IICT Training Provider – Le Spa Massage

We chat with Le Spa Massage’s highly skilled therapist and owner Kim Le Robertson who has 20 years of knowledge and experience about the massage industry. Known for her ability to blend Eastern and Western massage techniques into personalised treatments, Kim is dedicated to teaching and inspiring therapists worldwide. She shares her journey, approach to client care, and advice for aspiring massage therapists.

What inspired you to pursue a career in massage therapy, and how did you develop the foundational skills needed for success?

My career was inspired by a passion for helping people to feel balanced in both body and mind. Early on, I recognised the transformative power of touch and its universal ability to heal and relax. My training spans both Eastern and Western modalities, including Remedial Massage, Thai Traditional massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, cupping therapy, myofascial release and more. This diverse background allows me to create treatments that are both therapeutic and deeply relaxing, allowing me to individualise treatments for clients of all ethnicities and cultural preferences.

I started my career in an Eastern environment, which encompassed concepts such as restoring the vital flow of energy through meridians or energy channels, and integrating sensory elements such as sight, sound, touch, smell and taste to restore the body’s balance. I therefore struggled a little moving to a Western environment where the focus is more on scientific concepts such as physiology and anatomy. To become successful, I had to open my mind to learn new concepts, and to integrate the philosophies of the East and West. I believe my success with this approach has made me a unique and outstanding practitioner of massage therapies.

How do you approach understanding a client’s specific needs and preferences before a session?

For me, the key is clear and open communication. Listening to the client’s wishes and expectations is key. Before each session, I take time to understand the client’s health history, areas of concern and specific goals. During the treatment, I check with the client to ensure they are comfortable and that the pressure is appropriate. Combining this dialogue with my knowledge of diverse techniques ensures every session feels both personalised and effective, leaving clients feeling truly cared for. My aim is not only to provide effective immediate remedial treatments but also to ensure my clients understand that regular therapies will help prevent an acute issue from becoming chronic.

Massage therapy can be physically demanding. What strategies do you use to maintain your stamina and ensure consistent quality of care for clients?

Sustainability in this career requires mindful practices. I use body mechanics to reduce physical strain, such as leveraging my body weight instead of relying solely on my hands. It is important to not rush the therapy but to go slowly and conserve energy. Incorporating many different styles of treatment, such as hot stone, dry needling, cupping and Thai traditional stretching allows me to move dynamically and distribute effort more evenly. Outside of work, I focus on maintaining physical fitness through diet, walking, yoga, Pilates and sauna, and I also prioritise hydration, rest and regular massages for my own wellbeing.

What is it about IICT that you love the most?

IICT is exceptional in its inclusivity and support for therapists at all levels. They recognise a wide variety of techniques, giving therapists the freedom to blend and innovate. For beginners, its flexible accreditation and insurance options provide a solid foundation to practice confidently and grow professionally. This kind of support fosters a safe environment where therapists can hone their skills and make meaningful contributions to the industry.

What advice would you give to a graduate massage therapist about to enter the industry? 

Keep learning and practising. The beauty of massage therapy lies in its endless possibilities, so you can combine techniques to create treatments that are uniquely yours. Building strong rapport with your clients is just as important as perfecting your skills – trust and connection will keep clients returning. It is preferable to start by working for an established therapist first, even as a volunteer, so you can build your skills and confidence further. If you do start your own clinic, don’t become discouraged too quickly. It takes time to build your practice and reputation! Lastly, remember to look after yourself. Overwork can lead to burnout, so listen to your body, take breaks when needed and prioritise self-care. A healthy therapist is essential to providing excellent care.

What advice should they ignore?

Avoid the notion that you should mimic another therapist’s style to be successful. While it’s great to learn from others, copying someone else’s approach can limit your creativity and personal growth. Instead, focus on finding your unique strengths and blending them into your practice. Authenticity is what sets you apart and builds trust with your clients. Also, ignore the idea that every client will always love your work. Some clients may not return, and that’s okay – it’s an opportunity to grow and refine your approach. Don’t take it personally; instead, focus on continuous improvement and staying true to your values as a therapist.

How can our audience get in touch with you to find out more?

Visit Le Spa Massage Academy for details on our courses, services and upcoming workshops. Or visit our clinic at 8/31 Black Street, Milton QLD 4064. Follow us on social media @le_spa_massage_academy_ for updates and insights into how you can elevate your massage practice or ring me, Kim Le Robertson, anytime to chat directly on 0448932465. We look forward to connecting with you.