President's Message

Michael Roberson, President -- AMTA California Chapter

June 2026

Welcome to Summer!

June is a time to reflect on dedication, history, freedom, and lasting commitment. As our nation nears the celebration of 250 years of freedom, we are reminded that the liberties we enjoy today were secured through the efforts and sacrifices of those who came before us. Massage therapy is part of a tradition that spans at least 5,000 years, and the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) has supported the profession since its founding in 1943. Again, much of what we are able to do as massage therapists, came from the efforts and sacrifices of dedicated therapists before us.

This spirit of dedication is reflected in our own chapter as we celebrate three remarkable members reaching 45 years of service: Beverly May of Belmont, Donna Cerio of Soquel, and Joy Crough of Los Gatos. Their decades of commitment to massage therapy and to our association are a powerful testament to the lasting impact of quality therapeutic touch. Please join me in congratulating them on this extraordinary achievement.  If you get the opportunity to connect with these members, please acknowledge their dedication and example 45 years of dedication to our profession and association is worthy of praise!

We are also dedicated on securing the future of our profession in California. AMTA National, along with our Chapter leadership, are actively working with the legislature to advance licensure for massage therapists across the state, moving beyond the currently flawed voluntary certification system administered by the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). This effort is intended to strengthen public trust, elevate the profession, and create a clear and fair path forward for practitioners, all while protecting the public, our patients/clients.

Finally, in the spirit of service, I encourage you to support our upcoming Community Outreach Opportunity at Camp Pendleton on Friday, July 28. We are seeking dedicated volunteers to provide massage to service members and their families. It is a meaningful way to honor those who are dedicated to service and to demonstrate the care and professionalism that is defined by our work.

Until the next time …

Michael Roberson,

California Chapter President