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**As a [massage therapist](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/massage-scheduling-software/), safety for both you and your clients is priority No. 1.**

**That’s why massage consent forms are so important.**

Massage therapy consent forms — AKA massage agreement forms — play a big part in setting boundaries for [massage therapists](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist) and their clients.

They also help you understand your client’s specific circumstances and needs, allowing you to provide informed, [customized care for each individual client](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists) – even if you run a [*mobile* massage therapy business](/learn/how-to-start-a-mobile-massage-business).

So if you’re still asking yourself: “Do I really need a consent form from my massage clients before I treat them?” — the answer is **yes, your clients should sign a form**. 

In this blog, we look at *why* you need [client consent forms](https://support.schedulicity.com/en/articles/2537687-how-do-i-set-up-or-update-a-waiver-and-track-my-client-s-waiver-status). Plus, we’ll even share a checklist for what to include in yours!

*Looking for specific info? Feel free to jump ahead!* 👇

-   [Why You Should Require Consent Forms](#why)
-   [Legal Advice — Yea or Nay?](#legal)
-   [What to Include In Your Massage Consent Form](#include)
-   [Bonus: Free Consent Form Templates](#bonus)

## Why You Should Require Massage Client Consent Forms

### Massage Consent Forms Establish Ground Rules & Intentions

By having your clients sign a massage consent form, you’re taking the time to lay out what your goals are for the appointment.

It helps clients understand your approach and what they should expect during their visit. 

Ultimately, giving clients as much information up front as possible [reduces the chance of miscommunication](https://massagefitnessmag.com/massage/what-is-informed-consent/) between parties and makes each appointment predictable for you *and* your clients.

### They Inform Clients of Potential Risks

With a massage agreement form in place, the client knows what, when, and how things are supposed to happen, including the possibility of injury ([which your business insurance might cover](/learn/salon-and-spa-insurance-costs/)).

This is also your chance to relay potential risks and side effects, such as delayed muscle soreness, and disclose any [licenses or certifications you have as a massage therapist](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist).

### They Reduce Liability Concerns

A standard consent form can [remove liability concerns](https://www.hg.org/legal-articles/signing-a-waiver-on-a-massage-therapy-lawsuit-51261) for you as the massage therapist, covering potential negligence concerns and even larger injuries.

The agreement acts as a release from standard forms of negligence that occur either with the facility or with you as the massage therapist.

## Legal Advice — Yea or Nay?

With so many free consent templates out there that seem to follow industry standards, do you need to consult a lawyer when drafting up your own? 

Short answer: **yes**.

A lawyer can answer any legal questions you may have and can also help [ensure you have the most effective form](https://www.contractscounsel.com/b/how-to-write-a-liability-waiver) for you and your clients.

Of course, if you’re not in a place to consult a lawyer, you can use templates available online, but you should still have the form double-checked by a lawyer.

## What to Include in Your Massage Client Agreement Form

While the [AMTA](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/forms-templates/) has some handy templates to help you create various forms, like [intake forms and SOAP notes](/learn/why-keep-client-notes/), we put together a list of what to include in your client waivers! 

## [Massage Client](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists) Consent Form Checklist

-   Consent to receive massage therapy
-   Agree that a massage is not a substitute for medical treatment
-   Acknowledge that massage therapists do not diagnose injuries or prescribe medications
-   Understanding of potential risks involved
-   Agree to disclose any injuries or medications therapist should be aware of
-   Agree to inform therapist of any pain or discomfort during massage
-   Understand that client or therapist can end massage at any time
-   Acknowledge that client has been given a chance to ask questions and that all questions have been answered before the massage 

## Bonus: Free Massage Therapy Consent Form Templates

Take the checklist above and fill in the blanks for your own form with these free massage form templates.

Of course, be sure to customize the language so it’s specific to your business’s needs. 

-   [AMTA: Forms and Templates](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/forms-templates/)
-   [Jotform: Consent Form Templates](https://www.jotform.com/form-templates/category/consent-forms)
-   [My Massage World: Liability Release Templates](https://mymassageworld.com/free-forms/)
-   [Schedulicity: New Client Questionnaire](/learn/how-to-build-a-new-client-questionnaire)

---

[*Vagaro's online booking software*](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/) *is perfect for massage therapists and spa owners.* 

*With built-in tools for marketing, payments, and simplified booking, you can [grow your massage business](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists) and stay connected with your clients — all from one app!*

[Learn More About Schedulicity](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/learn-more)




Why Clients Need to Sign a Massage Therapy Consent Form (+ What to Include)


**For massage therapists, it’s important to annually revisit your [business goals](/learn/small-business-checklist-for-the-new-year), like increasing revenue or booking [more new clients](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists).**  

One way to [boost revenue](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/7-spa-marketing-ideas) and get more clients? Staying in the know on the latest massage therapy trends.

*The more services you offer, the more clients you can help, right?*

To keep your massage services up with the latest massage therapy trends, we gathered up the trendiest services clients are looking for in 2025.

Pick those that work for you, and give your clients something new to try!

## Latest Massage Therapy Industry Trends

### 1\. Sports Massage Therapy

Offering massage therapy for athletes or clients with physically demanding hobbies fills a very specific need in your community.

Sports massage therapy helps athletes and competitors prepare for the physical side of their sport — from preparing joints, muscle groups, or tendons to repairing the body after activity.

### 2\. Medical Massage Therapy

Combining traditional and alternative medicine is becoming more and more common.

[Massage therapy in medical settings](https://college.mayo.edu/academics/explore-health-care-careers/careers-a-z/medical-massage-therapist/) is growing, too!

Medical massage therapists provide care that focuses on:

-   Healing injuries
-   Increasing circulation
-   Reducing pain
-   Minimizing stress

They’re able to help patients with autoimmune and chronic conditions, even those who have cancer and fibromyalgia. 

### 3\. Physical Massage Therapy

Like medical massage therapy, [physical massage therapy](https://www.verywellhealth.com/physical-therapy-massage-benefits-techniques-and-cost-5192405) is there to help clients recover from an injury.

(Think “PT” — as in physical therapy after an injury.)

But unlike a traditional spa massage centered around relaxation, physical massage therapists are there to rehabilitate muscle and joint strength.

### 4\. Deep Tissue Massage

Clients with lots of knots, tense muscles, or pain from stress love a strong [deep tissue massage](https://www.omega-rehab.com/7-benefits-of-deep-tissue-massage-therapy/).

Famous for alleviating knots and stress, deep tissue massages use extra firm pressure and slower movements to break down deep layers of muscle and connective tissue.  

### 5\. Thai Massage Therapy

When you think of [Thai massage](https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/thai-massage), think *serious* deep pressure.

And that’s because Thai massage therapists will typically walk or kneel on their clients.

Their focus is about applying a deeper level of pressure to improve mobility and circulation. Thai massages are also known to help improve immune systems and lower anxiety.

### 6\. Neuro Massage Therapy

Different from Thai massage, [neuro (or neuromuscular) massage therapy](https://www.caryortho.com/the-benefits-of-neuromuscular-massage-therapy-for-back-pain/) focuses on *soft pressure*.

This softer approach to massage remedies chronic muscle and nervous system disorders. For clients with circulation, nerve compression, or postural problems, neuro massage therapy can be a life-saver.

### 7\. Animal Massage Therapy

Hey, as a massage therapist, you have a gift.

Why not use those healing hands to help out the animal kingdom, too?!

From cats to horses, there’s a need for massage therapists. Here are just a few examples:

-   **Equine Massage Therapy**: Equine massage therapy focuses on horses. Whether it’s a racehorse, or the owner simply wants to pamper their pet, [equine massage therapy](https://armstrongequinemassage.com/information/) has several benefits, such as stimulating blood flow or removing lactic acid build-up in their muscles.
-   **Dog Massage Therapy**: Like horse massage therapy, dogs don’t have to be athletes to enjoy a massage. In most cases, [dog massage therapists](https://wagwalking.com/treatment/massage-therapy-1) help improve a dog’s mobility or rehabilitate after a muscular injury.
-   **Cat Massage Therapy**: Therapeutic massage — for a cat? Yep, absolutely! A lot of veterinary hospitals offer massages for cats. With a massage, practitioners can help cats who are dealing with pain issues, giving them relief from pain and discomfort.

### 8\. Reiki Energy Healing

[Reiki](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reiki/) is a technique that uses gentle touch to promote relaxation and lower stress or anxiety.

By using their hands, reiki practitioners pass energy to their clients’ bodies, improving the flow and balance of energy in their clients.

This technique is often used in tandem with more traditional forms of health treatments to build balance in the body — physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. 

### 9\. Mobile Massage Therapy

As a [scheduling app](/learn/best-appointment-scheduling-apps) made with massage therapists in mind, we’ve noticed a trend here at [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software): A lot of massage therapists are taking their business on the road!

And why not? As a mobile business, you have more flexibility, autonomy, *and*… no rent payments.  

### 10\. Prenatal Massage Therapy

Used to help with pregnancy discomforts such as back pain and poor circulation, [prenatal massage therapy](https://www.naturalhealers.com/massage-therapy/specialties/) uses techniques from Swedish, deep-tissue, and Shiatsu massage.

### 11\. Fascia Stretching

[Fascia stretching](https://www.naturalhealers.com/massage-therapy/specialties/) is a massage technique to increase the patient’s range of motion by manipulating fascia—the connective webbing around muscles and nerves.

11 Latest Massage Therapy Trends to Add to Your Business in 2025


**Membership salons are trending, especially in large cities, like Los Angeles and New York.**

**It’s cool to be part of a club — and even cooler if it means getting discounts on must-have services you pay for on a regular basis.**

Chances are you’ve also come across spa memberships.

(If my Korean day spa is reading this and considering an unlimited monthly offer, *take my money* *now*)

“Facial clubs” and memberships at your local blowout salon…

Seriously, when you start looking, salon and spa memberships are *everywhere*.

But what are they? Are salon membership programs worth offering?

## What Is a Salon or Spa Membership Program?

Whether you’re a salon or spa owner or manager, independent hairstylist, massage therapist, or esthetician, membership programs give special perks to [clients who spend more money](/learn/4-tools-to-increase-client-retention-including-all-those-new-guests) with you.

They also incentivize clients to book more often over time. This could mean either asking them to pay for multiple sessions upfront (at a discounted rate) or [rewarding your most loyal clients](/learn/customer-loyalty-programs-for-small-businesses-salons) when they book a certain number of times or spend a certain amount.

Salon membership programs tend to follow one of two models, which we’ve created a couple of cute names for:

### **The Buy-In Method**

Clients commit to, and pay in advance for, a package of services in order to receive a discount on those services every time. They save money long-term, and you get paid in advance.  

**Example:** an annual membership that includes four hair cuts, plus free bang trims between cuts, for 15% off what a client would pay at cost.

### **The Book More, Save More Method**

Often used for [client loyalty programs](/learn/customer-loyalty-programs-for-small-businesses-salons), this method involves no extra initial payment but incentivizes clients along the way by giving them perks as they spend more money with you.

While it’s not officially a “membership program” since there are no dues, it’s still a way to make clients feel like they’re part of an elite club.

## Are Client Membership Programs Good for Business? 

In a word: Yes.

While you may not want to commit to going fully membership-only at your salon or spa (we don’t recommend you do that right away anyway!), offering a supplemental membership program could benefit your business in a few ways.

Salon membership programs:

-   Encourage return clients and repeat business  
    
-   Allow you to better estimate at least a percentage of [your monthly revenue](/learn/ways-to-increase-salon-revenue/)  
    
-   Build rapport with your clients  
    
-   Keep your [books consistently full](/learn/how-to-reduce-client-cancellations-no-shows/) with recurring appointments

  
For more tips, check out [our guide to spa marketing and advertising](/learn/spa-branding-guide/).

## Types of Salon or Spa Membership Programs

### Monthly Programs or Unlimited Programs

Monthly memberships and unlimited memberships might sound familiar if you’re a diehard fitness studio users.

Many Pilates and yoga studios offer these memberships at a discount to the people who attend classes most often.

Monthly memberships and unlimited memberships are very similar: the goal is to reward your most diehard clients.

Here are a few examples:

-   **A monthly salon membership program** where you ask clients to pay upfront for a year’s worth of services. You could limit the number of times they can book (e.g. “up to six haircuts a year”) or charge a higher membership fee, then allow them to book as often as they like.  
    
-   **An unlimited spa membership** where, for an annual price, someone can come to the spa anytime they like to use your saunas, or perhaps offers them a basic scrub anytime, while add-ons (such as facials or massages) cost extra.  
    
-   **A “platinum” or “gold standard” or drumroll, please, “rose gold” unlimited membership**, where for a (very significant) price, a client can book any of your services as regularly as they wish. Maybe get first dibs on open spots whenever they’re on your appointment waitlist. 

### Service Package Deals 

Another common practice is to encourage clients to pay you upfront for a certain number of services or sessions.

In exchange, you offer them a discounted rate.

This can be as simple as a salon package of five haircuts at a 10% discount or as complex as a custom package that allows unlimited walk-in bang trims or blowouts if they buy a package of 10 haircuts upfront.

### Loyalty Programs / Referral Programs

Similar to package deals, loyalty programs offer clients a discount for booking a certain number of times.

The most common version of this is the “buy 10, get one free” model, though you could also offer a discount of 10% on every haircut to clients who have booked with you X (five, 10…) or more times.

If this seems more your style, we wrote a [guide to loyalty programs](/learn/customer-loyalty-programs-for-small-businesses-salons) to help get you thinking.

## How to Create the Perfect Membership Program for Your Salon or Spa

The trick to a successful salon or spa membership program is to figure out the best approach for you and your clients.

For you, that means avoiding the trap of offering so many perks that a membership program negatively affects your revenue.

For clients, that means picking an offer that will resonate most with them.

### Crunch Numbers

To make sure the idea you have for a salon membership is actually worth it, make sure to crunch some numbers.

If your offer means 10% off for every haircut and you offer it to 100 clients, what does that dollar amount actually look like over the course of the year?

Make sure to tally everything up, so you really know what you’re signing on for. 

### Make Sure Clients Would Actually Want to be Members

For clients, ask!

[Send a client email](/learn/email-copy-101/) asking if they’d fill out a quick survey to help you decide on which special offers you’re thinking of rolling out.

You can set up an online survey using tools like [Google Forms](https://www.google.com/forms/about/) or [SurveyMonkey](https://www.surveymonkey.com/) for free.

Or just commit to asking every client who comes into your salon for a few days what they think. Decide what seems to appeal to people most before moving forward. 

### Adapt as You Go

The point is: Because a salon or spa membership can look very different from business-to-business, offering a membership program is a flexible [marketing strategy](/learn/schedulicity-guide-marketing-fundamentals/) that you can use in whatever way makes the most sense for your business or your clients — meaning it’s worth testing out, in the very least.   

## How to Tell if Your Salon Membership Program Is Working

Make sure to set clear goals around the membership program you land on before you launch it.

This should include regular check-ins with yourself to see how well the program is going, including tallying up the amount of income you’ve made off of program members.

It could also include reaching out to a few of the first salon members to [ask them for feedback](/learn/the-importance-of-feedback-both-giving-and-receiving/) as you go. 

Make tweaks as needed, and don’t be afraid to phase out the membership program if you’re sensing it’s not working for you or your salon or spa business.

It’s your business, so play by the rules that work for you.


Everything You Need to Know About Salon + Spa Memberships


**If you’re a** [**licensed massage therapist**](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist)**, you have a few different options when it comes to your career path.**

You can be an independent massage therapist.

You can be an employee for a [spa or massage studio](/learn/how-to-design-a-massage-room).

Or… you can balance both. 

Check out the pros and cons of being an independent RMT vs an employee.

*Plus*, learn how you can make the switch from being an massage therapist independent contractor to an employee —  and vice versa!


## Massage Therapist Independent Contractor vs Employee

There are pros and cons to both massage therapy career paths: [independent contractor and employee](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/business-financial-tools/employee-vs-independent-contractor/).

This simple +/- breakdown will help you choose the best option for you.

### Pros of Being an Independent RMT

**1\. Flexibility**

One of the biggest perks of being a [massage therapist independent contractor](https://www.massagetoday.com/articles/1683233453263/what-is-independent-contractor) is the flexibility it offers. 

You have control over your schedule, allowing you to work when it suits you best. 

If you’re a massage therapist who needs to balance work with other commitments or prefer non-traditional hours, an independent RMT career might be a great fit for you.

**2\. Higher Earning Potential**

As an independent contractor, you have the opportunity to set your own rates and [keep a larger portion of your earnings](https://www.eastwestcollege.com/career-in-massage-pros-and-cons-of-working-as-an-independent-contractor/) compared to being an employee at a spa.  

With savvy marketing and networking skills, you have the opportunity to attract more clients and [increase your income as a massage therapist](/learn/make-more-money-as-a-massage-therapist).

**3\. Business Ownership**

Being an independent massage therapist means you are essentially your own boss. 

You have the freedom to build your brand, choose your clients, and tailor your services to your preferences. 

**4\. More Diverse Clientele**

Independent RMTs often have the flexibility to work in various settings, from spas and medspas (as a contractor, not an employee) to private therapy practices to corporate events. 

This exposure to different working environments allows you to meet a diverse range of clients with unique needs and preferences, enriching your professional experience.

### Cons of Being an Independent RMT

**1\. Self-Employment Responsibilities**

Along with the freedom of being your own boss comes the responsibility of [managing your massage therapy business](https://www.oakvillecprfirstaid.ca/oakville-cpr-first-aid-articles-blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-having-your-own-massage-business) affairs. 

This includes handling everything, from administrative tasks (like [setting up online booking for appointments](/learn/best-massage-booking-software) and tracking finances) to [marketing your massage therapy services](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists) — which can feel time-consuming and challenging. 

**2\. Inconsistent Income**

Unlike salaried employees who receive a steady paycheck, independent contractors’ income can fluctuate depending on client demand and seasonality. 

It may take time to build a steady client base, leading to periods of financial instability, especially in the initial stages of your career.

**3\. Lack of Benefits**

Independent contractors typically do not receive employee benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. 

You’re also responsible for covering your own business expenses, such as equipment, taxes, insurance, and professional development/education, which can definitely add up.

**4\. Isolation**

Working independently can also feel isolating, especially if you primarily operate from a home office or travel to clients’ locations as a [mobile massage therapist](/learn/how-to-start-a-mobile-massage-business).

Without coworkers or a supportive team environment, you may miss out on opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and camaraderie.

### Pros of Being a Massage Spa Employee

**1\. Steady Income and Benefits**

Two of the main advantages to working as a massage employee are the stability of a steady income and access to employee benefits. 

Most spas and medspas offer benefits, such as health insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and retirement plans — providing financial security and peace of mind.

**2\. Professional Support**

As a massage employee, you have access to a [support network of colleagues, managers, and mentors](https://www.eastwestcollege.com/massage-therapy-careers-pros-and-cons-of-an-employee-employer-relationship/) who can offer guidance, feedback, and professional development opportunities. 

If you’re just starting out as a massage therapist, you may be looking for a more collaborative environment that fosters learning and growth.

Because of this professional support, you enhance your skills and advance in your career.

**3\. Infrastructure and Resources**

Spas typically provide the necessary equipment, supplies, and facilities needed to perform your job effectively.

From massage tables and oils to administrative support, having access to these resources allows you to focus on [delivering exceptional spa service to clients](/learn/give-customers-the-best-spa-experience) without worrying about logistical details.

**4\.** [**Client Referrals**](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients)

Working as a massage therapist in a spa setting exposes you to a steady stream of clients who are already seeking massage therapy services.

With effective marketing and top-notch customer service, you can build rapport with your clients and earn repeat business, leveraging the establishment’s reputation to grow your client base.

### Cons of Being a Massage Spa Employee

**1\. Limited Autonomy**

Unlike independent contractors who have full control over their businesses, employees in spas must adhere to company policies, procedures, and schedules.

This lack of autonomy can feel restrictive for massage therapists who prefer flexibility and autonomy in their work.

**2\. Lower Earning Potential**

While employees may enjoy a steady paycheck and benefits, they often [earn less *per session* compared to independent contractors](https://clinicsense.com/blog/massage-independent-contractor-vs-employee).

Additionally, spas may take a percentage of your earnings or impose quotas, reducing your overall income potential.

**3\. Limited Career Advancement**

In some cases, advancement opportunities for employees in spas may be limited, especially if the establishment has a hierarchical structure or lacks opportunities for growth and professional development. 

This can be frustrating for ambitious massage therapists seeking to expand their skills and take on leadership roles.

**4\. Workplace Politics**

Like any workplace, massage spas can have their share of workplace politics, conflicts, and interpersonal dynamics. 

Navigating these relationships and maintaining professionalism can be challenging, especially in close-knit environments with tight schedules and high client expectations.

## How to Become a Massage Therapist Independent Contractor

When we talk about how to become a [massage therapist independent contractor](https://www.ziprecruiter.com/career/Contract-Massage-Therapist/What-Is-How-to-Become), we’re basically talking about how you can become a business — party of one.

But first, there are a few pieces to put in place before you start working solo.

### Obtain Your Massage License & Certifications

If you’re already working as a massage therapist for a spa, you probably already have the proper massage license and/or certification to work in your area. 

If that’s the case, you’re ready for the next step!

***If you’re not already licensed****, learn all about massage licenses and certifications in our free guide:* [*How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist*](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist)*.*

### Develop a Business Plan

As a massage therapist independent contractor, you are running your own business, so it’s crucial to [develop a business plan](https://clinicsense.com/blog/massage-therapy-business-plan) to guide your efforts.

Take the time to identify:

-   Your target market: Who is your ideal client?
-   Niche specialization: Which [massage therapy services](/learn/trendy-massage-services) will you offer?
-   Pricing structure: Will you charge by service or by time? 
-   [Massage business marketing strategies](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists): How will you get the word out about your business? 

Determine whether you’ll operate from a home office, rent a studio space, or [offer mobile massage services](/learn/how-to-start-a-mobile-massage-business). 

And lastly… 

Outline your financial projections, budget, and operational logistics to ensure a solid foundation for your business.

Be sure to include line items for equipment, insurance and business licensing, rent and utilities (if you’re going with a studio), paid marketing efforts, and more.

### Acquire Liability Insurance

Protecting yourself and your business is paramount when operating as an independent massage therapist. 

Before you start taking clients, be sure to [obtain liability insurance tailored specifically to massage therapists](https://www.amtamassage.org/massage-insurance/professionals-graduates/) to safeguard against potential risks and liabilities. 

Liability insurance provides financial protection in the event of accidents or injuries and enhances your credibility and professionalism in the eyes of clients and prospective employers.

💡***Pro Tip****: Don’t miss our full breakdown of salon and spa insurance costs:* [*Do I Need Insurance for My Salon or Spa?*](/learn/salon-and-spa-insurance-costs)

### Build Your Brand & Online Presence

Establishing a strong brand identity and digital presence is essential for attracting new clients and distinguishing yourself from other massage therapists in your area.

Create a professional website showcasing your massage services, qualifications, testimonials, and contact information. 

Set up business profiles on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to engage with your target audience, share valuable content, and promote your business. 

### Market Your Massage Services Effectively

[Effective marketing](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/business-financial-tools/marketing-toolkit/six-ways-market-massage-practice/) is key to success as a massage therapist independent contractor.

On top of your website and social media efforts, explore:

-   Networking events
-   Community outreach
-   Referral programs
-   Partnerships with other local businesses

### Maintain Professional Development & Compliance

Since you’re on your own, it’s important to stay up-to-date with industry regulations, best practices, and emerging massage trends to maintain compliance and elevate your skills as a massage therapist. 

Without a manager or business owner to lean on, it’s up to you to participate in [continuing education courses](https://www.amtamassage.org/continuing-education/overview/), workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge, refine your techniques, and learn about advancements in the massage industry. 

And of course…

Be sure to stay current with your licensure requirements, insurance coverage, and tax obligations to ensure legal compliance –– and peace of mind.

## How to Switch from Massage Therapist Independent Contractor to Employee

If you’re seeking more stability, benefits, and/or professional growth opportunities, [switching from an independent massage therapist to an employee](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/business-financial-tools/employee-vs-independent-contractor/) can be a strategic move in your career. 

Here’s how to get prepared for the move…

### Assess Your Motivation & Goals

Before making the switch, reflect on your motivations and career goals. 

Consider why you’re interested in becoming an employee. 

What specific benefits or opportunities do you hope to gain from this career transition?

Is it access to benefits? A more structured work environment?  
  
Understanding your objectives will help guide your decision-making process.

### Research Potential Employers

[Research prospective employers in your area](https://jobs.amtamassage.org/), including spas, medical spas, wellness centers, clinics, and massage therapy franchises.

(Check out our [list of employment options](#where-to-work) to consider below!)

Evaluate factors, such as:

-   Reputation
-   Company culture
-   Employee benefits
-   Compensation structure
-   Opportunities for growth and development

💡***Pro Tip****: Look for organizations that align with your values, offer a supportive work environment, and provide opportunities for professional advancement.*

### Update Your Resumé & Portfolio

If you’re on the job hunt, a big step is [updating your resume](https://www.resumebuilder.com/resume-examples/massage-therapist/), cover letter, and portfolio to highlight your skills, qualifications, and relevant experience as a massage therapist.

When reaching out to potential employers, be sure to tailor your application materials to each prospective employer, emphasizing your strengths and how you can contribute to their team. 

### Prepare for Interviews

Prepare for job interviews by: 

1.  Researching the company you’re interested in
2.  [Practicing common massage therapist interview questions](https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2021/12/30/massage-therapist-interview-questions-answers)
3.  Preparing examples that demonstrate your skills and experience

Highlight your ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team, your strong communication and interpersonal skills, and your commitment to delivering exceptional client care. 

And of course: Be prepared to discuss your reasons for switching from independent contractor to employee and how you envision contributing to the organization’s success.

### Embrace the Employee Mindset

As you transition from a massage therapist independent contractor to employee, our best advice is:  
  
***Embrace the employee mindset and approach your new role with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a willingness to learn and grow.***

Collaborate with your colleagues and get to know them.

Seek feedback and guidance from your supervisor, and actively participate in team meetings and professional development opportunities. 

Demonstrate your commitment to the organization’s mission and values, and strive to exceed expectations in your role.

### Evaluate & Adjust As You Go

As you settle into your new role as an employee, periodically evaluate your satisfaction and progress, and make adjustments as needed. 

Communicate openly with your supervisor about your professional aspirations, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

Seek support and guidance as needed to ensure a fulfilling and successful career journey.

### Embrace Growth & Opportunity

Embrace the growth and opportunity that comes with transitioning from an massage therapist independent contractor to an employee. 

Take on new challenges, expand your skills, and seize opportunities for career advancement and personal development.

By embracing this transition with an open mind and a positive attitude, you can position yourself for long-term success and fulfillment in your career as a massage therapist.

## Where Can I Work as a Massage Employee?

If you’re considering switching from an independent massage therapist to an employee, you’re likely wondering what your employment options are.

Here are five options for you to consider. 

**1\. Spas and Wellness Centers**

Spas and wellness centers are popular venues for massage therapy employment. 

Massage employees working in spas often provide various types of massages, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy massages. 

**2\. Chiropractic Clinics**

Massage therapy can be an integral part of chiropractic care. 

It can help patients relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and enhance overall wellness. 

Working in a chiropractic clinic requires massage therapists to collaborate closely with chiropractors to develop treatment plans tailored to patients’ specific needs and conditions.

**3\. Fitness Centers and Gyms**

Fitness centers and gyms often employ massage therapists to offer therapeutic massages to gym members and clients.

Massage therapy can play a crucial role in promoting post-workout recovery, reducing muscle soreness, and enhancing athletic performance. 

**4\. Medical Spas and Rehabilitation Facilities**

Massage therapists employed in medical spas and rehabilitation facilities may work alongside medical professionals, such as doctors, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.

This collaboration provides therapeutic massages for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions.

**5\. Hotels and Resorts**

Hotels and resorts often offer massage services as part of their amenities to enhance the guest experience and promote relaxation and well-being. 

As a massage therapist employed by a hotel or resort, you can expect to provide in-room or on-site massages to guests seeking relief from travel-related stress, jet lag, or fatigue. 

Massage services offered by hotels can include anything from traditional Swedish massages to specialty treatments, like couples massages or prenatal massages.



Should I Be an Independent Massage Therapist or Work as an Employee?


**Whether you just started or have been at it for years, knowing how to market your massage therapy business goes a *long* way.**

You can’t overstate the importance of solid [marketing skills](/learn/schedulicity-guide-marketing-fundamentals) for massage therapy businesses.

It’s how you grow, [communicate with clients](/learn/6-email-newsletter-tips), and of course — [make more money](/learn/make-more-money-as-a-massage-therapist). 

But with everything that goes into [running your own massage business](/learn/salon-and-spa-insurance-costs) — leases, inventory, clients, [payment processing](/pro/card-processing) — it’s hard to implement a massage therapy marketing plan that helps you in the near term *and* long term.

To help, we put together this **guide to massage therapy marketing** to give you the best marketing tips you need to truly grow your business. 

## 1\. Build an Online Presence

Before you think about social media marketing or email marketing for your massage therapy business, you need to establish an online presence.

That includes your business website, Google listing, Yelp page, and [online scheduling platform](/learn/what-is-online-scheduling-software). 

### Business Website

Since your website is likely to be the first place clients get to know your business, [your website has to hook them](/learn/how-to-make-small-business-website).

With so many free website builders out there these days — like [Wix](https://www.wix.com/) or [SquareSpace](https://www.squarespace.com/) — you can give clients a look into your work and who you are.

Here’s a checklist of items every business website should have:

1.  [A Book Now button](/learn/how-to-use-ctas-to-book-more-clients-with-examples)
2.  A full breakdown of each service you offer
3.  High-quality photos representing your work
4.  Testimonials from clients
5.  An “About Me” or “My Story” page


### Online Scheduling App for Massage Therapists

There’s no doubt [online scheduling apps](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) make your business more efficient. But not all scheduling apps are created equal.

While we believe [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) is the best (*wink wink!*), we put together a guide to finding the [right scheduling app for you](/learn/appointment-scheduling-app-must-haves).

### Google My Business

**According to Google, customers are [70% more likely](https://www.hootsuite.com/newsroom/press-releases/hootsuite-announces-google-preferred-partner-status-launches-google-my-business-app) to visit a business with a Google profile**, so it’s a crucial first step to building your online presence.

Once you’ve [set up your Google business profile](https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038063?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid), clients can easily see your location, visit your website, view your hours, or book with you — all from one simple Google search.

### Yelp

Clients want to trust the businesses they book with, and [Yelp](https://www.yelp-support.com/article/How-do-I-add-a-business-to-Yelp?l=en_US) is an excellent tool for clients to research businesses before they book.

[Like Google My Business](/learn/local-seo-salons-small-businesses), you can update all your business information and upload pictures of your business or services you offer, giving clients the info they need and a platform to read and leave reviews. 

## 2\. Take Advantage of Social Media

When used the right way, social media can be a marketing gold mine for massage therapists looking to grow.

It’s an easy way to engage with current clients and get your business in front of potential new clients.

But how do you start marketing on social media when you’re, well, just getting started?

Here at [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software), we break down social media marketing into the three C’s: Be **consistent**, get **creative**, and give everything a [**call to action**!](/learn/how-to-use-ctas-to-book-more-clients-with-examples)

With those ideas in mind, let’s look at what it takes to get the most out of both Instagram and Facebook.

### Instagram

When it comes to [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/), don’t think so much about posting something pretty or what you believe would personally be fun to share.

It’s more about posting content that [gets your clients engaged](/learn/get-booked-on-instagram). 

**1\. Post consistently**

Aim for posting at least once a day. Daily posts may seem like a lot, but a recent study found that [60% of Instagram users](https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/instagram-stats) are on the platform daily, including 55% of young adults who visit several times a day.

**2\. Don’t forget your #hashtags**

Hashtags have become a pop culture term, but they have value in giving more visibility to your posts.

Unsure which hashtags to use? Don’t miss [this list](http://best-hashtags.com/hashtag/massagetherapy/) of the best hashtags for massage therapists! 

**Extra Credit**: Interested in learning how to get the most out of your Instagram captions? Vagaro's [guide to Instagram captions](/learn/best-instagram-captions-strategy) has all the tips and tricks!



### Facebook 

The number one thing to keep in mind when it comes to Facebook? Keep your business page and [personal account separate](https://www.massagemag.com/how-to-get-massage-clients-fast-90480/).

Since your Facebook business page is where you can ramp up traffic to your website or booking page, you want it separated from your personal page. 

When it comes to your posts… keep them fun, informative, and helpful. Offer tips and tricks that your massage clients and potential massage clients could use.

Essentially, you’re showing your value and credibility as a massage therapist, so be sure you’re sharing the info that reflects you and your business. 



## 3\. Stay Connected with Your Massage Clients

### Email Marketing

If you’re not already sending out consistent emails to your clients, you’re missing out on one of the [best marketing tools](/learn/schedulicity-email-marketing-features) out there.

With an average return of [$45 for every $1 spent](https://www.formrush.com/insights/email-statistics), there’s no doubt email marketing is huge for small businesses.

Your email marketing efforts could include a [consistent newsletter](/learn/6-email-newsletter-tips), updating your clients on current specials or promoting services.

It could also include emails to pass along deals, follow-up Thank You emails after appointments, and re-engagement emails — all of which [this massage booking app](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) can do for you. 

## 4\. Offer a Referral Program

Too many massage therapists wait for referrals to walk through the door. Instead of waiting, why not let your current clients do some free word-of-mouth marketing for you?

You can [keep your referral program simple](/learn/customer-loyalty-programs-for-small-businesses-salons), too — say $10 off for each new client they bring? This way, you’re showing appreciation for your current clients while bringing in the new! 

## 5\. Partner With Other Local Businesses 

Reaching out to fellow small businesses in your area may seem a bit old school, but it’s still a big way to put your business in front of new clients.

Since massage therapy falls under the umbrella of the health and wellness industry, you can [partner up with other local businesses](https://blog.appointy.com/2021/04/17/massage-therapy-marketing-ideas/) in your community that share similar values and goals, such as:

-   Gyms
-   Spas
-   Dietitians/Nutritionists

When connecting with other businesses about a potential partnership, you can offer to provide your massage services at their location. You can also offer discounts to customers who visit the store or their employees. 

Putting your massage business out there in the community — coupled with your online marketing efforts — is a surefire way to drum up new clients and grow revenue!

[Learn More About Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software)




Massage Therapy Marketing Plan: How to Get New Clients and Make More Money

The average massage therapist salary is $47,180, according to the latest data from the [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319011.htm). That’s about $6,000 less than the *average* job in the United States.

So…

How can massage therapists make more money [**without** booking more appointments](/learn/how-to-increase-revenue-without-increasing-your-client-list/)?

(You don’t have to [overbook your schedule](/learn/building-a-weekend-as-a-business-owner). That’ll lead to burnout.)

We put together a list of tips for massage therapists to make more money. 

## [Rebook More Massage Clients](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients)

One simple way to make more money as a massage therapist is to focus more energy on *rebooking* current clients, instead of [finding new ones](/learn/how-to-get-new-clients).

Acquiring new clients costs up to [five times more](https://www.outboundengine.com/blog/customer-retention-marketing-vs-customer-acquisition-marketing/) than retaining a current client, so there’s a lot to gain by getting clients to book again and again.

Clients who rebook create a more stable income for your business. They also create a [positive feedback loop](/learn/the-importance-of-feedback-both-giving-and-receiving/) by recommending you to their friends and family.

A win-win for *free* word-of-mouth marketing – and maybe a [new customer loyalty program](/learn/customer-loyalty-programs-for-small-businesses-salons)?

***PS***. Learn how a [scheduling software for massage therapists](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) can [help your business rebook clients](/learn/best-massage-booking-software).

[Learn More About Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software)


## [Raise Your Massage Prices](/learn/is-it-time-to-raise-your-prices-how-and-when-to-have-an-increase)

We know raising your prices can seem a bit scary.

*What if my clients are upset? What if they don’t come back?*

Trust us:

[When the time comes](https://themassagebusinessmama.com/when-to-increase-rates-5-signs-its-time/), there are simple, seamless ways to increase your prices to make sure you’re charging what you deserve — without upsetting your clients.

### 1.  **Give notice:**

Let your regular clients know well in advance of any price changes. The commonly accepted timeline is at least [two months notice](https://clinicsense.com/blog/2016/10/03/how-increase-your-prices-without-losing-clients/). At the end of the day, you don’t want to surprise your clients with a price change. The more notice you can give, the better.  
    
### 2.  **Post your prices:** 

If your prices are posted on your [website](/learn/salon-website-101) or on your [online booking page](/learn/get-more-out-of-your-booking-page/), make sure they reflect your current price. This way, clients aren’t caught off guard when they come in for their appointment because they saw an old listing with your previous rates.   
    
### 3.  **Cut your regulars a deal:** 

It’s never a bad idea to reward your longtime clients. One way to do that is to offer your current clients the chance to [book in advance](https://clinicsense.com/blog/2016/10/03/how-increase-your-prices-without-losing-clients/) (and prepay) at your old rate. This will help your clients feel better about the pricing transition, and you’ll have appointments locked in for the future!

***PS***. To make sure you’re charging (at least) the average in your state, check out [Forbes Average Massage Therapist Salary by State](https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewdepietro/2020/10/31/heres-how-much-money-massage-therapists-make-in-every-state/?sh=352321d95881).

## [Increase Tips](/learn/how-to-get-more-tips-without-asking-for-more-tips)

We all know how stressful discussing tipping can feel!

But…

In addition to providing your clients with great service, there are ways to encourage them to tip after their massage without encountering that awkward tipping moment. 

One way to avoid the awkward tipping moment is by using a service that auto-calculates tips at checkout. This helps clients avoid awkwardly doing math in their heads in front of you.

Having a [payment processing system](/learn/the-cheapest-credit-card-processor) that provides a tipping step also saves you from having to ask, which always feels a little awkward.

## Create Package Deals

[Packaging your services](/learn/book-new-clients-with-package-deals) into bundles is a fantastic way to [market you massage offerings](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists), incentivizing new and current clients to book.

There are plenty of benefits to packaging your services:

-   You’ll book more appointments
-   You’ll encourage repeat business
-   You’ll set yourself apart from the competition

To hook new clients into rebooking, you can create a package especially for them, like “Returning Customer Package of 5” with a little discount built in.

## Sell Products

Adding retail or merchandise to your revenue stream is a great way for massage therapists to bring in more money and make life a little easier for your clients.

If they can buy their products from you during their appointment, they don’t have to search for it in a store or go down any product rabbit holes online.   
  
For massage therapists, this could mean selling aromatherapy oils, lotions, scrubs, hot packs, massage tools, or even books.

## [Add New Massage Therapy Services](/learn/trendy-massage-services)

Whether you’re trained in sports massage therapy or deep tissue massage, a new service can open up a whole new revenue stream.

Just keep in mind, some might require [certifications or licenses](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist), so double-check before offering!

## Become an Influencer

Making it as an “influencer” seems tough, especially in a niche industry like massage therapy.

However!

Everyone is an influencer on some level. You don’t need thousands of followers or big-brand partnerships to make passive income on social media.

Try these [passive income ideas for massage therapists](https://beginnerspassiveincome.com/passive-income-ideas-massage-therapists/):

-   **Guest blogging**. A lot of publications and businesses accept guest posts from industry experts. Here’s [how to pitch your idea – even if you don’t know who to send an email to](https://www.liveagent.com/templates/guest-blogging/).  
      
    
-   **YouTube**. Start a YouTube channel and share your life as a massage therapist. (Just be careful not to violate any [HIPAA](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/index.html) regulations when recording or posting.)  
      
    
-   **[Affiliate programs](https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/best-affiliate-programs)*.*** Affiliate programs are like being an influencer without the hefty contractual obligation. It’s a great passive income opportunity for massage therapists.  
      
Sign up for a company’s affiliate program (like [Amazon](https://affiliate-program.amazon.com) or [Target](https://partners.target.com)), then – whenever you feel like it – post about your favorite products with your special link. Your recommendations can turn into passive income in seconds.  

7 Money-Making Tricks for Massage Therapists


**Accepting health insurance as a [massage therapist](/learn/massage-therapist-independent-contractor-vs-employee) can give you an edge in a highly competitive industry.** 

***But…*** 

**There are a few things to consider before you accept health insurance as an RMT.**

We’ll help you understand what goes into accepting health insurance for your massage business, such as:

-   State licensing requirements
-   Proper insurance credentials
-   Billing codes for filing claims

Plus, we’ll teach you how to talk to your [massage clients](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients) about what their health insurance plan covers to avoid potential confusion or billing problems.

📚 ***Extra Credit****: What’s the best massage scheduling software for solo therapists? Check out our* [*free guide to massage scheduling software*](/learn/best-massage-booking-software) *to find the right scheduling app for you!*

## Understanding Health Insurance for Massage Therapy 

Before diving into [how to accept health insurance for massage services](https://www.massageliabilityinsurancegroup.com/massage-therapist/session/cost/insurance/accept/), it’s important to understand the basics.

While health insurance plans vary in coverage, massage therapy is *generally* considered an alternative or complementary treatment.

Because of this, **health insurance coverage for** [**massage therapy services**](/learn/trendy-massage-services) **may be limited or not at all included in standard health insurance plans.**

However, some health insurance plans cover *certain* massage therapy services…

## Does Health Insurance Cover Massage Therapy Appointments?

The answer varies, depending on the health insurance provider and your client’s specific healthcare plan. 

**Some health insurance plans offer** [**coverage for massage therapy**](https://www.gethealthie.com/blog/is-massage-therapy-covered-by-insurance) **if it’s deemed medically necessary for conditions such as chronic pain or injury rehabilitation.** 

Or… 

**Massage therapy can potentially be covered by insurance companies if the massage service fits into the category of “habilitative or habilitation treatment.”**

*Keep in mind:* Health insurance coverage may be subject to limitations, such as a maximum number of sessions per year or the requirement of a physician’s referral.

### Why Doesn’t Health Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?

Despite the growing demand for holistic healing treatments, massage therapy is generally considered an alternative treatment.

Because of this, many health insurance companies and plans don’t cover massage therapy services outright.

Fortunately, clients can increase their chances of their massage therapy appointment being covered by health insurance by acquiring a physician’s referral.

According to [Healthie](https://www.gethealthie.com/blog/is-massage-therapy-covered-by-insurance) — a healthcare platform built to handle medical administrative tasks — a referral from a doctor “allows massage therapists to include the [ICD-10 diagnostic code](https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coordination-benefits-recovery/overview/icd-code-lists) and referring provider on their CMS-1500 form, and increase their chances of reimbursement.”

## Does Medicare Cover Massage Therapy?

Medicare, the United States’ federal health insurance program, [does not cover massage therapy](https://assurance.com/medicare-products/does-medicare-cover-massage-therapy/) for general relaxation or wellness purposes. 

However, like any health insurance provider, Medicare may provide exceptions in certain cases if massage therapy is deemed medically necessary and/or prescribed by a physician as part of a treatment plan.

## What About FSA/HSA Cards for Massage Appointments?

Some employers give their employees the option to set up Flex Spending Accounts ([FSA](https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/flexible-spending-accounts/)) and Health Savings Accounts ([HSA](https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/health-savings-account-hsa/)). 

FSAs and HSAs set aside pre-taxed money to pay for [qualified medical expenses](https://www.irs.gov/publications/p502#en_US_2018_publink1000179104).

As a massage therapist, you can accept these FSA/HSA cards, depending on your payment processor. 

If you do accept FSA and/or HSA cards, your clients can use those pre-taxed dollars for their massage therapy appointments.

By accepting FSA and/or HSA cards, you get paid, and your clients don’t have to worry about submitting their claim to their health insurance company.

## How to Accept Health Insurance as a Massage Therapist

Navigating the world of health insurance coverage for massage therapy services is stressful, but it’s totally doable with the right preparation.

Here’s how to accept health insurance as a massage therapist. 👇

#### 1\. Obtain License & Certifications

The first step to accepting health insurance as a massage therapist is to make sure you have the proper license and/or certifications to work as a massage therapist in your state.

***Not already licensed?*** *Learn about massage licenses and certifications in our free guide:* [*How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist*](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist)*.*

#### 2\. Research Insurance Providers

Once you’re properly licensed, start researching health insurance providers to see which companies offer coverage for massage therapy services.

Research their reimbursement policies, coverage criteria, and any credentialing requirements for massage therapists.

You can even partner with major insurance providers.

These partnerships may come with their own set of challenges, such as paperwork and pre-authorization processes. 

But, building partnerships with health insurance companies makes your massage services more accessible and cost-effective for clients.

This can lead to a more well-rounded and successful massage business for you.

#### 3\. Credentialing Process

To become [eligible for health insurance reimbursement](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/business-financial-tools/insurance-reimbursement/), massage therapists may need to undergo a credentialing process with individual insurance providers.

This process typically involves submitting documentation of licensure, certification, education, and professional liability insurance coverage.

#### 4\. Establish Clear Policies with Clients

Develop clear payment policies regarding insurance billing, including accepted insurance plans, payment expectations from clients, and any out-of-pocket expenses. 

Make sure these policies are communicated to clients upfront and before their appointment to avoid misunderstandings or billing disputes *after* the appointment.

#### 5\. Documentation & Coding

Proper documentation is essential for insurance reimbursement.

Keep detailed records of each client’s treatment sessions, including the reason for treatment, treatment modalities used, and progress notes. 

(Vagaro even has SOAP notes to assist in client recordkeeping.)

Use accurate diagnostic codes and procedure codes when submitting insurance claims to ensure timely reimbursement.

💡 ***Pro Tip****: AMTA has a handy list of the procedure codes for massage therapists:* [*What Are the Specific CPT Codes that Massage Therapists Can Use?*](https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/business-financial-tools/insurance-reimbursement/#:~:text=What%20Are%20the%20Specific%20CPT%20Codes%20that%20Massage%20Therapists%20Can%20Use%3F)

#### 6\. Verify Coverage

Before working with a client, take the time to [verify the client’s insurance coverage](https://work.chron.com/approved-accept-insurance-massage-therapy-21259.html) for massage therapy services. 

Be sure the client acquires the necessary authorization or referral as required by the health insurance provider to avoid claim denials or delays.

#### 7\. Submit Claims Promptly

Lastly, it’s important to submit insurance claims promptly after providing massage services to clients. 

The sooner claims are submitted, the sooner you can get paid.

## Communicating Insurance Policies with Your Massage Clients

A big part of accepting insurance as a massage therapist is being open and clear with your clients about the process.

Effective communication is key!

You need to educate clients about what benefits their health insurance actually offers, set realistic expectations, and answer any questions they might have. 

By being prepared for your clients, they’ll feel more comfortable with the insurance process.

### Pro Tips for Communicating Insurance Policies

-   Display your health insurance and payment policies everywhere, such as your website and online booking page.
-   Use simple language, and avoid any industry-specific jargon.
-   Convey your policies as clear and concise as possible.
-   Encourage client questions.
-   Make sure you have the necessary knowledge and resources to address any concerns.

Can I Take Insurance as a Massage Therapist?


**Starting your own mobile ultrasound business may not be as far-fetched as it seems…**

In fact, mobile ultrasound businesses are becoming more and more popular.

That’s because mobile ultrasounds are [convenient for both soon-to-be-moms *and* doctors](https://medium.com/@storkultrasonic/how-to-start-a-mobile-ultrasound-business-a99bc85cf50f).

For doctors, they can bill their patients directly, while outsourcing their ultrasound services to outside businesses. 

And soon-to-be-moms can receive their ultrasound services from the comfort of their own home.

Win win!

So, if you’re wondering how to start a mobile ultrasound business, we have you covered.

With the help of a seasoned professional — Jenny Kron of [Hey, Baby!](https://heybabymobile.com/) — we’ll give you the answers you need before taking your ultrasound business on the road.


## How to Start a Mobile Ultrasound Business, According to a Pro

Jenny Kron is a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, and the sole owner/operator of [Hey, Baby**!**](https://heybabymobile.com/) — a mobile 4D ultrasound business based in Rochester, New York.

(Be sure to [check her out on TikTok!](https://www.tiktok.com/@heybabymobile?lang=en))

Jenny loves getting to perform baby ultrasounds full time, bringing her high quality, portable ultrasound machine directly to clients’ homes.

We asked her a few questions to get her insight on how to start your own mobile ultrasound business, and here’s what she had to say.

## Are there any certifications needed to run a mobile ultrasound business?

Short answer: Yes.

Long answer: It can be tricky, depending on where you live.

“While in most states you are not required to have the **Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)** **certification** to perform elective ultrasounds,” Jenny made it clear that it “truly is best to be certified.”

“The reason for this is because having the base knowledge of ultrasound will help you to be much more successful in doing the actual ultrasounds.”

Jenny also told us: If you’re interested in offering diagnostic ultrasounds, you will need to be RDMS certified.

#### **How much does a RDMS certification cost?**

The RDMS certification requires passing the [Sonography Principles & Instrumentation Exam](https://www.medical-professionals.com/en/ardms-certification-and-renewal/), which costs **$225**.

## What equipment do you need to start a mobile ultrasound business? And how much does it cost?

When it comes to starting a mobile ultrasound business, there are several tools to keep in mind, which we’ll get to in the next section.

But the biggest equipment expense will be the ultrasound machine itself.

“I personally feel that the Chison Sonobook 9 is the *best* portable ultrasound machine to use for your mobile ultrasound business,” Jenny said.

The [Chison Sonobook 9](https://www.chison.com/sonobook/34.html) is a smart ultrasound system that comes with a 15” HD LED monitor that’s rotatable, lightweight, and slim.

#### **What about cost?** 

This specific machine is “roughly $29,000 USD,” Jenny said.

But mobile ultrasound machines can range anywhere from $5,000 on the low end all the way up to $50,000.

Jenny also mentioned that folks can [order a machine directly through her](https://heybabymobile.com/start-your-own-business).

“I work directly with the manufacturer to make sure you get exactly what \[the business owner\] needs.”

**Pro Tip**: [Physicians will want ultrasound results quickly](https://www.gaebler.com/Starting-an-Ultrasound-Medical-Imaging-Business.htm), so while you’re shopping around, double check the equipment is capable of sending imagery to physicians and radiologists in a timely manner.


## What other startup costs do I need to be aware of for a mobile ultrasound business?

“Startup costs also include your insurances, website fees, and advertising,” Jenny said.

Plus, there are other items to consider as well, such as “gloves, ultrasound gel, and medical grade disinfectant wipes.”

**Pro Tip**: While sonographer insurance ranges from $29/month to $100/month, you can find a great [breakdown on sonographer insurance costs](https://www.insuranks.com/sonographer-insurance) that Insuranks put together.

## If you could give someone advice before starting a mobile ultrasound business, what would it be?

“Determine if it’s legal in your state, and know what kind of competition you have in your area,” Jenny said. 

“Many places have elective ultrasounds available, but not every place has a mobile option.” 

Of course, before you jump into your own mobile ultrasound business, “See if your niche of being mobile will be unique in your area.”

## Bonus Question: What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew before you started?

“I wish I knew more about where to buy my machine from,” Jenny said.

“There are so many scams out there, and there’s a big risk associated with buying a used machine. 

Buyer beware and do your research on the company you are buying from!”

She also recommended that business owners “[take advantage of social media exposure](/learn/20-ways-to-boost-instagram-engagement).

“Be sure to post *all the time*. Take advantage of the free advertising!”

---

*A mobile ultrasound business needs a mobile scheduling app, right? Don’t worry,* [*Vagaro*](https://www.vagaro.com/pro) *has you covered!*

*With appointment scheduling, marketing tools, and payment processing, you have everything you need to run your mobile ultrasound business — all in one place!*

[Learn More About Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro)




How to Start a Mobile Ultrasound Business

There are lots of marketing tricks out there to get new massage clients in the door, like social media campaigns or new client discounts. 

But if you’re focused too much on [*new* clients](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/seo-for-spas), you could be missing out on the steady revenue of returning clients.

As a massage therapist, retention strategies are the basis for keeping your clients happy and returning to you again and again (think loyal customer discounts or follow-up thank you cards).

Solid retention strategies for your massage therapy business means:

-   More clients who rebook
-   More stable income

You can also be sure they’re singing your praises to their friends and family, giving you free word-of-mouth marketing. Win-win!

By putting a little more energy into retention strategies for your massage clients, you’re likely to book more appointments, and in turn, earn more money.

To help you do that, we gathered up ten client retention strategies for massage therapists that are sure to get your clients to rebook!

## 10 Client Retention Strategies for Massage Therapists

### 1\. Make (Re)Booking Easy

Online booking for [massage therapists](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/massage-software) and their clients is all about convenience.

It saves time in your busy day and enables clients to book (and rebook!) their appointment whenever they like.

No more worrying about after-hours calls or late-night emails! 

With online booking apps, your clients can easily rebook appointments from their own phone or computer – for free.

And on your end, you can set up your schedule, services offered, and policies, so clients can get all the info they need up front. 

### 2\. Stay in Touch

On top of your regular marketing efforts — like a monthly newsletter — you should also be reaching out to your existing clients.

Take a look at your client list and appointment history, and see which clients haven’t booked in awhile. Look for the clients who are [no longer booking recurring appointments](https://www.massagemag.com/client-retention-strategy-118639/) as well.

Then, send these clients an email, reminding them to book, or you can simply check in and remind them that you’re there to help.

Don’t worry about seeming “pushy” — you’re simply reminding clients to take care of themselves. (We can all use that reminder from time to time, right?)

### 3\. Follow Up

Speaking of reminding… 

The more ways you can stay in touch with clients, the better. This could be [reminder emails and text reminders for their appointments.

This could also be a Thank You email after their appointment, which is a great way to simply say thanks while also giving clients the chance to rebook. 

**ProTip**: Don’t forget about massage satisfaction surveys. Surveys can easily be incorporated into your regular follow-up emails to clients.

### 4\. Educate/Recommend

Your clients come to you as the expert.

So, make sure you’re taking the time at the end of the session to share what you noticed:

-   What went well
-   What needs work
-   Where to go next

Let your client know when they should come back for another appointment.

Here are a couple email templates to try:

-   “I’d recommend coming back within **\[timeframe\]** or you might run the risk of losing some of the improvement you made today.” 
-   We made good progress today, but things could tighten up again in **\[timeframe\]**. I think you should rebook again in **\[timeframe\]**.

Be confident in your recommendations and specific in your timeframes.

### 5\. Offer Discounts on Advance Bookings

That post-massage chat with your client is the perfect time to pitch another booking.

An easy way to do that is by offering a [discount](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/seasonal-marketing-tips) if they book in advance, right there, with you.

As you’re making recommendations, mention your discount on follow-up appointments. Even if it’s only 5–10% off, it could be enough to entice them to book. 

### 6\. Create Package Deals

Packaging your services into bundles is a fantastic way to market you massage offerings, incentivizing new and current clients alike to book.

There are plenty of benefits to packaging your services:

-   You’ll book more appointments
-   You’ll encourage repeat business
-   You’ll set yourself apart from the competition

To help hook new clients into rebooking, you can create a package especially for them, like “Returning Customer Package of 5” with a little discount built in.

### 7\. Be Consistent

As a service provider, consistency is crucial.

If your client’s first experience was a great one, they are more likely to book again, but you’ll also be expected to deliver as well as you did the first time. 

It may seem obvious:

-   Don’t cancel clients unless it’s a legitimate emergency.
-   Don’t try to reschedule them if you can avoid it.
-   Make sure you’re prepared for every treatment by arriving 15-30 minutes early. 

By being professional and consistent and giving your client the results they’re looking for, they’ll value your services, trust you, and won’t be able to book with anyone else but you!

### 8\. Focus on the Client Experience

One simple way to get clients to rebook with you is to keep their spa experience top of mind.

You may be one of the best massage therapists in your area, but if you’re not able to connect with your clients, you may never see the same clients again.

So, on top of making a strong first impression with clients, you want to build a relationship with them by giving them the best spa experience.

Here’s a handy checklist for a great customer experience:

-   Answer phones and emails consistently and professionally
-   Ask how your clients are doing when they come in and ask if they need anything, such as a bottle of water
-   Never forget to say thank you

### 9\. Be Memorable

You don’t want to be an average massage therapist — you want to be the best!

Part of being a great massage therapist is creating a memorable experience for your clients.

This involves everything from your website, your online booking platform, the greeting, the massage, the chat after the massage, and the follow-up email.

Think about every step of the massage experience for your client, and be sure each step is a breeze and enjoyable. 

Then, think about all the ways you could enhance their experience. Maybe offer refreshments before and after the massage. Or have a self-care package handy for new clients.

### 10\. Just Ask

At the end of the day, [it never hurts to ask](https://themassagebusinessmama.com/how-to-get-massage-clients-to-rebook/). You’ve given them a great massage, made them happy, and you know you can help them with their goals.

So, don’t be afraid to pop the question before they get out the door. 

Here are some easy ways to start the conversation on [feedback](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/5-ideas-customer-feedback):

-   “When would you like to come in again?”
-   “My schedule fills up pretty quick. Do you want to go ahead and book for next month?”
-   “When are you free to come in again?”

-----

The Best Client Retention Strategies for Massage Therapists


**As a [massage therapist](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software), you know a massage is more than just “a little pressure here, a little kneading there.”**

**For your clients, it’s an *[experience](/learn/trendy-massage-services)*.**

Part of that experience is the design of the massage room itself, which requires great light and soothing scents and sounds. ([Check out our go-to massage playlist here](/learn/best-playlists-for-salon-spa-fitness-and-yoga).)

But when you’re looking to design your massage therapy room, it’s not easy to balance [all the tools and setup you need](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist) with the tranquil, relaxing feeling your clients expect.

That’s why we’re taking a deep-dive into how you can design the best (no, the most *zen!*) massage therapy room of all time. 

Covering everything from larger massage room inspiration to small spa treatment room ideas, we’ll show you how with [a little creativity](/learn/make-more-money-as-a-massage-therapist) and attention to detail you can create a space your [clients will want to return](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients) to again and again! 

Designing a peaceful massage therapy room for your clients is all about *simplicity*. So, if you’re wondering where to start, start with the basics.

## Step 1: Start with the Basics

No matter the size of the massage room, there are a few things to keep in mind when setting up.

-   **Entrance**: Your client’s experience begins at the entrance. Your front door sets the tone for their visit. Depending on your style, this could mean indoor plants or a light-hearted sign to [welcome clients](/learn/make-new-clients-feel-welcome).
-   **Space**: [Allow *at least* three feet of space around the massage table](https://homeguides.sfgate.com/design-massage-room-52680.html), so you have plenty of room to work. Also, make sure you have enough room for seating, as well as space for the door to easily open and close. 
-   **Floor**: If you’re not comfortable at your job, your clients won’t be either. When considering the flooring for your room, go with wood or vinyl tile if you can — instead of a harder surface like tile — for your own comfort. (Think about those hours on your feet!)

## Step 2: Keep It Clutter-Free

Think storage — but with style! 

In terms of “[feng shui](https://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/using-feng-shui-massage)” — which is an interior design practice aimed at balance and harmony within a space — less is always more.

But that doesn’t mean you should cut back when it comes to supplies or tools you need for the job. Smart storage space is what you need! 

This means your storage boxes and shelving needs to function as both storage *and* decor. Depending on your space, you can even use curtains to hide supplies or open shelves. 

## Step 3: Choose Your Aesthetic

Every massage room is different, based on the massage therapist’s own aesthetic — meaning your own personal flair becomes part of the room. 

When [imagining your dream massage setup](https://www.minervabeauty.com/blog/post/8-stylish-and-zen-massage-room-ideas), what’s your style?

Do you want more of a tropical oasis feel with indoor plants and maybe even a palm tree in the corner?

Or is a modern vibe more your thing? 

Either way you go, keep these three ideas in mind:

-   **Color**: Keep your walls and [color theme](https://www.hubspot.com/brand-kit-generator/color-palette-generator?utm_source=external&utm_medium=anchor-text&utm_campaign=brand-kit-generator) a neutral earth tone. Soft, neutral colors help clients relax. If you’re unsure what color(s) to choose, remember that shades of blue and green are known to have a calming effect, and you also can’t go wrong with a soft beige or gray.
-   **Decor**: Again, less is always better for a massage room. When choosing your decor, think about what represents your style, while also keeping your client’s comfort in mind. [Choose smaller pieces of furniture](https://www.brighterspacesuk.com/how-to-design-a-massage-room/), keep paintings or wall art to a minimum. If you’re going to include a few indoor plants, don’t clutter the space.
-   **Consistency**: Whatever combination of color and decor you go with, keep the tone and feel consistent. For example, if you’re going for a tropical island vibe with a palm tree and soothing ocean sounds, don’t hang a painting of a city skyline on the wall. Choose a theme for the space and stick to it across the board. 

## Step 4: Focus on Lighting

A big part of the [massage mood and *experience* for clients](/learn/give-customers-the-best-spa-experience) comes down to lighting. The light should be both inviting and relaxing as soon as clients enter the room. 

Use soft lighting from lamps and make sure the light is not shining directly on the massage table.

Go with a “warm” light bulb, as it’ll help relax your clients.

And, if you have a lamp or ceiling lights with a “dimmer” switch, that’s even better! (The more customization, the more you can customize your client’s experience!)

If you happen to have windows in your room, [keep the light filtered with adjustable blinds](https://homeguides.sfgate.com/design-massage-room-52680.html). This way, you can customize the lighting for different clients depending on their preference as well. 

(Keep all their preferences in their [client notes with Vagaro](/learn/why-keep-client-notes/). 😉)

## Step 5: Don’t Forget About Sound and Scent

Lastly, you want to think about sound and scent in your room. In addition to lighting and decor, the sound and scent play a big part in the zen vibes of your client’s experience.

### Sound

Ideally, your massage room should be in a quiet location without much noise coming in from outside (traffic, passersby).

But, if you’re noticing outside noise getting through, you can always consider double-panning the windows or applying a seal to your doors.

Then, once you have a quiet space, you can think about the music and/or natural/ambient sounds you want to use.

While different clients are going to have different preferences, playing soothing music will relax clients and help lead to a better overall experience.

**Bonus: Our Favorite Spotify Playlists for Setting a Zen Mood**

-   [Zen Massage Playlist](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5LSeVAnclWVAwJgiwuxTvA?si=fd6147f987e54857)
-   [Zen Spa](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5Bo8KQbTQIKJwMSaWOT1oi?si=029797e8571742b3)
-   [Spa Massage Music and Treatment](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00FD7uok5bnbXdWQB4WXtB?si=23ed71cadbda4686)

### Scent

Instead of artificial scents (who wants that?!), use scented candles with natural essential oils. You can also try essential oil burners or fresh flowers to help lift your client’s mood during the massage! 

**Bonus: Our Favorite Resources on Essentials Oils and Candles**

-   [5 Essential Oils to Use in Massage](https://www.naturalbody.com/blog/5-essential-oils-to-use-in-massage)
-   [A List of the Best Natural, Non-Toxic Candles](https://thenewknew.com/candles/)
-   [9 Best Natural Candles](https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/health/g28570188/organic-natural-candles/)

*For even more design inspiration, check out our guides to other spaces, such as [barbershops](/learn/barber-shop-design-ideas), [salons](/learn/how-to-decorate-a-hair-beauty-salon), and [fitness studios](/learn/how-to-design-organize-a-fitness-studio).*

*You can also learn [how to start a mobile massage therapy business](/learn/how-to-start-a-mobile-massage-business), and take your services (and setup ideas!) on the road.*

[Learn More About Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software)

The Best Massage Therapy Room Design Ideas

The secret to a smooth massage client/therapist relationship? Massage therapy intake forms.

It might sound too simple to be true, but as the [first point of contact](https://discoverypointschoolofmassage.com/2018/10/15/is-your-massage-therapy-intake-form-compliant/) between a therapist and their client, massage therapy intake forms are a good way for therapists to learn about their clients and plan out treatment strategies.

Since each client’s needs are different, the more information you can gather before their appointment, the better you can help them.

To make sure you get all the valuable info you can from your clients, we’ll share what you need in your massage therapy intake forms *and* give you the templates you need to build your own.

But first, let’s start by answering a few questions…

-   [What is a massage therapy intake form?](#what)
-   [Is a client intake form required by law?](#law)
-   [Do you need intake forms at a massage chair event?](#chair)
-   [What do I include in my massage intake form?](#include)
-   [Free massage therapy intake form templates!](#free)

## What Is a Massage Therapy Intake Form?

Let’s start with the basics: What is a massage therapy intake form, and why do you need one?

Massage intake forms are there to provide therapists with valuable information about the client, such as health history, allergies, prior injuries, and client goals. So you, as the therapist, learn as much as you can about your client before you begin a treatment strategy.

They’re also an opportunity for therapists to share important information with clients, like therapy practices, legal rules, boundaries, etc.

Plus, intake forms collect contact information on clients, too! 

## Is a Massage Client Intake Form Required by Law?

As each state’s requirements are different, it’s best to [consult your local licensing requirements](https://www.amtamassage.org/state-regulations/) to learn more about what’s required in your area.

However, massage intake forms are there to protect yourself, your clients, and your business. So it’s smart to collect them up front before working with a client. 

## Do You Need Intake Forms at a Massage Chair Event?

As a licensed massage therapist, it’s still wise to collect information from clients, even if it’s a massage chair event instead of a spa. 

You’ll still need to know about any prior injuries or allergies, for example, before treating clients.

And, hey, why not use it as a time to collect contact information from clients for later marketing efforts? 

Email marketing is a powerful tool, and the more new clients you can connect with, the more chances you have to be re-booked for the future!

## What Do I Include In My Massage Therapy Intake Form?

The trick to a [great intake form is… being comprehensive, while not being a long and painstaking process for clients to complete. 

That means you want to gather enough information from your client to give a clear idea of their history and treatment goals, while not taking up too much of their time.

While we have a couple handy templates below for you to work from, there are a few basic pieces of information that every massage intake form needs.

-   **Contact Information**: This one’s a must-have, so be sure to have space to collect your client’s name, email, phone number, and emergency contact info. You can also include space here for gender identity or if they prefer a male or female therapist.
-   **Prior Treatment**: This is your chance to learn how familiar your client is with massage therapy. You can learn how long ago they had their last massage, the type of massage they received, and what they enjoyed about prior massages. Then, you can gauge the type of massage they may want from you.
-   **Medical Information**: Learning about a client’s medical history is vital to a successful massage experience. Think allergies, prior injuries, congestion, sneezing related to certain products. Then use that information to tailor their visit just for them!
-   **Painful Areas**: Be sure to have a place on your form for clients to point out any painful areas they may have, such as their neck or certain points on their back. Keeping your client’s comfort at top of mind is crucial to a successful, enjoyable massage.

## Free Massage Therapy Intake Form Templates

*Keep in mind: These are only templates. Each massage therapist will need to check their local and state regulations to make sure their intake form meets the most up-to-date requirements.*

1. [Download Form](https://mymassageworld.com/?smd_process_download=1&download_id=203)

Form via [My Massage World](https://mymassageworld.com/)

2. [Download Form](https://www.amtamassage.org/globalassets/documents/resources/printed-intake-form.pdf)

Form via [AMTA](https://www.amtamassage.org/)


How to Build Your Massage Therapy Intake Form [Free Templates!] 


If you want to become a licensed massage therapist, you’re probably wondering about the best certifications or best classes to take, and of course — *how much is it going to cost?!*

And we get it.

Becoming a licensed massage therapist can feel overwhelming, especially considering all the different massage therapy schools, online courses, and certifications out there.

Even a simple Google search for “massage therapy certification online” can send you down an endless rabbit hole of possibilities. 

To help you answer these questions — and set you on the [path to becoming a licensed massage therapist! — we put together a Licensed Massage Therapist 101 class.

## A Guide to Massage Therapist Licenses and Certifications

### What’s the Difference Between a Massage Therapist License and a Certification?

When you’re just getting started, it’s essential to understand the difference between a massage therapist license and a certification.

Let’s look at both and see which one you need first before becoming a massage therapist.

#### What’s a Massage Therapist License?

First things first: A [massage therapist license](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/massage-therapist-license) is a state-issued license, and it’s something most states require before you’re allowed to practice massage therapy on clients.

So before your new business can open its doors, you have to pass the licensing exam, which consists of the following four topics:

-   Massage therapy ethics
-   Anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology
-   Client assessment
-   Massage therapy history

**Bonus**: Unsure if your state requires a massage therapist license to practice?

Head over to the [American Massage Therapy Association](https://www.amtamassage.org/state-regulations/) (AMTA) website to learn about the requirements and regulations for your state. 

#### What’s a Massage Therapist Certification?

The big difference between a certification and a license is that certifications are voluntary, meaning you can earn certifications by continuing to show your commitment to the profession.

However, they are not required to be a practicing massage therapist.

Essentially, massage therapy certifications are more for advanced [education](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/massage-therapist-license) and particular massage specialties. 

## How Do I Become a Licensed Massage Therapist?

Getting your license is the first big step in your new career! Here’s a 1-2-3 guide to obtaining your massage license.

### 1\. Establish Goals *Before* Your Training

There are quite a few different directions for massage therapists to take their career.

While you don’t have to know the exact route you want or what kind of massage you want to specialize in, it’s smart to think about it before starting a training program. 

Start by [asking yourself a couple of questions:

-   **What kind of massage do you want to learn? Deep tissue? Swedish? Sports?** You don’t have to know right away, as you’ll likely learn a variety of massages in your program, but it’s a good idea to plan.
-   **Do you want to work as a solo practitioner or for an established business?** Many massage therapists begin under the umbrella of an established business for a few years before going out on their own. Still, if you have dreams of jumping right into your own business, you’ll want to find a training program that can help steer you toward running your own show.

### 2\. Complete a Training Program

In most cases, beginning your education in massage therapy means completing a [formal program](https://www.massagetherapylicense.org/articles/become-a-massage-therapist/) that has been accredited or approved.

While some states support apprenticeships for licensing — instead of coursework — you’ll likely need to attend a program before receiving your license. 

Your training will include work in anatomy and physiology, therapeutic massage, and clinical massage.

It will take anywhere from [300–1,000 hours](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-long-to-become-massage-therapist) of in-class instruction/practical training, which translates to approximately a few weeks or two years, depending on the program you choose. 

#### How do you choose a massage training program?

When researching where you’d like to complete your training program, consider the following:

-   Is the [school](https://educationplanetonline.com/best-massage-therapy-schools-in-the-us/#The_List_of_best_massage_therapy_schools_in_the_US) nationally accredited and approved by the state?
-   Does the program meet the hour requirement by the state for licensing?
-   How much is tuition?
-   What are the school’s completion statistics? 
-   What’s the school’s licensing exam pass rate?
-   Does the course schedule fit your schedule?

#### How much is massage therapy school?

While massage therapy school is often less expensive than a four-year degree, the costs are different from program to program.

To put it simply, the more hours a program requires, the more expensive it will be. 

Some community colleges offer a massage therapy program, and they can [cost](https://www.naturalhealers.com/massage-therapy/tuition/) anywhere between $5,000–$7,000, while others could be up to $20,000 for a one-year program.

[A study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4145003/) published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork found that the average massage school tuition was around $13,000. 

### 3\. Get Your Massage License

Once you’ve completed your training, you’re ready to take the license exam!

(Again, keep in mind that the requirements for massage licensing do vary state by state, so be sure to consult the [AMTA website](https://www.amtamassage.org/state-regulations/) for details particular to your area.)

If you happen to be in a state that uses the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam, or MBLEX, the turnaround time is pretty quick.

Plus, there are even resources to preview the exam material by visiting the [Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards website](https://www.fsmtb.org/).

Also, as a heads up, the license exams do require an [application fee](https://ibmc.edu/ibmc-blog/5-steps-becoming-licensed-massage-therapist/), but when you pass, you’ll be a fully licensed massage therapist!

## The Best Massage Therapy Schools and Massage Certifications

### 10 Best Massage Therapy Schools in the US

Picking the right massage program can vary greatly depending on your business goals and location, so find a school that fits your needs.

-   [Southern California University of Health Sciences (Whittier, CA)](https://www.scuhs.edu/)
-   [Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (Tempe, AZ)](https://swiha.edu/)
-   [Miami Dade College (Miami, FL)](https://www.mdc.edu/)
-   [Myotherapy College of Utah (Millcreek, UT)](https://myotherapycollege.com/)
-   [Parker University School of Massage Therapy (Dallas, TX)](https://www.parker.edu/massage-therapy-clinic/)
-   [National University of Health Sciences (Lombard, IL)](https://www.nuhs.edu/patients/our-services/massage-therapy/)
-   [Lincoln Technical Institute (Somerville, MA)](https://www.lincolntech.edu/campus/somerville-ma)
-   [Cortiva Institute Schools of Massage Therapy](https://www.cortiva.edu/locations)
-   [Northwestern Health Sciences University (Bloomington, MN)](https://www.nwhealth.edu/)
-   [New York College of Health Professions (Muttontown, NY)](https://nycollege.edu/)

### 5 Best Certifications for Massage Therapists

[Massage certifications](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/massage-therapist-license) are your way of showing you’ve gone above and beyond to become the professional massage therapist you are.

They show your commitment to advancing your education and broadening your skillset. 

-   [Sports Massage Certification](https://www.amtamassage.org/continuing-education/sports-massage-ce/sports-massage-program/): With this certification, you’ll learn the techniques and applications to use when working with athletes. The AMTA offers this 6-week course to examine the science of sports massage.
-   [Medical Massage Therapy Certification](https://www.massagetherapylicense.org/articles/medical-massage-therapy-specialist/): Medical massage therapy is a remedy for clients experiencing pain from injury or illness. You’re looking at roughly 600 hours of supervised instruction and a final exam to earn this certification. 
-   [Stone Massage Certification](https://www.massagetherapylicense.org/articles/stone-massage-specialist/): This certification allows you to specialize in hot stone therapy, which many clients love! This program will teach the benefits of stone massage, material, and basic protocols. 
-   [Board Certification In Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork](https://www.ncbtmb.org/certificants/): Board certification is the highest voluntary credential for massage professionals. Earning this certification is a great way to attract more clients and gain credibility. 
-   [Zero Balancing Certification](https://www.zerobalancing.com/certification): You’ll gain experience working with body structure and energy through touch.

---

How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist


**The end-of-the-year holiday rush is the perfect time to** [**get creative with your massage therapy marketing**](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists)**…**

As a [massage therapist](/learn/how-to-become-a-licensed-massage-therapist), the holidays can be busy, busy, busy.

But, with the extra rush, you have a great opportunity to boost revenue and hook new clients with [festive marketing strategies](https://clinicsense.com/blog/holiday-massage-therapy-promotional-ideas).

To help you crush the holidays this year, we gathered twelve of the best holiday marketing ideas for massage therapists.

## 1\. Host a Holiday Open House

An open house lets potential clients experience your space, learn about your [massage services](/learn/trendy-massage-services), and feel welcomed into your practice.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   [Decorate your studio](/learn/how-to-design-a-massage-room) for the holidays and offer light refreshments like hot cocoa or cider.
-   Provide mini chair massages or demonstrations of popular services.
-   Include a raffle with prizes such as free sessions or discounted packages.
-   Partner with complementary businesses like yoga studios or skincare brands to expand your audience.

## 2\. Offer Limited-Time Holiday Packages

[Bundling your massage services at a discounted rate](https://mblexguide.com/seasonal-holiday-marketing-ideas-for-massage-therapists/) encourages clients to book more sessions and explore treatments they may not usually consider.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Create themed packages, like a “Winter Wonderland” relaxation combo with a hot stone massage and aromatherapy.
-   Offer discounts for clients who purchase multiple sessions upfront.
-   Make the packages available for a limited time to create urgency.
-   Promote these packages heavily on social media, your website, and through email marketing campaigns.

## 3\. Run a Social Media Contest

[Social media contests increase engagement](/learn/marketing-for-massage-therapists), build brand awareness, and bring new followers to your page, helping to grow your community. 

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Ask followers to share their favorite ways to relax during the holidays and tag your practice.
-   Offer an enticing prize, such as a free massage or a [discounted holiday package](/learn/how-to-sell-holiday-packages).
-   Encourage participants to share your contest post to spread the word.
-   Use holiday-themed hashtags like #HolidayRelaxation and #SeasonalSelfCare to maximize visibility.


## 4\. Collaborate with Local Businesses

[Partnering with local businesses](https://happylittlebiz.com/holiday/) helps you reach new audiences who may benefit from your services.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Team up with fitness centers, wellness coaches, or beauty salons to create cross-promotions.
-   Offer co-branded discounts, such as “Show your gym membership card for 10% off your massage.”
-   Host joint events, like a “Holiday Wellness Fair,” where you and your partners can showcase your offerings.
-   Share each other’s promotions on social media and email newsletters to maximize reach.

## 5\. Create a “12 Days of Relaxation” Campaign

This idea creates anticipation and [engages your massage clients](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients) over an extended period.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Share daily offers, tips, or giveaways during a 12-day period leading up to Christmas.
-   Include discounts on specific services, such as “20% off hot stone massages today only.”
-   Provide relaxation tips on social media to position your practice as a stress-relief expert.
-   Use festive graphics and videos to make the campaign visually appealing.

## 6\. Send Holiday-Themed Email Newsletters

[Email marketing](/learn/holiday-email-templates-for-salons-studios-service-providers) is a cost-effective way to connect with your audience and drive bookings.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Craft festive emails with a warm and personal tone, thanking clients for their support throughout the year.
-   Highlight special offers, seasonal packages, and gift card promotions.
-   Include a [call-to-action (CTA)](/learn/how-to-use-ctas-to-book-more-clients-with-examples) like “Book your holiday massage now!” with a link to your booking page.
-   Segment your email list to tailor messages for loyal clients, first-time visitors, or inactive customers.

## 7\. Encourage Pre-Holiday Stress Relief Sessions

The holiday season can be overwhelming, and many people seek stress relief before big celebrations.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Promote services like deep tissue massage or aromatherapy as ideal ways to combat holiday stress.
-   Create a special offer, such as “Book a pre-holiday massage and receive a free aromatherapy upgrade.”
-   Share educational content on social media about how massage therapy can reduce holiday stress.

## 8\. Host a “New Year, New You” Promotion

Many people focus on self-improvement as the year ends, making this an ideal time to market your services.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Offer a discount on January bookings for clients who purchase holiday packages.
-   Promote wellness-focused services, like lymphatic drainage or sports massage, for those with fitness resolutions.
-   Share testimonials or before-and-after client stories to inspire potential customers.

## 9\. Incorporate Seasonal Decor and Scents

Creating a cozy, festive environment enhances the client experience and leaves a lasting impression.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Use holiday-themed decor in your practice, such as string lights, wreaths, and seasonal artwork.
-   Incorporate seasonal aromatherapy blends with scents like cinnamon, pine, or peppermint.
-   Offer complimentary hot beverages like herbal tea to enhance relaxation.
-   Share photos of your decorated space on social media to attract new clients.

## 10\. Leverage Reviews and Testimonials

Positive reviews build trust and encourage potential clients to book your services.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like [Google, Yelp, or Facebook](/learn/how-to-respond-to-negative-customer-reviews).
-   Share glowing testimonials in your [holiday marketing emails](/learn/how-to-write-holiday-emails) and social media posts.
-   Incentivize reviews with a small holiday giveaway or discount on their next session.

## 11\. Sell DIY Massage Kits or Products

Offering take-home kits or [retail products can boost your holiday revenue](https://www.massagemag.com/holiday-promotions-massage-therapists-can-use-to-generate-revenue-270918/).

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Create kits with items like massage oils, relaxation candles, and instruction cards for at-home use.
-   Sell branded merchandise, such as robes or neck pillows, as gift options.
-   Offer discounts for clients who purchase these products alongside a gift card or holiday package.
-   Promote these items as thoughtful holiday gifts for friends and family.

## 12\. Thank Your Loyal Clients

Lastly, the holidays are the perfect time to [show some love to your regular clients](/learn/new-client-follow-up-email). 

Taking the time to show appreciation strengthens relationships and encourages repeat business.

**Here’s what to do**:

-   Send handwritten holiday cards to your most loyal clients.
-   Include a small token of appreciation, such as a discount on their next session.
-   Host a special “Client Appreciation Week” with exclusive deals and perks.
-   Share a heartfelt holiday message on social media thanking your clients for their support.


12 Holiday Marketing Ideas for Massage Therapists


**When you’re thinking about how to create the best spa experience for clients, it starts with one thing: customer service.**

As a spa owner, you know customer service is *everything*. It’s at the heart of a great spa experience for your clients, and it’s what [keeps them coming back](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients) again and again.

But how do you ensure clients have a [memorable spa experience](/learn/how-to-design-a-massage-room) every. dang. time? 

While your service menu (deep tissue, couples massage, Swedish, etc.) is an important part of a great spa day, the full spa experience involves everything from booking to massage to checkout. 

To help enhance your client’s spa experience from top to bottom, we’re taking a look at five ways you can ensure the perfect spa day for your clients.


## Make Booking (and Rebooking) *Super* Easy

The [first experience a client has](/learn/spa-branding-guide) with your [spa or massage studio](/learn/best-playlists-for-salon-spa-fitness-and-yoga) is likely to be your booking page, so you want to make sure all your info is presented in a neat and tidy manner, ensuring the booking process is as smooth and simple as possible for them. 

When looking at your booking page or [scheduling app](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software), ask yourself the following questions:

-   Are all my services listed?
-   Do I have full descriptions of what I offer?
-   How is my business represented on the page?

Try to think through questions clients might have before booking, then make sure your booking page answers those questions. 

Plus, with [online booking apps](/learn/what-is-online-scheduling-software) like [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/online-booking), clients can easily *rebook* appointments right from their own phone or computer. 

**Pro Tip**: On the hunt for a scheduling software that has it all? On top of full control of your calendar, services, and policies, [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) also has everything you need for marketing your spa and [accepting client payments](/pro/card-processing).



## Crush the First Impression

For [spa owners](/learn/salon-and-spa-insurance-costs), there’s no doubt first impressions mean a lot. They can literally be the difference between a one-time client and a life-long fan, so you want to do everything you can to make the best impression on new clients.

### Provide a Relaxing Environment

The [environment you create](/learn/how-to-design-a-massage-room) for clients is a big part of the experience, and there are [three key areas](https://dayspaassociation.com/3-ways-to-offer-the-best-spa-experience/) to think about when setting up your space.

1.  **Lighting**: Think soft, calming light to help set the mood and relax your clients.
2.  **Scent**: Steer clear of artificial scents. Instead use scented candles with natural essential oils. (You can also try essential oil burners or fresh flowers to help lift your client’s mood!)
3.  **Ambiance**: Pay attention to the ambiance of your space. In other words, what’s the atmosphere like? Is it relaxing? Calming?

### Personalize the Waiting Time

[Personalizing a visit](https://book4time.com/5-ways-to-improve-your-spa-guest-experience/) means taking the time to get to know your clients.

It’s going beyond offering them a cup of coffee or a glass of water. What did they drink last time? Was there anything they were looking for? A hot towel? A juice? 

To personalize your space, you have to understand what your clients like and what would complete their spa experience.

### Take Special Occasions to the Next Level

Maybe you know your client is coming in for a hot stone massage for her birthday.

Or maybe you know Jan and Frank booked a couples massage for next week because it’s their 20th wedding anniversary. 

These are the details to keep tabs on. And even if you’re not offering discounts on birthdays or anniversaries, a small gesture like a glass of champagne or flowers will make their experience even more special. 

**Pro Tip**: Are you starting your own spa and need help setting it up in a way your clients will love? Check out our [Beginner’s Guide to Designing the Most Zen Massage Studio of All Time](/learn/how-to-design-a-massage-room).



## Offer a Variety of Services

When it comes to [client experience](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients), variety is the name of the game.

Whether your clients are looking for a rejuvenating facial or a Swedish massage, you want to be able to [offer what they’re looking for](https://dayspaassociation.com/3-ways-to-offer-the-best-spa-experience/).

Think about the variety of clients you see in a week, then [lay out your spa menu accordingly](/learn/trendy-massage-services). (Again, be sure you have detailed descriptions of each service.)

## Reward Repeat Clients

Do you offer a [reward program for repeat clients?](/learn/how-to-rebook-more-clients)

Or maybe you [incentivize rebookings](/learn/make-new-clients-feel-welcome) by offering deals on second (or third or fourth) appointments? 

Even if you already have a rewards program, take a closer look at it and see where you could improve and offer clients even more. Consider giving deals on follow-up treatments or maybe a “Book 5 Appointments, Get 1 Free” package. 

This way, your clients get a deal for booking, and you’re guaranteed additional revenue. Win win!

## Don’t Forget About Checkout

Before clients leave the spa is the perfect time to connect and get to know them, while also collecting payment. It’s also a good time to offer up a chance to rebook or add a product to their ticket. But the tough part is… How can you help clients maintain that “zen” feeling after their appointment when it’s time to pay? 

Here are three pro tips for a smooth checkout experience:

### Support Their Payment Preference

One way to make checkout feel as relaxing as your services feel is to give clients plenty of options to pay however they prefer. For most spa owners, that means offering the following payment methods: 

-   Cash or check
-   Online prepayments 
-   Standard credit card transactions for all major credit cards
-   Contactless methods (“tap” functionality and/or [payment by text/QR code](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/card-processing)) 
-   Auto-billing, package deals, and/or monthly memberships for the people who want to set-it-and-forget-it



### Simplify Tips

Tipping can be awkward sometimes — especially after such a relaxing spa day. By using a payment system that auto-calculates tips at checkout, clients won’t have to awkwardly multiply in their heads with you standing there.

### Upsell (to Help Clients)

The [art of the upsell](/learn/how-to-automate-upselling) is difficult to master. But it doesn’t have to be. By changing how you look at upselling, you can help your client, while also bringing in more revenue. 

A lot of times, you won’t even need to make a hard sell at checkout. You can prime clients to ask for the products during their appointment. For example, if you’re a facialist, you can offer up advice on how they can take care of skin concerns at home between appointments, mentioning any products you’d recommend. 

Then, when it comes time to pay, they’ll likely ask you to add something you mentioned to their total!


How to Give Your Clients the Best Spa Experience Ever


**If you’re a** [**personal trainer**](/learn/best-discounts-for-personal-trainers)**, having a scheduling app to manage your sessions can save you a lot of headaches *and* a lot of time.**

On top of your packed weeks of [classes and appointments](/learn/50-creative-group-fitness-class-names), you also have to deal with:

-   [Social media marketing](/learn/gym-fitness-social-media-post-ideas)
-   [Client payments](/learn/the-cheapest-credit-card-processor) and bills
-   [Product inventory](/learn/best-discounts-for-personal-trainers)

So, there’s no doubt it takes a ton of organization and planning to be a [great personal trainer](/learn/8-personal-training-services-to-add-to-your-roster-in-2022).

That’s where an easy-to-use scheduling app for personal trainers can be a lifesaver!

Of course, not all fitness [scheduling apps](/learn/what-is-online-scheduling-software) are created equal, so it’s important to [do your research](/learn/appointment-scheduling-app-must-haves) before jumping in.

To help you choose the app that’s right for you, we put together a list of the best apps for fitness instructors — looking at the features you need and the cost — so you can make the right decision for you and your business.

## Best Scheduling Apps for Personal Trainers

If you’re a personal trainer who hasn’t made the move to an [online scheduling app](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/) just yet, this list will give you the info on the best apps out there for personal trainers or group fitness instructors. 

### [Mindbody](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/personal-training-software)

#### Best for:

Large-scale Fitness studios and wellness businesses, particularly businesses that use ClassPass and are looking for a fitness scheduling app to integrate. 

#### Pros:

-   Mindbody is beautiful and has just about all the bells and whistles you need to run your business
-   For folks who care a lot about branding, an aesthetically-pleasing app for both you and your clients
-   Partnership with ClassPass, so if you’re a fan of ClassPass, you can integrate your account with them

#### Cons:

-   Mindbody is built more for class and workshop-based business, instead of more one-on-one appointments
-   Pricier than most scheduling apps out there, so their price point may not fit your budget if you’re just getting your business off the ground. (Also, they don’t have a free trial or a free version for folks to try.)

#### Features:

-   [Marketing tools](https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/marketing) built into your account
-   [Native payment processing app](https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/payments), starting at 2.75% processing rate
-   Ability to [create your own branded app](https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/branded-apps)



*View [all of Mindbody’s features](https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/fitness-software), or compare [Mindbody alternatives for scheduling software](/learn/mindbody-alternatives-fitness-yoga-pilates/) for the fitness industry.*

#### [Cost](https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/pricing?industry=fitness):

[According to G2](https://www.g2.com/products/mindbody/pricing), Mindbody has four pricing tiers that range from $159 to $699 per month. However, you can get a customized quote for a more accurate price.

### [Acuity](https://acuityscheduling.com/)

#### Best for:

Established service-based businesses looking for more advanced and customizable features, including integrations with external marketing and payment tools.

#### Pros:

-   Acuity is [owned by Squarespace](https://www.squarespace.com/press-coverage/2019/4/23/squarespace-acquires-acuity-scheduling-to-add-more-professional-services), which launched an Acuity scheduling integration
-   More integrations than any other appointment scheduling app, including PayPal, Mailchimp, and Quickbooks

#### Cons:

-   [No phone support](https://support.squarespace.com/hc/en-us/articles/206545487) to chat with someone about questions you have or help you need with your account
-   Most of the advanced/customizable features require a pretty pricey upgrade

#### Features:

-   Ability to manage multiple calendars and locations
-   Ability to customize your scheduler with your logo and company colors
-   PayPal, Square, and Stripe integrations for payment processing

#### Cost:

Free trial for 7 days, then [$20 – $61 per month](https://secure.acuityscheduling.com/signup.php#advanced). You can save 20% by paying annually instead.

### [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/personal-training-software)

#### Best for:

Larger businesses, particularly those that depend on Yelp for a lot of their business and businesses with multiple employees.

#### Pros:

-   With Vagaro, you can think *big*. This scheduling app can handle a large number of staff members and multiple locations
-   Great if you need a clock-in/clock-out feature for your instructors/providers

#### Features:

-   Customer support via phone, email, chat
-   Ability to build your website using templates
-   Yelp, Instagram, and Facebook integrations

#### Cost:

[$23.99/month for one provider – $90/month for 7 or more providers](https://sales.vagaro.com/pricing)  

### [Square Appointments](https://squareup.com/us/en/appointments)

#### Best for:

Businesses who already use Square for payment processing or companies who prefer to keep things simple

#### Pros:

-   If you’re already using Square, you’ll love that payment processing is already built right in
-   Robust POS system for invoices, product sales
-   Free “get started” option for growing businesses, though the payment processing fees do add up long-term (see below)

#### Cons:

-   Instead of a single payment processing rate, you’re stuck with Square’s tiered model for processing: 2.6% + 10¢ for in-person credit card transactions; 2.69 + 30¢ for online payments; and 3.5% + 15¢ for manually keyed-in charges or card-on-file transactions.

#### Features:

-   Allows for multiple employees and calendars
-   Built-in payment processing (with Square card reader and POS)
-   Automated email and text notifications
-   Google and Instagram integrations


#### Cost:

Free plan, then [$50 – $90 per month](https://squareup.com/us/en/appointments/pricing) for paid plans. However, you can get a customized pricing plan with additional paid add-ons.




The 5 Best Scheduling Apps for Personal Trainers

If you’re looking for the [best online online scheduling software for massage therapists](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/massage-software), you found the right list.

With a busy day of appointments, billing, SOAP notes, and marketing, it takes a ton of organization and planning to be a successful massage therapist

So, anywhere you can automate your massage practice (and save time in your day) can be a game-changer.

That’s why it’s so important to have a massage booking software you can count on.

To make your research process a little easier, we break down the best massage therapy scheduling software out there.

We account for software features and cost, so you can make the right decision for you and your clinic. 👇

***5 Best Massage Appointment Scheduling Platforms**:*

-   [Vagaro](#vagaro)
-   [Jane](#Jane)
-   [MassageBook](#massagebook)
-   [Acuity](#acuity)
-   [Cliniko](#cliniko)

## The Best Online Scheduling Software for Massage Therapists

If you’re on the hunt for an [online scheduling software for your massage therapy clinic](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/spa-booking-software), this list has the details you need. 

### [Vagaro](https://sales.vagaro.com/)
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmgr0xqt3yozl07lpyh1n5gpq)
#### Best for: 

-   Larger practices or clinics, especially those that depend on [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com) for a lot of their revenue
-   Clinic with multiple massage therapists

#### Pros:

-   You can think *big*. This [massage booking app](https://www.schedulicity.com/essentials/spa-booking-software) can handle a large number of staff members and multiple locations.
-   It’s great if you need a clock-in/clock-out feature for your therapists.

#### Cons:

-   If you’re just [starting your massage therapy business](/learn/how-to-start-a-mobile-massage-business), Vagaro may have *too much* to consider. (More tools can be more complicated.)

#### Key Features:

-   Customer support via phone, email, and chat
-   Ability to build your website using their templates
-   Yelp, Instagram, and Facebook integrations

*See* [*all of Vagaro’s features*](https://sales.vagaro.com/) *for more info.*

#### Cost:

Anywhere from [$30 per month for one person to $90 per month for teams of 7+](https://sales.vagaro.com/pricing)

### [Jane](https://jane.app/massage)
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmgr0xqtlywk407mz08nsw3ue) 
With robust charting capabilities, integrated payment processing, and online booking tools, Jane is an online platform for health and wellness practitioners that makes it simple to book, chart, schedule, bill and get paid.

#### Best for

-   Health, wellness and fitness professionals, including massage therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, and other healthcare practitioners

-   Solo practitioners or multi-location clinics with multiple staff members

#### Pros:
-   Available online and on any device, Jane offers branded online booking, beautiful scheduling, insurance management, customizable charting, online intake forms, patient reminders, integrated payment processing, online appointments (telehealth) and more

-   The patient charting system in Jane App offers tools to streamline documentation, like smart narratives and voice-to-text dictation, reducing manual data entry time

-   Award-winning customer support and user-friendly interface

#### Key Features:
-   Scheduling: Organized calendar where you can support solo practitioners and multi-location clinics

-   Charting: Template library packed with charts, forms, SOAP notes, and surveys, with customizations to meet the needs of any clinic chart privately or share with the whole clinic, add video or photos to capture a patient's condition

-   Online Booking: Custom-branded patient portal for appointment scheduling from any device

-   Payments: Securely capture credit card during the online booking process; generate invoices, receive payments, and automatically sync billing information to your reports with multiple payment options. Integrated card terminal available

-   Automation: Patient reminders, online intake forms, automated billing workflows

-   Apps: Mobile apps for iOS and Android for both practitioners and clients

#### Cost:
Jane app pricing starts at $54/month,.

“Jane has been amazing! We have streamlined so many processes and saved money by having our EHR and CRM all in one. The integrations that Jane offers with other features like payments, faxing, and email newsletters has saved so much time and effort for us. We basically love everything about it!” —[Jane Capterra Review](https://www.capterra.com/p/178984/Jane-App/)

### [MassageBook](https://www.massagebook.com/marketing/)
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmgr0xqsryozf07lp6kag9p5b)
#### Best for:

-   Solo or group massage practices, bodyworkers, and wellness professionals

#### Pros:

-   Use the booking software free for the first year (Transition Plan0.
-   MassageBook offers a free website that integrates with all of its features.
-   They have client membership programs to boost rebooking.

#### Cons:

-   They don’t have built-in payment processing. You have to use Square or Stripe integrations.

#### Key Features:

-   Ability to manage gift cards
-   SOAP notes
-   Website integrations

#### Cost:

Free Transition Plan for your first year, then three tiers for pricing:

-   [$19.99](https://www.massagebook.com/marketing/pricing/)
-   [$37.99](https://www.massagebook.com/marketing/pricing/)
-   [$47.88](https://www.massagebook.com/marketing/pricing/)

…depending on your clinic’s needs and size. 

### [Acuity](https://acuityscheduling.com/)
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmgr0xqtvywkb07mz6nb6qhl8)
#### Best for: 

-   Well-established massage practices looking for advanced and customizable features

#### Pros:

-   Acuity is [owned by Squarespace](https://www.squarespace.com/press-coverage/2019/4/23/squarespace-acquires-acuity-scheduling-to-add-more-professional-services), which launched an Acuity scheduling integration.
-   Acuity has more integrations than any other scheduling app, like [PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/us/home), [Mailchimp](https://mailchimp.com), and [Quickbooks](https://quickbooks.intuit.com).

#### Cons:

-   They don’t offer [phone support](https://support.squarespace.com/hc/en-us/articles/206545487), so customer service may be slow to reply.
-   The advanced and customizable features come with a pricey upgrade.

#### Key Features:

-   Users have the ability to manage multiple calendars and locations.
-   You can customize your scheduler with your logo and company colors, if branding is super important to you.
-   You can use PayPal, Square, and Stripe integrations for payment processing.

*See* [*all of Acuity’s features*](https://secure.acuityscheduling.com/signup.php#advanced) *for more info.*

#### Cost:

Free week trial, then [$14 – $45 per month](https://secure.acuityscheduling.com/signup.php#advanced)

### [Cliniko](https://www.cliniko.com/)
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmgr0xqsuywju07mzb65jakct)
#### Best for: 

-   Massage therapists who work for a medical practice
-   Anyone geared towards healthcare that needs insurance, billing, and SOAP notes

#### Pros:

-   Cliniko has all the tools for healthcare practice management.
-   The booking app integrates with Mailchimp and [Xero](https://www.xero.com/us/).

#### Cons:

-   This massage booking software may have too many tools for a small massage practice.
-   Cliniko doesn’t have apps for iPhone or Android.

#### Key Features:

-   SOAP notes
-   Billing and invoicing
-   Employee management

*See* [*all of Cliniko’s features*](https://www.cliniko.com/features/) *for more info.*

#### Cost:

Free trial for thirty days, then pricing starts at [$45 per month](https://www.cliniko.com/pricing/).

---


The Best Scheduling Software for Massage Therapists


**Updated January 2025.**

**It’s looking like we’re having (yet again) another epic year for podcasts and especially [all things health and wellness](/learn/latest-health-and-wellness-trends).**

Of course, it makes sense.

What better way to [fill your gym time](/learn/fitness-class-packages-and-marketing-promotions) than by listening to interviews with fitness gurus and wellness industry professionals who tell it exactly like it is?

Or to spend your commute finding ways to fit more movement into your life? 

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best podcasts for health, wellness, and fitness.

## The Best Health, Wellness, and Fitness Podcasts for 2025

### [Be Well by Kelly](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-well-by-kelly/id1493002505)

Kelly LeVeque shot to fame as the science-obsessed nutritionist for stars, including Jennifer Garner and Emmy Rossum.

She’s an advocate for blood-sugar balancing meals, whole foods, and realistic moderation — and her [Fab 4 Smoothie](https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/jessica-alba-nutritionist-kelly-leveque-interview-fab-four-smoothie) is a team favorite breakfast.

On her new podcast (which launched in 2020 along with her [latest book](https://www.amazon.com/Body-Love-Every-Kelly-LeVeque/dp/0062870807)), she interviews wellness, health, and fitness industry experts, digging into topics including better sleep and biodynamic farming. 

### [Happier with Gretchen Rubin](https://gretchenrubin.com/podcasts/) 

Rubin’s podcast makes almost every “best health and wellness podcasts” roundup precisely because she’s one of the best in the biz.

Over 95 million downloads doesn’t hurt, either.

Pick and choose your episodes based on the industry experts that most interest you (yogis, scientists, or you know, iconic fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi), or try one of her short episodes called “A Little Happier”. 

### [Help Me Be Me](http://www.yaywithme.com/helpmebeme) 

Sarah May is a Dear Abby for the New Age, delivering episodes full of thoughtful advice that’s are as well-researched as they are carefully delivered.

While she’s not a therapist or licensed professional (and she’s very clear about it), she’s an impressive autodidact of mental health.

Each episode, she covers a topic submitted by a listener, carefully citing books, experts, and studies along the way.

Dedicated to inclusivity and adaptable suggestions — she loves using the Al-Anon adage, “Take what you like, leave the rest” — there’s something for everyone.

### [Dear Sugars](https://www.wbur.org/dearsugar)

Another crowd favorite, Dear Sugars is the podcast brainchild of writers Cheryl Strayed and Steve Almond, which answers letters from readers about all sorts of emotional and social concerns.

If you’re an [NPR](https://www.npr.org/) junkie, you probably know the Sugars well already.

Still, the podcast is a brilliant way to take them with you whenever you’re on the go.

Bonus points if you throw on an episode before hopping on the treadmill. 


### [The goop Podcast](https://goop.com/the-goop-podcast/)

We won’t debate whether Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow qualifies as a wellness guru or not — it’s a divisive subject, after all — but we *will* point you to this podcast, which is as much her Chief Content Officer Elise Loehnen’s brainchild as it is hers.

This writer [interviewed Loehnen](https://www.careercontessa.com/interviews/goop-elise-loehnen/) a few years back, and I can vouch for her unending curiosity about [wellness and health trends](/learn/latest-health-and-wellness-trends/). Worth a listen. 

### [TEDTalks Health](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tedtalks-health/id470623173)

As dynamic as all TEDTalks are but specifically dedicated to health advancements and wellness discoveries? Sign us up. 

### [The Mindful Minute](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindful-minute/id1277683423?mt=2)

Teacher Meryl Arnett knows a thing or two about meditation, but that’s not why she started this podcast.

She started it because she *gets* that meditation can feel opaque and frustrating when you’re just starting.

As she puts it, it’s about those moments when “your meditation teacher says, ‘Pay attention to your breath…”, and you secretly think, ‘WTH does that even mean?!’ and spend the meditation writing your grocery list.”

Great for new meditators and meditation professionals alike. 

### [Power Hour with Adrienne Herbert](https://play.acast.com/s/powerhour)

A podcast dedicated to spending *just one hour* improving something in your life. Similar to the [Do Weekly podcast](https://doweeklypodcast.com/), which we included in [our last podcast roundup](/learn/best-small-business-podcasts-2020), but with a more general focus on self- (and life) improvement. 

### [The Business of Wellness](https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-business-of-wellness/id1480353250)

A self-explanatory podcast name for one of the best podcasts for health and wellness professionals out there.

Host Lauren Armes interviews founders of various wellness companies to glean insight into how they did (and do) what they did (and do).

We’re talking the masterminds behind [TRX](https://www.trxtraining.com/), [mindbodygreen](https://www.mindbodygreen.com/), [Huel](https://huel.com/), and more. 

### [Project Body Love](https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/project-body-love/id1483954993) 

[Women’s Health](https://www.womenshealthmag.com/) released this 30-day program in November 2019, but it’s as relevant as ever *forever*.

The goal of the podcast is to help improve your relationship with your body, one step at a time.

In a new era, we think more body positivity is essential.  

### [Science Weekly by The Guardian](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/science-weekly/id136697669) 

Another journalism-forward podcast that focuses on new discoveries in science and interviews with academics and experts, Science Weekly keeps you up to date with all the health and wellness news you need.

And, as health and wellness professionals know, that’s everything. 

### [The Balanced Blonde Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-balanced-blonde-soul-on-fire/id1169052792)

A great podcast dedicated to trends in alternative health and nutrition, you can count on host and entrepreneur Jordan Younger to explore every relevant wellness topic — especially those you’re just starting to hear about.

(One of the most *interesting* podcasts was dedicated ayahuasca.) 

### [Thrive Forever Fit](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/anchor-podcasts/thrive-forever-fit-with-jay-nixon) 

Ask around, and everyone will tell you that Jay Nixon is a fitness genius.

His podcast focuses on helping listeners reach all their health, wellness, and nutritional goals.

After all, change is 99% about mindset, and Jay knows how to make you think differently. 

### [Deliciously Ella](https://deliciouslyella.com/) 

Ella Mills came onto the scene as a health and food blogger before launching her podcast (a trend, it seems, for wellness podcasts, in general).

Devoted to clean eating and nutritional health, she runs her podcast with husband Matthew and covers everything from gut health to setting boundaries in relationships to digital detoxes. 

### [On Being with Krista Tippet](https://onbeing.org/series/podcast/) 

Tippet’s show covers a few straightforward questions: “What does it mean to be human? How do we want to live? And who will we be to each other?”

*Kidding.*

Those are the most complex questions of all time, which is probably why the podcast won a [Peabody Award](https://peabodyawards.com/).

Listen to long-form discussions between Tippet and some of the greatest minds of today to go deep, deep, *deep* into how to live a fuller life.

### [One Part Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-part-podcast/id896508609?mt=2) 

Host Jessica Murnane has one of the longest-running podcasts on this list, which means that she knows a thing or two about the most important health and wellness topics.

It also means that if you idolize any health, fitness, or wellness professional, chances are she’s interviewed them.

Give her archives a scroll. 

### [Calm It Down](https://www.calmitdownpodcast.com/)

There to help you “calm the mind in a world full of noise,” the Calm It Down podcast is all about simple, encouraging techniques to help relax your mind.

Tune in each week to pause, breathe, and take the time to *calm down*.


## Vagaro Recommendations: The Best Health, Wellness, and Fitness Podcasts 

There’s a new podcast every 8.7 minutes.

(OK, I just made that up. But there are tons of them!)

We figured that we’d take this discussion public. We asked our Instagram followers for their favorite wellness podcasts.

Here they are in alphabetical order:

-   [Almost 30](https://almost30podcast.com/) – This is a simple lifestyle podcast put on by LA-based best friends, Krista Williams and Lindsey Simchik.
-   [The Beauty Biz Show](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-beauty-biz-show/id980461189) – Less of a wellness podcast per se, we still love this podcast for its small business advice and interviews with beauty professionals, hosted by Lori Crete.
-   Meeting Your Magic (formly [The Beauty Therapy Podcast](https://beautytherapypodcast.com/)) – A podcast hosted by Kiera Doyle for “beauty pros, energy-shifters, and magic-makers”. Her episodes cover wellness, health, and spirituality (with regular guests contributing their thoughts). 
-   [The Connected Yoga Teacher](https://www.theconnectedyogateacher.com/podcast/) – Yoga teacher and consultant Shannon Crow covers wellness topics, trends in yoga, *and* business basics for yoga professionals.
-   [The Limitless Soul Podcast](http://kellimason.com/podcast) (formerly The Limitless *Hairdresser* Podcast) – Another podcast created specifically with hairdressers and stylists in mind, you’ll find plenty of wellness topics covered from meditation to “connecting offline in an online world” 
-   [Marketing Yoga with Confidence](https://www.marketingyogawithconfidence.com/podcast) – Hosted by Amanda McKinney, this podcast dives deep into [marketing for yoga professionals](/learn/fitness-marketing-for-trainers-and-yoga-studios). Ideal if that’s not your strong suit — or if you just need a refresher.
-   [Mind Love](https://www.mindlove.com/podcast/) – Melissa Monte covers everything from depression and anxiety to energy vampires. Experience self-improvement and transformation one episode at a time. 
-   [No Stylist Left Behind](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-stylist-left-behind/id1465470771) – Nina Tulio regularly prioritizes her balanced approach to life first-hand. Her podcast, which she cohosts with J. Ladner, specifically covers [stylist business advice](/learn/hair-stylist-career-path), but there are plenty of episodes dedicated to mental health and spiritual wellness. (If you’re a reader, you should check out Nina’s column on the [Schedulicity blog](/learn/) as well.) 
-   [Oprah Super Soul](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oprahs-supersoul-conversations/id1264843400) – The title of the podcast explains it all, really. Or even just one word: Oprah. 
-   [Take Flight](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/take-flight/id1339336927) – With a heavy fitness bent, this podcast by Mark Whittle features interviews with entrepreneurs, sports professionals, and more. It covers a wide range of topics that will help you plan and reach your goals.  
-   [Christina The Channel](https://christinathechannel.com/pod/) – Christina Rice loves a deep-dive into health and wellness, and we mean *deep*. Expect hyper-specific topics like histamine intolerance and nootropics. In other words: *realness.* 
-   [Your Day Off](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-day-off-hairdustry-a-podcast-about-the-hair-industry/id1327156219) – Hosted by Hairdustry, this podcast covers all things [hair industry](/learn/best-salon-software-2020), including what we should all be doing with our time after-hours. 

30 Best Health & Wellness Podcasts for 2025


**Ahh, that feeling at the end of a relaxing yoga session.**

**You’re calm, quiet, still, and then —**

**The yoga instructor reads a short poem or passage as you settle into savasana for a few minutes…**

As a yoga instructor, you know how to [motivate and inspire your clients](/learn/top-yogis-to-follow-on-instagram-in-2019).

You have your favorite [yoga intentions or mantras](https://www.yogiapproved.com/yoga/10-mantras-set-powerful-intention-yoga-practice/) to read at the beginning of class.

And you have your go-to inspirational quotes to share at the end of class.

While there’s no doubt a perfectly chosen inspirational quote or motivational saying goes hand-in-hand with the “zen state” that follows a great yoga class, sometimes you need to freshen things up and try out new passages — to keep those good vibes rolling after each session.

That’s why we reached out to industry experts to learn their favorite quotes to end their classes full of love and positivity.

Feel free to pair the following quotes with savasana or sprinkle them into whatever your closing ritual may be!

PS. We also rounded up [the most creative yoga class names](/learn/21-creative-yoga-class-names), in case you get stuck managing all those [fitness classes](/learn/trial-classes-for-fitness-businesses).

## 11 Inspirational Quotes to End Your Yoga Class

International yoga teacher and founder of the [Wild Yoga Tribe](https://wildyogatribe.com/), Lily Allen-Duenas has a few quotes she loves to end her [yoga classes](/learn/11-different-types-of-yoga-classes) with. Her favorite passages remind students that “through awareness of the body and the breath, there are seeds of enlightenment there.”

- *Wherever you are, simply becoming aware of your body and whatever state of relaxation, tension, or pain (or even all of them at once, in different areas) is there, you already are realizing some understanding, some awakening, some awareness—some enlightenment.*  

    *And when you know there’s some tension or pain in your body, you may like to do something to help relieve it.*  

    *We can say to ourselves as we breathe in and out: Breathing in, I am aware of some tension or pain in my body; breathing out, I allow the tension and pain in my body to release.* —Thich Nhat Hanh

- *No effort on the yoga path is ever lost, nor can any obstacle ever hold one back forever. Just a little progress on this path can protect one from the greatest fear.* —Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 40

Natalia Maldonado of [Warrior Life Code](https://www.warriorlifecode.com/) is a certified hot yoga instructor, author and coach living in Miami, Florida. She likes to end her class with a few poetic words from Rumi. She also uses some beautiful words on yoga from Madonna to inspire her clients.

- *Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all barriers within yourself that you have built against it.* —Rumi

- *Yoga is a metaphor for life. You have to take it really slowly. You can’t rush. You can’t skip to the next position. You find yourself in very humiliating situations, but you can’t judge yourself. You just have to breathe, and let go. It is a workout for your mind, your body, and your soul.* —Madonna

The folks over at [YogaLondon](https://yogalondon.us/) — a yoga training certification program — have a great list of short, simple quotes to inspire and motivate their students. We picked out a couple of our favorites…

- *Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.* —Arthur Ashe

- *Yoga is not a work-out, it is a work-in. And this is the point of spiritual practice; to make us teachable; to open our hearts and focus our awareness so that we can know what we already know and be who we already are.* —Rolf Gates

[Shades of Yoga](https://shadesofyoga.com/quotes-to-end-your-yoga-class-with/), an internationally accredited yoga training school in Bali, loves to end their [fitness classes](/learn/fitness-class-descripions) with a passage from professor Brené Brown or musician and writer Morgan Harper Nichols.

- *Belonging so fully to yourself that you’re willing to stand alone is a wilderness — an untamed, unpredictable place of solitude and searching. It is a place as dangerous as it is breathtaking, a place as sought after as it is feared.*  

    *The wilderness can often feel unholy because we can’t control it, or what people think about our choice of whether to venture into that vastness or not.*  

    *But it turns out to be the place of true belonging, and it’s the bravest and most sacred place you will ever stand.* —Brené Brown

- *Even if you are still trying to carve things out, even without the clarity you thought you would have by now, may you know without a doubt this is a lifelong journey you have been called to, and no matter the time has passed, it is not too late for you.*  

    *It is not too late for you, there is so much more this this life, and the journey you have been called to.* —Morgan Harper Nichols

[Ashish Painuly](https://www.fitsri.com/) is a traditional Hatha Yoga teacher, blogger, and a strong believer in the power of words. Ashish understands that “saying positive affirmations” at the beginning and end of something important is a great way to “manifest change” within yourself.

- *You are not a soul, you are not a mind, you are not a body. You are the controller of all three.* —Yogi Harbhajan Singh

Priya Patel is the [owner of a yoga studio](/learn/how-to-open-a-yoga-studio), [The Intention Table](https://www.theintentiontable.com/aboutpriyapatel). She teaches the physical practice of yoga *and* the philosophy of it. She closes out her classes with an old Apache blessing, which seems to go hand-in-hand with savasana.

- *May the sun bring you new energy by day, may the moon softly restore you by night, may the rain wash away your worries, may the breeze blow new strength in your being, may you walk gently through the world and know it’s beauty for all the days of your life.* —Apache Blessing

Certified yoga instructor Gagandeep works for [Yogic-Experience](https://yogic-experience.com/) — a website and community built “to give you an experience of the ancient and authentic art of Yoga.”

He knows that “the idea of expressing gratitude and giving thanks is a [popular trend among yoga teachers](/learn/latest-health-and-wellness-trends/) for closing a class.”

Here’s his favorite quote, which he says is a great reminder for himself each time as well as his students.

- *Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.* —Shrimad Bhagavad Geeta

**Pro tip**: If you’re a yoga instructor on the hunt for a scheduling software, [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/yoga-software) has all the tools you need: class calendar, waitlists, payment processing, marketing tools, and package management.



[Learn More About Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/yoga-software)


11 Quotes to End Your Yoga Class with Love and Positivity


**Let’s see how many puns we can fitness blog.** 😉

When you’re [running a fitness studio](/learn/how-to-design-organize-a-fitness-studio), the idea of [adding a new workout class](/learn/8-personal-training-services-to-add-to-your-roster-in-2022) to your schedule is exciting – but queue the class-naming anxiety.

One of the most common things that [fitness instructors](/learn/fitness-marketing-for-trainers-and-yoga-studios) and [personal trainers](/learn/best-discounts-for-personal-trainers) type into Google is “What are some creative fitness class names?”

We figured out over 100 fitness class names, organized by type of class (powerlifting, barre, HIIT, etc):

PS. If you’re just looking for [yoga, check out these fun classes names](/learn/21-creative-yoga-class-names).

## Creative Fitness Class Names (General)

-   Sweat
-   Power Hour
-   Curls n’ Crunches
-   Fab & Fit & Fun
-   Abs Fab / Fab Abs
-   Walk this Weigh
-   Wishful Shrinking
-   Move it, Shake it, Lift it
-   F-abs Fridays
-   Gym and Tonic/Gym and Juice (e.g. a fitness class + post-workout juice cleanse)
-   Sanity Session
-   Werk It!
-   Transform
-   Sweat Fest
-   Lunch Crunch / Lunch Lunge
-   Fierce
-   Power Up
-   Ex-Press (e.g. a 45-minute weight workout)
-   No More Slim Gyms
-   Pump Up the Gym
-   Crunch Time
-   Box Office Knockout (for a boxing class)
-   Get Up and Run(ning)
-   We’re Miles Ahead of You

## Yoga Class Names

-   Yinship
-   Mind Over Mat(ter)
-   (Over)Flow
-   Get with the Flow
-   Weekend Warrior
-   Stop, Drop, Flow
-   De-Manic Monday
-   Strike a Pose
-   Composed
-   Yin Meets Yang
-   Inhale
-   Lion Hour
-   Decompress
-   Flexual Healing
-   Flex Appeal
-   Namaste Fit
-   Yoga-tta Laugh
-   No Bullship Here (“Let’s practice Boat Pose!”)
-   Flex Your Hard Work

## Barre + Pilates Class Names

-   Raise the Bar
-   Inch by Inch
-   Barre Star
-   Barre 360 (e.g. a total body barre workout)
-   Go Long, Go High (GLGH) (e.g. a legs-focused barre or pilates work out)
-   Do the Hundred
-   One-Hundred Percent
-   Transform (e.g. a reformer-based, full-body makeover)
-   Plank You Very Much
-   Barre None
-   The Tone Zone
-   Barre-ls of Laughs

## HIIT + Bootcamp Class Names

-   Oh, SH\*\*T
-   Bootycamp
-   HIIT the Ground Running
-   Stop, Drop, Pop It
-   Fierce Fest
-   HIIT Me Up
-   Burpees & Booties
-   Reboot
-   One More Rep
-   BOOM
-   Total Body Reset
-   Witness the Fitness
-   HIIT Happens
-   Bootcamp Blitz
-   Gym-azing Race
-   Push (Up) Through the Pain

## Seasonal Fitness Class Names

-   Potato Power (e.g. a Thanksgiving Day workout)
-   Gratitude (e.g. a Thanksgiving Day morning yoga flow)
-   Fitmas
-   Down Dogs & Yule Logs
-   Down Dog & Eggnog
-   A Hatha Holiday
-   Festivus Fit
-   2024 (e.g. a 20-minute strength, plus 24-minute stretch class)
-   Sparkle + Sweat (e.g. a New Years Eve Day workout)
-   Goblin Squats (e.g. a Halloween lifting class)
-   Dad Jeans and Power Cleans (e.g. Father’s Day lifting class)

## Wildcard Fitness Class Names

-   Wonder Woman Workout
-   Peter Parker Power
-   Superman Strength
-   Your Attitude Adjustment
-   Just Peachy (A booty-building class 🍑)

## Weightlifting/Powerlifting Class Names

-   Swole Team Six
-   Let’s Give ‘Em Something to Chalk About
-   Let’s Talk about Reps, Baby
-   Chalk Dirty to Me
-   The Swole Survivors
-   Quadzilla
-   Shred Zeppelin (e.g. a Led Zeppelin-only [workout playlist](/learn/best-playlists-for-salon-spa-fitness-and-yoga))
-   Jacked Sabbath (e.g. a Black Sabbath-only workout playlist)
-   Swole Patrol
-   Squat Goals
-   Are You a Fitness Buff?


100+ Creative Group Fitness Class Names to Inspire Your Next Class

In an era defined by constant connectivity, we expect instantaneous search results, response times, and product order fulfillment. Medical prescriptions are no exception, with most electronic prescriptions delivered from providers to pharmacies within seconds to a few minutes—assuming the right [software](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/medical-spa-software) systems are in place. There are, of course, several factors that can delay prescription availability, from regulations to insurance issues and simple human error. We’ll explore the most common ones below and how to ensure expedient electronic prescription from input to pharmacy counter.

## What Affects Electronic Prescription Delivery? 

Electronic prescriptions are transmitted instantly through national networks like Surescripts, which connects healthcare providers and pharmacies nationwide. These electronic scripts are presented directly to the pharmacy system, allowing for immediate access to the prescribed drug. However, electronic prescription processing time may be delayed by manual verification, system issues, prior authorizations, incomplete information, or pharmacy workload, to name a few.

### Software Integration 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpdy60cnk07lhd98ek1bh)
Electronic prescriptions are received in 0-5 minutes if both the med spa and the pharmacy have well-integrated systems with real-time transmission. What do we mean by this? Well, the term “well-integrated system” refers to how well the electronic prescription software connects and communicates with other healthcare systems.

So, high-quality integration affords you the following:

* Seamless data flow between the prescribing system (EHR/practice management software) and the pharmacy’s system

* Automatic population of patient information, reducing manual data entry

* Real-time connectivity with minimal technical glitches

* Standardized data formats that don’t require translation or conversion

* Direct API connections rather than batch processing

As a real-world example, Vagaro’s real-time [e-prescribe](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/benefits-of-eprescribe) feature, which is integrated with the rest of its medspa software, ticks all these boxes. E scripts increase efficiency by streamlining the management of medicines, reducing errors, and ensuring prescriptions are transmitted quickly and securely to partner pharmacies. This eliminates paper delays, errors, omitted information, and the need for manual reentry, while enhancing safety compliance.

### Prescription-Based Factors 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpdzm0co307lhoheein0w)
Certain types of medications require additional steps that can extend delivery times. The complexity and safety requirements of specific prescriptions impact how quickly pharmacies can process them—and med spas do prescribe such medications. 

Common med spa prescriptions include compounded weight loss medications, like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), and tirzepatide. These and other prescriptions, like testosterone, HCG, and topical anesthetics often fall into categories requiring enhanced verification.

* **Controlled substances** - These require additional security protocols and verification steps

* **Specialty medications** - Often need special handling and may go through specialty pharmacies

The refill process for controlled substances and specialty medications may require additional verification steps. 

#### Regulatory/Compliance 

As we’ve touched upon, Med spas prescribing hormones and controlled substances face heightened regulatory scrutiny. State medical boards closely monitor hormone therapy and weight loss prescriptions, while DEA oversight applies to testosterone and HCG prescriptions. 

When dealing with controlled substances, a manual review is often required to comply with DEA regulations, which increases the risk of delays in processing these prescriptions.

### Pharmacy Operations 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpdyl0pjm07lnd6bgit0c)
Business owners and prescribers unfortunately can’t control how well things are run on the other end of the E-Rx equation. After initial receipt by your preferred pharmacy, an e-prescription enters a workflow (queue entry, screening & validation, clinical review, dispensing, etc.). Daily pharmacy operations significantly influence the speed of this workflow. 

The following can all affect how quickly prescriptions move through the system:

* **Pharmacy workload and staffing levels** - Higher volumes require more time.

* **Time of day/peak hours** - Busy periods and a high volume of incoming prescriptions create longer wait times.

* **Inventory availability** - Out-of-stock medications require special ordering.

* **Manual verification requirements** - Human review steps for safety and accuracy.

* **Quality assurance checks** - Final review before dispensing can delay things, especially in the case of multiple prescriptions.

Planning in advance can help ensure prescriptions are filled within one business day, especially during busy periods, as most pharmacies process orders on business days and may experience delays during holidays or high demand.

###  Insurance/Authorization
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpdya0cnp07lh9c2lqhtb)
Insurance-related procedures often create the longest delays in prescription fulfillment. Prior authorization requirements can extend processing from minutes to weeks depending on insurer response times and documentation completeness. 

Let’s break down the most common roadblocks:

* **Prior authorization requirements** - Weight loss medications like semaglutide often require lengthy approval times and documented medical necessity

* **Verification** - Most aesthetic treatments (Botox, dermal fillers) aren’t covered, but some wellness prescriptions may have coverage

* **Step therapy requirements** - Companies may require trying conventional weight loss methods before approving GLP-1 medications

Most med spa treatments involve elective medications that insurance rarely covers, though some wellness prescriptions may require authorization. Weight loss medications and hormone therapies can face the most stringent approval when coverage is attempted.

## What Can You Do if There's a Delay? 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpe050co807lh1mdpjscf)
The combination of specialty medications, compounding requirements, limited insurance coverage, and regulatory complexity makes prescription delays significantly more common in med spa settings compared to traditional medical practices prescribing standard retail medications.

Here are some proactive steps to take in the event of such a delay:

### 1. Direct Pharmacy Communication

Contact the pharmacy directly to check script status and identify specific bottlenecks. Provide additional clinical justification or missing documentation that may be holding up the prescription.

### 2. Authorization Management

Submit prior authorization requests immediately with comprehensive medical documentation. For uncovered medications, inform patients about cash pricing or alternative covered options to avoid verification delays.

### 3. Partner With Multiple Pharmacies

Transfer prescriptions to pharmacies with shorter processing times or better specialty capabilities when delays become excessive. Maintain relationships with multiple compounding and specialty pharmacies as backup options.

### 4. Patient Communication

Inform patients upfront about expected processing times and provide pharmacy contact information for direct follow-up. Give patients detailed prescription information to share with pharmacy staff to expedite things. 

If delays persist, encourage patients to seek advice from their healthcare provider. Sometimes, visiting the pharmacy in person or requesting a print copy of the prescription can help resolve issues more quickly.

## E Script Technical Holdups 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfrfpdx80piu07lnui5lhqmu)
While e-prescriptions typically transmit in seconds, there can also be technical complications during the actual transmission that prevent or delay the electronic sending itself.

Network connectivity issues, integration problems, electronic prescription platform issues and other technical failures can prevent the E-Rx from ever leaving your system.

If this happens, consider the following steps:

### 1. Verify Status

Check your practice’s internet connectivity and confirm the e-prescribing software is functioning normally. Look for any status alerts, maintenance notifications, or issues with the selected pharmacy’s ability to receive e-prescriptions.

### 2. Review Prescription Details

Double-check all patient information including name, date of birth, and address for accuracy. Verify the pharmacy selection is correct and ensure all prescription details are complete, especially controlled substance documentation requirements.

### 3. Retry Transmission

Attempt to resend the e-prescription or try sending it to an alternative pharmacy location. If the issue persists, log out and back into the electronic prescription system or restart the software entirely.

### 4. Use Backup Communication

Call the pharmacy directly to provide prescription details over the phone or send a written prescription via secure fax. Alternative options include using pharmacy-specific secure messaging portals or providing the patient with a physical written prescription to take to the pharmacy.

(Please note, the information provided here is only intended to help patients and providers access their prescriptions more efficiently.)

——

E-prescribing can significantly enhance efficiency and client experience for med spas and similar businesses, which is why they should invest in well-integrated electronic prescription capabilities. Establishing relationships with multiple specialty pharmacies and developing clear protocols for handling delays will enhance these experiences. When technical issues or delays do occur, having established backup procedures ensures that patient care continues without interruption. Again, these happen less with reliance on the right software with E-Rx integrations, like Vagaro’s. Start your 30-day [FREE trial](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/pricing) and experience what Vagaro’s HIPAA-compliant software can elevate your business.

E-Prescribing: How Long Does It Take A Pharmacy to Receive An Electronic Prescription?

[Prescriptions](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/medical-spa-software) are a vital part of patient care, but the traditional process—fax machines, phone calls, and endless back-and-forth with pharmacies—is inefficient and error-prone. E-prescribing changes that. Moving prescriptions into a secure digital workflow allows you to save time, improve accuracy, and give patients a smoother experience from start to finish. 

With Vagaro’s newest e-prescribe integration with ScriptSure, you’ll be able to electronically send prescriptions to any retail or mail-order pharmacy connected to the Surescripts network. But…

## Who is E-Prescribe For?

E-Prescribe has been revolutionizing pharmacy and prescriber communication for nearly two decades now, with some of its earlier roots dating back to 2003 (thanks to the Medicare Modernization Act).1 But with e-prescribe coming so common these days, it can be tough to know whether or not you should join the professionals who use it. Thankfully, your answer to the following question should help:

***Do I write or refill prescriptions regularly as part of my services?***

If yes, then chances are you could highly benefit from using e-prescribe. If the answer is no, then maybe you don’t need it just yet, but it’s always good to know it’s available just in case.

That all being said, the benefits to e-prescribe extend far beyond simplified communication. Let’s take a look at the different ways e-prescribe innovates the way you work.

## Simplified Prescription Management

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfq1n6f48zy607lpjtliw6wk)

Manually writing prescriptions or calling in refills eats away at valuable time you could spend with patients. With e-prescribing, refill requests appear directly in Vagaro, allowing you to approve or deny them in seconds. This streamlined process cuts down on phone calls, reduces paperwork, and keeps everything in one place, making prescription management as simple as clicking a button.

## Improved Accuracy and Safety

Paper prescriptions can be misread, misplaced, or misunderstood. E-prescribing eliminates guesswork by providing a clear, digital record of medications, dosages, and instructions. Even better, you gain access to detailed patient medication history, which helps you identify potential drug interactions or duplicate therapies. What’s this mean for you? Greater confidence that every prescription you write supports your patient’s health and safety!

## Cost Transparency

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfq1z2hu9qmn07mym88qjqbx)

Patients can often face an unpleasant surprise at the pharmacy counter: sticker shock. E-prescribing helps avoid this by showing you insurance formulary information upfront. This means you can recommend medications that not only meet your patient’s needs but also fit their budget. When patients can afford their prescriptions, adherence improves, which leads to better outcomes and stronger trust in your care.

## Seamless Pharmacy Integration

Fax machines and phone calls are relics of the past. With Vagaro’s e-prescribe integration, you can send prescriptions to connected pharmacies in just a few clicks. All the necessary details—patient info, dosage, and instructions—are transmitted instantly and securely. No missing faxes. No endless back-and-forth. Just a smooth process that ensures patients get their medication faster and with fewer headaches.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="What to Know About Vagaro’s E-Prescribe:" text="**Availability:**

- Vagaro’s E-prescribe is currently only available in the **U.S.**

**Pricing:** 

- **$40/mo** per prescriber 

- Pricing includes up to 5 medical assistant

- Add more medical assistants for only **$5/mo**

**How To Activate:** 

•	Can only be activated by Vagaro account owner" />

## All-in-One Convenience

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmfq1z2hu9qmn07mym88qjqbx)

Switching between different systems for scheduling, records, billing, and prescriptions is frustrating and inefficient. Vagaro integrates e-prescribing directly into the same platform you already use for appointments, patient files, and communications. Everything you need to manage your practice lives in one place, reducing administrative chaos and giving you more time to focus on patient care.

## Cost-Effective Solution

Healthcare technology often comes with a hefty price tag. By accessing ScriptSure through Vagaro, you’ll even gain access to a more affordable option than purchasing it directly. The goal is simple: to make advanced prescription management accessible without straining your practice’s budget. More efficiency, less cost.

## Embracing the Future of Prescription Management

The future of healthcare is digital—it has been nearly 20 years—and e-prescribing is a cornerstone of that transformation. Beyond convenience, it brings accuracy, safety, and accessibility to prescription management, benefits that serve both providers *and* patients.

[Try out E-Prescribe today](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/pricing), and you’ll be on your way to positioning your practice at the forefront of modern care.

**Sources:**

1. https://www.healthit.gov/ 

E-Prescribe with Vagaro: The Benefits of E-Prescribing

Crafting a compelling [coaching](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/coaching-software) mission statement is crucial for any coaching business. A well-crafted mission statement brings significant value by clarifying your purpose and guiding your business toward meaningful growth. It can have a positive impact on clients and stakeholders by inspiring trust and demonstrating your commitment to making a difference in their lives. 

Your mission statement can influence various aspects of your coaching business, from client relationships to service offerings and overall direction. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your existing statement, follow these steps to create a mission statement that resonates and inspires.

## Step 1: Define Your Coaching Business Purpose

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdj3k8h3ofds07mzw93zmh0r)

Your mission statement should clearly state why your coaching business exists. Begin by asking yourself:

- What motivates me to coach others?

- What impact do I want to have on my clients?

- What values guide my coaching practice?

- How does my coaching help clients realize their potential or purpose?

For example, “Empowering individuals to achieve personal and professional growth through tailored coaching strategies, providing inspiration to pursue their dreams, making a difference in clients' lives, and ensuring that what we do truly matters.”

## Step 2: Identify Your Target Audience

A strong mission statement speaks directly to the people you serve. Define who your ideal clients are—whether that’s busy professionals, college-bound students, entrepreneurs, or individuals navigating major life transitions. Consider their common challenges and goals, and how your coaching helps them overcome obstacles, grow, or thrive. Whether you focus on career advancement, wellness, relationships, or industry-specific issues, your mission should reflect a clear understanding of your audience. 

For example: “Helping early-career professionals overcome workplace challenges and build fulfilling, purpose-driven careers.”

## Step 3: Define Your Unique Approach

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdj3hndho8u307lwgqta1ucf)

To craft a mission statement that truly resonates, you need to articulate what makes your coaching approach distinct. Think beyond generalities—this is your opportunity to highlight the specific strategies, methods, and philosophies that set your services apart. Do you use evidence-based practices or customized frameworks that adapt to individual client needs? Maybe your coaching is rooted in specialized training or certifications that bring added credibility and structure. You might offer unique insights that help clients uncover clarity and direction in areas they’ve long felt stuck. The way you communicate—clearly, actionably, and with empathy—can also be a defining element of your approach. 

Whether you focus on leadership development, mindset shifts, or goal-oriented progress, this step is about showcasing the how behind your impact. For instance, a coach might say, “I use neuroscience-backed coaching to foster deep, lasting transformation in leaders, while continuously integrating fresh insights through peer collaboration.” Whatever your methods, your mission statement should reflect the personalized and powerful way you help clients move forward.

## Step 4: Incorporate Your Values

Integrate core values that reflect your coaching philosophy and ethics. Consider:

Integrity, empathy, transparency, or any other principles that guide your practice. It is essential to be authentic in your coaching practice, as authenticity builds trust and demonstrates your true values to clients. Actively connect with clients to foster strong relationships and open communication, which are key to building trust. Additionally, focus on fostering a positive culture within your organization by embedding coaching principles into its core structure.

How do these values manifest in your client interactions and service delivery?

## Step 5: Keep it Clear and Concise

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdj3yas9p74407lwsv7hbi0m)

Craft a mission statement that is clear, concise, and memorable. The right words are essential—each word you choose should reflect the core purpose and authenticity of your coaching practice. Aim for simplicity without sacrificing depth. Sometimes, a single word can make your mission statement more impactful and memorable. Your statement should resonate with your audience and be easy to understand at a glance.

## Step 6: Review and Refine

Once drafted, take the time and effort to review your mission statement for clarity and alignment with your business goals. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or even potential clients to ensure it accurately represents your coaching practice.

## Step 7: Implement and Communicate

Integrate your mission statement into your branding, website, and marketing materials, emphasizing the importance of effectively communicating your mission statement. Communicate it consistently across all platforms to reinforce your coaching business’s identity and values.

## 60+ Coaching Mission Statement Examples

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdj4qj5htm5t07mznuat7nsj)

Here are **60+ coaching mission statement examples** inspired by niches like life, business, health, leadership, and personal development coaching. Each is clear, concise, and rooted in a unique combination of purpose, audience, approach, and values.

### Life Coaching Mission Statements

1. Empowering individuals to live with purpose, passion, and personal clarity.

2. Guiding clients through life transitions with compassion and actionable support.

3. Helping people unlock their potential by aligning their daily habits with their deepest values.

4. Supporting individuals in rediscovering joy and fulfillment in every season of life.

5. Transforming self-doubt into self-mastery through intuitive, goal-driven coaching.

6. Fostering self-awareness and confidence so clients can live authentically and thrive.

7. Helping individuals turn setbacks into breakthroughs with mindful, values-based coaching.

8. Creating lasting personal change through curiosity, compassion, and intentional growth.

9. Inspiring personal alignment, growth, and resilience through every life challenge.

10. Empowering individuals to break free from limiting beliefs and step into their true selves.

### Business & Executive Coaching Mission Statements

11. Supporting entrepreneurs in building businesses that reflect their values and vision.

12. Empowering leaders to cultivate conscious, people-centered workplaces.

13. Helping executives lead with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

14. Driving business transformation through strategic coaching rooted in emotional intelligence.

15. Guiding founders and innovators toward scalable, sustainable growth.

16. Coaching professionals to navigate leadership challenges with authenticity and purpose.

17. Unlocking performance and profitability through human-centered executive coaching.

18. Helping leaders develop the skills to lead diverse teams with integrity and vision.

19. Providing strategic coaching for emerging leaders in fast-paced industries.

20. Supporting high-performing professionals in balancing success with personal fulfillment.

### Career & Professional Development Coaching

21. Empowering professionals to navigate career transitions with clarity and courage.

22. Helping clients find purpose-driven careers that reflect their strengths and passions.

23. Coaching job seekers to confidently pursue roles aligned with their values.

24. Supporting career changers in designing meaningful, fulfilling work lives.

25. Guiding clients toward promotions and leadership roles through focused development.

26. Helping early-career professionals define and achieve their professional goals.

27. Cultivating clarity and direction in professional identity and workplace growth.

28. Building future-ready skills for a rapidly changing workforce through coaching.

29. Helping clients reinvent themselves professionally with confidence and vision.

30. Equipping professionals to thrive in new roles with grace and strategic support.

### Wellness & Health Coaching

31. Empowering clients to reclaim their energy, health, and vitality through sustainable change.

32. Supporting whole-person wellness through habits, mindset, and motivation.

33. Helping clients achieve physical and emotional well-being through intentional living.

34. Fostering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for lasting health transformations.

35. Coaching individuals to create balance between mind, body, and spirit.

36. Offering a holistic approach to wellness rooted in science, empathy, and empowerment.

37. Encouraging clients to create empowered relationships with food, movement, and self-worth.

38. Guiding individuals toward healthy habits that support long-term wellness goals.

39. Supporting clients in overcoming burnout and reconnecting with joy and vitality.

40. Helping people become the healthiest version of themselves—inside and out.

### Relationship & Communication Coaching

41. Helping individuals build strong, authentic, and fulfilling relationships.

42. Coaching couples to deepen trust, connection, and emotional understanding.

43. Guiding clients to communicate with clarity, honesty, and confidence.

44. Empowering people to set healthy boundaries and foster meaningful relationships.

45. Supporting parents and families in building thriving, emotionally intelligent homes.

46. Teaching practical communication tools that create stronger personal and professional relationships.

47. Creating connection and trust through vulnerability, active listening, and courage.

48. Helping individuals move from conflict to connection with mindful relational coaching.

### Niche or Specialty Coaching

49. Coaching creatives to align their passion with sustainable income and purpose.

50. Helping women entrepreneurs step into leadership with clarity and courage.

51. Supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in navigating personal and professional transformation.

52. Helping college students set goals, stay motivated, and transition confidently into adulthood.

53. Coaching neurodivergent clients toward customized strategies for growth and fulfillment.

54. Empowering spiritual seekers to align their outer lives with their inner values.

55. Coaching military veterans through career re-entry and civilian transitions

56. Supporting caregivers in maintaining balance, resilience, and self-care.

### Values-Based & Transformational Coaching

57. Inspiring growth and resilience through empathy, presence, and purpose.

58. Creating change by helping clients align their actions with their core values.

59. Offering a safe space for courageous conversations, transformation, and healing.

60. Leading clients toward self-discovery, inner peace, and intentional living.

61. Helping people live with greater integrity, clarity, and freedom.

62. Building lives and businesses rooted in authenticity, intention, and joy.

## Conclusion

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdj48zs2qt7407mzi3bhve3v)

Your coaching mission statement is more than words on a page—it’s a clear reflection of your purpose, passion, and the impact you aim to make. It guides your growth, keeps you focused, and communicates your value to the people you serve. 

Whether you’re helping individuals unlock their potential or leading organizations through change, a strong mission grounds your work and inspires action. Take the time to craft yours with intention—and use it as a foundation for meaningful, purpose-driven coaching.

See what more you and your coaching business can achieve with a [30-day complimentary trial](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/pricing) of Vagaro, the software that grows with your business.

Craft the Perfect Coaching Mission Statement: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having a beautifully crafted [spa](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) website doesn't mean much if people can’t find it. It’s harsh, but it’s the truth. The real key to getting found online lies in **SEO** or *Search Engine Optimization*. Exploring SEO can quickly turn into a freefall through a rabbit hole, so we’re here to break things down as effectively as you need.

First, let’s dive into why SEO is important to begin with, and what "search engine optimization" actually means.

## Why SEO for Spas Matters

It’s critical to understand that the first impression often happens online—not when a client walks through your doors. With more people turning to Google to find and book spa services, having a strong digital presence is no longer optional—it’s essential. Search engines now play a major role in where clients choose to go, often favoring businesses that appear near the top of results. 

While paid ads can provide a short-term visibility boost, SEO offers long-term, cost-effective growth by helping your spa show up organically in local searches. That means more eyes on your business, more bookings, and a steadier stream of new clients—all without the ongoing ad spend.

## Start with Local SEO

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdf46vbr7i9z07lpp2tuucwn)

If you're a brick-and-mortar spa, local SEO is where the magic happens. It’s what helps your business show up when someone nearby searches for “spa near me” or “best facial in [Your City].” Local SEO is all about making sure search engines know where you are, what you offer, and why you’re the best choice in your area.

### Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful—and free—tools you have. It puts your spa on the map (literally), displays your hours, services, and reviews, and lets clients call or book with a single click. Make sure your profile is fully filled out with accurate contact info, business categories, photos, and updated hours. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews, and respond to every one—Google loves engagement.

### Use Location-Based Keywords

Instead of trying to rank for broad terms like “spa treatments,” go hyper-local. Use phrases like “hot stone massage in Santa Monica” or “microdermabrasion Chicago.” These keywords have less competition and higher intent. Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or even just your own search bar can help you find what people in your area are really typing.

### Keep Listings Consistent Across Directories

Your spa’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) should be exactly the same across the web. That includes directories like Yelp, Facebook, Vagaro, and any local wellness platforms. Inconsistent info can confuse search engines and drop your ranking in local results. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

## How to Optimize Your Website for Spa Services

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdg8al8ugkjl07k88bmbq9w0)

Think of your website as your virtual front desk. It should be inviting, informative, and easy to navigate—not just for clients, but for search engines too. A well-optimized website makes it clear what services you offer, where you're located, and why someone should book with you. If search engines can’t easily understand your site, potential clients won’t be able to find you either.

### Use Service-Specific Pages (Not Just One “Menu” Page)

Rather than listing all your treatments on a single page, give each service its own spotlight. Create individual pages for popular offerings like massage therapy, facials, waxing, or body wraps. This allows you to target unique keywords (like “Swedish massage in Seattle”) and gives Google more content to index. It also makes your site more user-friendly—clients can get all the info they need without scrolling through a wall of text.

### Speed and Mobile-Friendliness Matter

Most spa bookings happen on mobile, so your site needs to load quickly and look great on smaller screens. A slow or clunky website can frustrate visitors—and search engines take note. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can help you identify what's slowing your site down. Optimize images, use clean design, and keep your booking process smooth and straightforward to keep clients (and Google) happy.

## Track Your Performance

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdg8qovhjgv507k85qogvdq7)

SEO isn’t a “set it and forget it” strategy. To make sure your efforts are paying off, you need to track what’s working—and what isn’t. Monitoring your performance helps you make smarter decisions, refine your strategy, and see real results (like increased website traffic, higher Google rankings, and more online bookings).

### Google Analytics and Search Console Basics

Start with the two essentials: Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Google Analytics shows you who’s visiting your site, how they got there, and what pages they’re engaging with. This tells you whether your SEO is actually driving traffic—and if those visitors are sticking around or bouncing off.

Meanwhile, Google Search Console gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how your site performs in search results. You can see what keywords are bringing people to your site, which pages are getting the most clicks, and whether Google is having trouble indexing any of your content.

### Use Tools Like Moz, Ahrefs, or Ubersuggest for Deeper Insights

If you want to go beyond the basics, SEO tools like Moz, Ahrefs, or Ubersuggest can help you dig deeper. These platforms show you how your site ranks for specific keywords, track your backlink profile, spy on competitors, and identify opportunities to improve. Even a quick monthly check-in can reveal a lot about how your spa or [medical spa](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/medical-spa-software) is performing online—and what to focus on next.


## Content, Backlinks, and Reviews—Oh My!

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdg96a1ckhar07k8f1bzxout)

Once your website is optimized and your local SEO is in place, it’s time to power up your visibility with three major ranking boosters: content, backlinks, and reviews. These elements help search engines (and potential clients) see your spa as trustworthy, relevant, and worth visiting.

### Create Helpful, Keyword-Rich Content

Content is the heart of SEO. Blog posts, FAQs, service descriptions, and even your About page can help Google understand what your business offers. But more importantly, great content builds trust with your audience. Try writing blog posts that answer common client questions like “What’s the difference between microdermabrasion and a chemical peel?” or “How often should I get a massage?” Use natural, location-based keywords throughout—but always prioritize sounding human over robotic.

### Earn Quality Backlinks (Without Being Spammy)

Backlinks—links from other websites to yours—are like votes of confidence in the eyes of search engines. The more reputable sites linking to you, the better. For spa owners, this could mean getting featured in local lifestyle blogs, wellness directories, chamber of commerce listings, or collaborating with beauty influencers. Avoid sketchy link-building schemes or “buying” backlinks. Google’s smarter than that—and so are your clients.

### Encourage and Leverage Reviews

Online reviews are SEO gold. They boost your local ranking, build social proof, and help potential clients feel confident booking with you. Ask happy clients to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, and booking platforms like Vagaro or Fresha. Make it easy—send a follow-up text or email with a direct link. And don’t forget to respond to all reviews, good or bad. A professional, kind response shows you care and adds a layer of credibility to your business.

## The Journey to Turn Clicks into Clients

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmdf4l1y67til07k8jz9diqpl)

At the end of the day, SEO isn’t just about ranking higher—it’s about making real connections. Every optimized page, every thoughtful blog post, every review response is a step toward turning an online search into a loyal client sitting in your spa chair. And while SEO can feel overwhelming at first, it’s not about doing everything at once—it’s about doing the right things consistently.

Start with the basics: claim your local listings, tidy up your website, write content that helps and educates, and track your progress. From there, keep building. SEO rewards patience, but more importantly, it rewards relevance, trust, and care—qualities spa professionals already bring to the table every day.

Whether you're a solo esthetician or managing a full-service wellness retreat, now's the time to manage and grow your business in confidence with a [complimentary 30-day trial](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/pricing) of Vagaro.

SEO for Spas: How to Get Found Online and Grow Your Clientele

If you’re wondering how to get more clients at your spa or looking for fresh spa marketing ideas that actually work—you're in the right place. 

Whether you're a solo esthetician, massage therapist, or run a full-service spa, effective marketing is key to filling your schedule and growing your revenue. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend all day on Instagram or run expensive ads. In fact, the best spa promotion ideas are the ones that feel genuine, strategic, and aligned with your brand. 

Here are 7 spa marketing strategies to help you attract new clients, build loyalty, and promote your spa business with ease. 

## 1. Use Descriptive Spa Service Names That Sell the Experience 

Instead of simply offering a “60-minute facial” or “Swedish massage,” use enticing, story-driven service names that highlight the benefits. 

**Why it works:** Clients are more likely to book when they can visualize how they’ll feel after the service. 

**Example spa service name ideas:**

- “Glow & Go Express Facial” 
- “Deep Sleep Aromatherapy Massage” 
- “Seasonal Radiance Facial – Featuring Vitamin C & Rose Quartz” 

**SEO Tip:** Use keywords like “anti-aging facial” or “stress-relief massage” in your descriptions for better search visibility. 


## 2. Offer Introductory Packages or First-Time Client Discounts 

One of the top spa marketing ideas for new client acquisition is to create a low-barrier entry point. A limited-time package or bonus add-on can be just the nudge someone needs to book that first appointment. 

**Examples:** 

- 15% off your first facial 
- Free scalp massage with your first massage session 
- New Client Glow Package: facial + LED treatment combo 

**Pro tip:** Use automated email marketing follow-ups (tools like Vagaro help with this!) to encourage rebooking after the first visit. 

## 3. Promote Your Spa During Wellness Holidays & Seasons 

Looking for spa promotion ideas you can plan in advance? Tie your offers to spa-friendly holidays or seasonal shifts. 

**Popular spa marketing dates:** 

- National Relaxation Day (August 15) 
- Valentine’s Day (couples packages) 
- Back-to-School De-stress Events 
- Winter Skin Recovery Facial (seasonal promos) 

**SEO Tip:** Blog posts or landing pages titled “Best Valentine’s Day Spa Packages” or “Winter Skincare Tips from a Spa Pro” can rank well with the right keywords like seasonal offers or spa packages. 

## 4. Showcase Your Spa’s Visual Appeal on Social Media 

Your spa is a visual experience—use that to your advantage! Create short videos or behind-the-scenes content that shows your space, tools, and techniques. 

**Ideas for spa content:** 

- Time-lapse of a treatment room reset 
- Quick tips from your esthetician 
- “Day in the Life” of a massage therapist 
- Product spotlight reels 

Use hashtags like #spabusiness, #facialtherapist, and #wellnessmarketing to improve reach on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Highlight any collaborations with **local businesses** to double your exposure. 

## 5. Collect and Share Client Testimonials 

Social proof is a powerful tool in spa business marketing. Highlight client experiences and results through testimonials, online reviews, or even before-and-after skincare photos (with permission). 

**Where to use testimonials:** 

- Google Business Profile 
- Instagram stories or highlights 
- Your booking site or homepage 
- Monthly email marketing newsletter 

**SEO Bonus:** Ask clients to mention the specific treatment they received—this can help your reviews show up in local searches like “best facial in [city].” 

## 6. Launch a Spa Membership or Loyalty Program 

Recurring revenue is a dream for any spa owner. A membership program helps keep your schedule full while encouraging long-term client relationships. 

**Spa membership ideas:** 

- Monthly facial or massage at a discounted rate 
- Loyalty points per visit or per dollar spent 
- VIP perks like early access to appointments or seasonal offers 

Promote your program through email marketing, social media, and at checkout to turn first-time clients into loyal regulars. 


## 7. Use Email Marketing to Stay Connected with Clients 

Email marketing remains one of the best ways to promote a spa business. It’s direct, cost-effective, and easy to automate. 

**What to send:** 

- Booking reminders 
- Monthly spa packages and promotions 
- Seasonal skincare tips 
- Birthday offers or anniversary rewards 

**Pro Tip:** Spa and [medical spa scheduling software](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/medical-spa-software) like Vagaro can automate these emails and even segment by service type, making your messaging more targeted and timely. 

## Final Thoughts: Spa Marketing Should Feel as Good as Your Services 

You don’t have to be a marketing guru to grow your spa. By combining intention with a few proven strategies—like standout service names, timely promotions, and client-focused content—you’ll not only attract more clients, but create a spa brand that truly shines. 

From leveraging email marketing to nurturing local business relationships and amplifying your presence on social media, every step you take builds trust and visibility. 

And remember, the best spa marketing ideas aren’t always flashy—they’re the ones that feel true to your brand and create lasting impressions. 

 

7 Spa Marketing Ideas to Get More Clients and Grow Your Business 

People—clients—are craving connection more than ever these days. And you, as a [wellness professional](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software), are in a unique position to offer more than just services. You can create meaningful experiences. With summer peeking over the horizon, now’s the perfect time to host wellness events that turn one-time clients into lifelong advocates. 

Even if it’s a mini in-studio retreat, a sound bath under the stars, or a mindful movement workshop, the key is creating space for people to recharge and connect, with themselves and each other.

So why do these smaller gatherings leave such a lasting impression? Let’s take a closer look!

## Small Events Make a Big Impact

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmavpa4xweqfe07kbvztwnq1m)

Large expos and conventions have their place, no doubt, but smaller events offer a more personal touch. They feel more intimate. Afterall, clients are more likely to remember the beach yoga session that ended with herbal tea and laughter around a bonfire than some booth in a crowded hall. 

Aside from that, more tight-knit events often allow for:

### Stronger Client Relationships

Simply put, smaller events naturally allow for more face-to-face interaction. You’re not shouting over music or trying to stand out among a hundred vendors. You’re having real conversations, making eye contact, and sharing moments that stick. That extra time spent with each attendee builds trust—and trust is the foundation of any lasting client relationship.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Did you know?" text="Stanford Medicine asserts that having strong social connections may lead to a 50% increased chance of longevity, increased immune function, decreased inflammation, speedier recovery from illness, and maybe a longer life.<sup>1</sup>" />

### Deeper Brand Loyalty

When someone feels seen, heard, and valued, they’re more likely to stick around. Intimate events help clients associate your brand with personal growth, relaxation, or even just a great time. Whether it's a guided meditation surrounded by nature or a candle-making class in a cozy studio, small experiences become powerful emotional anchors, and that’s where brand loyalty lives.

### Organic Advocacy

People love to talk about experiences that feel special and unexpected. A small, thoughtfully planned event makes it easy for attendees to share your brand with friends, both in person and online. No need to ask for referrals or push hashtags—just genuine connection. And when that happens, clients will promote your business naturally!

## 15 Event Ideas to Try This Summer

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmavpihe5ex0x07kbfuzg5ici)

Summer is the perfect time to get creative with outdoor or hybrid experiences. Think easy, low-lift gatherings that bring a high vibe.

Some ideas might be:

1. **Sunrise Yoga + Smoothie/Juice Bar Social**
Start the day with movement and a refreshing smoothie—clients leave energized and grateful.

2. **Mini Mindfulness Retreats**
Host a local 1-day getaway with guided meditation, journaling, and nature walks for a total mental reset.

3. **Seasonal Wellness Workshops**
Offer sessions on nutrition, skincare, or self-care tailored to the summer season.

4. **Livestreamed Sessions**
Bring your virtual community together for group meditations, breathwork, or fitness challenges.

5. **DIY Herb Garden Class**
Teach guests how to plant and care for a mini herb garden they can use at home.

6. **Sunset Sound Bath**
Unwind with a calming sound experience outdoors as the sun sets—magic guaranteed.

7. **Beach Bonfire Circles**
Create a cozy, no-pressure space for conversation, intention setting, and connection.

8. **Outdoor Art + Sip Night**
Combine creativity and community with a painting or pottery class paired with mocktails or wine.

9. **Full Moon Gathering**
Lean into lunar energy with journaling, breathwork, and intention-setting under the stars.

10. **Wellness Walk + Talk**
Host a guided nature walk where attendees can connect, reflect, and get moving together.

11. **Picnic & Product Chat**
A relaxed park meetup featuring light snacks and a soft pitch of your summer-ready offerings.

12. **Bodycare Making Workshop**
Let attendees create their own scrubs, oils, or body sprays using natural ingredients.

13. **Backyard Mini Market**
Team up with other local small businesses for a curated open-air shopping and wellness day.

14. **Community Ice Bath or Cold Plunge Event**
Tap into the recovery and resilience trend with a guided plunge session.

15. **Gratitude Journaling Brunch**
Wrap journaling prompts, delicious food, and community sharing into one feel-good gathering.

Regardless of how you choose to bring your wellness community together, it might feel daunting pulling it all together—which is totally understandable. That’s exactly why we’re here to help!

## Organize It All with Vagaro

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmavo4tpkdogx07kb3kgfcrcv)

Planning an event can feel like a lot—scheduling, payments, reminders, follow-ups—it adds up fast. But you don’t need to be a logistics expert to pull off something meaningful. Vagaro’s built-in tools help you handle the details so you can focus on the actual experience. Here’s how it can make your event smoother from start to finish:

- **Sell Tickets Online**: Use Vagaro’s customizable service menu to sell tickets just like an appointment—set the time, cap the attendees, and accept payment up front.

- **Host Virtual Attendees**: Want to go hybrid? Livestream your event straight from the platform and reach clients who can’t be there in person.

- **Promote with Email & Text Marketing**: Use Vagaro’s built-in [marketing tools](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/marketing-2) to invite your regulars and spread the word with event-specific promos.

- **Automate Reminders & Check-Ins**: Keep things smooth on event day with [automated confirmations](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/notifications) and check-in options.

Once the logistics are taken care of, you’re free to focus on what truly matters: creating meaningful moments for your community, your clients, and yourself. Because in the end, those connections matter far more than the technical details.

## A Brighter, Healthier Tomorrow

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmavpna6fyxp207lmffveyc6c)

Let’s be clear, you don’t need to rent a retreat center in Bali to build brand loyalty. You just need intention, community, and the right tools. This summer, create something special. Give your clients a memory, a connection, and a reason to keep coming back.

**Sources**: 

1. [https://www.reemployability.com/](https://www.reemployability.com/)

How to Host Your First Wellness Event: Create a Community That Thrives

Ever feel like no amount of rest leaves you feeling truly recharged? You’re doing everything right from getting sleep, taking breaks, to practicing self-care. But somehow, even putting one foot in front of the other feels like a chore. You may be experiencing **compassion fatigue**.  

In the beauty and wellness industry, it’s common for clients to open up about their emotions, traumas, and personal struggles. They trust you, and that trust is meaningful. But constantly absorbing the weight of others’ experiences, even with the best intentions, can be emotionally taxing.  

That’s why it’s essential to teach yourself and your team how to protect your energy and prevent [burnout](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/vagaros-tips-for-better-work-life-balance) while still serving others with care. It’s very common for service providers to pick up on a clients energy—especially when the conversations run deep. Whether it’s negativity, [anxiety](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/wellness/managing-anxiety-at-work-as-a-team-in-a-salon), or emotional heaviness, it can stick with you long after the appointment ends.  

In this article, we’ll cover simple, effective ways to clear your energy and create healthy emotional boundaries without losing your compassion or kindness. Because supporting others shouldn’t come at the cost of your own well-being.  

## What is Compassion Fatigue and Why Does It Happen? 

Compassion fatigue is a form of emotional exhaustion that results from consistently absorbing others’ emotions, pain, or trauma. It’s common among service-based professionals, like estheticians, hairstylists, massage therapists, and wellness practitioners, who are naturally empathetic.  

It’s not just emotional, its neurological too.  

## The Science Behind Physical Touch  

Touch-based services are a powerful form of communication. Physical touch has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes connection, calmness, and trust. This is great for building strong client relationships, but there’s a tradeoff. Touch also triggers shifts in cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. [1] 

So while you’re helping your clients relax, your body is having a hormonal experience of its own. Over time, this physiological exchange can lead to fatigue, mood changes, irritability, and disconnection; especially when combined with frequent exposure to emotionally intense conversations.[2] 

![anna-ruth-folk-Z9WElt4tY_s-unsplash.jpg](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmacos7kn25vf07mxq3nahqj0)

## How To Set Healthy Boundaries to Protect Your Energy 

Here’s the good news: you can be kind, compassionate, and professional without sacrificing your peace. Creating boundaries means setting a foundation for long-term success and wellbeing.  

To continue serving your clients effectively while safeguarding your well-being, consider implementing the following techniques: 

### Block Regular Time Off (Yes, Actually Block It!) 

Let’s start with the most important (and most overlooked) strategy: breaks.  

With [Vagaro’s calendar feature](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/calendar), you can easily block personal time off lunch, walks, breathwork, or even a power nap between appointments. Set recurring blocks to make rest part of your routine, not a reward.  

*Pro Tip: Set a buffer between emotionally intense clients using Vagaro’s “[Cleanup Time](https://support.vagaro.com/hc/en-us/articles/10805345263003-Manage-Cleanup-Time-After-a-Class-or-Workshop)” feature to give yourself a moment to regroup. *

### Offer “Silent Services” or Non-Verbal Appointments 

Some clients love to talk. Others are secretly hoping for quiet. Either way, offering “Silent Services” as an option on your service menu (yep, you can customize that as an [add-on](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/beauty/add-value-add-ons-salon-barbershop) service) empowers both of you.  

This gives introverted clients a relaxing, no-pressure experience while it gives you a chance to conserve your emotional energy while doing amazing work.  

### Clear Your Energy Between Clients 

Incorporate rituals such as deep breathing, meditation, or even a brief walk between appointments to reset your emotional state. This doesn’t have to mean sage and crystals (unless that’s your vibe). Even a 2-minute pause can reset your emotional state.  

### Educate Your Team 

If you manage a team, talk openly about compassion fatigue. Foster an environment where team members are trained to recognize signs of compassion fatigue and are encouraged to set personal boundaries. Host monthly check-ins to discuss well-being, emotional load, and tools to manage stress. If your team uses [Vagaro Connect](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/how-to-improve-team-communication), send out monthly reminders or inspiration to your staff- like mini wellness challenges, journaling prompts, or guided audio meditations.  

### Automate and Delegate What You Can  

Compassion fatigue doesn’t always come from people. Sometimes, the grind of day-to-day admin tasks wears you down, too. Let tech take the load:  
- **Online Booking:** Reduces emotional labor from phone calls and DMs 
- **Client Notes & History:** Keep emotional and treatment context stored, so you don’t have to care it mentally between visits. 
- **Recurring appointments:** Keeps your calendar full without the pressure of rebooking convos.  

*Pro Tip: Use Vagaro’s [Reports](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/the-3-reports-you-need-to-stay-on-top) and Dashboard features to measure your time and income and use that data to better plan your work-life balance.*

![AdobeStock_262006074.jpeg](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cmacowc6e2ac007n8sn3etx36)

## Embracing Compassion With Care 

Being a service provider means you give a lot of yourself. Your skills, your time, and your emotional support are just the top things you share with your clients. But giving without replenishing isn’t sustainable.  

Remember, setting boundaries doesn’t diminish your compassion. But it does enhance your capacity to care sustainably. By understanding the neurological impacts of your work and implementing protective strategies, you ensure longevity in your career and continued excellence in client care.  

Because the best version of yourself isn’t the most booked—it's the most balanced.  

 

**Resources:** 
1. [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/finding-new-home/202112/why-everyone-could-benefit-more-touch-in-their-life](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/finding-new-home/202112/why-everyone-could-benefit-more-touch-in-their-life ) 
2. [https://positivepsychology.com/compassion-fatigue/](https://positivepsychology.com/compassion-fatigue/) 

The Business of Boundaries: Avoiding Compassion Fatigue

**[Operating a spa](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/spa-software) isn’t easy, no doubt. But that doesn’t mean that it needs to be complicated.** Running a spa—or any business—means juggling tons of moving parts. At that same time, there’s one thing that must remain constant: the software that supports your business. 

Thing is, there’s quite a few different options out there.

## What IS Spa POS Software?

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cma5nfxt6vfa907n3mxmbzzmj)

Before we dive in, keep in mind: *not all spa POS software are equal*. However, there are a few core functions and features that most solutions have. And if they don't, you should probably rethink their candidacy for your spa software choice.

### Core Functions

**Point of Sale (POS) Transactions**: Facilitates seamless checkout experiences by processing payments, applying discounts, splitting bills, adding tips, and printing or emailing receipts. Supports credit/debit cards, contactless payments, gift cards, and more.

**Appointment Scheduling**: Allows clients to book appointments online and helps spa staff manage schedules efficiently.

**Inventory Management**: Tracks products and supplies, manages stock levels, and automates reordering.

**Payment Processing**: Handles transactions securely, accepts various payment methods, and integrates with accounting systems.

**Customer Management**: Maintains client profiles, booking history, preferences, and contact information for personalized service.

**Employee Management**: Manages staff schedules, tracks performance, and assigns tasks.

**Employee & Commission Tracking**: Links services and sales to staff members for accurate commission tracking and performance insights, managed directly through the POS system.

**Reporting and Analytics**: Generates reports on sales, inventory, staff performance, and client trends to inform business decisions.

**Marketing and Loyalty Programs**: Supports marketing campaigns, manages customer loyalty programs, and sends targeted promotions.

**Integration Capabilities**: Integrates with other business tools like accounting software, CRM systems, and online booking platforms.

**Security and Compliance**: Ensures data security, PCI compliance for payment processing, and safeguards client information.

**Mobile Accessibility**: Allows access to key functions on mobile devices for flexibility and on-the-go management.

Let’s look at some real-world examples of how gym POS software works in action:

### Spa POS Scenarios

1. **Serenity Glow Spa** is a boutique day spa located in a busy downtown area, offering facials, massage therapy, and skincare products. The owner, Maya, was juggling separate tools for scheduling, payments, and product inventory, which often led to double bookings and missed revenue opportunities. After switching to spa POS software:

**How Spa POS Helps**:

- **Integrated Payments**: Checkout is seamless with contactless payments and tipping built in—making the process faster and more professional.

- **Online Booking & Calendar Sync**: Clients can easily schedule facials or massages online, with real-time calendar updates preventing double bookings.

- **Membership & Package Management**: The system automatically tracks package usage and membership renewals, sending reminders to clients and freeing up staff from manual tracking.

- **Retail Inventory Alerts**: Maya gets low-stock alerts for popular skincare products, helping her restock in time to keep retail sales flowing.

**Outcome**: Serenity Glow Spa runs more smoothly with fewer scheduling issues, better retail management, and a polished client experience that drives repeat visits and revenue.

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cma5n54kpv0me07n3k5garjmf)

2. **Tranquil Elements Wellness Center** is a mid-sized spa offering massage therapy, acupuncture, and holistic treatments. Spa manager Javier was overwhelmed managing bookings, staff shifts, and retail sales across spreadsheets and paper files. Once they upgraded to a modern spa POS:

### How Spa POS Helps:

- **Revenue & Performance Reports**: Built-in analytics show service trends, top-performing staff, and revenue breakdowns, empowering Javier to make data-backed decisions.

- **Centralized Dashboard**: Javier can now oversee appointments, staff schedules, and product sales from one place, cutting down on time spent switching systems.

- **Automated Staff Scheduling**: The software builds efficient staff rosters based on appointment volume, ensuring coverage during peak hours without overspending on labor.

- **Client Profiles & Preferences**: The system tracks client history, treatment notes, and product preferences—allowing the team to deliver a truly personalized experience.

**Outcome**: Tranquil Elements operates more efficiently and provides a luxury experience that feels both personal and professional—boosting client loyalty and revenue growth.

## Key Features and Considerations

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cma5nd7kdvcc007n35gxdgyfh)

As you’ve seen, spa POS software brings a wide range of benefits—from reducing front-desk stress to enhancing your clients’ overall experience. Here's what to keep in mind when evaluating spa software solutions:

### Online Booking & Calendar Management

A seamless online booking experience is essential for today’s spa clients. Look for a system that lets guests book treatments, packages, and consultations 24/7—whether from their phones or your website. The best systems offer real-time availability, automated confirmations and reminders, and the ability to manage multiple rooms, staff, and services.

Bonus points if it integrates with Google Calendar, Outlook, or iCal to sync appointments and avoid double bookings.

### Client Management

A luxury spa experience depends on personalization. Your POS software should allow you to store and access detailed client profiles—including visit history, treatment preferences, intake forms, allergies, and notes from past appointments.

Look for tools like automated follow-ups, birthday promos, loyalty tracking, and the ability to send personalized messages. These features help you build client relationships and keep them coming back.

### Point-of-Sale (POS)

From service payments to retail sales, your POS system should make transactions fast, secure, and flexible. Choose software that accepts a wide range of payment types, including cards, mobile wallets, and gift certificates.

It should also track product inventory, generate receipts or invoices, and offer clear financial reporting. A strong POS system ensures spa managers can easily monitor revenue and retail performance.

### Employee Management

Smooth staffing is critical for a relaxing spa experience. Your POS software should support scheduling, time tracking, commission management, and payroll integration.

Some systems also offer performance metrics or tip tracking, making it easy to manage both back-of-house and service staff. A clean, centralized system reduces administrative load and keeps your team focused on client care.

### User-Friendliness

The best spa software is beautiful, intuitive, and easy for both staff and guests to use. Whether it’s checking in a client or ringing up a retail item, every interaction should feel effortless.

Look for platforms with a gentle learning curve and built-in training or onboarding resources. The less time you spend figuring things out, the more time you have to focus on service.

### Customer Support

Issues can arise—even in the calmest environments. Choose a provider with responsive customer support via phone, chat, or email, and a solid knowledge base for quick self-service solutions.

Reliable support means fewer disruptions to your day and happier clients overall.

### Integrations

Your spa POS should work well with the rest of your tools. From accounting software to email marketing platforms, integrations reduce manual work and create a more connected system.

Check whether your chosen POS plays well with your existing tech stack to avoid data silos and double entry.

### Cost Considerations

Your spa POS should match your business size, service range, and budget. Many platforms offer tiered pricing—entry-level plans for solo practitioners and more robust options for multi-room or multi-location spas.

Don’t pay for features you won’t use. Start with what fits your current needs and scale as your spa grows.

### Pricing Structures

Spa POS pricing typically follows a subscription model (monthly or annual), with updates and customer support included. Some systems offer one-time licenses, but those may lack ongoing upgrades or assistance. Subscription-based systems often provide more flexibility and scalability, which is key for a growing spa business.

## Spa POS Software is an Investment

Investing in spa POS software isn’t just an expense—it’s a step toward delivering exceptional client experiences and running a more efficient business. The right system helps you save time, reduce errors, and elevate every touchpoint, from booking to checkout. With automation, personalization, and insightful reporting, you'll not only meet client expectations—you’ll exceed them.

## Top 7 Spa POS Software Alternatives

### [Vagaro](https://www.vagaro.com/pro)

Overview: Vagaro excels with its robust online booking, marketing tools, and POS integration. It’s perfect for small, medium-sized, and enterprise spas seeking a comprehensive and streamlined system that supports both client engagement and business growth without complexity.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: 4.5/5 (395 reviews)

G2: 4.6/5 (272 reviews)

Capterra: 4.7/5 (3,482 reviews)" />

**Price**: Starts at $30/mo.

**Free Trial**: Yes

**CC Processing Rates**: **3.5% + $0.15** per keyed-in transaction, **2.6% + 10¢** per swipe, dip, tap transaction 

### [Square](https://squareup.com/)

**Overview**: A popular all-in-one POS solution for small businesses, Square offers an easy setup, sleek hardware options, and robust tools for payments, inventory, and appointment booking—ideal for solo practitioners or smaller spas looking for flexibility without heavy costs.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: 4.3/5 (6,098 reviews)

G2: 4.7/5 (811 reviews)

Capterra: 4.7/5 (311 reviews)" />

**Price**: $0-$29+/mo

**Free Trial**: Yes

**CC Processing Rates**: **2.6% + 15¢** per tap, dip, or swipe, **3.5% + 15¢** per keyed-in transaction

### [Clover](https://www.clover.com/)

**Overview**: Clover provides customizable POS hardware and software designed for growing businesses. With strong payment processing and third-party integrations, it’s a good fit for spas that want scalable features and a variety of hardware options.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: 2.6/5 (1,791 reviews)

G2: 3.8/5 (81 reviews)

Capterra: 3.8/5 (549 reviews)" />

**Price**: N/A

**Free Trial**: Free quote available upon request.

**CC Processing Rates**: Quote available upon request.

### [Phorest](https://www.phorest.com/)

**Overview**: Phorest is a salon and spa management software known for its marketing tools, loyalty features, and client retention capabilities. It’s tailored for beauty businesses looking to strengthen client relationships and grow through repeat business.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: 3.7/5 (64 reviews)

G2: 4.4/5 (30 reviews)

Capterra: 4.8/5 (380 reviews)" />

**Price**: Quote available upon request.

**Free Trial**: N/A

**CC Processing Rates**: Available upon quote/request.

### [GlossGenius](https://glossgenius.com/)

**Overview**: GlossGenius combines beautiful design with intuitive booking, payment, and client management tools. Created with solo beauty pros and small teams in mind, it simplifies daily operations while offering a polished brand experience.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: N/A

G2: 4.0/5 (4 reviews)

Capterra: 4.8/5 (213 reviews)" />

**Price**: $24/mo-$148/mo

**Free Trial**: Yes

**CC Processing Rates**: Flat **2.6%** processing rate

### [Boulevard](https://get.joinblvd.com/)

**Overview**: Boulevard delivers high-end appointment scheduling and client management for premium salons and spas. With a focus on personalization, automated workflows, and seamless integrations, it’s best suited for modern businesses that prioritize a luxury client experience.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: N/A

G2: 4.3/5 (76 reviews)

Capterra: 4.6/5 (325 reviews)" />

**Price**: $195/mo-$410/mo (annual and monthly plans available)

**Free Trial**: Demo available.

**CC Processing Rates**: Starting at **2.65%** or as low as 1% with Boulevard Offset.

### [Fresha](https://www.fresha.com/)

**Overview**: Fresha is a commission-free booking and POS system that’s free to use and designed to help beauty and wellness businesses grow. With strong appointment scheduling, payment tools, and marketplace exposure, it’s a smart choice for budget-conscious professionals.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Verified User Reviews" text="Trustpilot: 4.5/5 (2,517 reviews)

G2: 4.4/5 (4 reviews)

Capterra: 4.8/5 (1,437 reviews)" />

**Price**: Free for one-person businesses, $9.95/mo per team member

**Free Trial**: 14-day free trial available

**CC Processing Rates**: **2.79% + $0.20** per transaction (online), **2.29% + $0.20** per transaction (in-person)

## Final Checklist: How to Choose the Right Spa POS Software

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cma5n97zs1hh607k5lziv8eja)

Choosing the right spa POS software is about more than just taking payments—it’s about supporting seamless experiences, efficient operations, and luxurious service delivery. Whether you're a boutique day spa or a growing wellness center, your software should scale with you and meet your clients’ high expectations.

Use this checklist to ensure the system you choose aligns with your business goals and delivers a relaxing experience—for both staff and clients.

### Payment Processing Integration

- Is the system capable of handling secure, seamless transactions—including tips and split payments?

- Does it accept credit cards, gift cards, prepayments, and contactless methods?

### User-Friendly Interface

- Is the interface easy for your front desk team and service providers to navigate?

- Does it provide a smooth and polished booking experience for clients?

### Customization Options

- Can you tailor services, staff profiles, and booking rules to reflect your spa’s offerings?

- Does it support flexible setup for treatments, packages, and membership tiers?

### Appointment & Scheduling Management

- Can clients easily book, reschedule, or cancel appointments online or through mobile?

- Does it include automated reminders, waitlists, and room/resource management?

### Client Management Features

- Can you store client intake forms, preferences, visit history, and notes securely?

- Does it support loyalty programs, personalized outreach, and targeted promotions?

### Reporting & Analytics

- Are reports available to monitor sales, service performance, and customer retention?

- Can you customize reports to focus on specific KPIs or business trends?

### Inventory Management

- Can you manage backbar and retail product stock in one place?

- Does the system send low-stock alerts or automate reorder processes?

### Marketing Tools

- Does it offer built-in email and text marketing tools to promote services and specials?

- Can you track client engagement and campaign effectiveness?

### Compliance & Security

- Is the software HIPAA-compliant and designed to keep sensitive client data safe?

- Are staff permissions and access controls available?

### Customer Support

- Is live support available when you need it—ideally 24/7?

- Are there educational resources like tutorials or help articles?

### Scalability

- Can the software grow with your spa as you expand locations or service offerings?

- Are integrations or advanced features available as your needs evolve?

### Cost-Effectiveness

- Does the price reflect the value and features provided?

- Are core features included, or are essential tools locked behind add-on fees?

Above all, your software shouldn’t just help you manage your business, it should empower you and your team to home in on your craft while boosting your bottom line.


The Best Spa POS Software of 2025

Just like heating pads, hot stones, and essential oils, SOAP notes are an essential tool for massage therapists. In fact, they elevate the services you provide even more than those other resources. They do this by helping you document each session, track progress over time, and support personalized, consistent care.

You have a healer’s touch and a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system. But perhaps your notetaking or documentation abilities weren’t fully developed during your massage education and certification. That’s okay. Below, we’ll break down SOAP notes section-by-section, with samples that teach you how to write massage therapy SOAP notes. You’ll also find sample SOAP notes tailored to relaxation and therapeutic massage sessions.

## Introduction to Massage Therapy SOAP Notes
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwze4aun07n0ffseaedr)
Massage therapy SOAP notes are a crucial component of a massage therapist’s practice, serving as a standardized method for documenting client sessions, tracking progress, and communicating with other healthcare providers. 

The SOAP note format, which stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan, provides a clear and concise structure for recording client information, making it an essential tool for massage therapists to document a patient's: 

* Diagnosis 

* Symptoms (physical and/or emotional) 

* Treatment  

* Progress toward therapy 

By utilizing SOAP notes, massage therapists can ensure that they are providing high-quality care, enhancing patient outcomes, and maintaining accurate records. This structured approach not only helps in delivering personalized treatments but also supports the continuity of care when collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

Remember that progress notes, such as SOAP notes, follow a standard format. [**Massage software,**](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/massage-software) like Vagaro’s, offers an intuitive SOAP note feature that breaks this format down simply.  

(Note: There are actually three types of SOAP notes you can add with Vagaro, which this [**support article**](https://support.vagaro.com/hc/en-us/articles/11954561114523-Fill-Out-a-SOAP-Note-From-a-Customer-s-Profile) explains how to use.) 

### Are SOAP Notes Necessary for Massage Therapists? 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwyh4au907n0e4uwjtfq)
The SOAP framework offers a methodical approach to track a client’s healing journey. This format enables you to document client-reported discomfort, your professional palpation findings, and applied bodywork techniques. 

By maintaining these detailed records, you’ll preserve essential information about tissue conditions, pressure preferences, and response patterns. This enables you to deliver personalized and effective manual therapy. 

The benefits of using SOAP notes in massage therapy are numerous:

* **Continuation of Care**: SOAP notes help massage therapists track client progress and the effectiveness of the treatment plan, and make necessary adjustments based on patient progress.

* **Clear Communication**: SOAP notes facilitate communication with other healthcare providers. This is particularly important when clients are receiving treatments from multiple providers, such as physical therapists or chiropractors.

* **Organization**: SOAP notes help massage therapists to stay organized, reducing the risk of errors and improving the overall efficiency of their practice.

* **Legal Compliance:** Thorough SOAP documentation serves as professional protection, providing evidence of appropriate, standards-based care if disputes arise.

* **Profressionalism**: By using SOAP notes, massage therapists can also demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality care, which can lead to increased client satisfaction and loyalty.

* **Informed Clients:** SOAP notes provide rationale for your techniques, enabling client understanding and building trust in your approach.

With that, let’s dive into what each SOAP note section entails, and how to write them.

## Subjective 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahx008o200dlq4pm03euj)
The subjective section of a massage SOAP note documents the client’s reported concerns and background. It captures self-described tension, pain, and bodily sensations in his or her own words. This section records consultation discussions and may include the client’s exact words.

The purpose of gathering subjective information is to identify your client’s primary areas of discomfort or concern. Keep in mind that clients may present multiple areas needing attention, and they might not immediately mention their most significant issue. Ask targeted questions about pain levels, movement limitations, stress factors, and previous bodywork experiences.

Doing so, you should uncover:

* Your client’s description of muscle tension, pain, or discomfort

* Physical symptoms like limited range of motion, postural issues, or tenderness

* Recent activities that may be affecting your client’s muscular condition

* Your client’s stress levels, exercise patterns, daily movement habits & self-care routines

* Relevant health history, such as injuries, surgeries, and current medications

Remember to include only relevant information. Use direct quotes from your client or important feedback about their comfort, sensation, or response to previous treatments. Always set these quotes apart with quotation marks.

## Objective 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahx034auv07n05uwh6uql)
The objective section records *observable and measurable* client data. Massage therapists use it to document physical findings during assessment and treatment.

Physical examination findings are part of the objective observations made by healthcare professionals when documenting patient care.

As a bodywork professional, note things like the client’s:

* Posture

* Movement patterns

* Tissue quality

* Muscle tone

* Areas of tenderness

* Visible signs like redness or swelling

Stick to factual observations. Document only what you can see, feel, or measure through techniques like range of motion testing, postural assessment, and palpation findings without introducing personal interpretations or judgments.

## Assessment 
The Assessment section integrates subjective reports and objective findings to detail the patient's condition. It helps form your clinical impression of the client’s musculoskeletal condition.

This section may include a summary of the client’s discomfort patterns and relevant physical history. You can document your professional insights on tissue quality, movement restrictions, and areas of dysfunction. Also, include progress toward therapeutic goals like increased range of motion or reduced pain levels.

## Plan 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwxp8o1c0dlq8dmpmb6r)
The Plan section of your SOAP note outlines upcoming steps in your client’s massage treatment. This field should include specific bodywork techniques to be applied, treatment areas requiring focus, and recommended session frequency.

A detailed massage therapy plan is crucial for tracking the client's progress and ensuring thorough documentation for insurance billing.

Document your intended pressure levels, modalities (such as deep tissue, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy), and any supplementary approaches like hot stone or cupping. Include short-term goals (reducing specific trigger points) and long-term objectives (improving overall shoulder mobility). List any self-care recommendations such as stretches, hydrotherapy, or movement practices for between sessions.

## How To Write SOAP Notes  
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwyn8o1p0dlq9n3lyv98)
Now let’s put everything together. Here is a simple example of what SOAP notes may look like for a massage therapist. Note the specific details and the language used.

**Date/Time**: May 14th, 2025, 1 p.m.

**Client Name**: Melissa Greene

**Therapist Name**: Rose Walker

**Session Length**: 60 minutes

### Subjective 

*Client, Melissa G., complains of tension headaches and upper back discomfort. She says, "My shoulders feel like they're up to my ears all day long, and I can't seem to relax them." She reports increased stiffness after long workdays at the computer, saying, "I notice the pain gets worse by Wednesday each week."*  

*Melissa reports that the headaches have been occurring daily for the past two weeks and are often accompanied by neck stiffness. She rates the pain as a 6 out of 10 and mentions that it worsens in the afternoon.*

*We discussed his workplace ergonomics, stress levels, daily movement patterns, and how these factors might be contributing to his muscle tension and discomfort.* 

(In this example, the massage therapist records the client's self-reported symptoms and lifestyle context. The client's description of her symptoms, including frequent headaches and neck pain, provides essential context for effective diagnosis and treatment.) 

### Objective 

*During the intake, Melissa presented with observable data such as elevated shoulders and a forward head posture, suggesting postural strain. Noticeable muscle tension was observed in the upper shoulders and along the neck.*

*Gentle palpation revealed areas of tightness in the upper trapezius and along the sides of the neck, with sensitivity noted near the right shoulder blade. Range of motion in the neck was slightly limited when turning to the right, compared to the left. Melissa expressed mild discomfort when moderate pressure was applied to the base of the skull, indicating possible tension in the suboccipital area.*

(In this example, the massage therapist records the client’s observable physical presentation and assessment findings. These details provide objective evidence of the client’s musculoskeletal condition.)

### Assessment 

*Based on Melissa’s self-report and the therapist’s clinical findings during the session, the client appears to be holding tension related to ongoing stress, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Melissa mentioned experiencing restlessness and occasional difficulty sleeping, which may be contributing to overall muscle fatigue and reduced relaxation.*

*The therapist’s impression is that while these concerns are not currently severe, they are impacting Melissa’s ability to fully unwind and may benefit from regular massage therapy to support relaxation, improve sleep quality, and promote overall wellness.*

(In this example, the therapist reviews the client’s self-reported concerns and physical presentation during the session. They use this information to form a professional impression of the client’s overall wellness and areas of muscular tension or stress.)

### Plan 

*Melissa will continue receiving therapeutic massage weekly to support relaxation, reduce muscular tension, and improve posture. Sessions will focus on the neck, shoulders, and upper back, with gentle work around areas of sensitivity. The therapist recommended integrating light stretching and posture awareness between sessions, and Melissa agreed to try a short evening routine to help unwind before bed.*

*Follow-up appointments are crucial for ensuring continuation of care, evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment plan, and making necessary adjustments based on patient progress.*

*Together, they discussed the potential benefits of restorative movement, such as yoga or walking outdoors, to complement massage and support stress relief. Melissa expressed interest in exploring guided relaxation or breathwork, which may be introduced in future sessions if she feels comfortable.*

*The therapist will continue to build rapport and monitor Melissa’s areas of tension, adjusting techniques as needed to ensure comfort and progress toward her wellness goals*

(The example notes the recommended frequency and duration of massage sessions. Include both short- and long-term wellness goals, such as reducing tension, improving sleep, or enhancing relaxation. If applicable, list any suggested self-care practices between sessions, such as gentle stretches, hydration, or mindfulness exercises.)

*Disclaimer: These examples are intended for educational purposes only. Please consult your state licensing board or legal counsel for specific documentation requirements related to your massage therapy practice.*

## SOAP Notes Checklist for Massage Therapists 
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwyk4aub07n0fc8jl0mk)
You might be wondering if SOAP notes are essentially the same for all massage therapists. The short answer is—mostly, but not exactly.

While the basic SOAP structure remains consistent, the details and emphasis within each section may vary depending on the therapist’s approach, the setting (spa, clinical, or mobile), and the client’s specific goals or needs.

For example, in a spa setting, SOAP notes may focus more on relaxation, stress relief, and client comfort, while clinical notes might place greater emphasis on range of motion, injury recovery, or chronic pain management.

Writing effective SOAP notes is a crucial component of patient care and documentation. It ensures that each session is tailored to the client's unique needs and wellness goals.

Whatever your modality or specialty us, follow these key guidelines when writing SOAP notes:

* Make your SOAP notes concise, objective & relevant to your patient’s treatment plan. Straightforwardness makes for clear communication and accurate client records – both of which are essential for effective care.

* Ensure accuracy of dates, times, names & tenses. Avoid obscure abbreviations or colloquialisms. Use terminology recognized in the massage and adjacent wellness fields. You are potentially not the only person who may need to reference your SOAP notes.

* Be consistent. Use a standardized SOAP note format, making it easier to review and compare notes over time. 

* Always attribute patient statements with quotation marks and qualify subjective statements with evidence.

* Don’t erase or remove errors. Rather, use a strikethrough, identify that spot as an “error,” and correct it.

* Avoid moral judgments when describing your patient (i.e., if you think they “stubbornly refuse to stop physically compromising exercises” that they are “clearly too old to be doing.”)

* Write your SOAP notes promptly after the session to ensure accuracy and completeness. Take an extra few moments to review them when finished. (Scheduling software often.

By following these best practices, massage therapists can ensure that their SOAP notes are effective, efficient, and provide valuable insights into client care.

## HIPAA Compliance
![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm9nahwze4aul07n03u87buo9)
As healthcare providers, massage therapists are required to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPPA regulates the handling of protected health information (PHI). When creating and storing SOAP notes, massage therapists must ensure that they are following HIPAA guidelines, including:

* Using secure and encrypted digital storage solutions, 

* Limiting access to authorized personnel

* Obtaining client consent before sharing PHI with other healthcare providers

By prioritizing [HIPAA compliance](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/wellness/rejoice-wellness-providers-hipaa-compliance-is-here), massage therapists can protect client confidentiality, maintain trust, and avoid potential legal and financial consequences. Ensuring that all documentation practices align with HIPAA standards not only safeguards client information but also reinforces the therapist’s professionalism and commitment to ethical practice.

Proper client documentation not only reflects your professionalism as a therapist but also helps ensure each session is tailored to your client’s unique needs and wellness goals. While keeping SOAP notes may feel repetitive at times, they play a key role in providing consistent, high-quality care.

Vagaro’s HIPAA-compliant practice management software makes it easy to create, store, and access SOAP notes and other client documentation. Notes are securely saved to each client’s profile, so you can quickly reference session history and track progress over time.

Going paperless with Vagaro’s [digital forms](https://www.vagaro.com/learn/what-custom-forms-can-do-for-your-business) and EMR tools helps streamline your workflow—so you can spend less time on admin and more time caring for your clients. Start your [30-day trial](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/pricing), and experience everything else it can do for your business.

A Guide to SOAP Notes for Massage Therapists

Your [mental health clinic’s mission statement](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/mental-health-software) is the cornerstone of your practice and brand identity. It’s more than just a tagline—it’s a clear declaration of your purpose and the values that shape every aspect of your care.

Let’s explore the essential dos and don’ts of crafting a compelling mission statement and why having one is crucial. 

## Why Your Clinic NEEDS a Mission Statement

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8t9i53eksmf07lleg86zvxn)

A well-defined mission statement provides clarity, guides your practice’s decisions, and ensures your team is aligned with your core philosophy. It also attracts clients who resonate with your approach to mental health care.

An impactful mission statement helps your staff stay focused on shared goals, reinforcing the values and principles that define the client experience at your clinic.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Bonus!" text="Use our FREE mission statement builder to create a meaningful statement for your mental health clinic." />

In an industry where trust and credibility matter, a strong mission statement differentiates your clinic. It articulates your unique approach and fosters an environment where both clients and professionals feel supported.

Now, let’s dive into how you can develop a mission statement that genuinely reflects your clinic’s identity and purpose.

## How to Write a Mental Health Clinic Mission Statement

Crafting a meaningful mission statement takes careful thought and introspection. Start by defining the fundamental purpose of your clinic—why does it exist?

### Define Your Core Purpose

Your purpose is the guiding force behind everything your clinic does. It provides direction, clarity, and a sense of mission. Why did you establish your practice? What impact do you hope to make?

Perhaps your focus is on creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported. Maybe you prioritize evidence-based therapy, holistic wellness, or accessible mental health care for all.

Clearly stating your purpose also unifies your team, ensuring that everyone understands and upholds your clinic’s mission in their daily work.

### Identify Your Core Values

Your clinic’s values shape its culture and approach to care. More than just words, they influence how you interact with clients, structure treatment plans, and build trust within your community.

Do you emphasize inclusivity and accessibility? Are you committed to compassionate, client-centered care? Do you value innovation in mental health treatments?

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8t9kyz7kvk007llrzobfn8n)

Your values may include integrity, empathy, and holistic wellness. Or they may highlight strengths-based therapy and long-term healing. Take time to pinpoint what matters most to your clinic.

Clarifying these values ensures that your mission statement genuinely reflects the principles that drive your work forward.

### Highlight What Makes Your Clinic Unique

In a growing field, your clinic’s distinct approach helps set you apart. Consider what differentiates your services from others.

Do you offer specialized trauma therapy? Provide telehealth services for accessibility? Foster a judgment-free, stigma-free environment?

Highlighting your unique qualities in your mission statement adds depth and authenticity. Whatever makes your clinic stand out, be sure to communicate it clearly and compellingly.

### Keep It Concise and Meaningful

A powerful mission statement is straightforward and memorable. It should clearly express your clinic’s purpose, values, and unique qualities in a way that resonates with clients and staff alike.

Avoid overly complex language or industry jargon. Instead, aim for a statement that’s impactful, easy to understand, and reflective of your clinic’s ethos.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Important!" text="Some clinics choose to have both a detailed mission statement and a shorter, more digestible version for easy communication." />

A concise mission statement ensures potential clients quickly grasp what your clinic stands for. It should inspire trust, encourage engagement, and reinforce your commitment to mental well-being.

## Mental Health Clinic Mission Statement Examples

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8t9nzral3oa07llzdi2gx3v)

Here are 20 examples to help shape your clinic’s mission statement. Whether you prioritize holistic healing, evidence-based treatment, or community support, these samples can provide inspiration:

**Compassionate Care:** *"We provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive through expert mental health care."*

**Client-Centered Approach:** *"Our mission is to empower individuals on their mental health journey through personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based care."*

**Holistic Healing:** *"We integrate mind, body, and spirit to foster holistic well-being and long-term mental wellness."*

**Trauma-Informed Therapy:** *"Dedicated to helping individuals heal from trauma with empathy, expertise, and innovative therapeutic approaches."*

**Accessible Care:** *"We believe mental health care should be available to all, removing barriers and fostering inclusivity."*

**Empowerment-Focused:** *"Guiding individuals toward resilience and self-discovery through therapy, education, and compassionate support."*

**Community-Based:** *"We are more than a clinic—we’re a community of care, support, and healing for all who seek help."*

**Evidence-Based Treatment:** *"Committed to providing cutting-edge, research-backed mental health care tailored to each individual’s needs."*

**Lifelong Mental Wellness:** *"Helping clients cultivate mental resilience and well-being at every stage of life."*

**Judgment-Free Zone:** *"Creating a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported on their mental health journey."*

**Family-Focused:** *"Strengthening individuals and families through compassionate therapy and mental health education."*

**Diversity & Inclusion:** *"A welcoming clinic that celebrates diversity and ensures equitable access to quality mental health care."*

**Crisis Support:** *"Providing immediate and long-term care to individuals in crisis, ensuring they receive the help they need."*

**Growth-Oriented:** *"Fostering personal growth and mental well-being through innovative therapeutic methods."*

**Integrative Approach:** *"Blending traditional therapy with mindfulness, nutrition, and movement to support whole-person wellness."*

**Specialized Treatment:** *"Expert care for anxiety, depression, and trauma, tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs."*

**Children & Adolescents:** *"Supporting young minds with compassionate, developmentally appropriate mental health care."*

**Telehealth Services:** *"Bringing accessible, high-quality mental health care to clients wherever they are."*

**Strength-Based Therapy:** *"Helping individuals recognize and build upon their strengths to create lasting, positive change."*

**Healing Through Connection:** *"We believe in the power of relationships and connection to foster mental and emotional healing."*

Your clinic’s mission statement should capture the heart of what you do and why you do it. It serves as a guiding principle, helping you build trust with clients, align your team, and make decisions that support your overarching vision.

Write a Mental Health Clinic Mission Statement!

A proper [yoga](https://www.vagaro.com/pro/yoga-software) mission statement serves as a pillar of your brand and business’s identity. And it’s not just a few well-written words—it’s a clear declaration of your purpose and the values that guide your business.

Read along as we talk the do's and don'ts of yoga mission statements and why having one is so critical to your studio. Let’s jump in!

## Why You NEED a Mission Statement

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8j20szy6qh907n5fuok0uiw)

A well-crafted mission statement not only defines your goals but also guides your decisions and actions. It helps you stay focused and motivated while attracting clients who resonate with your yoga philosophy and values.

An effective yoga mission statement gives your team a clear sense of direction. It ensures everyone is aligned with your yoga objectives and approach.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Bonus!" text="Use our FREE mission statement builder to create the perfect yoga mission statement." />

In an industry that’s growing more competitive, a powerful mission statement sets you apart from other yoga studios in your area. It highlights what makes your practice unique. Plus, it fosters an environment where both clients and team members feel connected to your vision.

With that in mind, here’s how you can create a yoga mission statement that truly reflects your studio’s identity.

## How to Write a Yoga Mission Statement

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8j2c84n6zaq07n5pbz6ras2)

Crafting a compelling mission statement for your yoga studio requires some thoughtful inward reflection. The best way to start is by defining the core purpose of your business—why do you teach yoga? 

### Define Your Core Purpose

Your yoga studio's core purpose is the driving force behind everything you do. It gives your teaching direction, meaning, and clarity. This is the why behind your studio and how you aim to serve your students. It could be as simple as helping students cultivate mindfulness. Or it could be as aspirational as guiding individuals toward inner peace and self-discovery!

To define your core purpose, think about what makes your approach to yoga unique. Do you specialize in strength-building flows, meditative breathwork, or holistic healing? Or do you focus on creating personalized practices for long-term well-being? Knowing your purpose will help you craft a mission statement that resonates with your students.

A clearly stated purpose also provides your community with a shared intention. This ensures everyone understands what your yoga practice stands for. Plus, your team will know how and why their teaching contributes to a deeper, more meaningful experience.

### Identify Your Core Values

The values that drive your yoga studio build the foundation of your mission statement—they shape the culture and philosophy of your studio. Do you prioritize helping students deepen their practice? Are you committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive space? Or do you focus on blending mindfulness with physical well-being?

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8j27e7f6vz707n5ujm7accr)

Your core values might include things like balance, compassion, and authenticity. Or they might center on fostering inner peace and creating a safe space for students to explore their practice. These values are unique to you, so take the time to identify what truly matters.

When you clarify these values, you ensure that your mission statement reflects the deeper principles that guide your yoga practice.

### Emphasize What Makes You Unique

As of 2024, there are over 42,000 yoga and Pilates studios in the U.S. alone.<sup>1</sup> This is where your  uniqueness comes into play. Take some time to reflect on what sets your yoga practice apart from others. Is it your personalized approach that adapts to each student’s needs? Perhaps it’s your commitment to creating a welcoming, judgment-free space. Maybe it’s your expertise in a specific style, like Vinyasa flow, restorative yoga, or meditation.

Highlighting your uniqueness in your mission statement adds depth and personality. Whatever makes your yoga practice special, ensure your mission statement conveys it in a compelling way. (Don’t worry, we’ll show you some examples!)

Lastly, one of the most important aspects of creating a yoga mission statement is:

### Keep It Concise and Clear

While it’s important to fully capture the essence of your yoga studio, brevity is key when writing a mission statement. A strong mission statement should be clear enough for anyone to understand instantly. It’s your studio’s identity distilled into a few well-chosen words that leave a lasting impression.

When drafting your mission statement, focus on the core message you want to convey and avoid jargon or overly complex language. Your statement should be straightforward and to the point. It should emphasize what matters—your purpose, values, and what makes your yoga practice unique.

<BlogTipSnippet tipTitle="Important!" text="Some yoga studios may choose to dedicate an entire page to their mission statement, and that’s perfectly fine. In fact, it can show existing or potential students that you're genuinely committed to your purpose and values. Keep in mind, these same studios typically create a shorter, more concise version for easier sharing and impact." />

The power of conciseness lies in its ability to resonate with people immediately. In a world where attention spans are growing shorter, you want your mission statement to click with students right after they read it. It should inspire them to join a class, return again, or recommend you to others. So, ensure that every word counts and that your statement is impactful enough to inspire action.

## 20 Yoga Mission Statement Examples

![](https://us-west-2.graphassets.com/AalLHDRueT6SDLkGLppQVz/cm8j2gb0d72fs07n51dyfocbe)

Here are 20 yoga mission statement examples to get inspired! They range from grounding, values-driven practices to transformative, results-oriented experiences.

Consider what resonates most with your values and the kind of impact you want to make for your clients. A great mission statement will be specific to your studio, so make it personal—make it yours!

**Classic & Timeless**:
"We empower individuals to reach their fullest potential through personalized yoga practice, fostering balance, confidence, and clarity at every step."

**Community-Focused**:
"More than a yoga studio—we’re a sanctuary for connection, growth, and support, helping students navigate their journey in a welcoming and inclusive space."

**Modern & Trendy**:
"We blend modern movement techniques with ancient wisdom to create yoga experiences that inspire transformation, mindfulness, and strength."

**Luxury Experience**:
"Elevating the yoga journey with high-end classes, expert instruction, and a tailored approach that prioritizes well-being and personal growth."

**Inclusive & Diverse**:
"Celebrating every individual’s path through yoga, we create a space where all backgrounds, abilities, and journeys are honored and supported."

**Precision Craftsmanship**:
"With a focus on mindful movement and self-awareness, we deliver yoga instruction that is precise, intentional, and designed for lasting transformation."

**Relaxed Atmosphere**:
"We offer a laid-back, stress-free yoga experience where movement meets mindfulness, allowing students to feel supported and at ease in every session."

**Bold & Unique**:
"We are committed to helping students unlock their fullest potential through yoga that is bold, innovative, and tailored to their unique needs and goals."

**Old-School Charm**:
"Blending time-honored yoga traditions with modern practice, we provide students with the perfect balance of classical wisdom and contemporary movement."

**Confidence Boosting**:
"Our goal is to help students feel strong and confident, offering yoga practices that enhance self-belief, inner peace, and resilience."

**Expert Yoga Instruction**:
"With years of experience, we offer expert yoga instruction that guarantees a tailored, high-quality practice to help you grow physically, mentally, and spiritually."

**Growth-Oriented**:
"Specializing in transformative yoga, we offer everything from strength-building flows to meditative breathwork, in an environment that fosters growth and clarity."

**Efficient & Results-Driven**:
"Providing students with effective yoga practices that cultivate strength, flexibility, and inner peace—without sacrificing the personal touch or attention to detail."

**Personalized Service**:
"We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, offering yoga experiences that are as distinct and powerful as your personal journey."

**High-Performance Tools**:
"We believe in using the best techniques and practices to help students achieve physical and mental balance, ensuring every session is impactful and transformative."

**Comfort & Care**:
"Our mission is to provide exceptional yoga instruction in a supportive and comfortable environment, where each student feels nurtured and leaves feeling renewed."

**Yoga Above the Rest**:
"We offer more than just classes—we provide a transformative experience that elevates well-being through expert guidance and intentional practice."

**Yoga for All**:
"No matter where you’re starting from, we offer a welcoming space where anyone can explore the benefits of yoga in a supportive and inclusive environment."

**Timeless & Trendy**:
"We offer a yoga experience that strikes the perfect balance between traditional wisdom and modern techniques, ensuring lasting transformation and well-being."

**Mastery of Craft**:
"We specialize in mastering the art of mindful movement, offering yoga instruction that combines expert guidance with a focus on continuous self-improvement."

Your yoga mission statement should embody the heart of your studio, capturing the essence of what you teach and why you share it. It’s your guiding light, and helps you connect with students, inspire your community, and make decisions that stay true to your vision.

**Sources**:

1. [https://www.ibisworld.com/](https://www.ibisworld.com/)

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