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Professional Diploma in Reflexology

Course Synopsis

This diploma course in Reflexology is aimed at providing sufficient instruction to enable the successful student to understand and safely implement the techniques of this healing art.

Each module will include learning outcomes which help the student judge whether they have adequately covered and completed the relevant points before progressing to the next unit. In addition, each module will include an assignment for completion, together with a five thousand word extended essay marking the end of the course.

There will be an additional recommended reading list given, together with details of relevant societies, professional bodies and contact details for reference, to compliment the course materials, and for supporting knowledge following successful completion of the course.

Course Structure

1. Introduction to reflexology and the language of touch
2. Anatomy and physiology: musculoskeletal and central nervous systems
3. Anatomy and physiology: circulatory and other body systems
4. Immunity, endocrine glands and contra-indications of treatment
5. Psychology of relaxation, treatment environment and approach
6. Reflexology pathways and responses
7. Reflexology techniques
8. The whole treatment
9. Client assessment, treatment planning and therapists responsibilities
10. Hand reflexology, and treatment for special circumstances

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to reflexology and the language of touch

This module gives a brief history of reflexology so that the student understands the processes behind its emergence and development. Included in this history will be references and brief summaries of other therapies relevant to reflexology such as acupressure, acupuncture, massage (including Shiatsu), Yin and Yang, meridians and zone therapy. The language of touch is discussed in terms of human interaction, the art of healing and the importance of the therapists self awareness and confidence in order to transmit and rebalance energy flows.

Module 2: Anatomy and physiology: muscular-skeletal and central nervous systems

A basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology is important in order for the therapist to correctly assess and treat the client. Successful reflexology treatments are dependent upon pressure points and nerve pathways, so this module describes the skeleton, muscle groups, how messages are conveyed to and from the brain, and how this relates to touch.

Module 3: Anatomy and physiology: circulatory and other body systems

Continuing the theme from module 2, this unit presents descriptions of the remainder of the body systems and functions. Particular reference is given to specific body systems which hold relevance to the reflexologist during client assessment and treatment.

Module 4: Immunity, endocrine glands and contra-indications of treatment

This module looks at how the body deals with disease; what role hormones play in homeostatic balance, and when the therapist should be cautious about treatment delivery. A few specific and common disorders will be outlined and discussed.

Module 5: Psychology of relaxation, treatment environment and approach

A therapist who treats a relaxed client will have greater success. In this module, how to create an ideal therapy environment will be explained. The approach of the therapist is of utmost importance in gaining the respect of the client, and in order to help them relax. Relaxation and massage techniques will be given in this unit, together with details of suitable essential oils and creams for use during treatment. There will be some discussion regarding psychological aspects of treatment, in order to facilitate the understanding of client requirements.

Module 6: Reflexology pathways and responses

Description, location, application and responses of pressure points and reflexology pathways will be covered in this module. Example reflexology charts and footprints will be given.

Module 7: Reflexology techniques

The main techniques of treatment delivery will be described in this unit, together with diagrammatic examples. There are many techniques specific to reflexology such as 'thumb walking' which will be dealt with in detail.

Module 8: The whole treatment

In this module, a hypothetical treatment will be described from beginning to end. This will form a template around which individual treatments can be designed. The basic format of the reflexology session contains several common sections which will be relevant to all clients. Until a therapist is familiar with both the timing and order of general treatment sessions, a template can be a useful tool.

Module 9: Client assessment, treatment planning and therapists responsibilities

Initial consultation and client questioning will be covered in depth. An example of a consultation form will be given. Areas surrounding first aid, client confidentiality, when to refer and when how to obtain medical practitioner authority, will be discussed. In addition professional bodies and public liability insurance will be briefly covered.

Module 10: Hand reflexology, and treatment for special circumstances

This module deals with example situations when alternative reflexology may be employed; for example when a client has a lower limb missing, or there is evidence of injury, infection or other contra-indication to the application of reflexology to the foot.

Online Enrolment

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