A living lineage of reflexology
A teaching lineage built on mentorship, integrity, and hands-on experience.
What sets our training apart
Years of Experience
Standards Met
Born from decades of practice, built for the future of reflexology
At the heart of the institute is Frances Birdsell, a highly respected reflexologist and educator who has spent decades refining her practice and teaching.
Frances Birdsell
Founder & Lead Instructor, RCRT™
Claudia Ruel
Director & Instructor, RCRT™
Melissa Rioux
Director & Instructor, RCRT™
Claudia Ruel, who began her training with Frances in 2010, and Melissa Rioux, who trained under her in 2020, represent the next generation of this work.
Why We Began
Frances built her teaching practice in Northern BC after years of clinical work, recognizing that reflexology deserved to be taught with the same rigor and care as any other healing profession.
As demand for skilled reflexologists grew, so did the need for skilled instructors to teach them. Viva Reflexology Institute was created to formalize that vision — a place where future reflexologists, and future teachers, are trained with depth, integrity, and ongoing mentorship.
Our mission
Viva Reflexology Institute exists to train highly skilled, professional reflexologists — and to create pathways for Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapists to step into teaching roles themselves.
Grounded in mentorship, integrity, and a commitment to high standards, we are more than a school — we are a living lineage of knowledge, care, and continued growth.
