2) Reflexology Protocols

Reflexology therapists do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat specific medical conditions. They do not perform any controlled acts as defined under provincial health legislation. Their role is to provide safe, supportive, and non-invasive Reflexology therapy as defined by RAC’s Scope of Practice.

i. RCRTs™ work within their communities to promote understanding and acceptance of reflexology as a viable wellness and health service.

ii. RCRTs™ abide by all federal, provincial, and municipal laws governing the practice of reflexology, and support the repeal and/or revision of laws detrimental to the practice of Reflexology. RCRTs™ are responsible for investigating the required laws, bylaws, and regulations that govern reflexology in their area of practice.

• iii. RCRTs™ respect and communicate with other healthcare providers in a manner that promotes and facilitates ethical and professional care/service by:
  1. 🔸 Understanding the professional designation of the healthcare practitioner (i.e. regulated or nonregulated) and their role in supporting client care;
  2. 🔸 Working collaboratively to foster understanding of RAC’s Scope of Practice; and
  3. 🔸 Respecting professional boundaries and public standards of practice/protocol.

 

iv. RCRTs™ may not delegate any aspect of reflexology therapy to individuals who are not adequately trained, certified, or recognized by RAC. All reflexology care must be personally delivered or directly supervised by the RCRT™ and documented accordingly.

v. RCRTs™act with honesty, integrity, and accountability as core ethical obligations that underpin all aspects of their professional conduct, in alignment with RAC’s Code of Ethics.

vi. RCRTs™work within RAC’s Scope of Practice for the profession and practices only within the limits of their professional training, competency, and registration.

vii. RCRTs™ do not engage in conduct that is fraudulent, false, misleading, or intentionally omits material facts in any professional, written, or financial context.

RCRTs™ offering mobile services must adhere to the same professional standards and ethical codes as those working in a fixed-location clinic. This includes maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and a respectful approach to all clients.

3) Professionalism

✔ RCRTs™ ensure that all marketing or advertising for their practice in print, digital, social media, and verbal communications:

1. Is respectful, ethical, and professional;
2. Is truthful, honest, and transparent;
3. Is factual and verifiable;
4. Is not misleading or deceptive;
5. Is in compliance with local regulations;
6. Does not claim to diagnose or cure conditions using reflexology;
7. Is neither discriminatory, offensive, nor contains anything that could negatively impact public confidence in an RCRT™; and
8. Protects client privacy and confidentiality.

✔ RCRTs™ must ensure that all advertising and client communications comply with applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws,including, for example, Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL),and adhere to regulations related to truthfulness, transparency, and professional representation.

✔ RCRTs™ must uphold professionalism by refraining from any form of negative promotion, including comparing themselves to, gossiping about, or speaking disrespectfully of other RCRTs™ or healthcare providers.

✔ RCRTs™ use the RCRT™ logo and designation with services or products that are within RAC’s Scope of Practice and in alignment with RAC’s Logo Usage Guidelines.

i. Respectful and Therapeutic Relationship: The primary focus should always be on the client’s health and well-being, not developing a personal or social relationship.

ii. RCRTs™ must demonstrate a respectful, inclusive, and professional attitude toward every client regardless of gender, age, race, religion, language, culture, physical ability, socioeconomic status, or sexual orientation. This includes using inclusive language, respecting the client’s chosen name, pronouns, and family role labels, and creating spaces that support the full participation and dignity of all clients.

iii. RCRTs™ are expected to practice cultural humility and foster safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environments. This includes acknowledging and addressing power dynamics, respecting diverse cultural expressions of health, and avoiding assumptions or stereotypes that may undermine client care.

iv. Contraindication and Appropriate Care Boundaries: When appropriate, and with the client’s consent, refer the client to another RCRT™, healthcare professional, or person whose expertise can best address the client’s needs, in line with RAC’s Contraindication Guidelines.

v. Physical and Sexual Boundaries: RCRTs™ should set clear, unambiguous boundaries regarding physical touch. There should be no room for misunderstanding—touch should always be within the context of the therapeutic purpose of reflexology. Clients must feel comfortable, and their personal space must be respected throughout the session.

vi. Refrain from Inappropriate Touch: Any form of inappropriate, overly intimate, or unprofessional touch is strictly unacceptable. RCRTs™ must always ensure that touch remains within the therapeutic context and follows ethical guidelines.

vii. Consent and Comfort: RCRTs™ must ensure that clients feel safe and comfortable throughout the session. Clients should be asked about their comfort levels with language, pressure, techniques, and session progression, both before and during the session. If a client expresses discomfort (verbally or non-verbally), the RCRT™ must respond respectfully and adjust or pause the session as needed. Clients must be reminded that they have the right to stop the session at any time.

viii. In situations where a client may be vulnerable or requests additional support, RCRTs™ should offer the option of a chaperone or support person during the reflexology session. If a chaperone is declined, the refusal should be respectfully documented in the session notes.

ix. Zero Tolerance for Inappropriate Behavior: RCRTs™ must maintain clear professional boundaries and respond immediately and firmly to any inappropriate behavior from a client—including sexual advances, verbal abuse, discriminatory remarks, intimidation, or other conduct that compromises safety or respect. If necessary, the RCRT™ has the right to end the session immediately, document the incident, and take appropriate follow-up action, including refusing future appointments. See section: Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client

i. Professional Detachment: While RCRTs™ are encouraged to show empathy and provide emotional support, the therapist-client relationship should not become overly personal. RCRTs™ should remain professional in their interactions and avoid becoming overly emotionally involved with clients.

ii. Managing Personal Conversations: During a reflexology therapy appointment, clients may open up about personal matters, but it’s essential that the therapist remains professional and does not encourage, engage in, or disclose personal information in return. The focus should remain on the client’s needs and health during the session.

iii. Managing Dual Relationships: A dual relationship occurs when the therapist has another relationship with the client outside of the therapeutic setting (e.g., being a friend, family member, neighbour, business associate, etc.). These relationships can create conflicts of interest and blur professional boundaries, making it difficult to maintain objectivity and professionalism. RCRTs™ should maintain appropriate professional and personal boundaries when working with all clients.

i. RCRTs™ ensure that all employment agreements comply with applicable laws and reflect RAC’s ethical standards and defined Scope of Practice.

ii. RCRTs™ ensure that employment contracts clearly define the therapist’s employment status, duties, compensation structure, and responsibility for liability insurance and professional conduct.

iii. RCRTs™ ensure that employment contracts address confidentiality, record ownership, and therapist access to client files upon departure, in compliance with provincial privacy legislation.

iv. RCRTs™ ensure employment terms support therapist autonomy, ensure personal safety, and provide mechanisms to refuse unsafe or inappropriate treatment requests.

vi. For additional considerations and best practices, please refer to RAC’s Employment Contract Guidelines.

i. Notice Period: RCRTs™ must provide a minimum of 30 days’ notice to clients when they intend to close their reflexology practice.

ii. Client Communication: RCRTs™ must provide clear information about the closure date, the status of any prepaid sessions, memberships and/or gift certificates, and available alternatives or referrals to other RCRTs™ or clinics.

iii. Client Refunds and Outstanding Payments: RCRTs™ must ensure that clients who have pre-paid for reflexology sessions or packages are either refunded or offered alternative solutions. They must provide clear instructions on how clients can claim any refunds or make arrangements.

iv. Referral of Clients to Other Practitioners: If applicable, clients can be referred to another RCRT™ or complementary health care provider with consent.

vi. Client Record Retention: As per the applicable provincial and federal laws in the RCRT™’s practicing province or territory, client records must be securely retained for the legally required period. RCRTs™ are responsible for ensuring their compliance.

vi. Confidentiality and Privacy: Client information must remain confidential even after the business closes. All personal and health data must be stored securely and disposed of properly when the retention period has ended. If transferring or disposing of records, RCRTs™ must ensure they comply with current privacy regulations.

vii. Sale or Transfer of Practice: If a reflexology practice is sold or transferred to a new owner:

1. The original RCRT™ must notify clients of the sale and obtain informed consent before transferring any personal health information or session records to the new owner or practitioner.
2. Clients must be informed of the new owner’s name, contact details, and their right to:
   • a) Approve the transfer of their records;
   • b) Request a copy of their records; or
   • c) Decline the transfer and request secure destruction of their file.
3. The client list may only be transferred if clients have provided consent.

viii. Retaining Professional Liability Insurance: RCRTs™ who close, sell, or transfer a practice should maintain professional liability insurance for a reasonable period following the final appointment, in accordance with their insurer guidance. This protects both the therapist and former clients in the event of a delayed claim or concern related to past services.

ix. The RCRT™ who provided the care remains responsible for their professional conduct and recordkeeping obligations prior to the sale or transfer of a practice, in accordance with applicable laws.

x. If a reflexology business is sold to an individual who is not an RCRT™, client health records must not be transferred unless that individual is legally authorized to manage health records, and only with each client’s explicit, informed consent. In all cases, the RCRT™ remains responsible for securing, retaining, or appropriately transferring records in accordance with privacy laws and RAC’s standards.

i. RCRTs™ are responsible for maintaining their professional competency and continuing their personal and professional development by updating their training and conferring with colleagues to increasing their knowledge and awareness.

ii. Any breaches of these Standards or of RAC’s Code of Ethics may be subject to investigation and disciplinary action in accordance with RAC’s Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures.

For expectations around professional integrity, fairness, and conduct toward the Association and the profession, see RAC’s Code of Ethics.

RCRTs™ are accountable for upholding these standards. Concerns or violations may be subject to investigation under RAC’s Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures.

4) Confidentiality

i. Data Privacy and Security: All personal and health-related information collected, stored, or shared electronically must be handled in accordance with Canadian privacy legislation, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). RCRTs™ must ensure:

1. Client data is securely stored and encrypted where possible;
2. Access to client records is limited to authorized individuals; and
3. Third-party providers (e.g., software, cloud storage, AI tools) comply with Canadian privacy and data security standards.

ii. Client Consent and Transparency: Clients must be informed if their personal information or session planning is being supported or processed by digital systems, including AI tools. RCRTs™ must be able to clearly explain:

1. Which digital tools are being used (e.g., electronic forms, chatbots, online schedulers, AI summaries);
2. What data is collected, where it is stored, and who has access to it; and
3. What influence(s) these tools may have on reflexology care or session planning.
4. Informed consent for the use of such tools must be documented and renewed if practices change.

iii. Therapist Oversight and Decision-Making: While technology can support administrative tasks or documentation, it must not replace professional knowledge or therapeutic reasoning. RCRTs™ are solely responsible for:

1. Selecting appropriate reflex points and session plans;
2. Assessing client readiness or contraindications; and
3. Making care decisions in alignment with RAC’s Scope of Practice. AI-generated suggestions must be critically evaluated and never accepted without therapist review.

iv. Ongoing Competency and Digital Literacy: RCRTs™ must stay current with best practices in technology use, including training in:

1. How to properly use and secure digital client records and communication tools;
2. How to recognize the limitations and risks of AI-assisted documentation or analysis; and
3. Digital professionalism when using websites, apps, or other client-facing tools.

v. Ethical Use and Professional Boundaries: Technology must never compromise client dignity, autonomy, or trust. RCRTs™ must avoid:

1. Using AI or software for automated diagnosis, treatment suggestions, or decision-making without client input;
2. Sharing any data with third parties not compliant with PIPEDA;
3. Over-relying on tools that generate unverified health advice; and
4. Blurring boundaries through unprofessional online communication, such as social media comments, posts, or reviews.

vi. Clients and Boundaries:

1. Recognize the inherent power imbalance in the therapeutic relationship and take necessary actions to manage it as needed.
2. Understand and recognize that client participation is never justification for boundary crossings.

5) Informed Consent

i. RCRTs™ must obtain a client’s informed consent before starting any Reflexology service, whether it is the initial assessment, a reflexology session, a change in modality (e.g., switching from foot to ear reflexology), or a modification to the agreed session plan. This includes:

1. A clear explanation of the purpose and nature of reflexology therapy; clarifying that reflexology does not involve the treatment of specific medical conditions. RCRTs™ may, through experience and/or training, specialize in working with specific client groups.
2. A statement clarifying that reflexology therapists do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat specific medical conditions and that reflexology is not a replacement for conventional medical care;
3. The client’s rights and responsibilities in participating in their own wellness care (see section Fitness to Practice );
4. The expected benefits and any normal body responses;
5. Any relevant contraindications or reasons to proceed with caution;
6. Available alternatives, if applicable;
7. Declaration that the client can ask questions or withdraw consent at any time.
8. Confirmation that the client’s consent covers the current and future reflexology therapy sessions; and
9. Client (or legal guardian) signature and date of consent.

ii. If a client, due to age or incapacity cannot provide informed consent, RCRTs™ must obtain informed consent from the client’s legal guardian, parent, caregiver, or power of attorney.

iii. If the RCRT™ provides other modalities, any deviations or additions must be clearly communicated, consented to, and documented in the session record and on any receipts.

iv. RCRTs™ using AI must clearly explain the role of any AI-based tools used in assessments, session planning, or client communication including:

1. The purpose of A the I tool (e.g., appointment booking, documentation);
2. What data is collected;
3. How the data is stored in compliance with (PIPEDA); and
4. How it may impact the client’s reflexology care.
5. Clients must provide informed consent before AI is used, with an understanding of the benefits and the actual or potential risks.

6) Safety and Hygiene

i. RCRTs™ pre-screen clients for any possible infection and/or communicable illnesses at least 24 hours prior to their arrival for their reflexology therapy appointment and screening may be repeated upon the client’s arrival, if necessary.

ii. RCRTs™ ensure that shared and commonly touched surfaces are cleaned and disinfected after each client, even when the space or surface is not visibly soiled. This includes, but is not limited to reflexology chairs, massage tables, foot tubs, and other tools.

iii. RCRTs™ maintain appropriate hygiene practices, and maintain hygienic premises, facilities, equipment and supplies that conform to professional health standards.

iv. RCRTs™ change all materials that have been in contact with a client (i.e., towels, sheets, blankets, pillow, etc.) between each client and appropriately clean these items (i.e., washing in hot water with laundry soap and drying at the highest safe temperature) before using them again.

v. RCRTs™ use a disposable utensil, or a utensil that can be properly sanitized to administer creams, lotions, and other balms. RCRTs™ refrain from dipping their fingers into lotion, cream, or balm containers during and between sessions.

vi. RCRTs™ dispose of used tissues, wipes, and other single use personal protective items in closed containers.

i. RCRTs™ cleanse their hands thoroughly, preferably with soap and water, prior to and after working on a client. After cleansing hands thoroughly, avoid touching other surfaces before contacting the client.

ii. After touching a client, RCRTs™ cleanse their hands before contacting any other surface.

iii. When water is not available, RCRTs™ may use hand sanitizer to cleanse their hands. Hand sanitizer may be used as needed during the session to maintain proper hand hygiene and prevent infection.

i. Gloves may be worn by a RCRT™ at any time, or at the client’s request.

ii. Gloves should be used when working on a client who has a possible infection or condition that can lead to contamination of the RCRT™ or other clients.

iii. Gloves should be worn if the client has a laceration or condition that cannot be covered or worked around.

iv. Gloves should be changed after every interaction and when changing tasks.

v. Hand washing or sanitizing must be performed between every glove change

i. RCRTs™ must assess for allergies or sensitivities and obtain consent before any product use.

ii. RCRTs™ must clean and inspect the skin surface before starting reflexology.

iii. RCRTs™ must use appropriate and safe skin disinfectant or other products on the client’s skin.

i. RCRTs™ must follow infection-prevention practices if there is indication of broken skin, warts, undiagnosed or infectious rashes or skin conditions, boils, acne vulgaris, etc.

ii. RCRTs™ should use gloves when there is indication of any signs of infection on the skin and it is deemed safe to proceed with the session.

iii. Should a client not wish to be worked on while the RCRT™ is wearing gloves, and where clinically appropriate and properly trained, the therapist may propose working on an alternate area with the client’s consent.

iv. When in doubt, RCRTs™ should not proceed with a client with a condition that could be potentially infectious or contagious. For more guidelines, please refer to RAC’s Contraindication Guidelines.

i. RAC has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse (child, elder, verbal, physical, cultural, emotional, sexual, etc.) towards clients or RCRT™s.

ii. Sexual Abuse: RCRTs™ do not engage in any sexual abuse, contact, or activity with clients. RCRTs™ must take active steps to prevent sexual abuse. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Sexual intercourse or other forms of sexual relations between the RCRT™ and the client;
2. Touching of a sexual nature, whether invited or not; and
3. Sexualized comments, gestures, jokes, digital messages, or behaviour that may reasonably be interpreted as sexual in nature.

An RCRT™ must have zero tolerance for inappropriate touching, behaviour, or remarks of a sexual nature by a client. Inappropriate client behaviour will result in termination of the session and/or services. See section: Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client.

iii. Verbal Abuse: Any form of verbal abuse, including harsh or inappropriate language, insults, or threats, by any party will not be tolerated. This includes any behaviour intended to intimidate, degrade, or manipulate others through speech.

1. In cases where verbal abuse involves discrimination or harassment, RCRTs™ have an obligation to report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
2. RCRTs™ must have zero tolerance for verbal abuse. Any form of verbal abuse must result in termination of service. See section: Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client.

iv. Emotional Abuse: RCRTs™ are expected to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for all clients. The therapist should be mindful of the emotional state of the client and be prepared to respond with empathy and understanding.

1. RCRTs™ must set clear boundaries regarding personal and emotional topics discussed during the session. They must avoid manipulating or exploiting clients emotionally.
2. If a client exhibits signs of emotional distress, RCRTs™ should offer appropriate support within the scope of their practice. When necessary, an RCRT™ should suggest referral to a mental health service or professional.
3. Emotional abuse in any form, including belittling comments, manipulation, or controlling behaviour, is not acceptable. Such behaviour should be addressed immediately, and RCRTs™ should take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

v. Physical Abuse: Any suspected or actual physical abuse must be documented in detail and reported to the appropriate regulatory or legal authorities as required by the RCRT™’s province or territory of practice. RCRTs™ must cooperate with any investigations related to such incidents.

1. RCRTs™ must always practice within the boundaries of their professional training and ensure that all physical touch is appropriate, respectful, and therapeutic. Therapeutic touch should never cause intentional harm, pain, or distress.
2. If client experiences physical injury, RCRTs™ must immediately stop the session, assess the situation to determine whether to continue or end the session. The therapist must seek appropriate medical or emergency help when required.
3. RCRTs™ must have zero tolerance of physical abuse from a client. Any form of physical abuse should result in termination of service. See section: Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client.

vi. Financial Abuse: RCRTs™ must provide clear, transparent, and accurate information regarding their fees, payment schedules, and cancellation policies. All financial transactions must be properly documented.

1. RCRTs™ must not exploit clients financially by recommending unnecessary sessions, charging for services not provided, or using their position of trust for financial gain.
2. RCRTs™ must respect the financial autonomy of the client and ensure that any financial transactions are conducted with full awareness and consent from the client.
3. Financial matters should be discussed in a respectful and professional manner. Any attempt to pressure a client into paying for services they do not wish to receive or cannot afford constitutes financial abuse and violates professional practice guidelines.
4. When an RCRT™ suspects that a client is being subjected to financial exploitation or manipulation outside of the therapeutic relationship, they should provide appropriate referrals to organizations that can offer support.

vii. Bullying: RCRTs™ must promote a culture of respect and inclusion. Any form of bullying, whether directed at clients, colleagues, or others, is unacceptable and violates professional practice guidelines.

1. When RCRTs™ witness or is informed of bullying behaviour, they must take immediate steps to address the situation. This may include providing support to the victim, setting clear boundaries, and, where necessary, reporting the incident to the appropriate professional body or authority.
2. RCRTs™ should foster an environment of mutual respect and professionalism, actively discouraging behaviors that may be construed as bullying. They should also educate themselves about the harmful effects of bullying and how to identify and report such behavior.
3. When RCRTs™ engage in bullying behavior, and it is reported to RAC, the therapist may be subject to disciplinary action as per RAC’s Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures.
4. RCRTs™ must have zero tolerance for bullying from a client. Any form of bullying should result in termination of service. See section: Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client.

7) Practice Administration and Client Outcomes

Reflexology therapy, when delivered in accordance with RAC’s Scope of Practice and Standards of Practice, may support the body’s natural functions by relieving tension, improving circulation, and promoting overall wellness. These benefits are experienced differently by each client and may evolve over time based on individual health status, consistency of care, and therapeutic goals. RCRTs™ are responsible for clearly communicating that reflexology does not diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions, and must avoid making exaggerated or unsubstantiated claims about outcomes. Instead, client outcomes should be framed respectfully, ethically, and in alignment with reflexology’s defined therapeutic potential.

All RCRTs™ must clearly present fees, financial policies, and receipt practices in accordance with RAC guidelines and accepted professional norms.

i. Fees:

1. 1. All RCRTs™ should ensure that their fee schedule is accessible to clients before booking.
   2. Policies regarding rescheduling, cancellation and rebooking should be clearly accessible prior to booking.
   3. RCRTs™ should provide clients with an opportunity to ask questions about their rates and fee schedule.
   4. Any charges that deviate from the set schedule must be agreed upon by the client and documented in the session notes with the reasons and agreement indicated prior to appointments or modifications to future appointments.
   5. Clients are entitled to an official receipt for all payments made to an RCRT™ in accordance with RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines.
   6. RCRTs™ must provide reasonable advance notice to clients of any upcoming fee increases. Notice should include the effective date and the new rate and must be delivered in a clear and professional manner (e.g., posted on a website, email notice, printed signage). Clients must be informed before booking at the updated rate.

ii. Issuing Receipts for Insurance and Clients

RCRTs™ must issue professional receipts that comply with RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines. Receipts must truthfully reflect services provided and meet all legal, ethical, and insurance expectations.

For complete details on what must be included in a receipt and how to issue them properly, RCRTs™ should refer to RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines.

iii. Gift Certificate Use and Redemption

RCRTs™ who issue gift certificates must comply with applicable consumer protection laws and RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines. Gift certificates must not be issued for insurance reimbursement purposes. For full details, see RAC’s Receipt Writing Guidelines.

iv. Terminating a reflexology therapy relationship with a client

✔ RCRTs™ understand that there are different and valid reasons for not proceeding with a reflexology session, including, but not limited to the:

1. A client repeatedly fails to attend appointments;
2. A client exhibits inappropriate behaviour (whether verbal, physical, sexual, etc.) before, during, or after a session;
3. An RCRT™ has a conflict of interest with the client that is unresolvable.
4. The client’s health condition is more complex than the RCRT™ feels equipped to manage while ensuring client health, safety, and well-being; and/or
5. The client is not seeing results from the reflexology therapy sessions provided.

✔ When deciding to “terminate” a reflexology therapy relationship with a client, RCRTs™ shall inform the client that they are no longer able to continue working with them by:

1. Informing the client, preferably in writing, that they will no longer be taking appointments;
2. Explaining the reason(s) for ending the therapeutic relationship, ensuring the explanation is clear, polite, and respectful; and
3. Referring the client to another RCRT™ or another healthcare professional depending on the circumstances.

RAC’s Standards of Practice are enforceable guidelines for all Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapists (RCRT™s). Violations of these Standards may lead to a formal investigation under RAC’s Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures. Disciplinary actions may include additional education, suspension, or removal from the Association. These measures protect the public, the profession, and the credibility of reflexology in Canada.