Distinctly Montana Magazine

D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA N A • W I N T E R 2 0 1 6 58 Deeper is not always better, and may prompt more holding pat- terns on the part of the client. erapists often use techniques that, "invite the muscles to soften," says Hannah Johansen, longtime Big Sky massage therapist. "With this orientation," she says, "healing becomes more of a dance." Patrick Sullivan, a massage therapist in Montana for five years says, "Working with a client means having an open line of com- munication that continues throughout the session. Checking in regularly can help maintain understanding between therapist and client." "A bond of trust is formed," states Ruth Marion, owner and director of Bozeman-based massage school, Health Works Insti- tute. "Quality communication allows massage therapy to have a meaningful impact on the client's quality of life." Marion is careful to highlight the importance of the therapist's commitments to the individual preferences of every client. KNOW WHEN YOU NEED A SPECIALIST As healthcare itself is becoming more specialized, pregnancy and sports massage illustrate two of a grow- ing number of specialties in the field of massage therapy. While licensed massage therapists in general are trained to provide treatments, share information, and coordinate services, specialty certifications afford a wider array of information to both the therapist and client. erapists trained in sports massage work with an athlete's medical team, physical therapists, athletic trainers and others involved for trainings and competitions. "Massage plays a large role in the rehab of a person with any type of injury," says physical therapist, Danika Ellington of Great Falls. "Massage helps increase healing, decrease pain, and allows for an increase in activities and therapeutic exercises." TRUST YOUR PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPIST, WHETHER MALE OR FEMALE "Being a male massage therapist is sometimes a challenge in helping people see that the way I work is not gender specific," notes Joshua Cox, a Seattle- based therapist. "In fact, sometimes people might assume that I might use too much pressure. But it's the opposite actually, since I try to work lighter, with sensitivity, to address the fascia and soft tissue." "Massage therapists have to use critical thinking skills to plan and deliver a unique massage for each unique client every time the client receives a massage," says Sandy Fritz, internationally known author, educator and therapist for over 30 years. "Massage therapists provide massage for people," Fritz says. It is in this way that each person we touch becomes our best teacher. "Massage therapists provide massage for people," Fritz says. "It is in this way that each person we touch becomes our best teacher." 4 5

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