Reflexologist

Reflexologist job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Reflexology is used in the treatment of a wide range of conditions including back pain, stress, sleep problems, sports injuries, migraine, digestive disorders, tension and circulatory problems. It is based on a belief that all body parts and organs have corresponding reflex points in the feet and hands, which are linked via energy pathways.

Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• undertaking patient consultations at home and within practices/clinics
• gaining information from patients about their lifestyle, health and previous medical/psychological history
• producing detailed case histories
• making assessments via physical examination of patients feet
• assessing, planning and explaining treatment requirements
• treating conditions/illnesses/problems by applying pressure to areas of the feet
• keeping accurate confidential patient records
• undertaking general administrative and business management tasks (including financial and marketing tasks)
• attending conferences
• keeping up-to-date with developments in the profession
• appropriately referring clients on to doctors and/or other medical staff.

Typical employers of reflexologists

• private practices
• specialist and complementary health care clinics
• GP practices
• National Health Service (NHS) Trusts
• hospitals
• hospices
• health centres.

Nonetheless, the majority of reflexologists are self-employed. Reflexology is currently unregulated within the UK and there is no statutory obligation to undertake training prior to starting work. Membership of one of the professional bodies (such as The Association of Reflexologists) is nonetheless advisable. Criteria for membership requirements vary between individual associations.

Qualifications and training required

Qualifications in reflexology are available at diploma, degree and postgraduate level from a wide range of further and higher education institutions. For those wishing to enter the profession, work experience gained in counselling, beauty therapy, nursing, massage or healthcare can be of benefit. It can also be useful to have knowledge of biological and anatomical sciences.

Key skills for reflexologists

• confidence
• empathy
• resilience
• excellent interpersonal skills
• communication skills
• listening skills
• co-ordination
• business management skills.