reflexologist

The work

Reflexologists apply specific pressure to reflex points on the hands and feet. These points are said to be joined to the major organs by 'energy pathways'. The aim of reflexology is to encourage the body's natural healing processes.

Reflexology can be used in the treatment of a variety of conditions, for example, stress, sleep disorders, sports injuries and chronic back pain.

To stimulate the healing process, they use thumb and finger pressure on different points of the feet and hands. Reflexology is based on the belief that reflexes in the feet and hands correspond to all organs and parts of the body.

Reflexologists will usually begin a therapy session by taking details from the client about their medical history, health and lifestyle issues. They will then begin work on the client's hands and feet, assessing possible problem areas. To clear blockages and improve circulation, they apply pressure to specific spots in short ‘crawling’ movements, which ease tension and restore the body’s natural balance.

Nurses and health care workers are increasingly learning reflexology as an additional skill.

Hours and Environment

Reflexologists have no set working hours and much may depend on how many clients they have, particularly if they are self-employed. Some evening and weekend work may be required to accommodate clients.

Reflexologists can work in a variety of environments, from hospices and hospitals to clients’ homes or complementary medicine clinics. It is also possible for a reflexologist to work as a therapist in a beauty environment such as a salon or health farm.

Reflexologists may work in a number of centres or travel to clients. A driving licence is useful.

Skills and Interests

As a reflexologist you should:

• have a good understanding of human biology and anatomy
• have good listening skills and be able to develop empathy with clients
• have a genuine desire to help people
• be able to inspire confidence in your clients
• be good with your hands and have good co-ordination
• know when to refer clients to a qualified medical doctor
• have the commercial skills needed to successfully run a business.

Entry

There is no single statutory organisation overseeing the field of reflexology. There are, however, several professional bodies representing reflexologists, offering membership schemes and industry recognition to suitably qualified practitioners. Each professional body set their own entry requirements; check Further Information section for contact details. 

Reflexology can be studied as a level 3 diploma, or at degree or postgraduate level. Some courses satisfy the criteria for membership of one of the professional bodies; many organisations list approved courses on their website. 

The Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) and the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) both award a diploma in reflexology. Courses are available at colleges of further or higher education and private centres throughout the UK.

The entry requirements for a level 3 diploma may require you to have some knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and it may be useful to have a GCSE (A-C)/S grade (1-3) in biology. For a degree you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) plus two or three A levels/H grades.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Previous experience in healthcare, massage, beauty therapy and counselling can be useful when entering this field.

There is no maximum age limit; most training institutions welcome mature entrants. Life experience and the ability to relate well to other people is taken into consideration when applying for courses.

Training

Professional bodies such as the Scottish Institute of Reflexology and the Association of Reflexologists list approved courses and details of membership criteria on their websites.

The British Register of Complementary Practitioners accepts reflexologists who have undertaken courses meeting the requirements for their specialist practitioner status. This usually involves completing a training programme over a two year period plus adequate supervised practise. Credits are given for previous training and accreditation by other registers.

Courses approved by many of the professional bodies often take at least one year part-time. Weekend and evening classes are common.

Courses usually involve a minimum of 100 hours including both theoretical study and practical treatments observed by an assessor or tutor. Further study and client contact may be required to join a professional body. Please check with the individual bodies for details of accredited training courses and local providers (see Further Information).

Many professional bodies, like the Association of Reflexologists and the Scottish Institute of Reflexology provide continuing professional development (CPD) programmes for their members.

Opportunities

There are opportunities to work in a variety of medical settings such as hospitals, hospices, practices attached to GP surgeries or natural health centres. Reflexologists may also work from home, from rented premises or at clients' homes. Some practitioners also offer other therapies, such as aromatherapy or massage.

Although there have recently been some openings for employment within the NHS, many reflexologists are self-employed.

You need to be prepared to market your business, often working part-time hours at first until you have built up your practice. Long hours may need to be spent on marketing and building contacts.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Self-employed reflexologists charge a sessional rate, which varies considerably, usually from £20 to £45 for each session lasting 45 minutes to an hour. Income from clients will contribute to business costs such as rent and materials.

Newly qualified reflexologists may earn around £15,000 to £20,000 a year, or less depending on the number of clients and the location.
When they have established their practice, they can earn around £30,000 a year.

Further information

3rd Floor
Eastleigh House
Upper Market Street
Eastleigh
Hampshire
SO50 9FD
Tel: 023 8068 4500
34 Crinan Crescent
Coatbridge
North Lanarkshire
ML5 2LF
Tel: 01236 425519
4 Heathfield Terrace
Chiswick
London
W4 4JE
Tel: 020 8994 4141
PO Box 194
London
SE16 7QZ
Tel: 020 7237 5165
27 Old Gloucester Street
London
WC1N 3XX
Tel: 0870 5673320

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