COVID-19 has meant uncertainty for everyone, especially small business owners. From how individual states are dealing with the pandemic to available financial relief resources to the advocacy efforts of industry stakeholders, keeping track of what’s going on can be overwhelming. AMTA’s been in the business of keeping massage therapists in touch since its inception, and to help massage therapists through these times, the association has created a special COVID-19 section on their website that’s regularly updated with the latest news. 

COVID-19 and the Massage Profession 

Regular updates on COVID-19, as well as the latest information on how the pandemic aspects massage therapists, their practices and the massage therapy profession, are available here. AMTA regularly updates its COVID-19 page with resources and information specific to massage therapists. The latest update includes important considerations massage therapists may refer to when their states allow them to choose if reopening is right for their practice at this time. “When your state allows you to reopen, whether or not you choose to return to work is a personal decision. There are many factors to consider when deciding to return to work, including how your community (and client base) has been affected, your own vulnerability to the virus (along with those you live with), and the physical, mental and financial factors involved. Each individual will need to fully assess their own unique situation to decide what feels right for them.”

Visit AMTA’s COVID-19 page here to read the full list of 10 important considerations for reopening AMTA has compiled to help you answer questions regarding your massage therapy practice. 

Advocacy and State Specific Information 

AMTA’s government relations team has been reaching out to federal, state and local governments regarding clarification on laws, executive orders, and opening and closure regulations that impact massage therapists during the COVID-19 crisis. They are also working to help champion continuing education and license renewal changes for all massage therapists. AMTA’s chapters and their lobbyists are playing a key role in monitoring what is happening in their states. 

Read more state updates. 

Financial Relief Resources

AMTA compiled and regularly updates financial resources available to massage therapists, from state unemployment updates to an explanation of the COVID-19 Federal Relief Package. 

You can view the financial resources here.

Coronavirus Resources 

A list of organizations offering the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, along with links to each state’s health department landing page where massage therapists can get the latest information about the virus in their area. 

View more here. 

Free CE Opportunities 

As AMTA navigates the changes in learning, their already robust online CE system gives all massage therapists and massage therapy students an opportunity to use this time to enhance their continuing education. The association recognizes the hardship most massage therapists are facing and is committed to supporting them with an extensive online library of free classes. 

To view these classes, click here. 

Check out these related articles:

Should You Reopen Your Massage Practice?

Massage Therapy's Response to COVID-19