Massage Therapy Journal Winter 2025

58 • Massage Therapy Journal

AMTA Continuing Education

Integrating These Reflections into a Collaborative Approach • Building strong referral relationships : Effective collaboration requires strong relationships. Massage therapists might want to cultivate relationships with mindfulness coaches, yoga instructors, breathwork specialists and mental health professionals. Reaching out to these professionals, offering to collaborate or setting up a trade, as well as sharing knowledge or attending workshops together, can create mutual trust and understanding. These relationships allow therapists to confidently refer their clients to specialists who they know will provide appropriate care. • Client education on collaboration benefits : Therapists should also educate clients about the roles of various professionals and how these roles can contribute to alleviating tech neck, which can help build confidence in the care plan. Clients often see better outcomes when they understand that different aspects of their well-being are being comprehensively addressed and can help massage therapists increase client retention. • Following up post-referral : Collaboration continuity of care and helps the massage therapist understand the effectiveness of these referrals. You will also be better able to determine whether adjustments or other referrals are necessary. Massage therapists may also confer with other wellness professionals— if client consent allows—to ensure that doesn’t end with the referral. If possible, following up with clients about their experiences with referred practitioners ensures

clients do together. Referrals to these coaches may be particularly effective for clients whose tech neck symptoms are stress related. • Yoga teachers and yoga therapists : Therapeutic yoga is instrumental in addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, improving flexibility and promoting relaxation. Referral to yoga teachers or therapists supports clients in creating a structured movement practice that complements massage therapy. Particularly for tech neck, restorative yoga postures can be beneficial in gently correcting alignment and enhancing body awareness. • Mental health counselors : Emotional and psychological distress can exacerbate physical tension and play a role in persistent pain patterns. If a client is experiencing symptoms such as anxiety or depression, referral to a licensed mental health professional is an appropriate step. Emotional well-being is directly tied to the physical body, and ensuring that clients have support for their mental health will help massage therapists provide more holistic care.

Massage therapists might want to cultivate relationships with mindfulness coaches, yoga

instructors, breathwork

specialists and mental health professionals.

treatment plans align seamlessly. The Value of Case Studies in Learning

Case studies provide real-world examples that help bridge the gap between theory and practice. As a massage therapist, applying techniques and clinical thinking in realistic scenarios is essential for refining your approach and building confidence.

Svitlana Hulko / Shutterstock.com

amtamassage.org/mtj