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”!
Complementary therapies are more widely known and accepted throughout the UK than ever before. Many hospitals, hospices and GP practices, now offer patients access to some services, and the general population are increasingly seeking skilled practitioners to support their wellbeing.
Our diplomas are for anyone with a desire to use complementary therapies in a safe, skilled and competent way in order to support clients and/or patients.
Designed to meet the needs of learners with no previous experience, we also welcome qualified therapists who would like to refresh or upgrade their skills. Those already working in a related profession may be eligible for accreditation of prior learning so may be exempt from some modules.
Ideally you will have the equivalent of five GCSEs at grades A-C. However, we see maturity as an asset too and the right personal qualities are just as important. So if you are seeking to develop a new career don’t let a lack of formal qualifications put you off. Come and speak to us and we will see how we can help you.