How can massage therapists adopt a trauma-informed approach when working with clients who have PTSD?

A trauma-informed approach to massage therapy recognizes the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma, including those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. PTSD is characterized by persistent re-experiencing of traumatic events, avoidance behaviors, hyperarousal, and emotional dysregulation. Massage therapists working with clients who have PTSD must prioritize safety, trust, and client empowerment.

Key aspects of trauma-informed care include providing clear communication, ensuring informed consent, and allowing clients to have control over their session, including the ability to modify techniques or stop at any time. Clients with a history of trauma may experience dissociation or emotional releases during massage, and therapists must be prepared to support them calmly without overstepping professional boundaries. Research suggests that massage therapy can help individuals with PTSD by promoting relaxation, improving mood, and reducing physical symptoms of stress. However, working with this population requires specialized training to ensure that care is both effective and ethical.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, "Touching the Mind: Mental and Mood Disorders for Massage Therapists," presented by Ruth Werner, BA, BCTMB, Ret.