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National Reflexology Certification

Reflexology, often called zone therapy, is a method of therapy that involves applying pressure to reflex points on the hands and feet to bring about therapeutic changes in specific parts of the body. Certified practitioners of reflexology have completed an approved training program and passed the certification exam established by the American Reflexology Certification Board. Certification is not required to practice reflexology but might add to the credibility of the practitioner.

  1. About the ARCB

    • In 1991, leaders of reflexology created the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) to help recognize reflexology professionals who meet the established national skill standards. The ARCB is a nonprofit corporation that serves as an independent testing agency and offers national certification to reflexologists.

    Benefits of Certification

    • Being nationally certified means that you have met and surpassed the standards for education and skill in reflexology as determined by the ARCB. It acknowledges the practitioner as a professional and indicates that they operate according to ARCB standards. Other benefits include being able to receive professional referrals from organizations including the ARCB. It is necessary to note that certification is not a license to practice. To practice reflexology legally in the United States, you must abide by any state or local laws pertaining to it.

    Certification Examination Requirements

    • To qualify to take the ARCB exam, you must meet certain educational criteria. Certification applicants must have 110 hours of reflexology training, including 10 hours of supervised clinical work. Applicants also must have conducted at least 90 postgraduate therapy sessions on clients. All applicants need to be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

    About the Examination

    • At least 60 days before the examination date, you must complete the test application and return it along with the testing fee as well as a copy of your school certificate or diploma. The examination consists of three sections: written, practical and documentation. The written portion of the exam consists of 300 questions that test the basic knowledge and understanding of anatomy and reflexology. Hands-on technique and communication skills are reviewed next for the practical portion of the examination. During the documentation testing, your ability to make professional assessments and observations will be examined.

    Earning and Maintaining Certification

    • To obtain certification, you must pass the written exam with a score of 80 percent or higher. Scoring for the practical and documentation portions of the exam are based on a 5-point scale with 1.0 being the highest score. Passing scores on both sections are 3.0 or below. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive national certification and will be able to register with the ARCB. You will also be eligible to complete the hand reflexology certification exam, if you desire.

      Certified reflexologists can maintain their status with the ARCB by paying an annual fee. The ARCB also requires that active members obtain 12 hours of continuing education at least every two years in order to retain their certification.

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