How To Become A Reflexologist
A reflexologist is a type of massage therapist. A reflexologist applies pressure to specific areas of the body, particularly in the hands and the feet. Reflexologists believe that certain pressure points on the feet and hands correspond directly with different organs of the body. By working on specific pressure points, a reflexologist can reduce tension, alleviate stress, and guard against health issues.
Reflexologists are knowledgeable about the specific muscle groups of the body. They have received the training needed to help people heal their bodies and overcome any pain or stress they may be feeling. A career in reflexology requires significant education and training, which is described here.
Why Become A Reflexologist
There are many reasons why people seek out the care of a reflexologist. Some people are suffering from muscle tension. Careers that involve long periods of standing can put a lot of stress on the feet. Stress in our lives can also lead to a deteriorating immune system. Many clients suffer from chronic conditions, such as diabetes, respiratory conditions, problems with digestion, insomnia, and more.
The field of alternative medicine suggests that there are natural ways to remedy stress as well as chronic ailments, and reflexology is one of the recommended treatments. A reflexologist will use their knowledge of the human muscle system to help a client become more relaxed, less stressed, and treat any conditions they might be facing. As a reflexologist, you believe there are natural ways to helping people achieve their goals. You enjoy making people feel better. You enjoy providing a relaxing environment for your guests.
A Reflexologist should possess the following qualities and skills:
- Knowledgeable
- Dexterity
- Stamina
- Relaxing
- Empathy
- Technical
- Communicator
Reflexologist Work Environment
A reflexologist works anywhere where massage therapy is practiced. A reflexologist may work in a massage therapist office, chiropractic office, fitness studio or at a spa. They may also choose to open their own practice, once they have several years of experience working in this field.
A reflexologist creates a calming, peaceful setting for their clients to come in and meet with them. They will have an office or massage therapy room where they will work on their clients. A reflexologist may see many clients during the day, working on their particular needs. This could be a part-time or full-time position.
Reflexologist Salary
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for reflexologists was $37,000 in 2014. Salary may vary based on a number of different factors, such as level of education, years of experience, location, industry, and other factors.
Reflexologist Career Outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for reflexologists are expected to grow 22 percent from 2014 to 2024. It is expected that there could be as many as 36,000 new jobs available by 2024 in this field. This is significantly higher than other career fields in the country.
There are many reasons why people are turning to reflexology. There has been a recent trend towards natural health care and holistic medicine. Many people are looking for alternative ways to treat their ailments. Reflexology will continue to be a popular choice as people continue to be interested in holistic practices and ways to treat themselves without conventional medicines.
Reflexologist Degree
A reflexologist spends many hours training to become certified. They also require many years of experience to become an expert in their profession.
Many states have a specific license to become a certified reflexologist. These states are currently Tennessee, North Dakota, Washington and New Hampshire. In some states there are no licensing requirements to become a reflexologist or massage therapist; these states are Kansas, Oklahoma, Vermont and Wyoming. In many states, a reflexologist is considered a massage therapist and must become certified in massage therapy in order to practice. Be sure to check your current state laws.
You will need to enroll in a certified reflexology or massage therapy program. State laws vary on how many hours you will need to complete in order to become a reflexologist, but it is generally at least 300 hours of coursework. You will have to complete examinations in foot and hand reflexology.
The American Reflexology Certification Board offers national certification to those who have completed a course in reflexology, passed their examinations, and shown you have practiced on people in an academic setting. Certification exams are held across the United States many times a year. To keep a certification current, a reflexologist must pay a renewal fee. They must also go to continuing education classes to keep updated on trends and techniques in their career field.
