Just do it! NHS Certificate in Complementary Therapy (Cancer Pathway) With the aim of gaining practical experience as a complementary therapist in a cancer-care setting, I found my way to the Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Centre in Harrogate where the first NHS Natural Therapy School is based, for the 12 week program leading to the NHS Certificate in Complementary Therapy (Cancer Pathway). This program offered an unique opportunity to learn and work within a professional, supportive and caring team, to NHS standards, while helping people during their cancer treatments, their carers, and patients on wards in the main hospital, through the power of touch – in my case, aromatherapy massage. The required medical and professional standards were obviously very high, and I was a bit daunted at first. There was a lot to learn about professional standards in the NHS, about the many forms of cancer and how these impact on people and how to tailor treatments to individual circumstances and the constraints of being on a hospital ward. However, as experiences go, this was probably one of the most rewarding professional and human experiences I have had, if not the most. Underpinning this was the expert and ongoing coaching and guidance from Gwyn Featonby, who leads the program, and support from Beverly Harrison and the wider team, which was invaluable. “Light touch” but the right touch. Also, the chance to work with and learn from fellow therapists was an added bonus. Through evidence-based practice, it was satisfying to see positive results for patients. Being accepted by medical professionals as part of the wider team supporting patients was amazing. So, if I have any advice for anyone considering embarking on this journey, it would be to “just do it”!
Why Choose Us?
Are you interested in Complementary Therapies and would like to find out more?
Beginners Courses and Workshops
- Our ‘Introduction to Complementary Therapy’ courses could be perfect for you.
Practitioners
Have you already completed a course and want to learn more?
- We have a range of basic and foundation courses, perfect if you are not sure how far you want to take your learning?
Advanced Practitioners
Are you already qualified to a level 3 Diploma (600) accredited and recognised on the national professional framework and want to develop your skill, knowledge and practical expertise?
- We offer a range of CPD and advanced competency based courses to ensure you are safe, competent and confident in your practice. Together we are committed to developing the next generation of complementary therapy experts able to safely provide therapies alongside conventional intervention for those with complex healthcare conditions as part of the integrated healthcare team.