. Posting images and/or recordings of clients during assessment/treatment on social media violates CMTO’s Standard of Practice for Privacy and Confidentiality. Audio, video or digital recordings of a client during assessment/treatment may only be made with informed consent as part of a client’s treatment plan. RMTs/MTs must maintain the confidentiality of such recordings.

Can I use a review or testimonial on my social media page or website that a client left on a digital platform (e.g. Google Reviews)?

Using reviews or testimonials in advertisements for your practice, including social media accounts and websites, is not permitted under the Advertising Section of the General Regulation under the Massage Therapy Act, 1991. To meet this expectation, it is best to take all reasonable steps to disable social media functions that allow for testimonials on online platforms related to your practice.

Have additional questions about using social media and meeting your professional obligations? Don’t hesitate to reach out to CMTO’s Practice Specialist: practicespecialist@cmto.com.