Massage Therapists’ Attitudes and Knowledge about Mental Health: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Study
Principal Investigator: Samantha Zabel, Indiana University

***7.11.2023 UPDATE: This study was introduced in the March 2023 Newsletter and seeks to recognize the potential role for massage therapists as a referral point for mental health resources. Conducted in two parts, a survey and interviews, this study has completed data collection as of June 30, 2023. Over the next few months, data will be analyzed and compiled into manuscript form. MassageNet will distribute the resulting paper when it becomes available.***

Clinician understanding and perceptions of mental health can impact how their patients receive care. This study will investigate massage therapists’ knowledge about, experiences with, and attitudes toward mental health and mental illness, with the intent of elucidating any impact on patient care. Participants will complete a survey about their understanding and perceptions of mental health and mental illness. Follow-up interviews will seek to learn about participants’ clinical, educational, and personal experiences with mental health and mental illness. The results of this study may help inform how mental health is taught in massage education.

MassageNet members who met this study’s eligibility criteria received an email invitation with a QR code link to the survey. The study is now closed.

This study was featured on Massage Therapy Foundation’s Research Perch podcast! Check it out below and read the accompanying blog here: https://massagetherapyfoundation.org/massagenet-study-perch/