Massage Therapist vs. Masseuse: Why the Right Terminology Matters

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a client’s home, introduced myself as a massage therapist, and heard, “Oh, so you’re a masseuse?”

It used to make me cringe. Now, I take a deep breath and gently correct them. Not because I’m being “picky” or as one client humorously accused me of “trying to be fancy”. But like a physical therapist or occupational therapist, the term “massage therapist” was earned from years of education, and professional training.

Language evolves, so do the professional terms we use. If you’ve ever referred to your massage professional as a masseuse, it’s ok & you’re not alone—but it’s time to retire that word. The correct and professional term is massage therapist, and here’s why.

The Difference Between Massage Therapist vs Masseuse

Years ago, “masseuse” (for women) and “masseur” (for men) were common ways to describe someone who did massage. However, when talking about the profession “massage therapy”, as the industry became more regulated, licensed, and professional, that term started to fade. Don’t get me wrong, not everyone you meet who practices massage is a therapist. There are still people who are not licensed in massage therapy who do massage treatments in certain spas and facilities.

And let’s be honest, the word “masseuse” does have some baggage. Over time, “masseuse” has unfortunately developed unprofessional and even inappropriate connotations, often associated with certain services. Because of this, most massage professionals avoid that term.

A massage therapist is a trained healthcare professional. We spend hundreds, (depending on your state) even thousands of hours studying, like those of us who completed the Degree Program. Many are surprised that our medical curriculum includes more than just anatomy and physiology. We have the same courses as other healthcare professionals, like kinesiology, myology, neurology, pathology, and assessment. We also have our “Hands-on” curriculum. Learning western & eastern theory and techniques like swedish, deep tissue, trigger point, acupressure, and shiatsu, including completing clinic and internship hours. Many of us specialize, continuing our education and training (like me, in orthopedic, oncology and comfort care massage).

Then, there is the Industry Standards & Licensing. In most states and countries, massage therapists must meet strict licensing and educational requirements. Being a licensed professional requires us to take continuing education, where we continue to learn and grow within our profession. The title massage therapist is used in legal and medical settings, whereas masseuse is not recognized by any governing body.

Why Use ‘Massage Therapist’ 

Medical titles and terms change over time for many reasons. Whether for Accuracy (medical advancement allows for more precise terms), Respect (negative connotations and dignity), or Professionalism (the title evolves to represent the qualifications and expertise). Using the correct terminology shows your respect for the years of training, skill, and dedication massage therapists bring to their clients. 

I love what I do. I help people get out of pain, recover from injuries, and improve their quality of life. But when I introduce myself to someone and they continue to refer to me as a masseuse, I feel like all that training and expertise as a professional gets reduced. 

So, if working with a skilled professional matters to you, and you want to show respect for the work you receive, here’s a simple ask: call us massage therapists. It’s a simple but powerful way to continue to elevate the profession and ensure that massage therapy is recognized as the essential healthcare service it truly is.

It’s a small shift in language, but it makes a big difference.

Article Written by Diana Gordon LMT, OMMS

As a professional Licensed Massage Therapist for 22 years, I have the privilege of learning, growing and sharing with my clients. I am grateful to now have the opportunity to share what I’ve learned with you.

Thank you for visiting, If you are in the Long Island /NYC area & interested in adding Massage Therapy to your wellness routine, Please visit my Service Page