This webinar session focuses on the patient and family experience. A relational, outward and integrative session focused on communication, collaboration, and real-world application of Massage Therapy in a palliative care setting.

Participants will learn how to integrate massage therapy into patient- and family-centered care through effective communication, relational presence, and collaboration within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Drawing on case studies, clinical examples, and evidence-based findings, participants will deepen their understanding of how touch fosters connection, comfort, and dignity for children and their families. 

• Apply patient and family-centered communication strategies in a palliative care setting.
• Understand how massage therapy supports the needs of the child and family unit.
• Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team and work alongside other allied professionals.
• Identify the role of massage therapy as an integrated therapy into the home, hospitals, and hospice palliative care settings

• Act with professional integrity 
• Communicate effectively 
• Function in a client-centered manner
• Interact effectively with other professionals 
• Maintain a safe work environment 
• Maintain personal wellness consistent with the needs of practice 
• Practise in a self-reflective manner 
• Treat others respectfully

Sofia Costa, RMT, has extensive experience providing massage therapy to children and adults with various conditions and life-limiting illness through her clinical and mobile practice. Began focusing on pediatric palliative care through McMasters Quality of Life and Advanced Care Massage Therapy pilot program. With a focus on comfort-based care, Sofia has worked in home and clinical settings, integrating massage therapy into interdisciplinary teams. Her work emphasizes therapeutic presence, adaptive techniques, and the role of touch in supporting comfort and quality of life for children and their families. 

-Registration Deadline: Wednesday, February 18 by 9:00am.

-All webinar registrations are on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited capacity on total registrations per webinar.

-Webinar will be recorded. All registered participants will receive a link to the webinar recording. Access to the recording will be available for up to 3 months from the webinar date.

Recording Consent Disclaimer for RMTAO Webinars:

This webinar will be recorded. By registering for the event, you are providing your consent to being recorded and the use of your image and voice by the RMTAO in replaying the webinar in the future.