This interview was conducted with natural therapist Elaine McBride.

Please describe your natural therapy skill.

I practice Aromatherapy, Remedial Massage and On-Site (Seated) Massage and am currently studying for a Diploma in Naturopathic Herbalism.

What is unique about your therapy?

I take a holistic view in my therapeutic work and utilise all the above mentioned therapies when working with a client.
I learnt Aromatherapy in the UK with Shirley Price Aromatherapy, which incorporated swiss reflex diagnosis (like reflexology) into the treatment - so this knowledge helps in identifying problem areas for clients and also in addressing them. My Aromatherapy diploma also encompassed Aromatherapy facials, which clients always find relaxing; some clients prefer just to have a facial as their relaxation therapy if they are not happy to have a full massage. I always use good quality aromatherapy products for my facial work.

What do you enjoy about your practice?

I particularly enjoy giving my clients quality time out from their stressful lives - I like them to feel like they have been fully nurtured and nourished during the course of their treatment.

Describe a high point in your career.

High points were of course in achieving my qualifications - which can be lengthy processes!
From a client point of view a high point was in being able to bring some relief to a very elderly gentleman who was particularly immobile and with severe health complaints too numerous to mention - together we worked out ways of massaging his back and neck, shoulders arms, feet and legs ! He enjoyed the treatments immensely and found they gave him great relief from his pains.

What would you say to someone who would like to practice in your field?

I would say it is very fulfilling and satisfying for the right person - I really feel one must have a nurturing, caring attitude to be of full use to the client. Aromatherapy is not as well recognised in Australia as in the UK, so people often look for a therapy they are familiar with, eg, Remedial massage, but they are happy to discover Aromatherapy when it is incorporated into their Remedial Massage.

Clinic Addresses:
Harbord, NSW. weeknights from 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm and on Fridays, Saturdays and alternate Sundays from 10 am until 6 pm. Ph. 0418 259 185.

Forest Therapeutic Massage
Sorlie Road Shopping Centre, Frenchs Forest, NSW. Alternate Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm. Ph: 9453 9237 during business hours.

Phone: 0418 259 185.