Only two states (North Dakota and Tennessee) currently license reflexologists.

Otherwise, cities and states have distinct requirements and regulatory agencies for practicing reflexologists.

What about training and certification?

There are a number of workshops and schools offering reflexology as part of the curriculum. A typical beginning level reflexology course consists of approximately 15 – 30 hours of class time including lecture, demonstration, and hands-on practice.

Massage schools are now teaching reflexology as one of the techniques a practitioner can learn, but it is important to recognize that massage therapists have a different orientation than reflexologists. A massage therapist is focused on manipulating the soft tissues and soft tissue manipulation techniques do not apply to the feet. A reflexologist applies pressure to reflex points, and by an internal mechanism, not directly related to manipulation of the tissue, creates relaxation and release of tension.

Massage therapists also spend a small percentage of their studies on reflexology (typically 2-3 weeks), whereas a student of reflexology spends 100% of her or his time in a longer course studying the art and science of reflexology. Thus, the breadth and depth of knowledge and experience in reflexology is much greater for the reflexology student than that acquired by the massage student.

What is required for certification?

The American Reflexology Certification Board offers a well-recognized national certification in reflexology. This requires 110 hours of training from an accredited institution or instructor in:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Understanding the body’s systems
• Reflexology history
• Reflexology theory and practices
• Business and professional ethics

Additional requirements include:

• 100 hours of hands-on work with a qualified supervisor
• Passing a national board test
• Completion of a practicum
• 90 documentations of case studies

There is also a code of conduct and standardized care associated with national certification. In order to maintain certification, reflexologists must qualify annually and support their certification with continuing education courses.

In addition, instructors of reflexology must be accredited by the American Commission for Reflexology Education and Training, which measures their ability to meet national, professional standards.

Contact American Reflexology Certification Board for a list of nationally certified practitioners.

References

American Commission for Reflexology Education and Training

American Reflexology Certification Board

Reflexology Association of America

International Institute of Reflexology

Expert Contributor: Karen Teagarden, BA, ARCB

Reviewed by: Donna LeBlanc Morris, DrPH, CNM, AHN-BC, LR

Date: June, 2007

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