Do you consider sexual assault prevention when writing your policies and procedures? Sadly, there is real need for attention to this topic in our massage and bodywork communities. Luckily, Dr. Ben Benjamin has put together a free guide for business establishments, the Sexual Assault Prevention Guidelines, to “provide a roadmap for franchisors, franchisees, day spas, and massage clinics to: maximize the safety of both clients and therapists; and minimize the risk of sexual assault.”
This guide is intended primarily for employee-based businesses committed to providing the safest, most professional environment. But it is full of extremely useful information for independent practitioners, practitioners looking for safe employment, and clients looking for safe treatments.
The guide includes detailed instructions for the safest standards of practice in massage therapy regarding:
- Verbal Interviews
- Practical Interviews
- Internet Searches
- Sexual Misconduct Statements
- Surveys
- Supervision
- Client Brochures
- Complaint Processes
- Mystery Shoppers
It also includes links to additional resources and templates for you to use. Download the free PDF here.
Thank you for the PDF on Sexual Assault Prevention Guidelines.
I was really surprised to see this written from the perspective of an employer hiring the right employee.
In my profession, since I work alone, I do run into quite a few male clients who shop around on the internet for female therapists and think I am going to perform sexually provocative services. What a joke.
Thank you again.
Excellent! I recently contacted Dr. Benjamin about this exact issue. I’m committed to doing my part to raise public awareness about the issue of sexual assault in the massage industry and am advocating for better practices in schools, studios and clinics. In my experience as a massage therapist in practice since 2012, studios too often overlook feedback about misconduct until it has gone too far – overlooking things like improper draping, inappropriate / sexual conversation – signs of boundary testing / crossing.
Thanks a million for the resources you’ve provided. SMA is an essential resource for Bodywork/Massage Therapy professionals.