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Complementary Medicine Practitioner, Complementary Therapist, Reflexologist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in analyzing information provided by patients to determine appropriate pressure points for applying reflexology techniques
Interest in manipulating specific areas of patients' hands and feet by applying finger pressure to appropriate spots to promote well-being
Interest in assisting patients with their health conditions by providing an alternative form of health care through the application of reflexology methods and techniques
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Reflexology is a natural health science. It is based on the principle that specific zones and reflex points in the feet, hands and ears correspond to every part, gland and organ in the body. Reflexology therapists apply pressure to the feet, hands and ears to affect change in other parts of the body. Therapists strive to supplement conventional medicine, not replace it.
Reflexology sessions usually take about an hour. Clients may sit in a special chair or lay on a massage table fully clothed. Only the body part that’s being worked on is exposed.
In general, reflexology therapists:
discuss a plan and schedule further sessions.
Most reflexology therapists are independent workers with offices in varying locations, including their own homes. Some provide mobile services where they travel directly to clients. Hours of work vary depending on the therapist’s practice, but generally include evenings and weekends.
Reflexology therapists need:
They should enjoy working with people and studying information to determine suitable techniques.
There is no standard education for reflexology therapists. Self-employed reflexology therapists may need a municipal business licence, annual police security clearance or CPR and First Aid training.
See the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada website for education and insurance opportunities and information.
Before enrolling in a reflexology course or program, prospective reflexology therapists should discuss their training options with several practising reflexology therapists who are working in different types of environments.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
The practice of reflexology is not regulated in Alberta. However, reflexology therapists must be registered with a recognized professional association for their clients to be reimbursed for the cost of reflexology services through extended health-care benefits plans. Registration with a professional association requires certification.
A variety of agencies (such as private vocational schools, school boards, the continuing education departments of post-secondary schools) offer personal interest and certification courses in reflexology. Courses are advertised in continuing education brochures and newspapers. However, not all courses or programs are recognized or approved by professional associations.
See the Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC) website for more information on the Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist (RCRT) designation and the Continuing Education Credit and Professional Development program.
Many reflexology therapists are self-employed, work part-time and offer additional services (such as reiki or iridology).
They may work in:
Advancement in this occupation generally takes the form of building a larger client base.
Reflexologists are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 3232: Midwives and practitioners of natural healing. In Alberta, 75% of people employed in this classification work in the Health Care and Social Assistance [pdf] industry.
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 3232: Practitioners of natural healing occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 3.3% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 20 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Reflexology therapists’ incomes vary. Incomes depend on the number of hours they work and their overhead costs (such as the cost of renting space in a clinic or salon).
Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Association website: www.nhpcanada.org
Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC) website: www.reflexologycanada.org
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2018. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.