Hi I’m Natasha. My journey to becoming a Somatic Therapist came about because I love to help people be the best version of themselves. We all have unique life experience and we are all blessed with different bodies, some things we can’t change but, always, my goal is to help you become a more empowered version of yourself, more at ease in mind and body, free from the limitations that thoughts, beliefs and fears place upon us all.
Training
The Advanced Clinical Diploma in Integrated Myofascial Therapy is a unique and much sought after diploma which requires advanced manual skills and advanced academic, theoretical and scientific knowledge. The diploma integrates elements from the following national occupational standards:
- Scottish qualifications Authority (SQA) – Soft Tissue Manipulations – SQCF Level 8
- EDEXCEL – Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation – QCF Level 5
- VTCT – Planning and applying, evaluating complex massage and soft tissue methods – QCF Level 5
During my three years of study to complete the Diploma in Integrated Myofascial Therapy I wrote clinical papers on the theory of pain and fibromyalgia and this research has formed the basis of my work with people with pain associated with chronic conditions including fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. You can read more about Myofascial Release here.
ScarWork
I am listed on the UK ScarWork Practitioner register having trained to practice the Sharon Wheeler method in Scar Tissue Therapy, and on Susan Findley’s Oncology Practitioner Directory having been trained in Oncology Massage. I have completed specific training to work with breast cancer clients post surgery and offer this service as a reduced priced package. Scar Tissue Release techniques can be applied to scarring from any surgical procedure including mastectomy, reconstructive surgery, abdominoplasty, appendectomy, caesarean section, hysterectomy and hip and knee replacement. Read more about this work here.
Understanding the Nervous System
I specialise in the impact of stress and (physical and emotional) trauma on the nervous system.
I am an accredited Embodied Processing Practitioner. Embodied Processing is a form of Somatic Therapy which can help identify and integrate ‘stuck’ emotions and imprints of stress and trauma, to complete the stress cycle within the body and relieve symptoms including chronic pain.
I integrate Mindfulness based techniques into my practice to address the psyco physiological effects of persistent and chronic pain. I am an accredited SIRPA Practitioner (Stress Induced Pain Practitioners Association) and hold a Trauma Informed Coaching Certificate.
Since 2012 I have provided hands on therapy for people with disability and neurological conditions, be it congenital or following injury or an illness. Examples include Spinal injury, MS, Parkinsons and Cerebral Palsy. I have also work with people living with the effects of chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, characterised by widespread chronic pain, which appears to result from dysregulation in the central nervous system. You can read more about this work here.
Approach
I have developed a comprehensive approach to the many different issues I am presented with, using Bodywork; Myofascial Release, Massage and Scar Tissue Therapy; the Chronic Pain Coaching Programme and Embodied Processing. My approach is tailored to your individual needs.
Interests
When I am not helping my clients, I enjoy spending time outdoors, dog walks, yoga, swimming, and running and being on or in the sea!
Regulation and Insurance
I am registered with the Massage Training Institute (MTI) and the General Council for Soft Tissue Therapies (GCMT). As you would expect, I am fully insured and hold an up to date Appointed Persons Qualification in First Aid.