Massage Therapy in Canada: A Cross-Provincial Overview

In Canada, the regulation of massage therapy varies by province. Currently, it is regulated in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island. While Saskatchewan has passed legislation to regulate the profession, it has not yet come into force. Until then, massage therapy in that province remains unregulated.

For Therapists Registered in Regulated Provinces:

If you are a CMMOTA member registered with the College which regulates Massage Therapists in a regulated province and are actively practicing there, we simply ask that you follow the rules, standards, and policies established by your provincial regulatory College.

For Therapists Not Registered with a Regulatory College:

CMMOTA would like to provide the following updates and clarifications to ensure compliance and clarity for members practicing in or visiting regulated provinces:

Website Update – Clearer Public Listings:

Our “Find-A-Therapist” page now reflects whether members are listed as Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) or Spa Therapists, depending on their status and location. This change is intended to provide greater transparency and help the public make informed choices when seeking massage services.

Protected Titles – Legal and Ethical Use Required:

Only those registered with the College which regulates Massage Therapists in a regulated province may use protected titles such as “Registered Massage Therapist” or “Massage Therapist.” These titles are defined under provincial legislation and vary by region. Use of a protected title without proper registration is considered professional misconduct or fraud and can result in disciplinary action. This applies even when offering temporary services—whether you’re visiting, filling in for a colleague, or offering mobile massage—local laws still apply and must be followed.

Health Insurance Coverage – Know the Requirements:

Therapists who are not registered with the appropriate regulatory College in a regulated province are not eligible for third-party insurance coverage or reimbursement for treatments provided in that province. Additionally, all receipts must comply with CMMOTA’s Receipting Policy. If you typically practice in an unregulated province or territory and temporarily provide services in a regulated one, do not include your CMMOTA number on receipts issued there—even for mobile massage.

Please note: It is unlawful to practice massage therapy in New Brunswick or Newfoundland & Labrador without being a registered member in good standing with the province’s regulatory College.

Changing Provinces? Contact Us:

If you are moving between a regulated and unregulated province, or vice versa, please contact the CMMOTA office via email to info@cmmota.com. We will update your membership classification and provide the appropriate documentation to ensure you remain in good standing.

In Summary

• Follow the rules of your provincial College if you practice in a regulated province.
• Use protected titles only if you are properly registered.
• Understand the insurance and receipting rules that apply to your location.
• Notify CMMOTA if you move to a new province.

Questions? Contact the CMMOTA office—we’re here to help.