Lack of mandatory licensing adds to need for public awareness

We are writing in response to the article titled “Prostitution Alleged at Boro Massage Parlor” that appeared in the April 21 issue of the Sentinel.

It was inaccurately reported that the spa was licensed by the state to perform massages. As professional massage therapists, we believe it is important to inform your readers that there is no licensing for massage therapy in the state of New Jersey.

There is legislation slowly making its way through the process, which would offer a voluntary state certification for the profession. This bill will require a certain amount of educational hours; however, many believe that it is primarily designed to help towns weed out illegitimate businesses, rather than ensure quality professionals.

The lack of mandatory licensing of massage therapy in New Jersey increases the need for public awareness. When judging the legitimacy of a business or investigating the credentials of a massage therapist, look for those professionals who have chosen to receive national certification as a nationally certified massage therapist (N.C.M.T.). This requires a specific level of training from an approved school, passing a national exam and continuing education hours. A massage therapist can also become a member of a professional association, with its own requirements and standards, such as the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).

Incidents such as the reported alleged illegal activity are unfortunate and incredibly damaging because they misrepresent a legitimate health-care profession that helps a growing number of people dealing with muscle tensions and conditions. The benefits of massage therapy are many; but it is imperative that members of the public seek out qualified therapists with the education, training and professionalism they deserve.

Despite the fact that massage therapy is a licensed profession in many states, the state of New Jersey has decided to not allow licensing. Unfortunately, the ones who suffer most from this decision are members of the public.

Kerren Lynch-Gallagher, M.S., N.C.M.T.

Donna Lane, N.C.M.T.

South Amboy