A formal qualification is needed to practice Therapeutic Reflexology; read more in today’s post.
We often see “fly-by-night” reflexologists advertising online or via pamphlets, but they do not even hold the minimum qualification needed to practice Therapeutic Reflexology legally in South Africa. The general public is not even aware of this basic fact due to a watering down of the profession in the past, but today we’ll look at the very basics needed in order to practice Therapeutic Reflexology in South Africa. And to answer the question even before you ask, NO, you cannot practice Therapeutic Reflexology after completing a short course in reflexology.
Therapeutic Reflexology is a formally recognised healthcare profession in South Africa regulated by a statutory council, namely the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA), just like medical doctors are formally regulated by a statutory council, namely the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). This means that it is illegal to practice Therapeutic Reflexology without AHPCSA registration, just like it is illegal to practice as a medical doctor without HPCSA registration.
To qualify for AHPCSA registration, the Therapeutic Reflexologist must complete a 2-year full-time Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology (NQF Level 6) from a recognised training institute which means that the training institute must be registered with the Department of Higher Education, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the AHPCSA. At present, the only acceptable training institute is the Potchefstroom Academy (See the AHPCSA Website).
The 2-year full-time Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology (NQF Level 6) includes the following:
- Training in the following modules: Therapeutic Reflexology, Anatomy & Physiology, Pathophysiology & Pharmacology, Nutrition, and Dietary Supplements, Occupational Health & Safety, Legislation (Jurisprudence), Practice Management, Patient Care, Business Practice, and more.
- Therapeutic Reflexology Practicum (usually 200 hours).
On completion of the qualification, the Therapeutic Reflexology Graduate may register with the AHPCSA and thereafter apply for a practice number that will make medical aid reimbursement possible.
Anyone that studied abroad, must present their qualifications to the AHPCSA for evaluation and a decision on registration.
AHPCSA registration is there for the protection of the general public and to ensure that every Therapeutic Reflexologist is properly qualified and experienced before they are allowed to work on you. If this is the stringent training requirement needed to ensure you get the best form of Therapeutic Reflexology, why would you settle for anything less? You deserve the best, so do not allow yourself to be bamboozled into paying for non-AHPCSA regulated Therapeutic Reflexology.
When making your next appointment, ensure that you are making use of a properly qualified and AHPCSA registered Therapeutic Reflexologist.
—
Christo A. Scheepers: Therapeutic Reflexologist
Dip.T.R.(Cum Laude) [IARAMT]
AHPCSA: A11945
Pr. No.: 1080000737453
Tel. 072-800 7243