What is Complementary Healthcare?
Taking care of your health and wellbeing
Firstly, I think it's valuable to mention what complementary healthcare/therapies are & aren't. Although there is no universal definition for complementary healthcare, the terms "complementary" and "alternative" are often used interchangeably despite having different meanings.
Complementary - is precisely that - complementary. Any modality that falls under this umbrella is generally used alongside conventional or orthodox medicine. You can read more here
Alternative - is usually used instead of conventional or orthodox medicine and sometimes may include a complementary therapy. You can read more here
Working within my professional limitations and remit is one of my core values, and I'm bound to uphold these through my membership of professional & regulatory bodies. As a therapist, I cannot diagnose, prescribe, or offer to "cure" someone.
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What to expect
Your initial appointment will be slightly longer as we go through a complete medical history and discuss your current concerns, medication, general wellbeing, and lifestyle. This is a fundamental part of the process as it helps me to create the best treatment plan according to your needs and possible contraindications.
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Your comfort and safety are always my priority regardless of the treatment; I will guide you through each step and check in on you throughout. There will be a few minutes afterwards to review any questions and your aftercare plan.
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You are always welcome to get in touch if you have any questions or worries.
*Remember, complementary healthcare/therapies should never replace orthodox medicine. Please always consult your doctor for diagnosis and clinical care. Let your doctor or other healthcare professional know if you are receiving complementary healthcare/therapies.
Complementary Therapies
Can help with
Time Out
We all need time out from our busy schedules. I can offer 30-minute appointments to help boost your sense of wellbeing and give you some therapeutic time out.
Fatigue
Fatigue has numerous causes and presentations, which can be helped by complementary therapies. For example, reflexology can help improve sleep quality, which in turn can reduce fatigue.
Anxiety
Therapeutic touch can help to reduce anxiety through the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and increasing the oxytocin response.
Sleep
Good sleep is essential for our health. Treatments can induce deep relaxation and reduce symptoms contributing to poor sleep. Keeping a Sleep Diary is a good starting point in figuring out what's going on.
Pain
Complementary therapies have been shown to help reduce chronic and acute pain associated with different conditions and illnesses. Therapies can be used in conjunction with orthodox treatments to help reduce muscle tension and stress and focus away from pain, helping to improve the quality of life.
Stress
Stress is part of our daily lives, but prolonged stress can have a harmful physical and psychological impact. Complementary therapies can help reduce the stress response and induce relaxation.
