File a Complaint Your InformationName(Required) First Last Phone Number(Required)Email(Required) Address(Required) Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands Country Type of ComplaintWhat type of complaint are you submitting?(Required) Board Certified Massage Therapist/Bodyworker Approved Provider Assigned School At NCBTMB, we take grievances regarding the conduct of our certificants very seriously. Note, however, that we can only accept complaints or issues with massage therapists and bodyworkers who are currently certified by NCBTMB. All complaints we receive are handled according to NCBTMB’s Rules and Procedures Regarding Ethical and Professional Discipline Complaints. Please Note: NCBTMB will not review healthcare information without the express written authorization of the relevant client or patient. This is because of the possible risk of HIPAA violations, as well as NCBTMB’s position that client confidentiality should be protected.Please first review the Rules and Procedures Regarding Approved Provider Complaints.Therapist, Provider, or School InformationName(Required) First Last Name of Organization(Required)if the Approved Provider is an individual and not an organization, put N/AWebsite Phone Number(Required)Address(Required) Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands Country Complaint DescriptionPlease provide a detailed description of the facts supporting the complaint.(Required)Action TakenPlease provide a description of any steps that have been taken to address the situation in the complaint, and the results of any such steps.(Required)Board Certificant Code of EthicsPlease select the specific sections of the Code of Ethics you believe have been violated. (select all that apply)(Required)NCBTMB Certificants shall act in a manner that justifies public trust and confidence, enhances the reputation of the profession, and safeguards the interest of individual clients. Certificants will: Have a sincere commitment to provide the highest quality of care to those who seek their professional services. Represent their qualifications honestly, including education and professional affiliations, and provide only those services that they are qualified to perform. Accurately inform clients, other health care practitioners, and the public of the scope and limitations of their discipline. Acknowledge the limitations of and contraindications for massage and bodywork and refer clients to appropriate health professionals. Provide treatment only where there is reasonable expectation that it will be advantageous to the client. Consistently maintain and improve professional knowledge and competence, striving for professional excellence through regular assessment of personal and professional strengths and weaknesses and through continued education training. Conduct their business and professional activities with honesty and integrity, and respect the inherent worth of all persons. Refuse to unjustly discriminate against clients and/or health professionals. Safeguard the confidentiality of the client’s identity and information in all conversations, advertisements, and any and all other matters unless disclosure of identifiable information is requested by the client in writing, is medically necessary or is required by law. Respect the client’s right to treatment with informed and voluntary consent. The certified practitioner will obtain and record the informed consent of the client, or client’s advocate, before providing treatment. This consent may be written or verbal. Respect the client’s right to refuse, modify or terminate treatment regardless of prior consent given. Provide draping and treatment in a way that ensures the safety, comfort and privacy of the client. Exercise the right to refuse to treat any person or part of the body for just and reasonable cause. Refrain, under all circumstances, from participating in a sexual relationship or sexual conduct with the client, whether consensual or otherwise, from the beginning of the client/therapist relationship and for a minimum of six (6) months after the termination of the client therapist relationship, unless an ongoing current sexual relationship existed prior to the date the therapeutic relationship began. Avoid any interest, activity or influence which might be in conflict with the practitioner’s obligation to act in the best interests of the client or the profession. Respect the client’s boundaries with regard to privacy, disclosure, exposure, emotional expression, beliefs and the client’s reasonable expectations of professional behavior. Practitioners will respect the client’s autonomy. Refuse any gifts or benefits that are intended to influence a referral, decision or treatment, or that are purely for personal gain and not for the good of the client. Follow the NCBTMB Standards of Practice, this Code of Ethics, and all policies, procedures, guidelines, regulations, codes, and requirements promulgated by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, Inc. None Board Certificant Standards of PracticePlease select the specific sections of the Standards of Practice you believe have been violated. (select all that apply)(Required) Standard I: Professionalism Standard II: Legal and Ethical Requirements Standard III: Confidentiality Standard IV: Business Practices Standard V: Roles and Boundaries Standard VI: Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and Inappropriate Touch None Standard I: Professionalism (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant must provide optimal levels of professional therapeutic massage and bodywork services and demonstrate excellence in practice by promoting healing and well-being through responsible, compassionate and respectful touch. In his/her professional role, the Certificant shall: Standard I(a): adhere to the NCBTMB Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, and Policies and Procedures. Standard I(b): comply with the peer review process conducted by the NCBTMB Ethics and Standards Committee regarding any alleged violations of the NCBTMB Code of Ethics and these Standards of Practice. Standard I(c): treat each client with respect, dignity and worth. Standard I(d): use professional verbal, nonverbal and written communications. Standard I(e): provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for the client and which, at a minimum, meets all legal requirements for health and safety. Standard I(f): use standard precautions to insure professional hygienic practices and maintain a level of personal hygiene appropriate for practitioners in the therapeutic setting. Standard I(g): wear clothing that is clean, modest, and professional. Standard I(h): obtain voluntary and informed consent from the client prior to initiating the session. Standard I(i): if applicable, conduct an accurate needs assessment, develop a plan of care with the client, and update the plan as needed. Standard I(j): use appropriate draping to protect the client’s physical and emotional privacy. Standard I(k): be knowledgeable of his/her scope of practice and practice only within these limitations. Standard I(l): refer to other professionals when in the best interest of the client and practitioner. Standard I(m): seek other professional advice when needed. Standard I (n): respect the traditions and practices of other professionals and foster collegial relationships. Standard I(o): not falsely impugn the reputation of any colleague. Standard I(p): use the initials BCTMB only to designate his/her professional ability and competency to practice therapeutic massage and bodywork. Standard I(q): remain in good standing with NCBTMB. Standard I(r): understand that the NCBTMB certificate may be displayed prominently in the Certificant’s principal place of practice. Standard I(s): use the NCBTMB logo and certification number on business cards, brochures, advertisements, and stationery only in a manner that is within established NCBTMB guidelines. Standard I(t): not duplicate the NCBTMB certificate for purposes other than verification of the practitioner’s credentials. Standard I(u): immediately return the certificate to NCBTMB if certification is revoked. Standard I(v): inform NCBTMB of any changes or additions to information included in his/her application for NCBTMB certification or renewal within sixty (60) days of such changes or additions. Standard II: Legal and Ethical Requirements (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant must comply with all the legal requirements in applicable jurisdictions regulating the profession of therapeutic massage and bodywork. In his/her professional role, the Certificant shall: Standard II(a): obey all local, state, and federal laws. Standard II(b): refrain from any behavior that results in illegal, discriminatory, or unethical actions. Standard II(c): accept responsibility for his/her own actions. Standard II(d): report to the proper massage therapy regulatory body within thirty (30) days of discovery of, any evidence, such as first-hand knowledge, indicating any unethical, incompetent or illegal act committed by other Certificants. Standard II(e): maintain accurate and truthful records. Standard II(f): report to NCBTMB, within thirty (30) days of discovery of, any evidence, such as first-hand knowledge, of violations of the NCBTMB Code of Ethics and these Standards of Practice by himself/herself or by other Certificants. Standard II(g): report to NCBTMB, within thirty (30) days of discovery of, any criminal conviction of, or plea of guilty, nolo contendere, or no contest to, a crime in any jurisdiction (other than a minor traffic offense) by himself/herself or by other Certificants. Standard II(h): report to NCBTMB, within thirty (30) days of discovery of, any pending civil litigation and the resulting resolution related to the professional practice of the Certificant and the professional practice of other Certificants. Standard II(i): report to NCBTMB, within thirty (30) days of discovery of, any pending complaints in any state or local government or quasi-government board or agency against his/her professional conduct or competence, or that of another Certificant, and the resulting resolution of such complaint. Standard II(j): respect existing publishing rights and obey copyright and trademark laws, including, but not limited to, those that apply to NCBTMB’s copyright-protected examination. Standard III: Confidentiality (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant shall respect the confidentiality of client information and safeguard all records. In his/her professional role, the Certificant shall: Standard III(a): protect the confidentiality of the client’s identity and information in all conversations, advertisements, and any and all other matters unless disclosure of identifiable information is requested by the client in writing, is medically necessary, or is required by law. Standard III(b): protect the interests of clients who are minors or clients who are unable to give voluntary and informed consent by obtaining prior written permission from a legal guardian. Standard III(c): solicit only information that is relevant to the professional client/therapist relationship. Standard III(d): securely retain client files for a minimum period of four (4) years from the termination of the therapeutic relationship. Standard III(e): dispose of client files in a secure manner. Standard IV: Business Practices (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant shall practice with honesty, integrity, and lawfulness in the business of therapeutic massage and bodywork. In his/her professional role the Certificant shall: Standard IV(a): provide a physical setting that is safe and meets all applicable legal requirements for health and safety. Standard IV(b): maintain adequate and customary liability insurance. Standard IV(c): maintain adequate progress notes for each client session, if applicable. Standard IV(d): accurately and truthfully inform the public of services provided. Standard IV(e): honestly represent all professional qualifications and affiliations. Standard IV(f): promote his/her business with integrity and avoid potential and actual conflicts of interest. Standard IV(g): advertise in a manner that is honest, dignified, accurate and representative of services provided and remains consistent with the NCBTMB Code of Ethics and these Standards of Practice. Standard IV(h): advertise in a manner that is not misleading to the public and shall never use sensational, sexual or provocative language and/or pictures to promote his/her business. Standard IV(i): comply with all laws regarding sexual harassment. Standard IV(j): not exploit the trust and dependency of others, including clients and employees/co-workers. Standard IV(k): disclose a schedule of fees in advance of the session. Standard IV(l): make financial arrangements in advance which are clearly understood by, and safeguard the best interests of, the client or consumer. Standard IV(m): follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Standard IV(n): file all applicable municipal, state and federal taxes. Standard IV(o): maintain accurate financial records, contracts and legal obligations, appointment records, tax reports and receipts for the most recent three (3) fiscal years. Standard V: Roles and Boundaries (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant shall adhere to ethical boundaries and perform the professional roles designed to protect both the client and the practitioner, and safeguard the therapeutic value of the relationship. In his/her professional role, the Certificant shall: Standard V(a): recognize his/her personal limitations and practice only within these limitations. Standard V(b): recognize his/her influential position with the client and not exploit the relationship for personal or other gain. Standard V(c): recognize and limit the impact of transference and counter-transference between the client and the Certificant. Standard V(d): avoid dual or multidimensional relationships that could impair professional judgment or result in exploitation of a client, student, employee, supervisee, mentee, trainee, or anyone else with whom a power differential exists. Standard V(e): acknowledge and respect the client’s freedom of choice in the therapeutic session. Standard V(f): respect the client’s right to refuse the therapeutic session or any part of the therapeutic session. Standard V(g): refrain from practicing under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substances (with the exception of a prescribed dosage of prescription medication which does not impair the Certificant). Standard V(h): have the right to refuse and/or terminate the service to a client who is abusive or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substance. Standard V(i): have the right to refuse and/or terminate the service to a client who exhibits language or behavior which the therapist deems as an immediate or potential risk to the safety of the: (i) client;( ii) Certificant; or (iii) therapeutic relationship. Standard VI: Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and Inappropriate Touch (select all that apply)(Required)The Certificant shall refrain from any behavior that sexualizes, or appears to sexualize, the client/therapist relationship. The Certificant recognizes the intimacy of the therapeutic relationship may activate practitioner and/or client needs and/or desires that weaken boundaries which may lead to sexualizing the therapeutic relationship. In his/her professional role, the Certificant shall: Standard VI(a): refrain from participating in a sexual relationship or sexual conduct with the client, whether consensual or otherwise, from the beginning of the client/therapist relationship and for a minimum of six (6) months after the termination of the client/therapist relationship, unless an ongoing current sexual relationship existed prior to the date the therapeutic relationship began. In the case of a pre-existing ongoing sexual relationship, providing therapeutic massage and bodywork on such a person is discouraged, but may be done with informed consent which acknowledges the power differential in a therapeutic relationship and the complexities of dual relationships. Standard VI(b): in the event the client initiates sexual behavior, interrupt therapy to clarify the purpose of the therapeutic session. Provided that the client’s initial sexual behavior ceases, the Certificant may, at his or her discretion, take action to terminate or continue the session. The Certificant shall terminate the session if the sexual conduct continues. Standard VI(c): with the exception of a pre-existing ongoing sexual relationship, as set forth in Standard VI(a), recognize that sexual activity with clients, students, employees, supervisees, mentees, trainees, or anyone else with whom a power differential exists, is prohibited even if consensual. Standard VI(d): not touch the genitalia. Standard VI(e): only perform therapeutic treatments beyond the normal narrowing of the ear canal and normal narrowing of the nasal passages: (i) as indicated in the plan of care; (ii) after receiving informed voluntary written consent; and (iii) only if the Certificant is permitted to do so under state law. Standard VI(f): only perform therapeutic treatments in the oral cavity: (i) as indicated in the plan of care; (ii) after receiving informed voluntary written consent; and (iii) only if the Certificant is permitted to do so under state law. Standard VI(g): only perform therapeutic treatments into the anal canal: i) as indicated in the plan of care; (ii) after receiving informed voluntary written consent; and (iii) only if the Certificant is expressly authorized to perform colonic irrigation under state law. Standard VI(h): only provide therapeutic breast massage: (i) as indicated in the plan of care; (ii) after receiving informed voluntary written consent; and (iii) only if the Certificant is permitted to do so under state law. You must select at least one Code of Ethics and/or Standards of Practice you believe have been violated in order to submit this request. You cannot select "None" for both. If submitted without at least one selection, complaint will not be processed.Approved Provider Code of ConductPlease select the specific sections of the Code of Conduct you believe have been violated. (select all that apply)(Required) Provide accurate information to the NCBTMB in all transactions to the best of our knowledge. Assure that course credits are awarded only to certificants who successfully complete the course according to the published requirements. Conduct the operations and programs in an ethical manner that respects the rights and worth of the clients we serve. Use and display the provider statement and logo according to the NCBTMB requirements. Furnish requested information, work cooperatively with the NCBTMB, and pay fees in a timely manner. Accept that the NCBTMB audits courses for purposes of compliance with the criteria. After due review and comment period, abide by any revisions of the criteria or inform the NCBTMB of any intention to withdraw providership. Maintain compliance with the NCBTMB’s Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, and policies and procedures. Adhere to the NCBTMB criteria/standards or relinquish the NCBTMB approval status after due process. Report to the NCBTMB within thirty (30) days any major organizational or program change that impacts the operation of the administrative unit on which provider approval is based. Keep participant records in a locked file cabinet and/or a password protected computer for at least four years from the date of the course. Adhere to NCBTMB policy to keep participants’ personal and business information private and not give out or sell to another party. None Approved Provider Code of EthicsPlease select the specific sections of the Approved Provider Code of Ethics you believe have been violated. (select all that apply)(Required) Have a sincere commitment to provide the highest quality of education to those who seek their professional services. Represent their qualifications honestly, including education and professional affiliations, and provide instruction for only those courses that they are qualified to teach. Accurately inform students and the profession of the scope and limitations of their continuing education courses. Acknowledge the limitations of and contraindications for massage and bodywork in each specific modality. Consistently maintain and improve professional knowledge and competence, striving for professional excellence through regular assessment of personal and professional strengths and weaknesses and through student evaluations and continued education training. Conduct their business and professional activities with honesty and integrity, and respect the inherent worth of all persons. Refuse to unjustly discriminate against students. Safeguard the confidentiality of all student information, unless disclosure is requested by the student in writing, is medically necessary, is required by law, or necessary for the protection of the public. Provide draping and treatment in a way that ensures the safety, comfort and privacy of all students. Refrain, under all circumstances, from initiating or engaging in any sexual conduct, sexual activities, or sexualizing behavior involving a student, even if the student attempts to sexualize the relationship unless a pre-existing relationship exists between an Approved Provider and the student prior to the student’s class attendance. Avoid any interest, activity or influence which might be in conflict with the Approved Provider's obligation to act in the best interests of students or the profession. Respect the student's boundaries with regard to privacy, disclosure, exposure, emotional expression, beliefs and the student's reasonable expectations of professional behavior. Approved Providers will respect the student's autonomy. Refuse any gifts or benefits that are intended to influence grades, decisions or attendance, or that are purely for personal gain. Follow the NCBTMB Approved Provider Standards of Practice, this Approved Provider Code of Ethics, and all policies, procedures, guidelines, regulations, codes, and requirements promulgated by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. None Approved Provider Standards of PracticePlease select the specific sections of the Approved Provider Standards of Practice you believe have been violated. (select all that apply)(Required) Standard I: Professionalism Standard II: Legal and Ethical Requirements Standard III: Confidentiality Standard IV: Business Practices Standard V: Roles and Boundaries Standard VI: Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and Inappropriate Touch None AP Standard I: Professionalism(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status must provide optimal levels of professional therapeutic massage and bodywork continuing education and demonstrate expert knowledge in specific modalities taught by seeking continuous education of each subject taught. Massage therapy and bodywork modalities must always be within the massage therapist’s/bodyworker’s scope of practice and taught ethically and non-judgmentally to other professionals in the field. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Adhere to the NCBTMB Approved Provider Code of Ethics, Approved Provider Standards of Practice, policies and procedures. Comply with the peer review process conducted by the NCBTMB Approved Provider Committee regarding any alleged violations of the NCBTMB Approved Provider Standards of Practice. Comply with the peer review process conducted by the NCBTMB Ethics & Standards Committee regarding any alleged violations of the NCBTMB Approved Provider Code of Ethics. Treat each student with respect, dignity and worth. Use professional verbal, nonverbal and written communications. Provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for the student and which, at a minimum, meets all legal requirements for health and safety. Use standard precautions to insure professional hygienic practices and maintain a level of personal hygiene appropriate for continuing education providers in the therapeutic setting. Wear clothing that is clean, modest, and professional. Obtain voluntary and informed consent from students prior to initiating the lab/clinical portions of the class. If applicable, conduct an accurate needs assessment, develop a curriculum, and update the curriculum as needed. Require that students use appropriate draping techniques to protect other students’ physical and emotional privacy while in the classroom, lab/clinical setting. Be knowledgeable of the subject being taught and teach within the massage therapist’s scope of practice. Respect the traditions and practices of other Approved Providers. Not falsely impugn the reputation of any other Approved Provider. Use the initials NCBTMB only to designate his/her status as an Approved Provider. Remain in good standing with NCBTMB. Understand that the NCBTMB Approved Provider certificate may be displayed prominently in the Approved Provider’s business. Use the NCBTMB Approved Provider logo and approval number on business cards, brochures, advertisements, and stationery only in a manner that is within established NCBTMB guidelines. Not duplicate the NCBTMB Approved Provider certificate for purposes other than verification of the Approved Provider’s status. Immediately return the certificate to NCBTMB if Approved Provider status is revoked. Inform NCBTMB of any changes or additions to information included in his/her application for NCBTMB Approved Provider status or renewal of status. AP Standard II: Legal and Ethical Requirements(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status must comply with all the legal requirements in applicable jurisdictions regulating the profession of therapeutic massage and bodywork. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Obey all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Refrain from any behavior that results in illegal, discriminatory, or unethical actions. Accept responsibility for his/her own actions. Report to the proper authorities any alleged violations of the law by other Approved Providers, certificants or applicants for Approved Provider status. Maintain accurate and truthful records. Report to NCBTMB any criminal conviction of, or plea of guilty, nolo contendere, or no contest to, a crime in any jurisdiction (other than a minor traffic offense) by him/herself and by other Approved Providers, certificants or applicants for Approved Provider status. Report to NCBTMB any pending litigation and resulting resolution related to the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider’s status professional practice and the professional practice of other Approved Providers, certificants or applicants for Approved Provider status. Report to NCBTMB any pending complaints in any state or local government or quasi-government board or agency against his/her professional conduct or competence, or that of another Approved Provider, and the resulting resolution of such complaint. AP Standard III: Confidentiality(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall respect the confidentiality of student information and safeguard all records. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Protect the confidentiality of the student’s identity in conversations, all advertisements, and any and all other matters unless disclosure of identifiable information is requested by the student in writing, is medically necessary, is required by law or for purposes of public protection. Solicit only information that is relevant to the professional student/Approved Provider relationship. Share pertinent information about the student with third parties when required by law or for purposes of public protection. Maintain the student files for a minimum period of four years. Store and dispose of student files in a secure manner. AP Standard IV: Business Practices(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall teach with honesty, integrity, and lawfulness in the business of therapeutic massage and bodywork continuing education. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Provide a physical setting that is safe and meets all applicable legal requirements for health and safety. Maintain adequate and customary liability insurance. Maintain adequate records and required documentation for each student. Accurately and truthfully inform the profession of courses provided. Honestly represent all professional qualifications and affiliations. Promote his/her business with integrity and avoid potential and actual conflicts of interest. Advertise in a manner that is honest, dignified, accurate and representative of services that can be delivered and remains consistent with the NCBTMB Approved Provider Code of Ethics and Approved Provider Standards of Practice. Advertise in a manner that is not misleading to the profession and shall not use sensational, sexual or provocative language and/or pictures to promote business or in the learning environment. Comply with all laws regarding sexual harassment. Not exploit the trust and dependency of others, including students and employees/co-workers. Display/discuss a schedule of fees in advance of the session that is clearly understood by the student or potential student. Make financial arrangements in advance that are clearly understood by and safeguard the best interests of the student. Have clearly defined cancelation and refund policies. Follow acceptable accounting practices. File all applicable municipal, state and federal taxes. Maintain accurate financial records, contracts and legal obligations, continuing education course records, tax reports, copies of certificates, transcripts and receipts for at least four years. AP Standard V: Roles and Boundaries(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall adhere to ethical boundaries and perform the professional roles designed to protect both the student and the Approved Provider, and safeguard the professional relationship between the student and Approved Provider. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Recognize his/her personal limitations and teach course only within these limitations. Recognize his/her influential position with students and not exploit the relationship for personal or other gain. Recognize and limit the impact of transference and counter-transference between the Approved Provider and students. Avoid dual or multidimensional relationships that could impair professional judgment or result in exploitation of students or employees and/or coworkers. Not engage in any sexual activity with any student. Refrain from teaching under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substances (with the exception of a prescribed dosage of prescription medication which does not impair the Approved Provider). Have the right to refuse and/or terminate a class with a student who is abusive or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substance. AP Standard VI: Prevention of Sexual Misconduct(Required)The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall refrain from any behavior that sexualizes, or appears to sexualize, the student/Approved Provider relationship. The Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status recognizes the intimacy of the student/Approved Provider or student/student relationship may activate needs and/or desires that weaken objectivity and may lead to sexualizing the therapeutic relationship. In his/her professional role the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status shall: Refrain from participating in a sexual relationship or sexual conduct with the student, whether consensual or otherwise, from the beginning of the student/Approved Provider relationship and for a minimum of six months after the course end date unless a pre-existing relationship exists between the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status and student prior to the Approved Provider or applicant for Approved Provider status applying for Approved Provider status by NCBTMB. In the event that the student initiates sexual behavior, clarify the purpose of the continuing education course, and, if such conduct does not cease, terminate or refuse the student for further courses. Recognize that sexual activity with students, employees, supervisors, or trainees is prohibited even if consensual. Not touch the genitalia. Only teach therapeutic treatments within the massage therapy scope of practice. You must select at least one Code of Conduct, Code of Ethics and/or Standards of Practice you believe have been violated in order to submit this request. You cannot select "None" for all. If submitted without at least one selection, complaint will not be processed.DocumentationPlease provide any related documentation related to your complaint(Required) Drop files here or Select files Max. file size: 50 MB. ConsentBoard Certified Complaint Consent(Required)Check the box below to provide your approval for the Ethics and Standards Committee to disclose all information in the complaint to the massage therapist/bodyworker named in the complaint, the members of NCBTMB’s Ethics & Standards Committee and Investigative Team, NCBTMB staff, NCBTMB legal counsel and experts involved in handling the complaint. I agreeApproved Provider Complaint Consent(Required)Check the box below to provide your approval for the Approved Provider Committee to disclose all information in the complaint to the Approved Provider named in the complaint, the members of NCBTMB’s Investigative Team, NCBTMB staff, NCBTMB legal counsel and experts involved in handling the complaint. I agreeAssigned School Complaint Consent(Required)Check the box below to provide your approval for the NCBTMB to disclose all information in the complaint to the Assigned School named in the complaint, the members of NCBTMB’s Investigative Team, NCBTMB staff, NCBTMB legal counsel and experts involved in handling the complaint. I agreeCAPTCHA Ready to take the next step? Join our community of massage therapy professionals and access the resources, education, and the support you need to advance your career. Get Board Certified Earn the highest credential in the massage therapy profession and gain recognition for your advanced skills and abilities. Apply Today Become an Approved Provider Share your expertise and become a part of the leading network of massage therapy continuing education providers. Apply Today Become an Assigned School Join us and support a national standard of excellence in massage therapy education. Apply Today
