Complementary Therapies

Complementary Therapies are treatments that may complement conventional medical treatment. At Dorothy House we offer Complementary Therapy for patients, their families, carers and bereaved clients.

We offer the following therapies:

Aromatherapy: a gentle massage with essential oils. (This is not recommended whilst on chemo therapy or for those with fragile, easily bruised skin or skin infection). Usually hands, feet or back are massaged, depending on the individuals’ illness, or needs.

Reflexology: gentle treatment on the feet and toes (or hands and fingers) that may have an influence on the whole of the body.  This treatment can be very relaxing with possible physical benefits.

Reiki: Aims to bring about balance and general wellbeing. Trained practitioners place their hands either on or above the body. Recipients can sit or lie and remain fully clothed.

Indian Head Massage: In addition to the above therapies carers or the bereaved can also choose Indian Head Massage. This treatment is on the head, neck, shoulders, upper back and face which aims to improve the circulation and relax muscle groups.

Other therapies including Bowen Therapy and relaxation can be made available on special request but not all are possible

Currently Complementary Therapies are provided here at Dorothy House:

For out-patients – in one of our treatment rooms
For in-patients  - in an in-patient unit bedroom
For day patients – in the Day Patient Unit area or one of our treatment rooms

We are planning to expand our Complementary Therapy Service into our Outreach Centres in Midsomer Norton and Chippenham in 2011.

If you are interested in receiving Complementary Therapy then please ask your Dorothy House health care professional.

Following a referral to CT…..

In the interests of safety everyone receiving Complementary Therapy must complete a health questionnaire. A letter is also sent to your GP informing them that you have been referred for Complementary Therapy.

Up to six sessions are offered, usually spaced weekly or fortnightly as our resources allow. This service is free of charge, as are all our other services, although donations are gratefully received. If recipients choose to enter into a private arrangement with a therapist, this will be outside the parameters of Dorothy House services.

Transport

In certain circumstances we can arrange transport to and from Dorothy House with one of our volunteer drivers.

The Complementary Therapy team consists of:

-        Team leader,

-        Administration staff

-        Fully qualified Complementary Therapists, some who are contracted staff and some are volunteers