In 2019, the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) initiated a project to develop new Standards of Practice. This is a very important and exciting project for CMTO and Massage Therapists (MTs/RMTs) in Ontario, so we want to make sure you are kept informed throughout the process. The goal of this project is to ensure the Standards reflect current needs in Massage Therapy practice and regulatory environment.

CMTO’s new Standards of Practice are going to be presented in a new format – focused on the outcome (the end result), not the specific steps to reach the outcome. Outcomes-based standards will provide RMTs with more latitude to use their professional judgement to achieve an outcome, instead of having to follow a strict set of steps. Focusing on the outcome instead of the specific steps to achieve the outcome is one of the ways CMTO is becoming a more modern regulator.

CMTO has already completed significant background work. We have reviewed the existing CMTO Standards, legislation, policies, guidelines, complaints data and standards from similar organizations in Ontario, across Canada and internationally. CMTO has also engaged with RMTs, holding two focus groups in December 2019. The purpose of the focus groups was to gather information and feedback about the existing Standards. RMTs who participated in focus groups represented diverse perspectives of the profession, with RMTs coming from a variety of practice settings and with different levels of experience. RMTs provided valuable feedback on the current Standards and we would like to sincerely thank all who participated.

CMTO has also created a Standards of Practice Advisory Group (SPAG), comprised of RMTs with varying experience and backgrounds. The SPAG has provided input into the development of the new Standards, made suggestions and recommendations on proposed content and wording and offered solutions to identified issues. We want to thank members of the SPAG for their participation in this project.

Don’t worry, you still have an opportunity to get involved. We will be engaging with RMTs throughout the consultation period this Fall, when we will be seeking feedback on the new, draft Standards of Practice. Watch your email for updates!

The existing CMTO Standards remain in effect until the new Standards are officially released for implementation. For more information, please contact the College’s Professional Practice Department at (416) 489-2626 ext. 4150 / 1-800-465-1933 ext. 4150 or email professionalpractice@cmto.com.