Reflexologists

Certification or Licensing

In some states, such as Nevada, North Dakota, New Hampshire, Washington, and Tennessee, a reflexologist who has completed a course given by a reputable school of reflexology can be licensed specifically as a reflexologist. In most states, however, reflexologists are subject to the laws that govern massage therapists. That often means that you must complete a state-certified course in massage before being licensed to practice reflexology. In many cases, reflexologists are subject to laws that are designed to regulate massage parlors. In some places, these laws require you to be subjected to disease testing and walk-in inspections by police. It is common for those who are medical doctors or licensed cosmetologists to be exempt from massage-licensing regulations. Because there is such wide variation in the law, anyone who wishes to practice reflexology should carefully study state and local regulations before setting up shop.

It is recommended that you enroll in a course that requires a substantial number of hours of training and certifies you upon graduation. If you are at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, have completed a course that requires at least 110 hours of training, and have achieved ARCB Foot certification, you can apply for certification from the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB), an organization that seeks to promote reflexology by recognizing competent practitioners. In addition to meeting age, training, and experience requirements, applicants must take and pass a three-part examination (written, practical, and documentation). Certification is purely voluntary, but a high score from the ARCB is a good sign that a practitioner is competent.