In Nova Scotia, the Canadian Massage and Manual Osteopathic Therapists Association (CMMOTA) is actively collaborating with the Massage Therapists’ Association of Nova Scotia (MTANS) and the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC) to advance the regulation of massage therapists. This coalition is working closely with the Provincial Government to facilitate the progression of massage therapy regulation under the Regulated Health Professions Act.
The Government’s Position on Regulation: In 2022, the government emphasized that the regulation of massage therapy would move forward once all relevant associations in Nova Scotia have demonstrated unity in completing the regulatory framework. We continue to work diligently toward this objective. At present, the Nova Scotia government is prioritizing the transition of existing regulated health professions to be governed by the updated Regulated Health Professions Act (passed in 2023). The government has indicated that it intends to complete this migration before considering the regulation of massage therapists.
Current Status of Massage Therapy Regulation
Currently, the government of Nova Scotia is not yet ready to proceed with the regulation of massage therapy.
Act to Protect the Titles of Massage Therapists
In late 2019, Nova Scotia introduced the Act to Protect the Titles of Massage Therapists. which restricts the use of titles such as “Massage Therapist,” “Registered Massage Therapist,” and similar designations to individuals who meet the qualifications established by the government.
It is important to note that this Act, while distinct from full regulation, provides an additional layer of protection for practitioners who are legally authorized to use these professional titles.
Future Updates
Any joint statements from the organizations working on massage therapy regulation in Nova Scotia will be made available here as they become accessible.
General FAQ’s Related to Regulation in Nova Scotia
What is a College of Massage Therapy/Governance under Provincial Legislation?
Under provincial legislation (in Nova Scotia under the RHPA), health professions are organized into regulatory bodies called “colleges.” These colleges are delegated powers and authorities for self-governance. Regulatory colleges are not post-secondary institutions.
Provincial legislation requires that colleges carry out governance responsibilities in a manner that protects and serves the public interest. Health profession colleges do this by:
· Setting entry requirements (including required education, practical training, and examinations);
· Identifying services provided by regulated members, setting standards for professional practice;
· Setting continuing competency requirements; and
· Investigating complaints about regulated members and imposing disciplinary actions if required.
Regulatory colleges are not professional associations. Professional associations usually operate to represent the interests of their members and to advance the profession.