Complementary therapy
Complementary therapy at Oakhaven to improve your wellbeing
Our qualified Complementary Therapists have a wealth of experience in providing a range of tailored treatments to individuals bereaved, living with, or looking after someone living with a life-limiting illness.
What is complementary therapy?
Complementary therapies are gentle non-invasive treatments which complement traditional medical treatments, helping to improve emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. Treatments offered at Oakhaven may include Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Massage, Reiki and Indian Head Massage.
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Complementary therapy treatments can assist with...
Oakhaven complementary therapy services
If you are affected by a life-limiting illness, are a carer or are living with a loss or bereavement, we are here to support you.
Initial Assessment and Treatment Plan
During the initial appointment, one of our experienced therapists will carry out a thorough assessment to discuss medical conditions, expectations and treatment suitability. Following this assessment, a specific treatment plan will be tailored to meet each individual’s needs over an agreed number of sessions. Our therapists can advise and suggest specific products to support symptom management.
Treatments are generally given in our complementary therapy room, where we have a dedicated space to help you relax. We also offer treatments in our Inpatient Unit and in patients' homes.
Cost of Treatment
For Oakhaven patients and their families, we may provide a course of treatments, free of charge.
How to book
For more information about our Complementary Therapy services and to book your initial assessment, please get in touch by email at comptherapy@oakhavenhospice.co.uk or by telephoning 01590 638497
Complementary therapy available at Oakhaven
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of fragrant essential oils extracted from plants, trees, flowers, shrubs and fruits, all of which have therapeutic properties, some uplifting, energising or stimulating, while others are relaxing, calming and comforting. Our therapist will blend therapeutic essential oils specifically for each client and suggest methods of use such as topical application, massage, or inhalation to stimulate the desired responses.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a holistic treatment based on the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet which correspond to all parts of the body. The purpose is to release congestion and promote the flow of energy and wellbeing. Reflexology is carried out using gentle pressure and massage with the thumb and fingers, to specific points on the feet. Reflexology can help to release tension and reduce stress as well as helping to relieve many other symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and insomnia. Reflexology will not be used to diagnose health concerns.
Reiki
Reiki (pronounced ‘ray-kay') is a Japanese term for stress reduction and relaxation. We understand Reiki to be a touch and energy therapy which may help one to relax naturally at a deeper level and may bring comfort and support at difficult times. This can help to cope with stress and pain, physical, mental, or emotional. During treatment, you remain fully clothed in a comfortable position. The therapist gently places their hands non-intrusively on your body or just above your body. Reiki promotes a calm and peaceful sense of wellbeing.
Massage
Massage is the gentle manipulation of the body's soft tissue using specific techniques to promote relaxation in mind and body, relieve tension in the
muscles or tissue, improve circulation and bring a positive impact to general wellbeing.
Indian Head Massage
A traditional Indian technique treating the neck, shoulders, face, and scalp. This treatment promotes deep relaxation which in turn it can help to ease tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, easing away anxieties and providing feelings of deep calmness.
Relaxation
Try these three relaxation exercises:
Click here for Relaxation Exercise 1
Click here for Relaxation Exercise 2
Click here for Relaxation Exercise 3
Meet the team
Sally Woods
Sally is a qualified Complementary Therapist with over 20 years of experience, including extensive experience of working with individuals with a life-limiting illness. She is compassionate in providing tailor-made treatments to individuals to enhance their wellbeing and quality of life. Treatments she offers are Aromatherapy, Massage and Reiki. Sally also runs a number of workshops for Oakhaven Wellbeing at the Coates Centre.
Lucy Houching
Lucy has worked at Oakhaven Hospice since 2017. She has been a qualified Complementary Therapist since 2003 and has gained experience within the health sector. Lucy has had a long-life passion for helping others and as a complementary therapist at Oakhaven has been able to combine her passion with her desire to make a difference. Treatments Lucy offers are Aromatherapy, Reiki, Reflexology, Massage and Head Massage.
Volunteers
In addition to our qualified therapists, we also have a team of Relaxation Volunteers who have been trained to offer Hand and Foot Massages to patients and carers attending our Day Hospice, Carer's Days, and Inpatient Unit.
Relaxation Volunteers: Diane Barr, Julie Adams, Susan Linsell, Ann Walker
Qualified Volunteer Complementary Therapists: Lorraine Malton
If you are a qualified Complementary Therapist and could volunteer a little of your time, please contact volunteer@oakhavenhospice.co.uk.
Click on the links above to find out more about our wellbeing services
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