Remedial Massage Therapist

sahba567Beauty & Dermal Therapy, Careers

A remedial massage therapist is a highly trained professional who specialises in assessing and treating musculoskeletal issues through hands-on therapy techniques. Using deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and other therapeutic techniques, they help relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote overall well-being. Working in wellness clinics, physiotherapy centres, sports facilities, and private practise, remedial massage therapists provide tailored treatment plans to address injuries, tension, and chronic conditions.

ROSE BONASERA

Dermal Therapist.
Director, Elixer Skin Fitness

elixirskinfitness.com.au

WATCH INTERVIEW

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Rose Bonasera Dermal Therapist, Director Elixer Skin Fitness

Rose Bonasera is a leading dermal therapist with over 20 years experience in the professional skincare industry. Her experience ranges from educator, dermal therapist, working with a leading Sydney plastic surgeon to running her own award-winning skin clinic.

Rose is the Director Elixir Skin Fitness and is driven to achieving incredible and sustainable results for her clients. Elixir Skin Fitness was voted by Vogue Australia as South Australia’s Best Skin Health Clinic in 2018.

Rose has a special interest in inflammatory skin conditions, extrinsic and intrinsic ageing and the connection between the skin, gut and internal health. Rose’s goal is to educate her clients on how they can look after their skin with an integrative approach, creating customised skin treatment plans for each client’s unique story.

Rose enjoys working in partnership with male and female clients to achieve positive changes in the appearance of their skin, and as a result, also increasing their self-confidence.

Rose is results-driven and is passionate about working with some of the latest equipment devices available to achieve outstanding results for her clients. Rose also successfully runs Elixir Education Events every year for existing and new clients, inviting industry-based guest speakers to continue educating her clients on an integrative approach to skin health and the generation prevention culture.

LEARN FROM ROSE IN HER INTERVIEW WITH SAHBA

Details

What Does a Remedial Massage Therapist Do?

Remedial massage therapists assess clients’ physical conditions and apply targeted massage techniques to alleviate pain, tension, and restricted movement. Their treatments aim to restore function, enhance recovery, and improve overall health.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct comprehensive client assessments to identify musculoskeletal issues and treatment needs.
  • Apply therapeutic massage techniques such as:
  • Deep Tissue Massage for tension relief and muscle recovery.
  • Trigger Point Therapy to release muscle knots and improve circulation.
  • Myofascial Release to address chronic pain and mobility issues.
  • Sports Massage for athletes to enhance performance and recovery.
  • Lymphatic Drainage to support detoxification and immune function.
  • Develop customised treatment plans based on client needs and medical conditions.
  • Provide injury rehabilitation support in collaboration with physiotherapists, chiropractors, and
  • other healthcare professionals.
  • Educate clients on stretching, posture correction, and self-care techniques to maintain long-term benefits.
  • Maintain accurate treatment records and client progress reports.
  • Follow strict hygiene, safety, and ethical guidelines to ensure client well-being.

Work Environments:

Remedial massage therapists work in diverse health and wellness settings, including:

Wellness & Natural Therapy Clinics:
Offering holistic healing and therapeutic treatments.

Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Clinics:
Working alongside allied health professionals for rehabilitation.

Sports & Athletic Performance Centers:
Assisting athletes with recovery and injury prevention.

Luxury Spas & Retreats:
Providing therapeutic massages in high-end wellness environments.

Corporate & Workplace Health Programs:
Offering on-site massage for stress management.

Self-Employment & Mobile Services:
Running an independent massage therapy business.

Skills & Qualifications

Skills required:

In-depth Knowledge of Anatomy & Physiology:
Understanding how muscles, joints, and soft tissues function.

Strong Hands-on Massage Techniques:
Ability to apply remedial therapies effectively.

Assessment & Treatment Planning Skills:
Creating tailored approaches for pain management and rehabilitation.

Client Communication & Consultation Skills:
Educating clients on post-treatment care.

Physical Stamina & Strength:
Performing deep tissue and high-pressure treatments safely.

Compliance with Health & Safety Standards:
Maintaining hygiene and professionalism in practise.

Qualifications required:

In Australia, remedial massage therapists must complete formal training and meet industry standards, including:

Diploma of Remedial Massage (HLT52021)
The nationally recognised qualification required for professional practise.

First Aid & CPR Certification 
Essential for handling emergencies during treatments.

Professional Membership with Associations (e.g., Massage & Myotherapy Australia, ATMS)
Required for health fund rebates and industry credibility.

Insurance & Business Registration
Necessary for independent practitioners and clinic owners.

Career Growth & Opportunities

Remedial massage therapists can advance their careers by:

Specialising in Advanced Modalities:
Such as myotherapy, craniosacral therapy, or cupping therapy.

Working in Sports & Rehabilitation:
Assisting professional athletes and sports teams.

Becoming a Massage Educator or Trainer:
Teaching at massage schools or wellness academies.

Expanding into Allied Health Fields:
Such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, or osteopathy.

Owning a Wellness Clinic or Mobile Business:
Running a private practise or developing corporate wellness programmes.

With the increasing demand for therapeutic and rehabilitative massage, a career as a remedial massage therapist offers job flexibility, rewarding client outcomes, and the opportunity to contribute to holistic health and well-being.