Sometimes a client does not realize what a particular treatment is going to be. The client may not have had this therapist before. The client may have a particular part that is bothersome or that requires particular treatment in the client’s mind. They have that right—it is their body. The situation could become very bad if the therapist insisted on one treatment or on continuing the massage once the client requested it be stopped. One size does not fit all in this business and the client may simply be uncomfortable. The nurturing environment in which massage should occur cannot be maintained in this setting.

The client is paying for the massage and can leave if things, to the client’s way of thinking, become uncomfortable. The theatergoer can always leave the theater if the movie displeases.

Listening to the client may leave the possibility of return open if the reason for the termination is unrelated to the therapist. If the therapist is bullheaded and tries to coax the massage, the chances of the client returning are nil.

Everyone needs to be in charge of their own body. This ethic respects their right to their body.

The therapist should not assume the reason for the client’s termination. The client may not be comfortable giving the true reason for leaving. The departure may be completely unrelated to the therapist or the therapist’s performance. Stockbrokers have a term “Know your exit.” Many investors have established a predetermined price for a stock at which they will sell. The client’s statement of a desire to terminate the massage is the therapist’s exit.

Once the client makes this assertion, the therapist should end any touching and step back. The therapist might say, “Absolutely. No problem.” Any further discussion about it should be after the client is dressed and away from the immediate massage space.

If the client wants to have the massage modified, the therapist should be clear in exactly what that modification will consist of. Get permission. For example, “Based on what you are telling me, this is how we can modify the treatment_________. Is that okay with you?”

Oftentimes the client has to be somewhere. The client is not paying attention to the time while on the table. If the therapist is going over the time, it would be appropriate to mention this to the client so that the client is not made late for a commitment elsewhere.

The refund policy of the establishment should be clearly posted so there is no question on this issue if a client requests termination of the session.