Planit : Job Profiles : Reflexologist Wellbeing

Reflexologists treat a range of physical and emotional problems by applying pressure to certain reflex points of the hands and feet. This pressure helps to release tension, stimulate circulation and promote a healthy mind and body.

The Work

You could be:

taking details of the client's medical history
discussing lifestyle and diet with your client
selecting treatment for physical and emotional problems such as sinusitis, poor circulation, leg cramps, anxiety, stress, hormonal imbalance, fluid retention, digestive problems or insomnia
applying pressure to areas of the feet and possibly also to the hands and the face
working with patients, providing holistic health care
advising your client to see a doctor or other therapist if necessary
keeping records of clients and progress.

Pay

Most reflexologists are self-employed or work on a freelance basis so their earnings will vary. They normally charge an hourly fee or sessional rate which can range from £25 to £70 an hour. It takes time to develop a practice and establish your reputation. Later you may be able to increase your fees.

Conditions

You may work in a consulting room in a clinic or health centre.
You might work from your own home.
You may have to travel to visit clients in their homes.
You might have to work evenings or weekends to suit your clients.
You would usually wear a white coat or tunic and trousers.

Workforce Employment Status

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Useful Subjects

Getting In

To treat members of the public you would need to complete a qualification that is recognised for membership of the Association of Reflexologists (AoR). The most common is the Diploma in Reflexology or Complementary Therapies awarded by City and Guilds, ITEC, VTCT or CIBTAC.
The Association of Reflexologists and the British Reflexology Association both list suitable courses.
The HND in Complementary Therapies and Beauty Therapy both include units in reflexology.
Entry requirements vary – some courses require 2-3 Highers including a science subject. Knowledge of anatomy is useful.

You might find work in the National Health Service (NHS) or private healthcare but most reflexologists run their own businesses. You could look for work in fitness centres, hair and beauty salons and care homes.

Workforce Education Levels (UK)

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Job Outlook Scotland

Employment

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Job Outlook Scotland and UK

Scotland

2024

313

6.1 %

RISE

2029

332

United Kingdom

2024

5805

6.6 %

RISE

2029

6191

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What Does it Take?

You should be:

able to work well with people from all backgrounds
a good listener and communicator
understanding and sympathetic
aware of professional and ethical standards
well organised and able to keep accurate records
able to apply varying pressure with your hands to the appropriate points.

Training

Once you have gained your qualification, training is on the job, with short courses to keep you up to date.

Getting On

With experience you might be able to increase the size of your business.
You might train in more than one complementary therapy – many reflexologists also qualify in aromatherapy.
You might combine your work with teaching, research or journalism.

Video

Courtesy of Lynn Butler Reflexology & Wellbeing

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.

Association of Reflexologists (AoR)
Tel: 01823 351010
Website: http://www.aor.org.uk/
Twitter: @AoR_Reflexology
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aorreflexology/

British Reflexology Association (BRA)
Tel: 01886 821207
E-mail: bra@britreflex.co.uk
Website: http://www.britreflex.co.uk

International Federation of Reflexologists
Tel: 0870 879 3562
E-mail: info@IntFedReflexologists.org
Website: http://www.intfedreflexologists.org
Twitter: @IFR_News

Skills for Health
Tel: 0207 388 8800
E-mail: contactus@skillsforhealth.org.uk
Website: http://www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/
Twitter: @Skillsforhealth
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skillsforhealth1

Skills for Health is the Sector Skills Council for the health sector.

Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)
Website: http://www.vtct.org.uk
Twitter: @VTCT_uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTCTuk

VTCT is a provider of qualifications in the Beauty Therapy, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Massage and Health and Fitness Sectors.

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Planit

Reflexologist

The Work

Pay

Conditions

Useful Subjects

Getting In

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

What Does it Take?

Training

Getting On

Video

Contacts

Career Area

Career Sectors

Beauty

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