Please give us a snapshot of your background that helps us understand who you are.

Finished high school, left to begin travelling in Europe and became s/employed at the age of 17. I've been studying and practising internationally in the field of Therapeutic Bodywork for over 25 yrs., and still feel incredibly passionate about my work. Two other Hellerwork practitioners and myself established Bodyworkers, a busy, well recognized therapeutic bodywork clinic in London, UK. 1987-89 I worked one day a week as a voluntary ‘Befriender' at the St. Marylebone Healing & Counselling Drop-In Centre, London (which was one of the first integrated multidisciplined medical & complementary therapy mainstream health practices in the UK, in the crypt of St. Marylebone church). I completed my MA in Therapeutic Bodywork at the University of Westminster and lectured part-time at several London Universities. After exploring and studying here, I fell in love with New Zealand, emigrated and have been living /working in Coromandel since 1999. I'm currently planning a move to Auckland & excited about joining Health Journeys multidisciplined team of health professionals.

What's the most important thing people should know about your approach to your professional work?

I practise an eclectic approach of therapeutic bodywork pertinent to each individual, intuitively drawing on tools and skills from a broad spectrum of modalities I've studied/ practised for many years. From subtle & gentle Craniosacral Therapy through to deep tissue, remedial massage, manipulative therapy, aquatic bodywork and Hellerwork Structural Integration (including movement, postural re-education & dialogue working with holding patterns in the body).

Why are you involved in the " Help Me to Heal" programme?

I firmly believe we should be practising within an integrated health system promoting the bridging of conventional & complementary medicine as an essential service to a more holistic approach to healthcare maintenance and rehabilitation. 

Having read the article "C is for Calm" [Nov. issue of Next Magazine 2007] about Jane Currie's personal story and her vision to create Health Journeys, I was inspired to send my CV and write to her to say " I want to join your team " and she said yes! 

It is a privilege to work with clients and friends throughout their journeys with cancer.

What do you hope people will gain from your involvement in the programme?

An experience that may help them ‘feel good and more in touch with their bodies' . Perhaps recognizing how at home and work, personal posture, movement, physical and emotional holding patterns may contribute to a feeling of dis-ease in the bodymind. Realize there is always something we can do and we have the potential to change.

Is there anything you expect of people in the programme? 

To be present, come with an open mind and if willing, receive a new hands-on bodywork experience and other possibilities with a talented team of multidisciplined professionals, have fun and enjoy this personal time for themselves too.

Please list your relevant qualifications and roles

Master of Arts in Therapeutic Bodywork (UK)
Adv. Diploma Craniosacral Therapy (RCST) PACT
Certif. in Remedial & Manipulative Therapy LCSP (Phys)
Hellerwork Structural Integration HPA (HANZ)
Watsu Aquatic Bodywork (ABANZ)
Certif. in Myofascial Massage from British Instit. For Structural Integration
Certif. in The Christian Healing Ministry from The Churches' Council
for Health and Healing (UK)
Certificate Counselling Skills (CSCT)
Role: Practitioner of Therapeutic Bodywork

What do you do for fun?

Soaking in the spa pool under the stars & at dawn, dancing (lv rocknroll & 5 rhythms), sharing Tai Chi Chuan & story-telling with an active group over 65,
meditation, acapella singing, reading/writing poetry, Watsu, spiritual retreats, sharing conversation/food/wine with friends, travel & walking in beautiful environments, floating and fishing (with or without the fish), skipping, movies, new adventures.

What's your funniest experience in your healing role?

1) Walking past my 8yr. old client in Coromandel and overhearing her say to her friend, "That's the lady who fixes my back. You know what, in her room she has fairy lights, stars on the ceiling, and a real live skeleton called Mr. Olson who wears her hat." . . . And it's true!
2) I worked from a Squash Club & Gym in London. Passing a client (wearing his business suit) on the street with 3 of his colleagues, he greeted me. I looked twice then said, " Oh it's you Tom, I didn't recognize you with your clothes on." His mates fell about laughing while I flushed like a beetroot.

What makes you laugh?

Spontaneous humour, making popcorn & watching comedies (Monty Pythons), fireworks, bonfires and bubbles, friends/children/animals, charades, sharing stories and embarrassing moments. Seeing other people's confusion when I try to give directions or map read. I'm directionally dyslexic - but have changed my life and gained new confidence by acquiring a TomTom car navigational system.....it's like having an invisible friend onboard giving you specific directions..... love it!