about me
Born in Worcestershire, I was learning the piano and other instruments from the young age of five. For this, I am extremely grateful to my mother, who is a concert and theatre pianist. This really taught me how to express myself with pace, rhythm and pressure with my hands and feet, on the piano keys and foot pedals. It was a discipline to train, and also a therapeutic skill. So, I was creating and enjoying different emotions, stories and sensations using my hands and fingers for many years, when I learnt that delicate finger movements and subtle changes in hand positions can make the difference between a distinction and a pass! Then, I began to practice on the human body and mind aswell as the piano.
I gained a Master of Science qualification in Psychology at the University of Nottingham before I learnt Eastern well-being practices whilst travelling and working in the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the Maldives, Mauritius, Kenya, Mozambique, and the USA.
I also worked in Italy, where a lovely, hidden restaurant in Venice called 'al Covo' - which translates as 'at a secret place' - provided the future name of my suite.
I returned to England to work at Chewton Glen Hotel in the New Forest, and I now happily own my own treatment, product and training suite in Southampton, Hampshire since 2007. I continue to build my complementary therapy portfolio, currently focusing on Massage and Well-Being, and now have over 18 years of professional qualified experience as a therapist.
I gained an understanding of spas, treatments and clients along my journey, and have developed this into my own practice, Man on the Couch, to which I welcome you warmly. I pride myself on Man on the Couch's warmth, peaceful aura, hygiene and thoroughness.
I trained where ever possible at international standards such as VTCT and NCFE. Awarded qualifications have come from the London School of Sports Massage (LSSM), London Therapists, London School of Thai Massage, British School of Yoga (BSY), The Fitness Training Company, The Health and Sciences Academy, Helen McGuinness Health and Beauty International, Axiom Bodyworks, The Ayurveda Retreat, and The Cottage Training Centre. As a member of the following professional bodies, I am committed to continuing professional development and maintaining the best standards of practice.
Accreditations
- Accredited Trainer for Guild Training International
- Member of the Guild of Holistic Therapists
- Member of the International Council of Holistic Therapists
- Core Member of the Integrated Healthcare Collaborative (IHC)
- Member of the International Clinical Aromatherapy Network (ICAN)
- Member of the Association of Complimentary Therapists
- Member of the UK Council for PsychoTherapy
- Member of the Indian Head Massage Network
- Member of the Perron Rigot Expert Waxing Network
- Cambridge Weight Plan (1:1 Diet) Consultant
- Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Consultant
