Reflexology in itself is a niche modality in the world of bodywork and complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM. Training as a reflexologist varies by country and ranges from 200 to 2,000 hours of student time.
Modern day reflexologists can choose from a wide variety of specializations and practice types. When looking for a qualified reflexologist, the client can consider candidates by specialty and practice type.
Types of Reflexology Practices
The professional reflexologist can build a practice in a variety of settings, here are some of the most common types of practices:
- spa: Often the practitioner has multiple modalities she may practice in addition to reflexology such as massage therapy, nail care or esthetics.
- clinical: This can be an independent studio or within a wellness center with other practices. The reflexologist will have a goal-oriented practice to help clientele meet wellness goals.
- hospital: The practitioner may be employed by the hospital organization or be hired directly by patients.
- mobile: This is where the practitioner goes to the client’s place of residence or business. Sessions are not conducted in a brick-and-mortar type of business.
The Specialized Reflexologist
Initially seen in the medical community, the need for specialization has reached complementary and alternative medicine practices too. Advanced training, years of experience and former careers can all play a part in the decision for the reflexologist to specialize.
Reflexologists Working with Women's Health
The practitioner may have a generalized practice for all women with a focus on hormone balancing for clients first entering puberty and menarche through menopause and beyond. However, areas of sub-specialties are seeing a lot of attention such as:
- fertility – natural and assisted reproduction
- maternity – prenatal and postpartum reflexology, may also work as a doula/labor coach
- menopause – working with clients experiencing early onset symptoms, hormone replacement therapy, sexual disorders, hot flashes and night sweats
The Pediatric Reflexologist
This growing specialty requires a knack for creativity, especially the young clients that have mastered movement but are not yet in school. A reflexologist may work with a niche following:
- preemies and newborns: commonly a hospital-based practitioner such as a nurse or other dual-practice health worker
- developmental disorders: working with children on the autism spectrum, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, traumatic brain injury and so forth. The reflexologist often works in conjunction with the child’s occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech therapist and pediatrician as part of a wellness team.
- learning disabilities: processing and expression disorders, attention disorders, hyperactivity disorders, anxiety attacks at school and so forth; may work with the child’s school counselor, pediatrician and other wellness professionals.
- adolescents: The reflexologist may see teens and preteens with sports injuries, hormone imbalances (i.e. severe acne, early menarche, mood swings), body image issues and more.
Targeting Men's Health in a Reflexology Practice
Men are far less likely to consider a visit to the doctor or wellness practitioner than woman. However, this population may greatly benefit from regular reflexology sessions. Common complaints include “weekend warrior” aches and pain, strain on the cardiovascular system, sexual dysfunctions, prostate and urinary system dysfunctions. The practitioner should especially advocate for the male client to go for regular medical exams as reflexology is not an alternative to medical care from a physician.
Reflexology and Senior Citizens
Working with seniors, the practitioner may focus on loss of balance, foot health and age-related diseases. Some reflexologists that focus on this population also hold other jobs in this field, working as a hospice aid, nurse's assistant or other professional.
Reflexologist's Focus on Cancer and Palliative Care
The reflexologist in this specialty will work with end-of-life care, clients with terminal or advanced diseases, pain and hospice patients. Sessions are generally very light pressure techniques focused on improving the immediate well-being for the client.
The General Wellness Reflexology Practice
As there is a need for specialization there is also the need to work with a variety of client types and wellness goals. Word may get out that the practitioner is especially adept at working with a particular clientele but still works with any client coming through the door. As reflexology advances around the world as a wellness profession that integrates well with allopathic medicine, even more specialties may crop up.
Sources:
- When booking a doctor’s visit, gender plays a role by Dr Steven Lamm, Best Life magazine, March 29, 2008.
- The author’s six years of experience as a professional Reflexologist in private practice.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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