We have a number of Practitioners of Therapies complementary to medicine.
PLEASE NOTE:
Due to Covid restrictions, Lightning Process, Counselling and Homeopath Practitioners are currently not working face to face at Fishponds Practice.
Please contact these Practitioners directly for further information.
Caroline Girgensons - B.Ed.(Hons)MTI. CNHC
Holistic Massage and Bodywork
What is holistic massage therapy?
As a holistic therapist I treat clients as individuals and tailor the treatment to meet their specific needs. Holistic massage is the therapeutic and sensitive use of touch, adapted to a client’s unique physical and emotional
requirements, in order to promote positive change. Massage is suitable for everyone. It can encourage deep relaxation thereby enabling the body to release stress, tension and anxiety; furthering your own healing potential. Regular holistic massage can help you relax, rejuvenate and feel revitalised by releasing emotional and physical tension and promoting general well-being. It can bring you back in touch with yourself.
- Regular massage has many benefits and can help to:
- Relieve muscular aches & strains
- Ease & reduce chronic pain and tension
- Improve muscle tone & joint flexibility
- Release endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller
- Reduce headaches & migraine
- Promote better sleep
- Improve circulation
- Promote positive health during pregnancy
- Reduce mental stress and anxiety
- Revitalise your spirit and energise your body
- Encourage healing - post injury & illness
- Aid & relax breathing
- Balance the body’s systems to promote well-being
- Relax mind, body and spirit
A Massage Treatment:
Your massage session will always begin and end with a conversation – to establish and agree the most appropriate massage for you. I have an intuitive approach and work sensitively with clients. Massage work can be light and gentle, an acknowledgement of the body, or you may prefer a firmer touch, working deeper into the muscles. Specific problems can be addressed with a range of massage techniques, also joint mobilisation, trigger points and breathing; stretching, rocking or holding and energy holds. We will work together to encourage healing and relaxation, to restore and balance you. A holistic massage provides a quiet time and space for you to relax away from your everyday activities and pressures.
We can manage our demanding lives if we look after ourselves at the same time.
How often have you said? “I need a massage!”
Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage takes place as a seated massage treatment. I use a range of different techniques in a flowing sequence of massage movements over the upper back, shoulders, neck and scalp areas. In addition, I will also gently stimulate and stroke pressure points on the face. The session will usually last about 30 minutes. It can be a very powerful experience.
Indian head massage is an excellent treatment for those of us who have little spare time. It is especially good for office and computer workers who build tension patterns in the upper back, neck and shoulders, through postural habits. Indian Head massage can relieve, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, migraine and sinusitis. It is particularly good for reducing the effects of stress and tension. Clients report that the experience is deeply calming and relaxing; leaving them feeling energised and revitalised, and better able to concentrate.
Reiki
Reiki (pronounced ‘Ray’ ‘Key’) is a gentle yet extremely powerful form of energy therapy. ‘Reiki’ is a Japanese word meaning ‘Universal Life Energy’ or ‘Universal Life Fo rce’. Reiki is a holistic treatment simultaneously healing on a physical, mental and emotional level. The energy of your body and that of the practitioner work together, to bring you back to health and balance. Recognising the link between mind and body, Reiki works holistically, ensuring your emotions support your body’s move to wellness. As a result, Reiki can begin to assist you in other are as of your life, as you find balance in body, mind and spirit. Reiki works on all levels of your being.
Clients come to Reiki for a wide range of reasons such as seeking relief from physical pain, emotional clearing and achieving greater mental clarity. Reiki can also help to relieve stress and its associated symptoms; help boost the immune system and revive energy levels. Reiki can benefit everyone. It is kind to your body, is safe and gentle.
Relaxation is an integral part of the treatment; as such it is an excellent way of reducing stress and can therefore be as appropriate in the prevention of illness and maintenance of good health as it can in the healing of specific condition. Some common benefits are: Reduction of physical pain, deep relaxation during the session, which is retained; improved sleep patterns, mental clarity, increased wellbeing; feelings of calmness; a shift in entrenched patterns towards balance. The benefits are unique to your system and so completely individual.
Reiki and massage can be combined as a wonderful treatment.
About myself
I trained with the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork (BCMB). I have Diplomas in both Holistic Massage Therapy and Indian Head Massage. I am a member of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) and Massage Training Institute (MTI). I am a level 3 Reiki Master.
I am passionate about my work. I am frequently reading and researching, and looking to update my knowledge and understanding. I undertake regular professional development on an on-going basis choosing courses prompted and supported by my work with regular clients and those suggested by my own needs and interests. I am currently pursuing these interests through courses in Pregnancy Massage; Emotional Processing through massage; Acupressure Massage for Facial release. Reiki workshops are ongoing and supported by my Reiki Master.
Since 2011 I have volunteered as a massage therapist with The Rainbow Trust. The Children's Charity provides emotional and practical support to families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness.
I am an associate therapist with the PCIM (Portland Centre for Integrative Medicine) which is currently being developed in Bristol.
As a registered CHNC and MTI practitioner, I have public and professional liability insurance with Balens.
Qualifications
Level 4 Dip Holistic Massage and Bodywork -MTI
Level 3 Dip Indian Head Massage – MTI
Reiki Level 3 Practitioner
BEd (Hons) Education Degree- Qualified Primary School Teacher
Member of CNHC - Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council
Member of MTI – Massage Training Institute
Health and Wellbeing Schemes
Many companies now offer membership of Health & Wellbeing or Insurance schemes to their staff. As a CNHC and MTI member, I am recognised by most of these Wellbeing Schemes. If you wish to claim I can provide a receipt with my CNHC Membership to enable you to claim from your insurer.
Prices
1 hour Holistic massage - £55
30 min massage - £33
Indian Head Massage - £33
Reiki - £50
Massage and Reiki combined - from £60
Acupressure Facial Therapy -£50"
I offer advance block booking discounts and concessions as appropriate. 15% discount for pregnant clients.
Gift vouchers are also available.
I also practice at Southville Clinic
0117 963 2335
& The Harbourside Practice
www.theharboursidepractice.co.uk
To make an appointment please contact The Fishponds Practice or contact me directly:
Tel 07963 566887 or email -
To make an appointment please ring the receptionist at The Fishponds Practice – tel 0117 949129 or contact me directly:
Tel: 07963 566887 or email - cgholisticmassage@gmail.com
How often have you said? “I need a massage!”
Experience the magic of massage
Jeanette Howlett
Jeanette Howlett
Individual and Couples Counsellor and Psychotherapist: Jeanette Howlett
Jeanette Howlett, BA (Hons), Post Grad Dip Law, Post Grad Dip Couns, Registered Member MBACP (Accred). Certificates in Relationship and Group Counselling.
Counsellor and Psychotherapist Working with Individuals, Couples and Groups
What is Counselling and how can it help?
There are times when we can feel overwhelmed with life’s difficulties. Counselling can offer us a place to talk with someone who is outside our circle of family, friends and colleagues, in a private and confidential setting. When it seems like life is a maze, counselling offers the opportunity to reflect on, and explore our problems; it finds a pathway through the maze, achieving clarity and leading to a better life satisfaction.
Counsellors are trained to listen to you, to empathise and understand your life experiences as you see them. A counsellor will respond honestly to the issues you bring, without judging you. The relationship with your counsellor is based on a development of mutual trust, which enables you to feel safe enough to explore what can often be difficult issues.
Your counsellor will not tell you what to do or make decisions for you. Instead they will act as a ‘sounding board’, helping you to gain a clearer picture of your situation. They will offer you support so that you can decide on the changes you want to make.
About myself
I trained as a Person Centred/Humanistic Counsellor at the University of Brighton and qualified in 2000.
I am a Registered Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I became an Accredited Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2006 and have also trained as a Group facilitator and Couples/Relationship Counsellor.
My practice is integrative having its foundation in my Person Centred/Humanistic training and I offer a warm, empathic and safe space for you to explore the issues you bring to counselling. I offer both long term and short term Counselling.
Since 2007 I have worked extensively with Employee Assistance Programmes providing short term counselling and using Solution Focused Brief Therapy and CBT techniques. I also trained and worked at Cruse as a Bereavement Counsellor and in an Alcohol and Substance Use Service in Sussex and have many years experience of working with people with long-term illness and disability and their family carers.
Prior to becoming a full time counsellor I worked for 30 years in Third Sector Legal and Welfare Advice Agencies and Social Care Organisations supporting a wide range of people facing life changing events and circumstances. I fully am committed to valuing and respecting difference and diversity and respect the variety of human experience and culture.
Areas of work I have experience in include:
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Bereavement and Loss
Illness and Disability
Family Carers
Family and Relationships
Couples and Relationship Counselling
Personal Development
Domestic Violence
Self Esteem and Confidence
Loss of direction and purpose or dissatisfaction with life
Sexuality and Sexual Identity
Gender identity
Problems at work
Work stress
Redundancy
Drugs and Alcohol
Sexual assault and abuse
The first Step
If you think counselling is for you contact me on 07789 773995 or email me at Jeanettehowlett@aol.com
We can then arrange an appointment time to meet. At this appointment we will talk about what brings you to counselling and whether counselling would be helpful to you. This will also be an opportunity for you to ask me questions.
We would usually meet weekly. Counselling can be short term, for a few weeks, or longer. If we decide to work together we will agree an initial number of sessions. Each counselling session lasts for 50 minutes.
Code of Ethics
I am an Accredited Member of BACP and abide by the BACP’s Ethical Framework.
Debbie Porteous
Debbie Porteous
Counselling and Supervision in the Person Centred Approach
debbieporteous2@gmail.com
07815 601621
Friendly counsellor with a broad range of experiences
I have worked in a variety of settings with many different people experiencing different kinds of difficulty or distress, each in their own particular way - eg primary care, mental health centre, student counselling, employee support, private practice.
Counselling
We will work together in a way that creates a safe, trusted and stimulating environment. Together we will listen carefully and engage with your experiences, understanding the meaning they have for you in your life. You will be supported as you find yourself valuing, challenging and evolving at a pace and direction that suits you in your current circumstance.
Your experiences are lived within the physical, social, cultural and political circumstances of your life, and I see your emotions and struggles as a part of this whole.
Supervision: counsellors, workers, parents, activists
Working in the same person centred approach, I offer professional supervision to counsellors and other workers. This kind of engaged, supportive and reflective space can also be really useful to parents and carers, with monthly or fortnightly meetings to value and support this important life work. People engaged in campaigning work also benefit from making space to take care of themselves in the context of their demanding work and struggles.
Getting in touch
Do phone or email before making an appointment, we can have a conversation about what you are looking for. This may help you to get a feel for what is right for you and whether you would like us to work together. My usual weekly charge is £55 per hour. During our first session we will explore the issues and decide a way forward. We can work for a set number of sessions or you may decide you would like us to work together for a longer period.
Please phone or it may be easiest to send an email or text to arrange a convenient time to talk.
Qualifications / Memberships
Diploma in Counselling (Person Centred Approach), Strathclyde University 1992
Post Grad Diploma in Counselling in Primary Care, Strathclyde University 1997
Diploma in Supervision CPCAB/EUROCPS 2013
BSc (1st Class Hons) Open University (Social Science, Social Psychology, Social Policy)
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (Accredited Member)
BACP Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists
Psychotherapists and Counsellors for Social Responsibility
Alliance for Counselling and Psychotherapy
SIAN THOMAS BA (hons) RSHom
Do you or any member of your family have any long-standing health problems?
Professional, caring and confidential help is available. A course of homeopathic treatment could help you get your body back to the way that nature intended leaving you feeling happier and healthier than you have in a long time.
WHAT CAN BE HELPED BY HOMEOPATHY?
Homeopathy can successfully treat many different types of conditions. It is equally as effective for short-lived illnesses such as colds, flu, chest infections, chicken pox, sports injuries etc as it is in the treatment of problems that may have been with you for some time.
Conditions that may be helped by homeopathy include complaints that you or a member of your family may have had for some time.
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, molluscum contagiosum, acne, warts and other skin conditions; asthma, arthritis, rheumatism, migraine, thyroid conditions, diabetes, digestive problems, colitis, chrohns, irritable bowel, post viral fatigue and M.E. may all be helped.
Menstrual difficulties, pre menstrual syndrome and menopausal difficulties may be helped.
Homeopathic treatment is excellent in helping with pregnancy e.g. in the treatment of morning sickness and tiredness. It can also provide assistance with childbirth. Babies may be helped with such problems as teething, colic or sleeping difficulties.
Children may be helped (in addition to the other conditions mentioned) with behavioural difficulties, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, hyperactivity, autism, Asperger’s syndrome and may also help children who have Downs syndrome or cerebral palsy.
Homeopathic treatment can give support in difficult times whether this is caused by stress, bereavement, relationship break-up or any of the other ways in which our day to day life can be unbalanced. It can also help in the treatment of depression and in withdrawal from anti-depressants and tranquillisers.
Homeopathy is suitable for young and old alike and all stages in between. Babies and children react very favourably to homeopathic treatment. Even the most sceptical of people have been surprised by the powerful effect that homeopathic treatment has had on their health. It is an excellent way of maintaining a good level of health.
WHAT IS HOMEOPATHY?
Homeopathy effectively and gently helps the body to heal itself. It has been used safely for over 200 years. Minute doses of many different substances are used to stimulate the healing process. Given in large doses the substances used cause the same symptoms in a healthy person as the minute dose of that same substance would cure in a sick person.
For example if Belladonna were given in a non-homeopathic dose to a healthy person it would cause such symptoms as glassy eyes, dilated pupils, a flushed face, high fever and delirium. If a sick person displays these same symptoms then Belladonna would help that person to return to health. Belladonna is therefore a remedy much used in the treatment of such illnesses as measles or meningitis.
The remedies that I use are carefully prepared in homeopathic pharmacies.
WHAT DOES HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT INVOLVE?
For the treatment of a chronic condition a first consultation would take about 90 minutes. I would ask you many questions about your self (or your child, if it were your child needing treatment).
As homeopathic treatment is tailored to you in particular, I would need to find out as much about you as possible to enable me to select the remedy that would be most appropriate for you. I would take a personal and family medical history.
I would ask you all sorts of questions such as what you are like, about how other people see you, about what important things have happened in your life and would ask you to describe to me such things as what might frighten you, what sort of things made you angry or upset, what sort of weather you would prefer and so on until I consider that I have enough information to chose the appropriate remedy for you.
All information given in the consultation is completely confidential.
HOW ARE HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES PRESCRIBED?
The remedy would be prescribed either in tablet or in liquid form. Most prescriptions are made in the form of a sucrose or lactose pill, which is dissolved under the tongue. You will probably only receive 2 tablets at a time. We are all so used to taking long courses of drugs that this may seem strange at first. It is amazing just what small doses of the appropriate remedy can do.
HOW LONG DOES TREATMENT CONTINUE?
As treatment is tailored to each individual person it is difficult to say how long it will be necessary to continue. Problems may be resolved very rapidly if that person is strong and relatively healthy and if their complaint has been short lived. Treatment may take longer for a patient who has been unwell for a while. It is difficult to predict accurately at the outset and it is important to continue to talk through what is happening as we proceed. Whilst a good result may be achieved in a matter of weeks or months, some cases may take a year or eventeens more to work through.
Generally, I would expect to see someone again about a month after giving the first remedy and if necessary a month or so again after that. Whether or not further consultation would be needed should be clear by then. These follow up consultations last between 30 minutes and an hour. I ask patients to phone or email about a week after taking the remedy to discuss any reaction that may have taken place.
WHAT WILL THIS COST?
A free 15-minute consultation is available if you wish to find out more about homeopathy and whether or not it might help your condition before committing to treatment.
A first consultation for an adult is £65, which will take 90 minutes, with follow up consultations at £45, which will take 1 hour.
A first consultation for a child is £50 which will take 90 minutes, with follow up consultations at £35 which will take 1 hour.
The cost of treatment covers the supply of most remedies and phone contact in between consultations.
If you have an HSA healthplan or chose to subscribe to one then they will reimburse you 50% of each consultation fee up to your chosen yearly maximum pay-out.
WHO AM I?
I became interested in homeopathy following successful treatment for an illness for which conventional medicine could offer little help. Interest turned to fascination and I soon found myself on a course training to be a homeopath! I graduated from the British School of Homeopathy in July 1996 after completing 4 years training. I am a registered member of the Society of Homeopaths.
Why wait when a simple phone call could lead to you feeling healthier than you have in a long time? If you are not sure that homeopathy could help with your particular problem or if you want to know more about homeopathy or me as a homeopath you may book a free 15 minute meeting with me at the Fishponds practice to discuss matters.
If homeopathic treatment interests you
please call on 0117 9491290 (practice) or
0117 9561454 (home)
to make an appointment.
Pippa Adamson
(Dip Clin Hyp NLP coach)
Registered Lightning Process Practitioner
Surprisingly rapid and lasting change
Whether you are looking for better health, or feeling stuck or needing direction, Pippa will work alongside you to make sure you know how to reach the changes you want to make.
Clients I work with get great results with lots of different things,including:
- Becoming slimmer
- Becoming a non-smoker
- Building confidence and self-esteem
- Preparing for performances
- Leaving behind worry and sadness
- Learning more easily
- Making decisions
About Pippa
Pippa was diagnosed with M.E. in 1992 after years of tiredness. In 2007 her son was also diagnosed with M.E. That year they did a training course called the Lightning Process which allowed them to learn how to recover. They now both live full and active lives. Pippa has since become a registered practitioner and delivers the course in Bristol, Bath and Worcester. See www.newleaf-changes.co.uk and www.lightningprocess.com for further details.
What is the Lightning Process?
The Lightning Process is a training programme that teaches you to use the connection between your brain and body to improve your health and happiness. It has many applications, combining concepts from Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Life Coaching and the principles behind Osteopathy. People report improvement with all sorts of issues including tiredenes, anxiety and pain. We will teach you how to allow your body to re-balance itself.
B.Phil(Hons) PGCE Diip LCD
Physiotherapy and Pilates Rehabilitation Centre Certificate
in affiliation with Alan Herdman Pilates, London
Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Pilates Matwork
Pilates is a system of exercises which helps strengthen and tone the body in a controlled, safe and effective way. It is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, improving muscle strength, balance and posture, maintaining fitness and flexibility as well as helping with recovery frominjury or illness. Pilates is not just a series of exercises but also promotes an holistic awareness of the way we use our bodies through a fusion of mind and body.
I am a professionally trained dancer and qualified dance teacher with almost thirty years of experience teaching all age groups and abilities. Becoming increasingly aware of a need for a rehabilitative formof exercise and the benefits it can bring, I trained and qualified as a Pilates Level 3 Matwork (Active IQ) teacher. I also hold a Physiotherapy and Pilates Rehabilitation Centre certificate, in affiliation with Alan Herdman, London, which qualifies me to instruct on the specialist Pilates gym equipment. Using small props such as soft balls and foam rollers also adds interest to the exercises and the use of resistance allows far greater achievement.
One-to-one -1 hour session: £40.00
This includes a personalised exercise programme tailored to suit individual
requirements.
Contact
The Fishponds Practice
Tel: 0117 949 1290 www.fishpondspractice.co.uk
Mobile: 07305 962 653
Yoga Therapy
Location: The Fishponds Practice
Appointment length: 1 hour
Cost: £40 per hour
Bookings: To book a trial session (1 hour) please contact reception
Tel: 0117 949 1290
Email: enquiries@fishpondspractice.co.uk
Equipment: All equipment provided but you are welcome to bring your own mat if you like
What is Yoga Therapy?
Yoga has been used as a therapy in India for thousands of years to enhance health and wellbeing. It is complementary to Western Medicine and can be applied in conjunction with traditional treatments.
What Practices Does Yoga Use?
Depending on the client’s condition(s) a combination of the following treatments and techniques will be recommended.
Yoga Postures
Yoga postures work the physical structure of the body, increasing strength, flexibility and mobility. They may also rejuvenate and rebalance the internal systems of the body helping you return to full health.
Breathing Techniques
Yogic breathing techniques have many therapeutic benefits. The exercises may improve overall health and strengthen the respiratory system, calm the nervous system and relieve stress. The increased oxygen flow generates a feeling of overall wellbeing.
Relaxation Methods
When our bodies relax they recharge on a mental and physical level. Relaxation creates a feeling of wellbeing and helps us cope better with situations that put our body and mind under strain. Meditation techniques turn our focus inwards to a quieter space to help you be calm in everyday life.
Yoga Therapy may be used to assist in a wide range of conditions. Claudia will discuss your condition and any medical concerns before you begin yoga, and you may also wish to seek advice from your Osteopath or GP about whether yoga is suitable for you.
Claudia Rigby – Yoga Therapist
Claudia draws inspiration from her yoga studies to create profound and nourishing sessions. She has taught around the world to adults with learning disabilities in Sicily and to vulnerable women in Cambodia.
She is known for her gentle and intuitive approach to teaching. Claudia contributes years of study in classical yoga, Iyengar yoga, yoga nidra, vinyasa flow, hatha yoga, meditation, trauma therapy, shiatsu, thai massage and ayurvedic massage.
She has a natural ability to make people feel welcome and receives students of varying level with warm-heartedness. She offers one-to-one appointments using structural yoga therapy to help students with specific ailments. She is a patient and calm teacher who shares her passion with kindness.
Yoga and Bodywork Training
2012
Yoga 200hr Certificate - Bristol City Yoga
2013
Jivamukhti Yoga Adjustments and Assists – Indaba Yoga, London
2015
Thai Yoga Massage Diploma – Sunshine Network, Chiang Mai, Thailand
2015
The Art and Science of Yoga Sequencing – Bristol School of Yoga
2018
Shiatsu Foundation – Bristol School of Shiatsu
2019
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage Level 1 and 2 – Ayurvedic Yoga Massage Institute
Clare Walsh, BA(Hons), BSc(Hons), MBAcC, LicAc.
Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a natural healing system that has been in use for thousands of years and which many people find beneficial to their wellbeing. Using a whole-system approach to health, rather than separating mind and body or just focusing on symptoms, acupuncture could be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Are you are struggling with your health, not your best self, feeling overwhelmed? Are your digestion and energy levels poor? Perhaps you have anxiety or sleeplessness, or maybe you’re fed up being in pain and unable to find a solution?
If so, why not give yourself the gift of investing in your health, with a person-centred acupuncturist who will really listen. You will be given the time and space to talk through your health concerns, and a personalised treatment plan to bring your body back into balance. I take a holistic approach to healing and together we can assess your lifestyle and navigate a way to optimum health for you.
About Me
I am a licensed, registered and insured acupuncturist and member of the British Acupuncture Council, having a four-year degree in acupuncture from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Reading. I have a special interest in women’s health and support women of all ages, in particular with gynaecological issues, perimenopause and menopause.
I also practice paediatric acupuncture and welcome children and teenagers who may be struggling with physical or emotional problems.
I have an additional qualification in facial acupuncture and can offer this treatment as part of a package.
Each treatment will be a relaxing as well as a healing experience. Every patient is treated on an individual basis with a personalised treatment plan specific to their needs.
Prices
Many health insurance policies now cover acupuncture and full invoices/receipts can be supplied – do check with your provider.
1st Appointment £55
2nd And subsequent appointments £50
Acupuncture for Children and Teenagers is dependent on the age of the child and the health concern. Get in touch for a quote.
Facial acupuncture is offered as part of a package deal. Get in touch for a quote.
Appointments
To make an appointment please telephone the receptionist at The Fishponds Practice on 0117 9491290.
Other locations
I also practice from the St George/Hanham area of the city www.clarewalshacupuncture.com