Are you here because you’re interested in learning how to become a reflexologist? You’re in the right place.
This article will give you everything you need to know about pursuing a reflexology career, including the required key steps and commitment. We’ll explore the foundational principles of reflexology, the benefits of this rewarding career, the educational paths available, and why the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine offers the best program for aspiring reflexologists.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a holistic medicine practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves gentle stimulation of reflex points on the feet, sending sensory messages through the nervous system to various bodily organs. This process helps to stimulate energy meridians, thereby restoring balance and equilibrium.
Reflexology can reach the entire body through the feet, from toe to head.
During a 60 to 90-minute session, clients often experience specific brainwave activities and achieve relaxed states of mind, which promote healing. This process activates the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in profound stress reduction.
Scientific research studies have demonstrated the numerous positive benefits of reflexology for various diseases and chronic ailments. This holistic practice can aid in managing and alleviating symptoms, contributing to overall well-being and health.
My Experience in Holistic Reflexology
I have enjoyed practicing reflexology since the early nineties in Israel and Europe and in the US since 1998. I started my career in the US at the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. There, I worked on the team of Dr. David Servan-Schreiber for four years.
In 2012, I translated my original study materials from Hebrew into English and started teaching others how to become reflexologists in the Great Pittsburgh area.
At the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine, we offer the highest and most comprehensive reflexology education, exceeding national standards. We hold weekly in-person classes with small groups of students, fostering an in-depth learning experience with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on work.
The Difference Between Reflexology Training Programs
For aspiring reflexologists, knowing the difference between different reflexology trainings is essential.
The biggest issue for aspiring reflexologists is access to high-quality programs. There are considerable distances between program locations, and there are few quality programs to choose from in the United States. The only membership organization for reflexologists, The Reflexology Association of America, identifies only seven schools in the US, including the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine.
Reflexology training programs often do not offer consistent weekly classes, so students do not receive individual attention, and the instructor does not monitor or correct the development of their hands-on skills.
Some programs only offer weekend modules and do not adhere to the same level of reflexology education.
In countries where reflexology is well integrated with the health care system, the highest level of education is required to become a certified professional reflexologist, including up to 900 hours of reflexology training, 300 hours of practical supervised training, anatomy training, pathology training, and an internship.
The medical knowledge I acquired in my program at a holistic medicine college was taught by a medical doctor. The Israeli Professional Reflexology Association, founded in 1990, supervises the highest standard of education, regulates the reflexology profession, and promotes scientific research.
In other countries, health insurance companies have their own clinics offering Chinese Medicine modalities, acupuncture, shiatsu, and reflexology. The insurance companies have specialized doctors who decide which alternative treatments are most beneficial for the individual, and the treatments are covered or subsidized (e.g., there is a deductible) by health insurance.
In 2008, the American Massage Association attempted to force reflexology under the massage laws, clearly misunderstanding that reflexology is rooted in Chinese medicine and is not simply another form of massage.
In thirty-three states, including Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia, Reflexology is exempt from massage laws, and four US states (Kansas, Minnesota, Vermont, and Wyoming) did not implement a massage law.
Two networks in the US, ARCB and NCRE, aim to oversee the national guidelines for reflexology. ARCB requires 110 hours of instruction, while NCRE, founded in 2016, requests a 120-hour baseline curriculum for foot reflexology. Although these guidelines are helpful, each state regulates reflexology separately.
In their curriculum, ARCB, NCRE, and The Reflexology Association of America (RAA) include hand, feet, ear, and facial reflexology. However, the Brauer Method of Reflexology focuses exclusively on foot reflexology for the highest level of response efficiency.
In Israel, health insurance only recognizes and covers foot reflexology, while it does not cover other non-foot reflexology practices.
What to Know about Online Reflexology Training Programs
Online reflexology training programs are gaining popularity, but can you effectively learn a hands-on modality online?
Reflexologists train to notice subtle nuances of energy, body temperature, vibration, stuck or blocked reflexes, skin texture, and skin temperature. They perceive all these through touch, providing critical information about the client’s well-being. Teaching these observational skills effectively online poses a significant challenge.
The foot, though small compared to the body, reflects the reflexes of all bodily organ systems. Locating specific and sometimes overlapping reflexes requires accurate precision and fine-tuned sensitivity. Hands-on learning cannot be replicated in an online format.
Our profession benefits from an in-person approach for both learning and practice.
If you are fortunate enough to be in the Greater Pittsburgh area, you can attend the weekly holistic reflexology lessons at the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine. There, you will receive the highest level of education and learn this beautiful, fulfilling profession.
About Becoming a Holistic Reflexologist at the Brauer Institute
Brauer Institute Holistic Reflexology Graduates complete a 300-hour reflexology certification program, which includes 200 classroom hours and a 10-week case study. Students receive 400 pages of written material, reflexology charts, and case studies.
Students must successfully pass five written exams and a graduation project. The Brauer Institute provides specific hands-on coaching and real-time case feedback.
The 100-hour-plus home study includes practical work on clients, guided meditation, stress reduction techniques, an earthing protocol, and evolving consciousness assignments.
Brauer Institute Holistic Reflexology Graduates are eligible for Advanced Reflexology Practitioner membership with the Reflexology Association of America, the highest level in the US.
Integrating Reflexology into Your Healthcare or Wellness Profession
While reflexology is a powerful stand-alone profession, many Brauer Institute graduates come from backgrounds in healthcare and wellness. This includes nurses, holistic nurses, midwives, pilates teachers, psychologists, physical therapists, massage therapists, sound healers, yoga instructors, and other wellness professionals.
Brauer Institute graduates are encouraged to collaborate with medical professionals in offering reflexology. Graduates have secured employment at UPMC facility, The Wilfried R. Cameron Wellness Center, where I’ve provided holistic services since 2008.
Building Connections and Practical Skills at the Brauer Institute
The proximity of the Brauer Institute and its students facilitates easy in-person meetings, study sessions, and hands-on practice of new material. This hands-on practice is an integral learning tool for students, helping them to master the skills necessary for their future careers.
Trust and friendships grow during the 50 intensive lessons of study. The 2024 graduates—Leslie Coffman, PT, DPT; Stacy Desai; and Alycia (Osha) Bretensky—formed a strong bond throughout their training. Each has since opened private practices while collaborating on a full-service wellness collaborative.
Post-Graduation Support and Continued Learning Opportunities
The journey to becoming a skilled holistic reflexologist extends beyond graduation, with the first years being crucial as new professionals start their careers and see clients. To support this critical phase, the Brauer Institute offers three robust networks of post-graduation support and continued learning opportunities:
- Access to Clinical Experience: Brauer Institute reflexologists have direct access to my 30-plus years of clinical experience after graduation. I created a complimentary network where graduates can ask questions, share client cases, and receive advice on developing case-specific treatment plans. I review the medical history of my graduates’ clients and suggest the best strategies to restore health and well-being.
- Regular Licensing and Further Education Classes: Graduates can attend regular licensing classes of 28 hours per year and additional further education classes specifically for Brauer Institute reflexologists.
- Resource Library: A growing library of case studies and treatment protocols.
What to look for in a Reflexology Curriculum
When selecting a reflexology program, aim for one that offers a significant number of educational hours, meets for weekly lessons, and emphasizes practical hands-on work. A comprehensive program should cover the following key areas:
- Study of the history and origins of reflexology
- Anatomy and pathology
- Mapping the feet
- Specific and specialized applications of reflexology
- The holistic view of the human body and contributing factors for manifesting disease
- The physical, mental, emotional, and energetic levels in reflexology
- Stress reduction techniques
- Case studies
- Building a successful reflexology business and marketing
How much does a Reflexologist earn?
The earning potential for a full-time holistic reflexologist ranges between $60,000 and $80,000 annually or more, depending on the number of sessions given.
From the very first lesson of their Reflexology Certification Program, Brauer Institute students learn in-depth knowledge on creating a successful holistic medicine business and mastering effective marketing strategies.
I won the Immigrant Entrepreneur Award by Global Pittsburgh for enriching the Greater Pittsburgh region and leveraging my expertise in self-employment since 1998 in the US. I ensure my students learn essential tools to start prosperous businesses.
Brauer Institute students succeed in both traditional workplace settings and private practice. The 2024 graduates—Leslie Coffman, Stacy Desai, and Alycia (Osha) Bretensky—opened their holistic reflexology businesses less than two months after graduation.
Embarking on a journey to become a reflexologist is a rewarding decision that offers numerous personal and professional benefits. With its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reflexology provides a holistic approach to health and well-being, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting overall wellness.
Becoming a skilled reflexologist requires dedication, comprehensive education, and practical hands-on experience. At the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine, we ensure our students receive the highest quality training, surpassing national standards and emphasizing the importance of practical application.
For those passionate about holistic medicine, the Brauer Institute offers unparalleled support and resources to help graduates succeed. Whether through in-depth lessons, access to experienced mentors, or continued learning opportunities, our graduates are well-equipped to significantly impact the reflexology field and the lives of their clients.
Choosing the right program is crucial, and we are committed to providing an enriching educational experience that prepares our students for a successful, fulfilling career. We look forward to welcoming aspiring students ready to learn how to become a reflexologist, transform lives, and contribute to the growing field of holistic medicine.
