How to Become a Reflexology Masseuse

A reflexology masseuse is also known as a reflexologist. She works in wellness centers, spas, health centers such as chiropractic and physiotherapy settings as well as care homes. Becoming a reflexology masseuse can also be a lucrative small business opportunity that you can start right from your home. To become a reflexology masseuse, you need to obtain the requisite knowledge in this practice and meet professional and business licensure requirements. You also need to extensively market your services to build a loyal client base.

Instructions

1. Obtain basic knowledge of what reflexology entails. Do this by reading books on the practice of reflexology, anatomy and also nutrition. This basic knowledge will make the study of reflexology much easier when you attend classroom programs.

2. Find reflexology programs in your area. Visit the Reflexology Association of America page to locate a program in your area. Note that these programs take six months to one year to complete, after which you will obtain certification from the school. Study topics include anatomy, physiology and reflexology.

3. Volunteer to work as a trainee reflexology masseuse in places such as nursing homes, spas, and chiropractic and health care settings. Work with an already established reflexology professional to acquire different skills on how to best undertake reflexology on a client.

4. Obtain a massage license if you plan to run your own reflexology business (if your state requires you to obtain a license). Contact the department concerned with professional licensing in your state such as the department of health services or the state board of message therapy or its equivalent. Find out about state specific requirements and procedures for applying for this license.

5. Apply for a business license for a startup reflexology business. Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration portal to find state-specific requirements and application procedures for applying for a reflexology business license.

6. Market and advertise your services by creating a website and publicizing your services in places such as the Yellow Pages. Note that as a reflexology masseuses you will have to build a client base through word-of-mouth by telling friends and colleagues who then refer others to you.

Tips & Warnings

• There are no licensure requirements to practice reflexology. Most states classify this practice under massage therapy -- thus why you may need to obtain a message license, especially if you are not in fields such as chiropractics or physiotherapy.

References

• Reflexology Research Project; The At-Home Reflexology Business Start-Up; Barbara and Kevin Kunz
• Foot-Reflexologist.com: Hints from the Pros for Your Reflexology Business
• Massage Register: Massage License Requirements by State
• Reflexology Association of America: Professonal Reflexologists
• U.S. Small Business Administration: Search for Business Licenses and Permits