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About the Course

The aim of the course is to produce a well-prepared professional Reflexologist.

Suaimhneas is accredited by three examination bodies:

  • The Association of Reflexologists (AoR),
  • International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC),
  • The Irish Reflexologists’ Institute (IRI).

When choosing a Reflexology course, the prospective student should ensure that the course being undertaken meets high professional standards and u pon completion gives the student a validly recognised qualification.

Upon successfully completing a course with Suaimhneas Reflexology, the therapist will hold qualifications which are highly professional and of an internationally recognised standard. The Association of Reflexologists (AoR) has reciprocity with the Irish Reflexologists Institute (IRI). Membership with these associations is included in the course fee.

The course covers:

Theory –

  1. Anatomy and Physiology of the human body
    1. To include cells and all systems of the body.
    2. Basic principles of diet and nutrition.
  2. Causes of Ill Health
    1. The Holistic Approach – treating the whole person.
    2. An understanding of stress.
    3. Structure, disorders and conditions of the feet and hands.
    4. Integral Biology of the human body.
  3. Reflexology Theory and Practice.
    1. The history of Reflexology.
    2. Current theories and practice.
    3. Philosophy of Complementary Medicine.
    4. Zones and their relation to organs and functions.
    5. Subtle energy.
    6. Using and understanding reflexology charts.
    7. Contraindications and their implications.
    8. Instruction in compiling case studies
    9. Listening Skills within the client/patient relationship.
    10. Referring to other therapists or to General Practitioners.
    11. Introduction to other Complementary Therapies.
  4. Practice Management and the Law
    1. Codes of Practice and Ethics.
    2. Knowledge of voluntary and statutory support systems.
    3. Basic First Aid.
    4. Health and Safety.
    5. Business management.
    6. Treatment Records.

Practical Work –

  1. Techniques – compression techniques, holding and supporting.
  2. Location of reflexes on the feet.
  3. Sequence of treatment.
  4. Observations and assessment of the feet.
  5. Relaxation techniques.
  6. Preparation of the workplace.
  7. Client care and comfort.
  8. Consultations and recording details.
  9. Observations of clients reactions.
  10. Treatments – length, manner, assessment and interpretation.
  11. Common complaints and how to treat them.
  12. Record keeping.
  13. Cross reflexes/referral areas.
  14. Hand Reflexology.

It is necessary to have some basic first aid qualification and a brief course and examination in CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) is held during the year. There is no additional cost for this

One day of the course will be devoted to mind-body relationships. This is a vital part of the course in developing the therapist, so attendance is compulsory. This day helps you to recognise disease patterns and look beyond the presenting symptoms in searching for the underlying cause. The chakras and more subtle energies of the body are explored. This further emphasises and develops the holistic element of the reflexology course.

A very supportive environment is created in the classes and students will be encouraged to form study groups to extend this support. This creates the framework for back-up following qualification. The maximum number of pupils in each course is 20 which allows for close contact between pupils and tutors.

Practical Assignments

Course work is used to assess Practical Reflexology skills. Candidates will be assessed throughout the course but especially on their performance in a minimum of 60 treatments.

Equipment

All the main equipment will be provided by the school. You will be required to purchase:

  1. 2 large navy blue beach-size towels.
  2. Initially a school tee shirt and later on a uniform will be required.
  3. Course books which can be purchased from Suaimhneas (Cost approx. €90). Printed notes will be supplied by the school as will a list of recommended books.
  4. One A4 size ring-binder and paper.

Examinations

  1. All students will sit the AoR/ABC Level 3 Diploma in Reflexology. This will consist of 2 components:

    1. A 2½-hour written paper.
    2. Continuous assessment of coursework in practical reflexology skills. This will be based on evaluation of a minimum of sixty (60) treatments. Within these 60 treatments 3 will be Client Studies carried out on clients unknown to the candidate when the t utor will be present to observe and assess practical techniques employed by the candidates in conducting the therapy.

    Successful completion of both these parts entitles the student to apply for full membership of both AoR and IRI professional associations.

    The fee for this AoR/ABC examination which all students will sit is €160 (which is inclusive of the ABC exam fee of £68) and is included in the cost of the course.

  2. Students may also sit the ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Reflexology if they so choose. Please note: This is optional and incurs additional fees. There are 3 examinations as follows:

    1. Unit 1: Diploma in Anatomy and Physiology.
    2. Unit 4: Diploma in Reflexology.
    3. Unit 22: Professional Conduct and Business Awareness.

    (If you have obtained other ITEC qualifications OR if you have earned the ABC diploma already you may be granted credit (APL) for accredited prior learning of Units 1 and 22 and you may not have to sit all these exams again.)

    The current cost of these examinations if taken within a 4 week period is currently estimated at €140. Please note that if these exams are taken separately outside a 4 week period then each exam is charged individually and the overall cost is more expensive.

    Due to the additional requirements of the ITEC curriculum it will be necessary for the student to attend additional class days. Dates to be arranged. There will be a charge for this of approximately €100. This fee includes provision of an ITEC required book. Please note that this is an OPTIONAL examination and should only be undertaken if the student desires an ITEC qualification.

Suaimhneas Reflexology Personnel

Carol Donnelly started as a Reflexology tutor in Walmer Holistic Centre in 1991 and taught there until 1998. She then established Suaimhneas Reflexology and her courses continue to be held in Walmer College and Holistic Centre. She also designs and con ducts regular workshops mainly to postgraduate therapists. Carol holds a Degree in Nursing (BN) and a City and Guilds certificate in Further and Adult Education. Her awards in complementary therapies include ITEC diplomas in Reflexology, Massage, Anatomy and Physiology and Aromatherapy. She has also earned a certificate in Indian Head Massage and completed Reiki Level 1. She is a member of the Association of Reflexologists and acts as an examination verifier for that Association. She is also a member of the Irish Reflexologists’ Institute. From her earliest days in the caring profession Carol has always been of the belief that illness derives from more than just the physical level—that the mind and spirit also have a part to play. Her many years of experience in complementary therapies has strongly reinforced this original belief.

Terry Kenny holds ITEC Diplomas in Reflexology, Anatomy Physiology and Massage as well as Aromatherapy. She is currently studying the Bowen Technique and has completed Reiki, Level One. Terry also holds a City & Guilds teaching qualification in Adult Education. She too runs a private practice as well as teaches Reflexology which she has done for the last 11 years.

Testimonials

"For me the Suaimhneas course was a journey of learning which provided an excellent grounding in anatomy and physiology as well as practical reflexology skills. All of the above learning took place in an atmosphere with strong emphasis on holistic client care and development of positive communication skills. A challenging, stretching, rewarding and enjoyable experience. The course tutors (Carol and Terry) combine a wide variety of skill, expertise, sensitivity and good humour which contribute greatly to the overall enjoyment of the course and to a class atmosphere where hard work took place and fun was very much encouraged."
Bernie, May ‘04

"I qualified from Suaimhneas Reflexology School in June 2005 and have added reflexology to my existing therapies. I work full time as a therapist and am delighted that I chose to study at Suaimhneas as I feel that they offer one of the most comprehensive and thorough training programs available in Ireland.

The level of support and understanding students received from the tutors at Suaimhneas Reflexology was matched by the tutor’s level of professionalism. Those at Suaimhneas Reflexology are aware that students come from a diverse array of backgrounds and therefore will have needs unique to them. The individual is never lost in the course and yet the school still manages to focus on the important aspects of learning (whilst maintaining good humour and infinite patience). I have left the course with confidence in my abilities and the knowledge that, should I ever run into a difficult situation, I know that I have a network available to turn to for support and guidance.

The tutors are not only very well informed but demonstrate a level of understanding that proves invaluable not only during your training, but also your future career. The school has proved a safe haven for students from all walks of life and will doubtless continue to do so for many years to come."
Vicki, June ‘05