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YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Can I use complementary therapies alongside seeing my GP?

Yes. Complementary therapies work well alongside orthodox medicine. Many GPs and hospitals refer their patients to properly qualified complementary practitioners especially therapies such as reflexology.

Are complementary therapies safe?

Yes, if you choose a properly qualified and experienced practitioner. During your initial consultation, I will ask you a series of questions that will enable me to compile an appropriate treatment programme for you. If you have any questions about the therapy, I will be happy to advise you.

How do I know which therapy will help me most?

You can call me or email me to discuss your situation and state of health. I will advise you on the most appropriate therapy to meet your needs. You can if you wish, try more than one therapy over a period of time in order to find the one that brings you the most benefit.

I am on medication. Will I have to stop taking it?

No, I will never suggest that you stop taking or change the dosage of any medication that has been prescribed for you. It is possible that I recommend that you visit your GP to review of your medication but only if I feel that your state of health has changed. I will work alongside your doctor to facilitate any improvement in your health and well being.

How do I know which Practitioner to choose?

You should be aware that there are few regulations in place to ensure you will receive treatment from a competent complementary practitioner. Choosing the right therapist can be difficult. Always look for the letters after the practitioner's name, such as MIIR, MAR, MICHT to determine their qualifications. Always ask about their about their training and experience. A professional therapist will always be happy to tell you about their qualifications and background. If you are unsure, you should always contact the awarding body for the therapy in question to check that the practitioner is registered.

What are your qualifications?

I am fully qualified to offer treatments in, Reflexology, Reiki, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) and Thermal Auricular Therapy (Hopi Ear Candles). I have an honours degree in psychology and I am a member of the BPS (British Psychological Society). For Reflexology, I am a qualified practitioner with the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR) and I am a member of the Association of Reflexologists (MAR). For Thermal Auricular Therapy I am a member of T.A.Th and for EFT, I am a member of AAMET. I am fully committed to continuous, professional development of my practice and myself.

Do I need my GP's permission before having a treatment?

You may wish to discuss commencing on a course of complementary therapies with your GP first although this is up to you. However, if you have a serious health condition, it is wise to get advice beforehand.

I am pregnant, should I avoid complementary therapies?

During pregnancy, complementary therapies can be very beneficial in helping to cope with symptoms such as morning sickness, tiredness, oedema and hypertension. Regular treatments can also keep you calm and relaxed and help to prepare your body for childbirth and hormonal fluctuations. Your treatments will be tailored to ensure that they are suitable for you.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies and depends on your current state of health. You may wish to undergo a sample treatment first but usually, after your initial consultation, I will discuss with you what I feel is best for you. Usually, an initial course of six treatments is suggested and then this is followed by a full review of the resulting improvements. If you are using complementary therapies purely for relaxation rather than to tackle a specific health condition, you can book treatments at your convenience.

Can I have complementary therapies whilst undergoing Chemotherapy?

Many complementary therapies are found to be helpful to clients undergoing Chemotherapy. Reflexology is offered in many oncology departments of hospitals and it's suggested that you discuss your desire to try complementary therapies with your specialist first. You can then contact me for advice on the most suitable treatment programme.

Can babies and children benefit from complementary therapies?

Many common childhood conditions respond well to complementary therapies. A parent or guardian should always be present during any treatments. The treatment programme will be specifically tailored to suit the child's needs.

I am housebound can you visit me?

Yes. I am happy to visit you in your home if you are immobile although there is an additional cost involved if you live more than five miles from my clinic.

Do I need to bring anything with me to my first consultation?

No, just yourself! If you are taking medication or supplements, it is sensible to bring a list of what you take, the dosage and how frequently you take them, or bring the products with you to the first treatment.

After a treatment, will you tell my GP about your findings?

Usually there is no need for me to report to your GP, however if there is a situation where I feel there is cause for concern, but only with your consent, I may feel it appropriate to speak to your GP. I work to a strict code of conduct and in your interests and if there is a serious situation, I have a duty of care to involve a doctor or person in authority. Otherwise, client confidentially will be protected at all times.

Do I need to accompany my child during a treatment?

Yes. It is a legal requirement for a child under 16 to be accompanied. Also, you may be required to answer questions on your child's behalf particularly during the initial consultation when we need to understand about previous medical conditions, medication and surgery, etc.

Can I bring a friend to sit-in with me during my treatment?

Yes, if it will help you to feel more comfortable. Where a child or a client with a severe psychological condition is undergoing a treatment it is essential that a parent, guardian or nominated chaperone is present.

Are there any side effects to complementary therapies?

Not usually, however some clients may experience what is termed as a 'healing crisis' after the first treatment. This is a reaction resulting in symptoms such as a runny nose, more frequent visits to the toilet, a mild headache or sweating. The symptoms will generally disappear after 48 hours and are a sign that the body is adjusting, detoxifying and responding to the treatment. Not everyone will experience such a reaction.