Following the publication of the Journal de Montréal article on the class-action lawsuit against the Nordik Spa Village in Chelsea, the Fédération québécoise des massothérapeutes agréés (FQM) was contacted by several media outlets to comment on the situation.
According to reports, nearly 150 accounts allege that 36 massage therapists engaged in sexual misconduct in incidents between 2007 and 2026. The FQM wishes to emphasize, however, the importance of respecting the presumption of innocence. That being said, some massage therapists have, in fact, already been found guilty of sexual assault.
The FQM takes this situation very seriously. Sexual misconduct, whether experienced by clients or therapists, is a serious matter that cannot be taken lightly.
Protecting the public and ensuring the professional and ethical practice of massage therapy remain at the heart of the FQM’s concerns. We will continue to closely monitor developments and, within the scope of our role and responsibilities, contribute to efforts aimed at preventing misconduct and fostering a safe environment for everyone.
It is worth noting that the FQM and the five other associations participating in the Massage Therapy Professionalization Project are proposing a more rigorous regulatory framework aimed, in particular, at curbing such misconduct. Supported by the Association québécoise des spas (which includes the Nordik Spa Village in Chelsea) and the Association canadienne des compagnies d’assurance de personnes, this project also seeks to enhance the profession’s standing. As you know, the overwhelming majority of massage therapists do remarkable work to promote the public’s health and well-being.
Recent media appearances by the FQM
- Interview with the Chair of the Board of Administrators and the FQM CEO on TVA Nouvelles
- Interview with the FQM CEO on Radio-Canada Ottawa-Gatineau
- Interview with the FQM CEO on Planète 104,5 Alma
- Interview with the FQM CEO on Radio-Canada Mauricie
- Interview with the FQM CEO on CBC News
- Interview with the FQM CEO on Le Bulletin d’Aylmer (in English)
Measures taken by the FQM
Our brochure on sexual misconduct (in French)
Our federation has created a brochure to provide resources for its members, part of which is aimed at employers (health clinics, spas, etc.).
Webinar on Maintaining Professional Boundaries
Understand, recognize, and prevent sexual misconduct, while exploring its implications, impacts, and courses of action, whether for yourself or to provide support to others.
The FQM has partnered with other massage therapy associations to establish, effective January 1, 2026, a shared and confidential registry of expulsions in order to strengthen public protection, the integrity of the profession, and the rigor of the admission processes.