Want to help reduce the risk of client misunderstandings? You need a massage therapy consent form.
Looking to lower your chances of getting sued over your services? You should use a massage liability waiver.
They’re two different documents that help protect your practice, so you can avoid ever facing a day in court.
🗣️This blog is for informational purposes only — to give you the basics on consent forms and liability waivers. Talk to a lawyer for guidance specific to your business!
TL;DR
📝Massage Therapy Consent Form: A form where the client agrees to receive massage services after learning what it involves and sharing their health info
📋Massage Therapy Liability Waiver: A form where the client accepts the risks of massage and agrees not to hold the therapist legally responsible for certain outcomes
Why Massage Liability Waivers and Consent Forms Matter
You didn’t start a massage therapy business to get bogged down by jargon-loaded forms. You’re in the industry to help others! But to stay in practice, you need to avoid costly claims and lawsuits — consent forms and waivers help you do this.
Here’s how they help ensure the longevity of your business.
Consent Forms Document Informed Consent
Consent forms document that your client understands the treatment they’ll receive (they’re informed) and that they agree to receive it (they consent).
This is important because later, if a client claims they didn’t know a deep tissue massage could cause potential soreness, but it was written in the consent form they signed, you can assert they knew what they were agreeing to.
Ultimately, it supports your client’s right to choose after getting all the necessary information, and it demonstrates ethical care.
When a client signs this form: “I understand what this massage will be like and say ‘yes’ to receiving it.”
Advice From an Attorney:
“Renew consent whenever the plan is modified, for instance, the relaxation massage becomes deep tissue, or whenever you add cups or blades. I once witnessed a therapist sidestep a $35K claim due to a tender surgical scar because the consent document was old and listed that the client had consented to work on that specific area.”
– David Gammill, Law Expert and Founder of Gammill Law Accident & Injury Lawyers
Liability Waivers Reduce Legal Risk
When a client signs a liability waiver, they are stating they understand there are risks involved with your service, they want to proceed, and they agree not to hold you liable should something go wrong (as outlined by the form).
This form is also known as a “release of liability” form, because it releases you from certain liabilities (responsibilities). It’s a client’s written “promise” that they won’t sue you.
But, there are always buts when it comes to liability waivers. The risks and potential scenarios need to be written into the waiver. Otherwise, you won’t be protected from a lawsuit involving them.
When a client signs this form: “I’m OK with proceeding with this massage despite the risk, and I agree not to hold you responsible if I get hurt.”
They Both Set Clear Expectations
A client shouldn’t have to guess what’ll happen when they enter your massage room — or what’s a normal amount of pressure, and when they should alert you to pain.
Neither should you assume they won’t take you to court if there’s a misunderstanding or injury.
The consent form and the liability waiver make sure everyone’s on the same page before getting started. They help let your client know what to expect for each session, so they feel comfortable and get the most out of your services.
They Both Create a Written Record
If a client says “I’m okay with this” out loud and it isn’t recorded, another person can’t verify it when it’s your word against your client’s. It’s essential to get these agreements in writing.
Both the consent form and liability waiver, when signed and stored securely, ensure proper documentation if a dispute comes up.
Plus, some state licensing boards and insurers can require you to keep these written records on hand.
They Build Trust and Professionalism
Massage therapy practices thrive on happy client-practitioner relationships. Consent forms and liability waivers can put clients at ease and encourage them to keep coming back.
These forms:
- Reinforce your credibility as a thoughtful, well-trained massage therapist
- Signal to clients that you take their health and safety seriously
- Encourage open communication about boundaries and comfort
Types of Consent in Massage Therapy
| Consent Type | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Written Consent |
Consent given in writing, usually via a signed form. |
Client signs a consent form before the session. |
|
Express Consent |
Clear, verbal permission given by the client. |
Client says, “Yes, I’m comfortable with that pressure.” |
|
Implied Consent |
Consent inferred from a client’s actions or circumstances. |
Client lies on the massage table after services are explained. |
|
Informed Consent |
Consent given after the client understands the treatment, risks, and options. |
Therapist explains the session and client agrees with full understanding. |
|
Ongoing Consent |
Consent that continues throughout the session and can be changed at any time. |
Client asks for less pressure mid-session and the therapist adjusts. |
|
Revoked Consent |
When the client withdraws their consent, even during a session. |
Client says, “Please stop,” and the therapist immediately does. |
The Difference Between Massage Therapy Consent Forms and Liability Waivers
The main difference between massage consent forms and liability waivers is how they protect your business.
A consent form is more about education. It informs the client of what your services entail, including risks. In the process of filling it out and signing, it allows them to notify you of any relevant health information that could affect treatment.
A liability waiver’s purpose is to legally record a client’s agreement to give up their right to sue you based on the risks outlined. The client is waiving their right to take legal action against you in the context of the document.
Think of them as different lines of defense for your massage therapy practice: the consent form, stating the client has all the info they need and agrees, and the liability waiver, documenting they agree not to sue you if something goes wrong.
That’s the general idea of how these forms protect your business. Remember: there are always exceptions and loopholes lawyers may find in the language you use. It’s crucial to have a trained lawyer review your forms to ensure they’re written well and thoroughly cover your practice and any of its potential liabilities.
What to Include on Consent Forms and Liability Waivers
Massage Therapy Consent Form
✔️ Client’s full name and contact information
✔️ Description of the massage services being provided
✔️ Prompt for client to list their medical conditions, injuries, or medications
✔️ Confirmation that the client has disclosed all relevant health information
✔️ Explanation of risks (like muscle soreness or minor bruising)
✔️ Acknowledgment that the massage is not a substitute for medical care
✔️ Statement that the client can stop the session at any time
✔️ Client signature and date
Massage Liability Waiver
✔️ Outline of the inherent risks of massage
✔️ List of any other risks specific to your practice’s services
✔️ Agreement that the client will not hold the therapist or business liable for certain outcomes (like adverse reactions)
✔️ Clarification that the therapist is not diagnosing or treating medical conditions
✔️ Confirmation that the client has disclosed all relevant health information
✔️ Emergency services authorization (in case you need to seek medical help on their behalf)
✔️ Consent to participation
✔️ Client signature and date
To get started, customize the following templates according to your business needs, using clear language that specifically outlines each of your services and the risks involved. Don’t forget: Always have a legal professional look over your forms before using them!
Advice From an Attorney:
“Common mistakes include using vague language, not explaining forms to clients, assuming waivers cover everything, and failing to regularly update or properly sign them. Proper paperwork protects by demonstrating consent, limiting liability against ordinary negligence claims, proving compliance, and clarifying policies to prevent disputes.
For clear, client-friendly forms: use plain, concise language, organize with headings/bullet points, and always encourage client questions. Importantly, have an attorney specializing in wellness law periodically review your forms to ensure legal soundness and compliance.”
– David Holt, Attorney and Owner of Holt Law
Tips on How to Use Massage Consent Form Templates and Liability Waiver Templates
Here are some quick tips for implementing these templates in your business operations.
- Be as specific as possible: Your forms should cast a wide safety net across your practice, so detail every potential risk or language that could “cover” them
- Get a lawyer’s OK: We can’t stress this enough — don’t skip a legal review; it’s worth the peace of mind
- Store the forms securely: Whether you use paper or digital copies, keep them organized and ensure only you (or any qualified team members) have access to them
- Consider combining them: You can combine the consent form and liability waiver into one document, but clearly label each portion with bold lettering
- Frame their usage positively: Let clients know by signing these forms, they’re keeping themselves safe and informed
- Keep them updated: Have clients sign before their first appointment and then again every year or whenever your practice has service changes
- Don’t rush the process: Give clients time to read, process, and ask questions to fully understand what they’re signing
“Clear language protects both sides. Ditch medical terms.
Say “You may feel sore after treatment” instead of “Delayed onset muscular pain may occur.” Make it readable at an 8th-grade level. Run it through a free reading grade tool if you need to. Keep sentences short, like 10 to 12 words max. If your form sounds like a lawyer wrote it, no one is reading it. Think legal strength with patient logic.”
– Kiara Dewitt, BSN, RN, CPN, Founder and CEO at Injectco
Massage Insurance: Your Last Defense
Liability waivers and consent forms for massage therapy help reduce your chances of facing a lawsuit. But they’re not 100% bulletproof.
That’s why carrying massage liability insurance is essential. It helps catch any accidents or injuries that fall outside of the scope of your forms — your last line of defense.
Massage therapy coverage is designed to protect your practice from common claims like clients getting hurt, having their property damaged, or even feeling dissatisfied with your services. It enables you to focus on helping clients feel their best, not on all the what-ifs.
Beauty & Bodywork Insurance (BBI) offers top-rated coverage for massage therapists starting from $9.99/month. Combined with your consent form and liability waiver, our coverage gives you peace of mind to work your massage magic confidently.
FAQs About Massage Liability Waivers and Consent Forms
Why Do I Need a Liability Waiver for Massage Therapy?
A liability waiver helps clarify that the client understands the potential risks of massage (e.g., soreness, allergic reactions to products) and agrees not to hold the therapist legally responsible for those risks.
Are Consent Forms and Waivers Legally Binding?
They can be, depending on how they’re written and the laws in your state. However, no form guarantees full protection, which is why insurance and legal review are just as important!
What Is an Example of Informed Consent for Massage Therapy?
Before a Thai massage, the therapist explains that the session involves assisted stretching and full-body movement on a floor mat. The client is informed about potential soreness, asked about joint or mobility issues, and agrees to proceed, demonstrating informed consent.
What Do Liability Waivers and Consent Forms NOT Cover?
Waivers and consent forms typically don’t protect against negligence, misconduct, or harm caused by ignoring client boundaries or medical conditions. They also don’t replace professional responsibility or legal obligations under local or state laws.
JoAnne Hammer | Program Manager
JoAnne Hammer is the Program Manager for Beauty and Bodywork Insurance. She has held the prestigious Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation since July 2004.
JoAnne understands that starting and operating a business takes a tremendous amount of time, dedication, and financial resources. She believes that insurance is the single best way to protect your investment, business, and personal assets.
JoAnne Hammer is the Program Manager for Beauty and Bodywork Insurance. She has held the prestigious Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation since July 2004.
JoAnne understands that starting and operating a business takes a tremendous amount of time, dedication, and financial resources. She believes that insurance is the single best way to protect your investment, business, and personal assets.
