The purpose of this presentation is to share with delegates the successful therapeutic intervention of Reflexology delivered as a timetabled therapy in the education environment using the Functional Reflex Therapy Approach.

The intention for children and young people with Autism, learning difficulties, communication and mental health issues is to support their wellbeing and help them with their preparation for ongoing activities and learning throughout the school day. The presentation will include short video clips which will provide visual evidence collected within the educational environment (not shown before this conference) to share:

• Young people enjoying the therapy sessions, taking responsibility to get involved in the sessions, making choices and using a variety of methods of communication to give their feedback and comments about Reflexology.
• Voices heard from head teachers, staff and parents with their thoughts and feedback.

I will show that we are respected as professional Reflexology Therapists working as part of the multi-disciplinary team within the school setting.

I will refer to studies:

• The science and neurology of learning and affective touch - Morrison,Gutman, L&Vorhaus, J. (2012)
• Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders Autistic Children's Attentiveness and Responsivity Improve after Touch Therapy. Field, Lasko, Mundy, Henteleff (1997)
• The pathways accessed for autistic people processing information through touch and the importance of the release of Oxytocin.
• Journal of Affective Disorders Oxytocin Role in enhancing well-being Ishak, Kahloon, Fakhry (2011)
• Corbett et al (2006) Spratt et al ( 2012)
• Chetty et al (2014)

The affective / positive touch and tactile processing for children with developmental disorders such as Autism and Autistic Spectrum Disorders or Conditions will be discussed:

• Why reflexology is providing a multi dimensional approach.
• The importance of practitioner intention of the session
• Rhythmic movement and repetitions of FRT and its effect on connecting pathways (my ongoing studies)
• and the many benefits within the education system not 'just' for the receiver

In conclusion which must be regarded as preliminary I will be sharing results of the study currently being planned for January to April 2017 with a number of Reflexologists in the UK working with the FRT Approach within the education environment set up by myself in collaboration with an Education Psychologist. The study is based on observation to examine the efficacy of Reflexology as a therapeutic intervention to promote 'relaxation in the moment' emotional wellbeing, reducing anxiety and to encourage the mind to be in better state for learning and for participation in ongoing activities).

Email: info@functionalreflextherapy.co.uk
www.functionalreflextherapy.co.uk
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