The profession of complementary therapy is undergoing significant changes. A Branch Certificate and/or a Federal Diploma is now required by complementary health insurance providers. The framework and guidelines established so far have become more demanding.
As a therapeutic reflexology practitioner, I embarked on an exciting journey at the end of 2024! I went back to studying and started the OrTra Reflexotherapy training program.
What does this involve?
Three years of training to obtain a Branch Certificate in Reflexotherapy as a complementary therapist, followed by two additional years to prepare for the Federal Diploma exam.
It’s not an easy task, but it’s incredibly fascinating and enriching.
I hesitated for a long time, going back and forth in my decision. This training requires a significant investment of both time and money. After years of practicing at home and in a clinic, after numerous certifications and continuing education courses, going back to school at my age… What a crazy idea! Ha ha ha.
In the end, my answer was “Yes!” My curious mind and passion for this profession continue to grow over time and experience. Acquiring new skills and strengthening those I already have feels essential to better support the people who seek my care.
And so, here I am, back in the classroom.
One thing that initially surprised me during my training was having to eliminate the word “patient” from my therapist vocabulary. I no longer have “patients” but rather “clients.” Strange, isn’t it?
Like many, I used to associate the word “client” with a commercial context. To me, the term referred to purchasing a product or service—a store client, a restaurant client, etc. In the healthcare field, talking about a “client” always felt inappropriate. Even though I provide a service and dedicate time in exchange for payment, my work is fundamentally about caring for people’s health as a therapist.
However, OrTra makes a clear distinction between “patient” and “client.” A complementary therapist supports their client, who remains fully responsible for their therapeutic journey and healing process. In contrast, a “patient” places themselves in the hands of a doctor to receive a diagnosis, treatment, or prescription—essentially, a ready-made solution.
The role of a complementary therapist is, therefore, to work alongside the client in their search for solutions, guiding and supporting them to find their own resources and identify the root causes of their symptoms.
In my practice, this is already how I work. But revisiting this concept during my training, through the theoretical framework and OrTra guidelines, helped me understand the reasoning behind using “client” instead of “patient.”
And you, how do you feel? More like a patient or a client?
Dialogue is more important than ever in complementary therapies. The relationship between therapist and client is built on kindness, trust, active listening, and respect.
Together, we define the therapeutic goal and establish the steps of the healing journey using the various techniques at my disposal.
I invite you to reach out if you have any questions and to explore the techniques described on my website .