Business Details
21 Years
experience
Promoting Reflexology Standards in Massachusetts
Established in 2005, the Massachusetts Association of Reflexology (MAR) is a dedicated organization committed to promoting and preserving reflexology as a distinct complementary healthcare discipline. As the first state association to affiliate with the Reflexology Association of America, we set rigorous educational and ethical standards for practitioners while providing ongoing professional development and continuing education. Our members, who undergo a minimum of 200 hours of reflexology-specific training, exemplify exceptional expertise and dedication to client safety, privacy, and holistic wellness. Through collaborative efforts with healthcare professionals and public education initiatives, we advocate for reflexology's recognition as a valuable non-invasive therapy that supports optimal body function.Our organization maintains strict adherence to a comprehensive code of ethics and standards of practice, ensuring practitioners meet nationally recognized benchmarks for excellence. With affiliations to major liability insurance providers and three national certifying boards, MAR provides critical resources that strengthen professional credibility and protect the integrity of reflexology practice in Massachusetts.
Services
Reflexology
Continuing Education
Professional Development
Certification Support
Member Networking
Public Education
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Our members complete minimum 200 hours of reflexology-specific education
- Practitioners maintain active national certifications and liability insurance
- Affiliated with three major national certifying bodies
- Comprehensive continuing education programs exceeding industry standards
- Strict code of ethics and scope of practice compliance
Associations and certifications
- Reflexology Association of America
- American Reflexology Certification Board
- Reflexology Certification Board
Services
Reflexology
Reflexology applies specialized thumb and finger techniques to stimulate reflex points on feet, hands, and ears. This non-invasive therapy promotes nervous system regulation, stress reduction, and enhanced bodily function through autonomic-somatic integration. Practitioners target specific neural pathways to support natural healing processes while maintaining strict hygiene protocols and client comfort.
Continuing Education
Our continuing education programs provide advanced training in reflexology techniques, pathology considerations, and ethical practice standards. Courses exceed industry requirements with over 350 hours of specialized instruction covering reflex map theory, somatic integration, and evidence-based applications for stress-related conditions.
Certification Support
We facilitate national certification through recognized boards while maintaining membership standards that exceed licensing requirements. Our resources include exam preparation guidance, documentation verification, and ongoing compliance support ensuring practitioners meet evolving industry benchmarks for professional excellence.
Public Education
Through community outreach and healthcare provider collaborations, we educate about reflexology's benefits in stress management, chronic condition support, and wellness maintenance. Our programs clarify reflexology's distinct role from massage therapy while promoting informed consumer choices in complementary healthcare.
Member Networking
Our association connects reflexologists statewide through collaborative events and resource sharing. Members gain access to exclusive professional development opportunities, insurance programs, and advocacy initiatives strengthening reflexology's recognition as standalone healthcare practice.
People
Barbara Strassman
President
With decades of experience advancing reflexology standards, Barbara leads MAR's strategic initiatives ensuring educational excellence and professional advocacy in Massachusetts.
Val Voner
Vice President
Val oversees member support programs, ensuring practitioners meet rigorous certification requirements while maintaining MAR's commitment to professional integrity.
Susan Makuch-Andrews
Secretary
Susan manages organizational records and member communications, maintaining MAR's operational transparency and compliance with non-profit governance standards.
Karen Boyd
Treasurer
Karen ensures financial accountability and fiscal sustainability for MAR's educational programs and professional development initiatives.
Diane Wedge
Senior Delegate
Diane coordinates delegate activities while representing MAR in national reflexology policy discussions shaping the profession's future.
Questions
What distinguishes reflexology from foot massage?
Reflexology uses specific thumb techniques on mapped reflex points to stimulate nervous system responses, unlike general foot massage focusing on muscle relaxation.
How long does a reflexology session last?
Sessions typically range from 30-90 minutes, with most practitioners charging $60-$150 per hour based on experience.
Are reflexologists required to maintain certifications?
Certified members must complete continuing education and adhere to MAR's ethical standards to preserve professional credentials.
Can reflexology treat medical conditions?
Reflexology supports wellness but practitioners do not diagnose or claim to cure illnesses, always referring health concerns to medical providers.
How to verify a reflexologist's qualifications?
Check for MAR membership, national certification credentials, liability insurance, and 200+ hours of documented reflexology-specific training.
Where are reflexology services offered?
Practitioners work in wellness centers, medical facilities, private studios, and mobile services across Massachusetts.
Reviews (3)
Beatrice Stephenson
Feb 04, 2019
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MND Help do not know what they are talking about! To quote from the HSE's own website: "Since changes to the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulation 1981 on 1 October 2013, HSE no longer approves first aid training and qualifications - or first aid training providers. The only first-aid training HSE approves is under the Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (first aid) Regulations 1989." I don't think the AoR is involved with many oil rigs!
Mnd Help
Feb 04, 2018
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The AoR endorses First Aid Certificates from the London School of Reflexology despite this college (i.e. Ziggie Bergman) not being accredited by the HSE
Rowena Gledhill
Dec 15, 2017
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A fantastic professional organisation, dedicated to supporting, training and research in the reflexology field.
