Handling Unwanted Advances in Massage Therapy: A Guide for Therapists

Question
Hello,

I am a young massage therapist and have only been working for a few months. I had a very uncomfortable experience today.

I was giving a massage to an older woman, probably mid fifties. Near the end of the massage she asked me if I would have sex with her. I tried to decline politely but probably offended her by how abruptly I said no. She asked a time or two more, trying different approaches but I continued to refuse. I finished the massage, though the proposition made me uncomfortable.

What's worse is that she left a 35% tip AND made an appointment to have ME give her another massage next week.

What do I do? Has this ever happened to you? Should I not be surprised and horrified to be propositioned in the future? I have yet to tell my boss what happened but think I probably should. To be honest, I'm kind of embarrassed by the entire situation.

Thanks for your help.

Answer
Thank you for your question. No this particular situation has never happened to me.  I interview all my clients before I choose to work with them.

Please do not put yourself in an uncomfortable position.  If you are not comfortable working with this person, you have the right to cancel her appointment, and ask her to find another massage therapist.  

Please be direct with this person and tell this particular person that you no longer wish to work with her.  It's not a difficult situation.  You are in control of your own life, and your career, please do not put yourself in an uncomfortable situation.  

Rachel Estelle CMT