Since 1982, The American Academy of Reflexology has led the way for growing professionalism in the field of Reflexology in America. Some of the contributions the Academy has made are: pioneering the expansion of the field of Reflexology to include the first in-depth professional level Certification Course instruction in Hand Reflexology, Ear Reflexology, and the Integration of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology - 1983, conducting the first Reflexology Research Study ever published in mainstream scientific medical literature—published in 1993, and establishing the first state licensed Reflexology school in America specializing in the Integration of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology.

The American Academy of Reflexology is the first school exclusively dedicated to Reflexology, to achieve National Accreditation Status from the American Commission for Accreditation of Reflexology Education and Training (ACARET).

The American Academy of Reflexology is the first higher educational institution exclusively dedicated to Reflexology to be Licensed by the State of California via the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE). This means that students who study with the Academy can use their hours toward licensing, or license renewal, depending on the requirements of the California city or county where they conduct their practice.

The American Academy of Reflexology has achieved Continuing Education Provider Status with a number of agencies and organizations. This means that Reflexologists, Massage Therapists, Bodyworkers, and others can earn CEU Hours from the Academy for license, certification, and insurance renewal. For more about Continuing Education Subjects and Hours go to Continuing Education Classes.