Current Status of Massage Therapy Regulation

The Alberta Minister of Health is currently reviewing the application to regulate massage therapy (PDF) submitted by the Alberta Working Group for the Regulation of Massage Therapy (AWGRMT) on October 15, 2024.

This is not an announcement of pending regulation. The information provided is based on the above application. It is for general information only and does not represent any final regulatory decisions.

Alberta Working Group Survey

In November 2024, the AWGRMT surveyed all Alberta massage therapists regarding the regulation of their profession. The survey results will guide the next steps in the regulatory process.

Regulation Process

Below are the steps for regulating massage therapy:

  1. Application Submitted (October 15, 2024): The updated application was submitted to the Minister of Health.
  2. Minister Review: The Minister reviews the application and may request further consultations or information, increasing the timeline.
  3. Public Interest Recommendation: If judged to be in the public's best interest, the Minister recommends the change to the legislature. This is when government consultation with other stakeholders may take place (e.g., schools, clinics, etc.)
  4. MLA Vote: Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) vote on including massage therapists under the Health Professions Act (HPA).
  5. Formation of Transitional Society: If legislation is approved, a Transitional Society is formed. This society will create the foundational documents for full operation of the future regulatory college and allow massage therapists who join before proclamation (see Step 9) to transition more easily to the College.
  6. Grandfathering Registration: Registration opens for therapists to be grandfathered into the College.
  7. Bylaws and Policies: The Transitional Society drafts bylaws and policies.
  8. Legal Finalization: The government finalizes the legal details.
  9. Regulatory College Proclamation: Once all legislation is complete, the government officially proclaims the regulatory College into existence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massage Therapy Regulation in Alberta

Who are the current representatives for the Alberta Working Group for the Regulation of Massage Therapy (AWGRMT)?

How long will the College take to open?

How much does it cost to join the Transitional Society?

How can massage therapists afford the cost of regulation?

How will regulation improve public safety?

What benefits will massage therapists gain for joining the regulatory College?

Will regulation limit what can be billed as "massage" for therapists in their practice?

Will I lose my RMT title if I don't join the College?

How can I be grandparented into the College?

What will the continuing education requirements be under the new College?

What resources are available for massage therapists to learn about the regulation process in Alberta?

What is the role of the TC-CMTA and their role in the AWGRMT?

How will massage programs and institutions be approved by the College in the future?

What can I do to prepare for regulation?

How can I stay up to date with the progress of regulation?

More Information About Regulation

Please see the general FAQ on massage therapy regulation for the difference between a regulatory body and a professional association, liability insurance requirements, insurance billing, and other general information on regulation.

Pre-Application Joint Updates

The TC-CMTA shared the following joint updates prior to the application for regulation being submitted: