Setting clear boundaries is one of the most critical components of a Touch Therapist's work. It helps us hold the platonic parameter of the session, as well as keep ourselves feeling safe, respected, and generous. These techniques allow you to keep the boundaries firmly but compassionately in place with skill and finesse.

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Ask and Wait

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This method is best for both the therapist and the client. This allows more space and time to navigate a touch experience. A client with trauma may feel safer using this method. We use this as a professional with all clients to help strengthen their understanding of Consent.

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The way it works is that if I want to touch the client - like holding their hand. I'll ask: May I hold your left hand? I'll keep my body language neutral so they have the physical and emotional space to say Yes or No. If I'm holding their hand and want to know how to caress it, I would ask again: May I caress your hand?

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We require our clients also to use this technique if they want to touch the mentor. It takes some practice to get used to it. If you, as a client, feel like you're asking a lot, that means you're doing it correctly.

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BLANKET YES

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If we feel safe with the client and they feel safe with us, we can try the Blanket Yes Consent method. This would allow you both to repeatedly touch each other without asking for Consent. If either of you wants the touch to be adjusted or to stop, you would say so:

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• Can we try something else?

• Would you slow down your caress?

• I need to take a break.

 

*The Blanket Yes method only works if we feel empowered to speak up for your needs.

 

Bathing Suit Areas

Our mentor and the client will avoid areas typically covered with a bathing suit. On chests, we steer clear of breasts and nipples. We're mindful to ask about touching a person's belly. (It could be a sensitive or off-limit area for the client or us.)

 

Clothing Borders

We won't reach under the borders of any clothing. For example, If I'm stroking up your arm and running your t-shirt sleeve, I won't go under the sleeve to access more of your bare skin. I'll continue the stroke over the cloth of the shirt.

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KEEPING IT PLATONIC

We are often asked how it's possible to keep a session nonsexual.

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We define platonic to mean non-sexual, non-erotic, non-romantic and therapeutic. In our society, the touch between adults has been very sexualized. Platonic touch has no agenda. It's not intended to "go anywhere"; therefore, there's no pressure for it to escalate into something else.

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One method for keeping sessions platonic is for practitioners to be aware of their sexuality and care for their needs.

We discuss platonic touch and define it with our client beforehand so everything is clear.

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We choose music that's more relaxing than that considered arousing or sexy. In terms of clothing, we recommend you prefer comfortable and not purposefully provocative options. Clothing choices are subjective - please make your best judgment.

Some cuddle positions, such as spooning or lying on top of the client, may have the accidental effect of creating arousal. Arousal is a natural body response to relaxation and sometimes to touch. We don't freak out or shame the client. Instead, we recommend they shift - perhaps of position, breathing, or mindset.