Frequently Asked Questions

I have never had treatment before. What can I expect?

You will be invited to discuss any health problems you have, and I will take detailed notes and fill in a confidential record sheet. If you are taking medication, it is helpful if you bring a list of your current medication with you. I will then ask you to sign a form giving your consent to the treatment you have chosen.

You will be offered the opportunity to use the toilet before treatment starts, and be given privacy to remove clothing and settle yourself on the couch with a fleece blanket.

At the end of treatment you will again be given privacy to dress and there is a mirror in the treatment room so you don’t leave feeling untidy.

There will always be a glass of water for you, and tissues should you need them.

I am anxious about telling a stranger about my problems.

It’s a natural concern, but you do not need to worry. I work to a strict code of ethics drawn up by my professional organisations. Confidentiality is a top priority.

I feel a little awkward about taking off my clothes.

The Bowen Technique is normally given through light clothing, though there may be occasions when I prefer to work directly on skin for part of the treatment. You will always be given a fleece blanket to put over yourself on the couch, and you will be kept well covered during treatment. Your privacy will be respected at all times.

Healing is always given through clothing.

I can’t lie comfortably on my front/back.

I may be able to get you comfortable with cushions or other support. But if you are still uncomfortable despite my best efforts, you can have treatment seated or side-lying. There’s always an alternative way of doing things!

I’m worried I may go to sleep and/or snore.

You wouldn’t be the first! This is not a problem at all, it simply shows that you are very relaxed.

I dribble if I lie on my tummy.

So do lots of other people; that’s why you’ll find there’s clean paper under your head area. And you can always have an extra tissue or two. Worry over!

I’m worried about all the other noises…gurgles, rumbles and suchlike!

Again, relax….it’s all been done before! And actually, a “rumbly tum” is all good news in body-work…it shows you’re relaxing nicely.

What if I don’t like something, or it hurts?

Say so! It’s as simple as that. And if you’re worried about anything, or want to ask about anything, do say. It may be that you’d like an extra pillow, or are getting chilly…or too warm. Or you’d like some water. Whatever it is - just ask.

Can I have treatment if I am pregnant?

Yes. The treatments I offer are generally considered very safe for pregnant women. However, I do need to be aware if you are pregnant, or if it is possible that you might be (and rest assured that anything you say is strictly confidential).

The Bowen Technique and Healing are particularly gentle and considered safe throughout pregnancy. If you are uncomfortable lying down, you may prefer a seated or side-lying treatment.

Can children be treated?

Yes, but please bear in mind that the law requires that a child must have been seen by a mainstream health professional for that particular condition before consulting a complementary therapist for treatment. Parental consent is required for the treatment of any young person under the age of 16, and the parent or guardian will be asked to remain in the room.

The Bowen Technique is considered safe for all age groups, even the tiniest tot!

How much does it cost?

Please contact me for my latest fees. I can send this to you by e-mail or post, or you can simply phone me.

How will I feel after treatment?

Your body will need time to absorb your treatment. During the first 24 to 48 hours you may find yourself feeling a little tired, aching or out of sorts. Try not to push yourself if you are tired, and drink plenty of water.

Do I need to tell my doctor I’m having treatment?

If you are aged 16 or over, you are not required by law to tell your doctor but you may wish to tell them anyway. I can always send them some information about the therapies I offer, but I will not discuss you or your case with them without your prior consent.

What does “holistic” mean?

Holistic means that I treat you as a “whole person”, rather than treating the particular conditions you may be experiencing. Of course, I take into account your existing conditions, but I also consider all the other things that are going on for you – how you feel “on the inside”, stresses and strains of life, sleep patterns, diet etc.. This is why I spend some time before each treatment finding out about how you are.

What if treatment makes my problem worse?

Sometimes people might find that their existing symptoms are temporarily exaggerated after treatment. For example, if you have a back problem the pain may move to another spot for a while, or it may feel a little worse for a day or so. This is quite normal… in fact I see that as a good sign that things are shifting and changing. If you are at all worried after treatment, please don’t hesitate to call.

How do I book an appointment?

Please book an appointment by phone or e-mail. I will send you confirmation in the post (or by e-mail if you prefer) with directions on how to find me.

How many treatments will I need?

Very difficult to say! Some conditions resolve very quickly in just 1 or 2 sessions, and others might take some time to improve. As a general rule, long-standing or chronic conditions usually require more treatments over a longer period of time - but there are no hard and fast rules. Everyone is different and we all respond differently to treatment.

Does the treatment hurt?

The treatments I offer are deeply relaxing and very gentle. There is no heavy pressure and there are no forceful moves, so it is very unlikely that you will find they are uncomfortable to receive. If you have certain areas of pain or discomfort then I will take particular care to treat those areas very carefully. If anything hurts say so!

What if I need to cancel an appointment?

If you need to cancel an appointment please let me know at your earliest opportunity, giving me at least 24 hours notice if possible. If you need to cancel with less than 24 hours notice, you may be charged half the treatment price. If you miss an appointment without contacting me, then you may be charged the full price.

Do you offer gift vouchers?

Yes – a treatment voucher makes a lovely gift. Please contact me for further information.

Do you offer a mobile service?

If you have mobility or health problems that make it difficult for you to visit me, you may need a home treatment. There is an extra charge for this service.

How long is a treatment?

Most treatments are about an hour long, but please go to links for individual therapies for more details. You will also need to allow extra time for consultation, dressing etc.

Do you offer concessions?

If you are over 60 and need concessionary treatment I offer a £5 reduction on a full-length treatment.

I have a limited number of concessionary places available for those clients in difficult financial circumstances. If you feel you would qualify for one of these, please speak to me.

You may be offered a limited number of treatments, or shorter length treatments if you are receiving heavily concessionary rates, depending on individual circumstances.