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Mobile Reflexology
Services Guidelines
for Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapists (RCRT™)
These guidelines provide a detailed framework for conducting mobile reflexology appointments in a professional, consistent, and client-centered manner. These guidelines align with the RAC’s Standards of Practice, and Session Record Guidelines.
Overview
RCRTs™ who work in clients’ homes are at higher risk exposing themselves and clients to illness or other potentials of harms. RCRTs™ offering mobile services must adhere to the same professional standards as those working in a fixed-location clinic. This includes maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and a respectful approach to all clients.
A. Mobile Screening
i. Mobile services should only be offered when the RCRT™ is able to implement the same standards of practice as when working in a clinic or home-based practice.
ii. Clients should be pre-screened using RAC’s Sample Pre-Screening Form or a similar tool.
iii. When arriving at a client’s home, RCRTs™ should also conduct a risk assessment and repeat the pre-screening questionnaire to confirm that nothing has changed.
B. Safety and Client Protection
i. A RCRT™ must ensure that the location where the mobile service is provided is safe, secure, and appropriate for the reflexology therapy appointment. This includes verifying the environment is free from hazards, well-lit, clean, and provides a space for proper client comfort during Reflexology.
ii. A RCRT™ must bring all necessary equipment (e.g., portable massage table or zero-gravity chair, clean linens, sanitation supplies, etc.) to ensure a clean, organized, and professional environment during mobile sessions unless the base equipment (e.g., bed or chair) is provided by the client.
iii. To ensure safety, RCRTs™ should verify the identity of first-time clients and obtain confirmation of the location of service delivery. If unsure, it is advisable to conduct a brief screening to establish legitimacy and protect both parties.
iv. RCRT™ s must have an emergency plan, including local emergency contacts, a first-aid kit, and the ability to respond appropriately.
C. Client Record Ownership and Departures
i. Client Safety
(a) As outlined in RAC’s Standard of Practice, clients must be reminded of their right to refuse or end a session at any time. This is especially important in mobile settings, where privacy and safety concerns may be heightened.
(b) RCRTs™ should remain especially vigilant about maintaining professional boundaries in mobile settings, where the risk of blurred roles or unsafe situations may be greater. Abuse prevention standards as outlined in RAC’s Standard of Practice apply fully in all mobile service contexts.
ii. Therapist Protection
(a) RCRTs™ must take precautions to protect themselves when providing mobile services, including:
✔ Never entering a client’s private home without a pre-established professional relationship.
✔ Always ensuring that a third party is aware of their location and the time of the session, especially when traveling to unfamiliar or remote locations.
✔ Carrying a cell phone for emergency contact and keeping it accessible at all times.
(b) When an RCRT™ feels uncomfortable or unsafe at any point during a session, they have the right to immediately terminate the session. The therapist should inform the client of this right beforehand and have a protocol in place for safely leaving a situation if necessary.
iii. Response to Abuse
(a) In the event that an RCRT™ experiences abusive behavior or feels unsafe, they must have a safety plan to protect themselves. This includes:
✔ Reporting the incident to appropriate authorities (such as local police);
✔ Documenting the event in detail; and
✔ Seeking additional professional support.
(b) When RCRTs™ suspects abuse, neglect, or any form of harm against a client, they must have protocols in place for immediate referral to appropriate authorities or healthcare providers. This could include referring clients to counseling services, social services, or other healthcare professionals.
D. Cleaning Protocol
i. RCRTs™ should bring a disposable garbage bag to dispose of wipes, towels, and other PPE properly.
ii. RCRTs™ should bring their own cleaning supplies to disinfect surfaces.
E. Legal Compliance
i. RCRTs™ providing mobile services should carry appropriate liability and professional insurance coverage to protect against claims of injury, abuse, or malpractice. Insurance policies should cover mobile service risks such as accidents or damage to property.
ii. RCRTs™ must ensure they are complying with any local, provincial, or federal regulations that govern mobile health services. This includes being familiar with RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines to ensure compliance and obtaining any necessary permits, licenses, or insurance for operating a mobile reflexology practice.
F. Mobile Reflexology Safety Checklist
Before conducting a mobile reflexology therapy session, RCRTs™ must ensure the following:
Client and Session Readiness
✔ Client has been pre-screened at least 24 hours in advance using RAC’s Sample Pre-Screening Form.
✔ Client identity has been verified, especially for first-time appointments.
✔ Session location confirmed and address verified.
Safety and Emergency Preparedness
✔ A third party (friend, family, colleague) has been informed of your session time and location.
✔ A charged cell phone is on hand and accessible throughout the session.
✔ A first-aid kit is available on-site.
✔ Emergency contact details for local services are accessible.
Environment and Equipment
✔ The location is clean, safe, well-lit, and free of hazards.
✔ Bring all required equipment (e.g., portable chair or table, clean linens, sanitation supplies).
✔ Bring a disposable garbage bag and cleaning supplies for post-session sanitizing.
Client and Therapist Protection
✔ Professional boundaries and confidentiality standards will be upheld.
✔ Client has been reminded of their right to end or modify the session at any time.
✔ Therapist has a plan in place to exit safely if feeling unsafe.
✔ Any incidents or concerns will be documented and reported as required.
G. Emergency Protocol Template for Mobile Reflexology Services
This protocol provides a safety framework for RCRTs™ delivering mobile reflexology therapy in client homes or other off-site locations. It is designed to support personal safety, professional accountability, and appropriate response to emergencies.
1. Pre-Session Emergency Preparedness
a. Safety Notifications
✔ Share session details (client name, session time, location) with a trusted contact prior to arrival.
✔ Ensure a charged cell phone is on hand and accessible.
✔ Have emergency contact numbers saved (e.g., 911, local police, clinic/employer if applicable).
b. Emergency Readiness Kit (RCRTs™ should carry:)
✔ Basic first aid kit (bandages, gloves, antiseptic, CPR shield)
✔ RAC membership card
✔ Emergency contact list (professional and personal)
✔ Flashlight (or phone with light feature))
c. On-Site Risk Assessment
Before beginning the session:✔ Assess the safety of the entry point and treatment area.
✔ Confirm a clear and direct exit path.
✔ Ensure the space is well-lit, hygienic, and free from hazards.
2. During-Session Emergencies
a. Client Medical Emergency
If a client experiences sudden illness, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms of medical distress✔ Stop the session immediately.
✔ Call 911 or local emergency services.
✔ Remain with the client, offer reassurance, and avoid unnecessary movement.
✔ Only administer first aid if trained and competent to do so.
✔ If appropriate, notify the client’s emergency contact.
b. Personal Safety Concern
If the RCRT™ feels unsafe due to:✔ Aggressive behaviour
✔ RAC membership card
✔ Harassment or boundary violations
✔ Environmental hazards
Then:
✔ Calmly and respectfully end the session:
“I need to pause the session for today.”✔ Exit the location immediately and contact a trusted contact or emergency services.
✔ Do not engage or escalate the situation.
3. Post-Incident Reporting and Documentation
a. Incident Documentation
As soon as reasonably possible (within 24 hours), complete an internal incident report with:✔ Date, time, and location
✔ Client name (if applicable)
✔ Description of the situation
✔ Steps taken during and after the incident
✔ Names of any emergency personnel or witnesses
Reporting to RAC
Submit a report to RAC if:✔ Client safety was compromised
✔ Therapist was harmed or threatened
✔ Ethical or professional boundaries were breached
c. Employer or Clinic Notification
✔ If employed or contracted, inform your employer or clinic manager immediately following the incident.
4. Emergency Planning Checklist (Quick Reference)
Item Confirm Trusted contact notified of location and session time ☐ Cell phone charged and accessible ☐ Emergency contact numbers saved ☐ First aid kit and ID carried ☐ Exit route identified upon arrival ☐ Emergency plan rehearsed or reviewed ☐
