Most people book a massage hoping to relax, relieve stress, or take care of their health. A massage should be a safe and peaceful experience. But when a massage therapist crosses a boundary and makes unwanted sexual advances, it becomes a frightening and confusing situation. Many people feel shocked, embarrassed, or unsure about what to do next.
This article is here to guide anyone who has gone through an incident involving sexual assault during a massage or unwanted sexual contact in a spa or wellness setting. You deserve clarity, support, and protection.
Sexual misconduct can happen in different ways. In massage therapy, it may involve a therapist touching a client in a sexual way, making sexual comments, or initiating sexual contact that the client did not want and did not consent to.
If a therapist makes sexual advances and the client does not reciprocate, does not invite it, or freezes in fear, the responsibility is never on the client. The behavior is inappropriate and can be considered sexual assault.
Many survivors of massage sexual assault feel shocked, confused, or ashamed. Some blame themselves or wonder if they misunderstood what happened. Others feel afraid to speak up because they worry no one will believe them.
It is important to understand one thing clearly.
You did nothing wrong.
Unwanted sexual contact is never the victim’s fault.
Here are practical steps that can help someone protect themselves emotionally and legally after unwanted sexual contact during a massage.
Leave the situation
If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, end the session immediately and leave the room.
Write down what happened
Try to record the events while they are still fresh in your mind. Include what happened, what was said, the time, and anything that felt wrong.
Report the incident if you choose
A person may report the misconduct to the spa, the franchise owner, or law enforcement. The choice belongs to the survivor. Reporting can create a record and may protect others.
Seek emotional support
Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or therapist can help with fear, shock, or distress.
Contact an attorney
A lawyer who handles sexual misconduct and negligence cases can explain your options, protect your privacy, and speak with the business on your behalf.
Businesses that provide massage and personal-care services are responsible for keeping clients safe. They must:
When a company fails in these responsibilities, survivors may take legal action to hold the business accountable. A lawsuit can help someone seek compensation for emotional trauma and can encourage safer practices in the industry.
Attorney Donald E. Smolen II explains the firm’s role in helping survivors of massage sexual assault and unwanted sexual contact.
“People place tremendous trust in these businesses. When that trust is broken, it affects not just the client, but everyone who cares about them. Our role is to make sure that what happened is addressed fully and that stronger protections are put in place moving forward.”
If you were touched inappropriately during a massage, pressured sexually, or experienced unwanted advances from a therapist, you deserve support. You are not to blame. Speaking with someone who understands these cases can help you regain control and find a path forward.
Smolen Law, PLLC
Civil Rights | Personal Injury | Client Safety
(918) 777 4LAW
www.smolen.law
Smolen Law's mission is to provide exceptional legal services with integrity, professionalism, and respect.
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