Reflexologist Job Description, Career as a Reflexologist, Salary, Employment

Education and Training:— No specific academic qualification required.

Salary: Median— $35,000 annually

Employment Outlook:— Good

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative form of treatment involving the application of pressure to different parts of the body in order to improve the general health. Reflexologists are professionals skilled in this natural art of healing. They treat patients by massaging their feet, hands, and ears to relieve them of stress, and improve circulation to the related body areas. The entire method of treatment is based on the principle that certain reflex zones in the body correspond to different body parts.

Reflexologists are required to examine the physical condition of their clients, determine the root cause of ailments, and recommend suitable treatments. They may often have to provide advice and guidance regarding the client’s diet, lifestyle, and work.

Education and Training Requirements

There is no specific academic requirement for reflexologists. One can opt for high school education in subjects like biology, chemistry, nutrition, and health. There are a number of private schools and graduate colleges that offer courses on reflexology. It is beneficial to attend a 6-month or 1-year course from a training school before taking up the profession.

Reflexologists can obtain certification from the American Reflexology Certification Board. However, it is not mandatory to be certified in order to practice in the United States.

Reflexologists should also focus on training. Volunteer work in first aid centers, hospitals, and nursing homes can come in handy. One can also choose to work part-time in a spa or a gym. This provides the necessary exposure to therapy techniques. In addition, candidates wishing to pursue this profession should do a basic groundwork by reading up on reflexology. A lot of material is available on the subject, and one can begin by studying anatomy charts and learning about the terms and techniques.

Getting the Job

Reflexologists are employed in spas, salons, sports facilities, fitness centers, as well as chiropractic offices. Entry level positions are usually advertised in newspapers and Internet job portals. Many healthcare magazines offer job referrals to reflexologists. One can also choose to take up multiple positions and work on a part-time basis.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

Reflexologists start out by working in group practices, or under the supervision of experienced professionals. They can gradually take up high profile positions with reputed clinics and other healthcare facilities. Networking plays an important role in the career advancement of reflexologists. It is necessary to build up a reputation and work by referrals. Those with a formal degree in the subject can also take up faculty positions in schools offering courses in reflexology.

The concept of reflexology has really caught on in the last few decades. A lot of people prefer such alternative healing techniques to medicines and surgeries. On the whole, employment opportunities are expected to increase at a fast rate over the next few years. Prospects are likely to be more favorable for those with a formal degree or certification in reflexology.

Working Conditions

Reflexologists work in clean, well lit, and sanitized environments. While massaging clients, reflexologists need to make them feel comfortable. However, since they need to touch the hands and feet of people, they need to be careful about following safety procedures. In case clients have some hand or foot disease, reflexologists need to discontinue treatment unless the illness is completely cured. The work can be tiring at times, especially if one is handling multiple clients. Work hours are also irregular, and reflexologists may have to visit clients at their homes.

Where to Go for More Information

International Council of Reflexologists
http://www.icr-reflexology.org/

Reflexology Association of America
375 North Stephanie Street
Suite 1411
Henderson, NV 89014
http://www.reflexology-usa.org/

Reflexology Association of California
P.O. Box 598
La Verne, CA 91750-0598
http://www.reflexology-ca.org/

American Reflexology Certification Board
P.O. Box 5147
Gulfport, FL 33737
http://www.arcb.net/

Reflexology Association of Connecticut
250 Wolcott Rd
Wolcott, CT
http://www.reflexologyct.org/

Salary, Earnings and Benefits

Reflexologists are generally paid by the hour. The rate of each 1-hour session may vary from $40 to $80. For 90-minute sessions, reflexologists can earn between $60 and $110. Those who are employed in permanent positions are paid flat hourly rates in the range of $15 to $40. The average annual salary of entry level reflexologists working full-time is around $10,000. On the other hand, with experience and a premium client base, one can earn as much as $60,000 per year.

Salaried reflexologists enjoy regular benefits like sick and paid leaves, and medical insurance coverage.