Why Asking About Gender Identity Isn’t ‘Political’—It’s Essential Massage Therapy"

As a massage therapist, I’ve learned that the most healing sessions begin long before hands touch skin—they start with a simple, intentional question: “How would you like me to acknowledge your gender identity today?”

For many LGBTQ+ clients, especially transgender and non-binary individuals, this question can be the difference between a transformative experience and one that reinforces dysphoria or discomfort. Here’s why gender-affirming care isn’t just “inclusive” practice—it’s ethical, evidence-based bodywork.

The Physical Impact of Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria—the distress caused by a mismatch between one’s body and identity—often manifests as physical tension:

• Chronic armouring: Trans men binding their chests may develop rib/shoulder pain.

• Post-surgery sensitivity: Scar tissue from top surgery or feminisation procedures requires specialised touch.

• Emotional guarding: Many clients unconsciously protect areas they associate with gender distress (e.g., hips for trans women).

“I used to leave massages feeling worse because therapists would focus on my ‘problem areas’—which were just parts of my body I didn’t want spotlighted”

A Male Therapist’s Role in Building Trust

As a male practitioner, I recognise that my presence can be daunting—especially for survivors of trauma or those wary of masculinity’s cultural baggage. That’s why I:

• State my pronouns first (e.g., “I’m Jonny, he/him”) to normalise the exchange.

• Offer options: Table or chair massage, draped or clothed work.

• Follow the client’s lead: “Would you like me to check in during pressure changes, or would you prefer quiet?”

“Having a male therapist who asked instead of assumed helped me trust again,” 

The Data Behind the Need

• 56% of trans people avoid healthcare due to fear of discrimination (Stonewall, 2023).

• Massage therapy ranks among the top-requested—yet least-accessed—services for trans clients (*National LGBTQ+ Health Survey, 2022*).

A Call to Action for the Industry

To fellow therapists:

• Train proactively: Organisations like Gendered Intelligence offer CPD courses.

• Audit your space: Do your clinic posters accommodate non-binary clients?

• Speak up: Correct colleagues who misgender clients—even in “private” notes.

To potential clients:Your body deserves care that honours all of who you are. At Jonny Massage, your identity isn’t an asterisk—it’s central to how we work together.