Some people are uncomfortable about some parts of their body being massaged, such as their abdomen, buttocks or legs. These feelings would be respected by a therapist trained to be sensitive to each individual's feelings about being touched. I was upset by the work the therapist was doing on my legs. A more sympathetic response to my feelings would have helped me to come to terms with them rather than causing me the upset I experienced. Biodynamic Massage Therapists have a training of 1-3 years to learn techniques that enable them to work sensitively with their clients.
Therapists have regular supervision where they discuss the clients' process.
If a therapist belongs to a professional association with its own codes of conduct and ethics this provides an additional safeguard. In the initial session the therapist would take a Case Study of the client. This would include information about their past and present health, any medications they were taking, and also how they were feeling and what they wanted from massage. Finding the type of complementary therapy that suits you, an experienced and well-qualified therapist, and committing to regular sessions over a period of months or years all combine to allow massage therapy to be effective. Having a supportive lifestyle is also vital.