Reflexology Training
There are no maximum age limits for attending a reflexology training course, although
many schools do have a minimum age limit of 18 years. It is probably fair
to say that the older person with more experience of life can often bring
an additional dimension to the therapy, as the lending of a wise and
understanding ear can be most valuable in helping a client to release
personal stress and tension.
Reflexology is basically a practical skill, not an academic subject and
it is more important for students to have a genuine sensitivity and caring
for others, and good listening skills. However, courses do include integrated
biology, anatomy and physiology and other areas of study, and lead to written
examinations as well as practical assessments.
Choosing a Reflexology
Training Course
We do advise those wishing to train as reflexology practitioners to choose
a course which has been accredited by the Association of Reflexologists. We
also suggest that prospective students contact a number of different schools
from the
List of AoR Accredited Reflexology Training
Courses
and compare the information received before making a final decision.
Although all the courses meet our minimum requirements,
each school is different in its approach and
prices do vary. To enrol on a course is to make a considerable commitment in
time, money and effort so do make sure that the school you choose is the right
one for you.
In the past there was considerable variation in the length and standard of
training for Reflexologists. However, since 1989 the Association of
Reflexologists has been working in collaboration with other organisations
and training centres to establish and maintain minimum standards for training
at Practitioner level. Courses are accredited by the Association when they
meet these requirements. Most courses are part-time, spread over at least
nine months, held usually at weekends or in the evenings and involve a good
deal of home study and practice.
A Career Development Loan
A Career Development Loan (CDL) could help you to pay for a vocational
training course in reflexology by offering a deferred repayment bank loan.
CDLs are available through a partnership arrangement between the
Department of Employment and four major banks. For further details phone
FREEPHONE 0800 585505 or write to "Career Development Loans" FREEPOST,
Newcastle Upon Tyne X, NE85 9BR.
Membership of the Association of Reflexologists
Students who enrol on an accredited course may join the Association
of Reflexologists as Student Members. For an annual subscription of £36 a
year they will receive the quarterly journal Reflexions, may attend meetings
and seminars organised by the Association, access the members area and
discussion forum on the AoR website, join Regional Groups and arrange insurance
(please note: small insurance premiums apply according to your requirements). Graduates
from accredited courses are eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the
Association and, after one year in professional practice, to apply for Full
Membership. Associate and Full members may obtain comprehensive insurance
cover through the Association at very competitive rates. Full members are
included on our Register of Practitioners, which is widely distributed to the
public, and they may use the letters M.A.R. after their names. We are always
proud to add new members to our Register who have training on accredited
courses.
Working as a Reflexologist
Although accurate figures are not currently available, there are probably
around 10,000 Reflexologists practising in the U.K. at the present time. There
has been a noticeable increase recently in the rate at which new students are
becoming Practitioners but this is offset by the numbers of people seeking
reflexology treatment. This seems to be part of a general growth in public
awareness and interest in the alternative and complementary therapies. The
majority of Reflexologists are self-employed and work either from home or from
a room rented in a natural health centre or multi-therapy clinic. Some
practitioners visit clients' homes to give the treatment. There is also a
growing interest in the therapy amongst nurses, physiotherapists and health
visitors, and many of them are undertaking the training for use within their
own sphere. It is possible for a Reflexologist to work on a professional basis
within the NHS although it is not yet very common. Some practitioners work
in a voluntary capacity in hospitals, hospices, NHS clinics and health
centres.
It is possible to earn a living by working full-time as a Reflexologist,
but, as with any therapy, it takes time to develop a practice so most people
begin by working part-time and build up gradually. It is usually necessary
to work flexible hours, often including evenings and weekends. The average
charge for an hour's treatment is between £ 25 and £45,
but much depends on the practitioner's overheads, etc.
