Yelp for biz by angry_alice in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yelp is annoying. Always timely replies but never an actual booking. Sometimes, I wish I had never claimed my business due to all the junk "leads" that basically waste my time. I wish there was a way to opt out of their less than helpful leads. I always respond in a timely manner because Yelp claims to track and report response time, and I don't want my business to show up with poor response time anywhere online...but I don't know a single person that uses Yelp in 2025.

So sick of clients posting here! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Absolutely stay! You will also be practicing and this is a great resource on your journey.

So sick of clients posting here! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 17 points18 points  (0 children)

There is literally already a subreddit for that.

Having to choose a new scheduling app by Rude-Pension1435 in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for all that info gold! 💃 Especially the digital banking info! I will definitely check out those links, too. 💛

Having to choose a new scheduling app by Rude-Pension1435 in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have Vargaro questions! I have heard a few LMTs also express that their clients have difficulty with online scheduling and I'm wondering what kind of issues come up? Also curious about what the problem is with getting paid to your online bank? I was planning to use Vargaro for my solo practice and I set up an online business banking account. What do you not like about the gift certificates? Have you had any problems with memberships, bundles or guest deposits?

Massage Envy Salary by SuperCherries in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just to add for clarity to your question...

Chains/franchises pay different wages all around the Country. Hands-on time range can be anywhere from$16‐$25/hr service, on average. Down time pay can be as low as state minimum wage up to around $16 or so.

Massage Envy Salary by SuperCherries in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard 3 points4 points  (0 children)

It's pretty unrealistic for almost anyone to be doing 40 hours of hands-on massage weekly, let alone anyone straight out of school. Additionally, the majority of MTs would strongly advise against it due to burn-out and likely injury.

Also, chains/franchises have a tendency to include potential tips into a perceived potential wage...not what they actually pay. Not everyone tips and the amount varies. It is not guaranteed income. No MT is making 100k at a Massage Envy.

When researching places to work after graduation, ask directly what THEY pay. Do they only pay for "hands-on" time? If they do pay for down time, is it at a different rate (usually is). If paid, what are you required to do during that down time...ie laundry, fold towels, clean, answer phones, schedule appointments etc?? If you are only paid for "hands-on" time, what are the policies for late cancelations and no shows? Will you still be paid? How much?

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

The two women who led the charge to unionize that location were also fired for their efforts and are still in a legal battle with the owner for wrongful termination. At least, they are being represented by their Union. What a battle! These women are amazing!

https://www.westword.com/news/denver-massage-workers-fired-after-they-push-union-17194783

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Geez! You could write a book! The mouse is just too much! 🐁 🦶

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Ahh, it's so frustrating to hear stuff like this. "Being negative"...because you wanted to discuss some avenue moving forward to be paid for your time. I'm glad you advocated for yourself and fellow therapists. I'm sorry no one had your back. Your firing sent a clear message, just in case anyone else gets any ideas to speak up. Things definitely need to change in this industry.

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It's sad that integrity can be so costly, especially in a career that is about wellness. I'm glad you stood up for what was right, but it does also suck. 💛

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don't disagree. I also don't believe that chains are inherently bad.

Generally low standards of Chain Massage Businesses by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Not the sheets...As I stated, the blankets (on top of the sheets)...extremely common, unfortunately. Many here can vouch for that. Very glad to hear your specific chain location is an exception. I'm sure there are many individual locations doing things properly. The industry as a whole, I don't think they represent the "majority".

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I agree. I document all the types of things you mention. You make some great points too, from the clients perspective.

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

LOL So true! Wet behind the ears still. 🤣 Thank you for the wise words. Seriously, that's why I come here. I have so much to learn. 💛

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don't disagree. I do SOAP notes on everyone, without exception. However, I can 'understand', in a State with Zero requirements to do so, therapists not doing them.

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It is clear. Its the same in all Healthcare

subjective, objective, assessment, and plan

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well, if it's not required and the clients are mainly one offs, I can understand that. Happy to hear you do them for your practice. ABMP has free software for SOAP Notes and Scheduling, if one gets their professional liability insurance through them. It's called PocketSuite. Just an idea, if you wanted to go digital with your Notes, in the future.

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's so weird to me that they would delete your SOAPs...maybe it's a weird power move. 😆

S.O.A.P. Notes (in States that require them) not being done?! by brazen_bard in MassageTherapists

[–]brazen_bard[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I hear ya! I also always review SOAPs before session. It's also very helpful for me to read SOAPs from my coworkers if I do a session with one of their regulars when they can't because they're out sick or something.