Let's Talk About Tipping in Massage Therapy
Why I Offer All-Inclusive Pricing—and Why Tipping Is Not Expected
In my practice, massage therapy is not treated as a luxury—it is approached as healthcare. That’s why I’ve adopted an all-inclusive pricing model (and provide a sliding scale for those who need it; see below), and why I clearly state: tipping is not expected.
Where the Culture of Tipping Comes From
The tipping culture in massage therapy has its roots in the spa and hospitality industry. Massage was historically grouped with pampering services like facials and manicures, and tipping became a way for clients to show gratitude—often compensating for low base pay and commission-based wages. While this may still apply in certain spa environments, it does not reflect the structure or intention behind therapeutic massage in a clinical, private, or integrative setting.
Massage Therapy as Healthcare
Today, massage therapy is increasingly recognized as a complementary and preventative healthcare modality. Scientific literature continues to expand, showing benefits for a wide range of conditions including:
Chronic pain (e.g., fibromyalgia, low back pain)
Anxiety and depression
Pregnancy discomfort and postpartum recovery
Lymphatic and circulatory issues
Muscle recovery and injury prevention
In fact, massage is often recommended alongside conventional treatments for patients undergoing cancer treatment, managing autoimmune diseases, or recovering from surgery.
This shift toward evidence-based massage therapy demands a higher level of professionalism and clinical training. As massage becomes more integrated with medical and wellness care, it makes less sense to carry over the gratuity practices of the hospitality industry.
Why I Don’t Accept Tips
My rates reflect the full scope of what I provide—time, expertise, presence, preparation, and follow-up. I choose not to separate the value of my work from the financial agreement you make at booking. This is both ethical and practical:
You know exactly what you're paying. No surprises.
It eliminates the awkwardness of figuring out if, when, or how much to tip.
It upholds massage as a legitimate part of your healthcare routine—not a treat, not a splurge.
Supporting a More Sustainable Practice
When you invest in care with me, you're not just paying for a service—you’re supporting a model of healing that is sustainable, ethical, and professional. This includes fair pricing, continued education, and time spent beyond the session (reviewing notes, planning treatment strategies, creating custom recommendations, communicating with your providers as needed, etc.).
Final Thought—and Sliding Scale Option
Your presence, trust, and commitment to your health are more than enough. If you still feel moved to express additional appreciation, a kind word, testimonial, or referral is always welcome and goes a long way.
If you’re navigating financial hardship, I do quietly offer a no-questions-asked sliding scale to make care accessible when needed. Just reach out and I may be able to help you get the support you're looking for.
When massage is viewed as medicine, not a luxury, we all benefit from clearer boundaries, deeper trust, and better outcomes.
