It is a difficult situation. I don't accept tips or gifts all year, but I do accept small gifts at Christmas time. I think some of it depends on the community where you live. I am in a small, semi-rural community, and it seems to be the traditional thing to do here. I will gracefully accept something small: often clients bring something for the office. For example, today a client brought small pointsetta plant in a decoratative planter. It will sit in the office for everyone to enjoy and I am okay with that since it's not a personal or expensive gift. Clients also bring chocolates, or home-made cookies and again, I put them out for everyone to share.
One option you could consider is to put up a nice sign, maybe a month before christmas, something to the effect of
"We thank you for your good wishes at the holiday season. We do not accept personal gifts, but if you would like to show your appreciation by bringing a gift for the toy drive, we would be most grateful." (or food bank, or a donation to an appropriate community charity).,,

Now I like that Idea!

lee kalpin said:

It is a difficult situation. I don't accept tips or gifts all year, but I do accept small gifts at Christmas time. I think some of it depends on the community where you live. I am in a small, semi-rural community, and it seems to be the traditional thing to do here. I will gracefully accept something small: often clients bring something for the office. For example, today a client brought small pointsetta plant in a decoratative planter. It will sit in the office for everyone to enjoy and I am okay with that since it's not a personal or expensive gift. Clients also bring chocolates, or home-made cookies and again, I put them out for everyone to share.
One option you could consider is to put up a nice sign, maybe a month before christmas, something to the effect of
"We thank you for your good wishes at the holiday season. We do not accept personal gifts, but if you would like to show your appreciation by bringing a gift for the toy drive, we would be most grateful." (or food bank, or a donation to an appropriate community charity).,,

Saying no will hurt people's feelings. You don't have to say no.

I don't mind people giving gifts at Christmas. Just be sure that in any gift giving situation that they are not expecting anything more from your sessions like giving extra time or fitting them in on your day off. Just keep your boundaries clear.
Even if there is some transference going on in the gift giving - it is transference done on someone with clear boundaries that helps people heal .

Julie
www.massage-career-guides.com