Feldenkreispedagog

What does a Feldenkrais Practitioner do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Feldenkrais Practitioner works to help individuals develop and improve their movement abilities through the pedagogical Feldenkrais method. Tasks involve leading individual sessions or group classes where participants explore movement patterns and increase bodily awareness. In practice, this means teaching various techniques to reduce pain, increase mobility, and promote well-being. The work environment varies, but many practitioners operate in private practices, wellness centers, or rehabilitation settings, often maintaining close contact with clients in calm and supportive environments.

Salary development over time

Salaries for Feldenkrais Practitioners have shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,700 SEK per month, increasing to 37 200 SEK in 2023. By 2024, the average salary reached 39 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.5% over three years. This salary growth reflects increasing demand for specialized body therapists and a growing interest in alternative treatment methods within the healthcare sector. The increase can also be attributed to more practitioners pursuing further education, leading to higher competence and salary. The trend indicates a stable and positive development for the profession, although variation between different employment types and employers can be significant.

Feldenkrais Practitioner salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (male), 36,400 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 45,700 SEK/month (male), 47,800 SEK/month (female with research education, public sector)
• Hourly wage (average): 235 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 39 600 SEK, women 38 800 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Specific data not available, but variations occur depending on labor market and region.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Feldenkrais Practitioner involves specialized training in the Feldenkrais method, often through internationally recognized programs. The education covers both theoretical and practical components, where the ability to reflect and understand the body's movement system is central. A background in body therapy, physiotherapy, or similar fields is often required, but there are also opportunities for individuals from other professional backgrounds to train.

• Training: Internationally accredited Feldenkrais training (typically 4 years part-time)
• Certification: Approved diploma from the Feldenkrais Association
• Practical training: Mandatory supervised practice during training
• Prerequisites: Recommended experience in movement, health, or pedagogy
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization and continuing education within related areas

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for Feldenkrais Practitioners include wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours. Many positions also offer opportunities for further training and reimbursement for supervision and conference participation. In private practice, commission or bonuses may also be available depending on the number of clients and assignments.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the Feldenkrais Practitioner profession is relatively moderate, but there are challenges related to the niche status of the profession in Sweden. Many practitioners work as self-employed, which requires entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to build a client base. Another challenge is raising awareness among the public and healthcare providers about the method's effects, as knowledge of the Feldenkrais method is not yet as widespread as other body therapies. Additionally, access to permanent positions may be limited, demanding flexibility. Despite this, there are good opportunities for dedicated individuals to develop their expertise and career.

Tips for aspiring Feldenkrais Practitioners

To succeed as a Feldenkrais Practitioner, curiosity, communication skills, and patience are important. Building a stable client base requires perseverance and the ability to establish trust with individuals and partners. Openness to new methods and ongoing education are crucial, as the profession evolves with research. Good listening skills facilitate tailoring teaching to each person's needs. High self-discipline is also necessary, especially for those working independently. Networking with other health and rehabilitation professionals can be vital for personal and professional growth.

Key facts about Feldenkrais Practitioner

• Education level: Internationally certified Feldenkrais Practitioner (approx. 4 years, part-time studies)
• Work environment: Private practice, wellness centers, or rehabilitation settings
• Average monthly salary: 39 100 SEK
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Work form: Often self-employed or consulting

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a Feldenkrais Practitioner can choose to specialize further in areas such as rehabilitation, sports medicine, or pedagogy. Combining the Feldenkrais method with other therapies is common, opening doors to work in larger wellness companies, rehabilitation clinics, or educational organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for physiotherapists and physical therapists, job opportunities are expected to remain strong with stable demand over the next five years. However, recruitment can be paradoxical: while there are recruitment difficulties, the proportion of part-time workers and those leaving the profession is relatively high. In total, there are 375 available jobs in the profession, providing good prospects for those aiming for a long-term career as a Feldenkrais Practitioner.

Frequently asked questions about Feldenkrais Practitioner

• What does a Feldenkrais Practitioner earn?
  - A Feldenkrais Practitioner has an average salary of 39 100 SEK per month.
• How do you become a Feldenkrais Practitioner?
  - By completing an internationally accredited Feldenkrais training of about four years and obtaining certification.
• What education is required?
  - A four-year part-time training plus practical training and certification from the Feldenkrais Association.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 39 600 SEK and women 38 800 SEK, meaning women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like?
  - The job market is good with 375 available positions and demand is expected to remain high.
• What workplaces are most common?
  - Most work in private practices, wellness centers, or rehabilitation settings.
• Can you work as a self-employed practitioner?
  - Yes, many Feldenkrais Practitioners run their own businesses or work as consultants.