Complementary or Complimentary?

   
I have to be honest, but as a complementary therapist, this is one of my bug bears. Many therapists don't seem to realise there's a difference between the two, but there is a difference and it's a pretty big one. Luckily, I have also met other therapists who seem to share this same viewpoint as me, so I know I'm not alone! There are also some complementary therapists who use the terms interchangeably, while others exclusively use complimentary.

'Complementary' is defined as 'combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other or another.' (Thank you Google search, which has also provided all other definitions quoted). Indeed, complementary therapies is a term that developed to highlight how it should be used as a complement to orthodox medical treatment, not an alternative to it. Therapists will always say that their therapies should never be regarded as an alternative to seeking medical advice. If you have a health complaint it is highly recommended you seek a diagnosis.

Now for 'complimentary'. This is defined as 'expressing a compliment; praising or approving'. While I may pay you a compliment during a treatment, its not the basis of my session and it is definitely not the other definition of complimentary which is 'given or supplied free of charge'! While I do donate my time for various efforts I'm sure my clients appreciate this is my career choice and that paying for a service actually helps to define its worth.
     
If it is the basis of your business, if you can't get the correct word for your profession you need to take another look at your training. If you're a client, you may wish to point out to your complimentary therapist that they haven't been very approving of you, or that they are trying to charge you for their services! Hopefully your complimentary therapist will take the hint and change their marketing to display the correct information, which on a serious note is important as it helps to raise the standards of our profession.