Ladisch Douglass-Led Measure to Provide Domestic Violence Awareness Training for Massage Therapists Passes House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Massage therapists would complete domestic violence and sexual assault awareness training under a new bill passed by state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst.

“Though massage therapy has many physical and mental health benefits, it can be incredibly intimate and personal,” Ladisch Douglass said. “It’s important for massage therapists to be knowledgeable about domestic violence, sexual assault and trauma so that they can provide care with compassionate neutrality that respects boundaries to help their clients recover.”

House Bill 2756 creates one hour of continuing education related to domestic violence and sexual assault awareness for massage therapists. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, making massage beneficial for those who have suffered from domestic violence, sexual assault or other trauma. The hour of continuing education required by the bill will help massage therapists better support clients coping with trauma and PTSD.

“Research has shown that massage therapy can have a positive impact on mental health, and can help with recovery from traumatic experiences,” Ladisch Douglass said. “I am grateful to my colleagues and IDFPR for helping me pass this bill through the House, and I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to do the same.”

House Bill 2756 passed the House with bipartisan support and now heads to the Senate for consideration.