Reflexology As a Career

​Reflexology careers have been gaining in popularity for the past two decades and continue to grow today. Reflexology has earned a place at the forefront of alternative therapies for its effectiveness in reducing stress and relieving a number of common health problems, including chronic pain, allergies and digestive issues.

Today, practitioners of reflexology can make this rewarding field their full-time career. They may run private practices in their own homes, travel to client homes or work in chiropractic offices, fitness centers or salons where they deliver treatment and work on building a solid client base.

If a reflexology career interests you, finding the right reflexology training can make all the difference to your success. A reflexology program should provide not only the technical training you will need to do the job, but also fundamental business concepts and other essential aspects of the profession.

Reflexology course work generally covers reflexology history, theory and techniques; reflexology maps of the feet; anatomy and physiology; how to customize sessions based on client-specific issues; ethics and professionalism; relevant business practices and marketing; and supervised classroom or clinical work.

Certification requirements for reflexologists vary from state to state. A good school reflexology program should result in reflexology certification that meets state requirements.

The American Reflexology Certification Board offers national certification to candidates who meet requirements for education and hands-on practice and pass a certification exam. To maintain your certification, you must pay a renewal fee every year and complete continuing education units every two years.

You can expect reflexology salaries to correspond closely to massage therapist salaries where you plan to practice. The reflexology field offers a lot of scheduling flexibility, and the number of hours you work per week will impact your income. Salaries will also vary based on your geographic location, employer type and experience level.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2016-17 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for massage therapists is $37,180. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

Self-employed practitioners keep the entire amount they earn per session, but must pay their own taxes and expenses. However, those employed at a spa, fitness center or other establishments typically earn a percentage of the session cost, plus tips.

Reflexology offers clients a non-invasive, integrative healing alternative to traditional medicine. Starting your reflexology career with the right education and credentials will help you build a foundation for long-term success in this expanding natural health field.
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Please contact us for more information about our reflexology program at the Academy of Massage Therapy & Bodyworks at 610-705-4401.