new business venture

[Bryan]

Hi everyone! My first experience of a forum, ever! I am a qualified massage therapist and now plan to start my own business part time from home. I will start an ITEC aromatherapy course in October. I wondered if I was allowed to use essential oils in my massage work before I am qualified as I have basic knowledge of oils, can I advertise aroma massage as a client choice or should I wait until qualified, registered and insured in this field?[sm=dogrun.gif][sm=dogrun.gif]

 

[xubwavtj]

Hi Tippi,

I think it is generally accepted practice for massage therapists to use 'simple' choices of essential oils to enhance the carrier blend i.e. Lavender, Geranium etc. However you should not offer anything to a client that could be construed as a 'prescriptive' use of oils (single or in combination) i.e. using specific oils in response to symptoms presented by a client until you have completed your Aromatherapy course. Even if using basic essences you should still consult the client to make sure they do not have any known allergies/reactions, avoid oils that will sensitise the skin to sunlight (citrus family lemon, bergamot etc) and I wouldn't use any additives on any pregnant clients.

I personally would advise against advertising 'Aroma Massage' as this will probably be interpreted as Aromatherapy by less-informed clients which may cause problems, but I'm sure other forum members have been down the same route and can offer better advice than mine. I've a legal/professional background in addition to my 'holistic' side, so I tend to err on the side of caution!!

You should note that your insurance almost certainly will not cover you for professional use of 'complex' use of essential oils without qualification first.

Good luck with your practice & your next course.

derekw

 

[Aristo]

Hiderekw!
Very helpful! I agree that advertising before qualification is probably not the correct way forward. I understand the principles of honesty, safety and clarity so I will stick to offering massage therapies only meantime! I would definately take a case history as sugested asI am a nurse and realise how important background info is.

Many thanks for your advise

 

[madel]

hi tippi

welcome to HP

Have put your post here as more apt

tigress

 

[Yakthai Fight Gear]

hi tippi
I am a qualified aromatheripist also good luck on your course im sure you will enjoy it, it is my favourite of all the holistic therapys available these days.

i would advise like the others just offer basic massage for the time being untill you are fully qualified and become a member of the FHT or other as you will not be insured for using essensial oils and its not worth taking the risk, because any of your clients could well have a contra-action to any of the oils used and without insurance you hav,nt got a leg to stand on ( excuse the expression) its just not worth it
hope all goes well with the course
love and light
paula