Scottish Massage Therapist Bars Most New Male Clients After 2 Boundary Violations
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 20
Scottish Massage Therapist Bars Most New Male Clients After 2 Boundary Violations
1 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 20
Summary
Maria, 38, stopped accepting new male clients after repeated sexualised behaviour left her dreading appointments and prompted her to launch a female-focused clinic in East Ayrshire.
Two male clients pushed against her rules on draping and treatment areas, with one repeatedly asking to be uncovered and trying to expose his groin despite warnings.
Other Scottish therapists described similar pressure for “extras,” sleazy banter and boundary-testing; Glasgow therapist Dani now treats men only if she knows them or they are referred.
Industry figures say the problem is common, with some women increasingly refusing male clients, and therapists are calling for standardised safety training and a governing body in Scotland.
Scotland has no statutory regulator or specific laws for massage therapists, leaving many to weigh up whether incidents warrant going straight to police.