The Laws
The State of Wisconsin certifies massage therapists and bodyworkers that meet education, testing, liability insurance and background check requirements. Although anyone can do massage therapy in Wisconsin without a state credential, only those that are state certified may call themselves Massage Therapists or Bodyworkers.
Under Wisconsin Law a Massage Therapist must:
- Honestly represent themselves
- Work within their scope of practice
- Inform you if massage is contraindicated
- Refer you to others if they cannot provide you the services you need
- Obtain informed consent before treatment
- Allow the client's right of refusal, modification or terminate the treatment
- Maintain client records necessary for continuity of treatment for at least 5 years
- Maintain client confidentiality
- Provide proper draping for privacy and safety
- Not engage in sexual behavior with or in the presence of a client
- Maintain cleanliness in the professional setting
- Display their Wisconsin Certification prominently in their place of business or practice
- Display their Wisconsin Certification number on business cards and all advertising
For further information, such as to check the credentials of a massage practitioner or bodyworker, get an application to become state certified or make a complaint, go to the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing's website http://drl.wi.gov/index.htm
