What is the difference between massage therapy and a spa massage?

Registered massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario. An RMT has completed a recognized training program (2200+ hours) and is registered with the College of Massage Therapists. RMT treatment includes assessment, diagnosis of soft-tissue conditions, and goal-oriented treatment. Spa massage focuses primarily on relaxation. RMTs can issue receipts accepted by insurance.

Does insurance cover massage therapy in Ottawa?

Most extended health benefit plans in Ontario cover registered massage therapy. Coverage limits, deductibles, and whether a referral is required vary by plan. You will receive a receipt from a Registered Massage Therapist that you can submit to your insurer. Contact your provider to confirm your specific coverage before booking.

How long is a massage therapy session?

Sessions are available in 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90-minute lengths. Your therapist uses the time for assessment, treatment and aftercare guidance. Longer sessions allow for more thorough work on multiple areas. Your therapist can recommend a session length based on your goals.

Can massage therapy help with back pain?

Massage therapy may help relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and restore mobility related to back pain. At Merivale Clinic, massage is often used alongside chiropractic care as part of a multidisciplinary approach. Suitability depends on the cause identified during assessment.

What techniques do your massage therapists use?

Our RMTs are trained in multiple techniques including deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, dynamic cupping, Swedish massage, and prenatal massage. Your therapist selects techniques based on your assessment, goals, and comfort level.

Do I need to undress for massage therapy?

You undress to your comfort level. Your therapist will step out while you prepare and will keep areas not being treated properly draped throughout the session. You can discuss any concerns about draping or modesty with your therapist before starting.

Registered Massage Therapy in Ottawa

Massage therapy

Registered massage therapy for muscle tension, soft-tissue concerns, and recovery.

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About massage therapy

Massage therapy at Merivale Clinic is provided by Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) who are members of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. Unlike spa massage, clinical massage therapy is a regulated health profession focused on assessment and treatment of soft-tissue concerns. Your therapist assesses your condition, develops a treatment plan, and uses techniques suited to your goals, whether that is relieving chronic tension, recovering from an injury, managing stress, or maintaining overall wellness. Techniques may include deep tissue work, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, dynamic cupping, and Swedish massage. Sessions range from 30 to 90 minutes. Because we are a multidisciplinary clinic, your massage therapist can coordinate with your chiropractor or acupuncturist when a combined approach may be helpful.

What to expect

1 A brief health intake and discussion of your goals and areas of concern
2 An assessment of posture, range of motion, or tissue quality as needed
3 A treatment plan matched to your comfort level and time available
4 Hands-on soft-tissue techniques during the session
5 Aftercare guidance including stretches, self-care, and recommendations for follow-up

Most extended health plans in Ontario cover registered massage therapy. We provide receipts with your RMT's registration number for insurance submission. Session lengths from 30 to 90 minutes are available. Please call to confirm current fees.

Common questions about massage therapy

What is the difference between massage therapy and a spa massage?: Registered massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario. An RMT has completed a recognized training program (2200+ hours) and is registered with the College of Massage Therapists. RMT treatment includes assessment, diagnosis of soft-tissue conditions, and goal-oriented treatment. Spa massage focuses primarily on relaxation. RMTs can issue receipts accepted by insurance.
Does insurance cover massage therapy in Ottawa?: Most extended health benefit plans in Ontario cover registered massage therapy. Coverage limits, deductibles, and whether a referral is required vary by plan. You will receive a receipt from a Registered Massage Therapist that you can submit to your insurer. Contact your provider to confirm your specific coverage before booking.
How long is a massage therapy session?: Sessions are available in 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90-minute lengths. Your therapist uses the time for assessment, treatment and aftercare guidance. Longer sessions allow for more thorough work on multiple areas. Your therapist can recommend a session length based on your goals.
Can massage therapy help with back pain?: Massage therapy may help relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and restore mobility related to back pain. At Merivale Clinic, massage is often used alongside chiropractic care as part of a multidisciplinary approach. Suitability depends on the cause identified during assessment.
What techniques do your massage therapists use?: Our RMTs are trained in multiple techniques including deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, dynamic cupping, Swedish massage, and prenatal massage. Your therapist selects techniques based on your assessment, goals, and comfort level.
Do I need to undress for massage therapy?: You undress to your comfort level. Your therapist will step out while you prepare and will keep areas not being treated properly draped throughout the session. You can discuss any concerns about draping or modesty with your therapist before starting.

Explore other services

Chiropractic care Assessment and hands-on care for the spine, joints, nerves, and movement. Acupuncture Fine-needle technique for pain management, headaches, and complementary care. Shockwave therapy Non-invasive acoustic-wave treatment for chronic tendon conditions and soft-tissue pain. Custom orthotics Custom-made foot orthotics for arch support, gait correction, and pain relief. CoreScore assessment Non-invasive nervous-system scanning used as part of a chiropractic assessment.

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