Directory of

Access to
Complementary and
Alternative Medicine
in the Bedford area

Vicki Manners, BSC (Hons) Ost, DO, BA (Hons).

Produced by the Bedfordshire Integrated Health Group
 2
BACKGROUND / DIRECTORY AIMS

Interest in the provision of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

becoming available on the NHS has increased dramatically in recent years1. In
1993 the British Medical Association (BMA) overturned its previous ruling and
suggested that complementary medicine now had a role to play in primary health
care2, and recent research3 identified that over 58% of Primary Care Groups (PCGs)
offered some form of provision for CAM.

However, despite this recent increased uptake, there is still much confusion over
the regulation and efficacy of CAM. Therefore this directory aims to:
1. Highlight those CAM therapies that are regulated and have a proven scientific
background.
2. Implement one of the recommendations suggested in the report by the
Department of Health,4 that “individual PCGs might consider compiling a local
directory of therapists with recognised qualifications” – thus encouraging local
uptake of CAM provision on the NHS.

STRUCTURE OF REPORT

This directory acknowledges the recent report by the House of Lords Select
Committee on Science and Technology (2000) on CAM5, and has grouped the
therapies in this directory according to the structure outlined in the report:
Group 1 Therapies: Those therapies the committee thought were ‘professionally
organised disciplines with their own diagnostic approach. They have some scientific
evidence of effectiveness and recognised systems of training for practitioners’.
Group 2 Therapies: Those therapies the committee thought ‘lacked a firm
scientific basis and are not regulated to protect the public, but which give help and
comfort to many people’.
Group 3 Therapies: The alternative disciplines the committee thought ‘offered
diagnostic information, as well as treatment, but for which the Committee did not
find convincing evidence of efficacy’. This group was sub-divided into those
therapies with long established and traditional disciplines with very specific
philosophies, and all other therapies.

The complementary therapies available in Bedford are listed alphabetically under

each of the above groups, on a page per therapy format, and the following
information is given for each therapy:
• Definition
• A list of regulating associations/governing bodies (with their corresponding
register) of local CAM practitioners in private practice
• Local NHS provision via GP referral

Note: Group 1 therapies hold additional information on training and usage.

1
Complementary Medicine and the National Health Service. An examination of Acupuncture, Homoeopathy,
Chiropractic and Osteopathy. Scottish Office, Department of Health. November 1996.
2
‘Complementary Medicine – New approaches to Good Practice’. British Medical Association, 1993.
3
Bonnet J. Complementary medicine in primary care – what are the key issues?. NHS Executive, London. January 2000.
4
Complementary Medicine -information packs for primary care groups, Department of Health, 2000.
5
Complementary and Alternative Medicine, A report by the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and
Technology, HMSO, October 2000.
 3
This directory/register was commissioned by the Bedfordshire Integrated Health Group
whose aims include the provision of information on the accessibility of CAM within the
Bedford area, in both the private and public sector. The group has no bias to any particular
individual or organisation and is well supported in the community by: Bedford Borough
Council, Bedford County Council, De Montfort University, Bedford Allergy Support Group,
Ford End Road Gurudwara Temple, North and Mid West Beds Community Health Council.

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been maintained

to provide accuracy of information, please note that
the group does not accept any liability for any
inaccuracies of information provided, nor liability for
the practice of any practitioners mentioned.
 4
METHODOLOGY

IDENTIFICATION OF CAM IN PRIVATE PRACTICE

In order to maximise identification of all private practitioners of CAM in Bedford, a
number of different routes were pursued. Firstly, practitioners were identified
through the various regulating/governing associations for their particular therapy.
This was thought to be the preferred route of identifying practitioners as it enabled
a method of identifying practitioners who were regulated with a professional code of
conduct. However, in order to prevent bias, this information was cross-referenced
with practitioners who advertise in Yellow Pages and Thompson Local Directories
(Bedford area) 2001, along with practitioners known to practise at local therapy
centres in Bedford, to help identify either non-registered practitioners or unknown
governing bodies.

Coverage
The names and addresses of regulating bodies for CAM were gathered from lists
produced by:
• University of Exeter reports on ‘Professional Organisation of CAM in the UK’ (1995,
2000)
• Department of Health, ‘Complementary Medicine - Information to primary Care
Groups’ (2000)
• Here’s Health Journal (2001)
• Positive Health Journal (and on-line database) (2001)
• Stress.org.uk online database (2001)
• Lineone.net, on-line database (2001)
In total 148 bodies were identified and contacted over the period 1999 – 2000 as
part of the initial pilot exercise. Following re-organisation of many of the bodies
over the period 2000 – 2001 to develop self and statutory regulation, the lists were
re-evaluated in the first quarter of 2001. At this time 142 were identified and
contacted requesting details of their association and members within the Bedford
area.

Compliance
Of the 142 bodies identified, 116 responded to the mailings requesting information,
giving a total response of 81%, which can be sub-divided as follows:
Group 1 therapies 18 bodies identified with a 100% response
Group 2 therapies 82 bodies identified with a 76% response
Group 3 therapies 16 bodies identified with a 68% response.

Reasons for non-compliance

After the initial mailing requesting information, 49 bodies did not respond to
requests for information. These bodies were re-mailed generating a further 10
responses. However, despite 2 mailings requesting information, 39 bodies (25%)
did not respond to requests for information on their practitioner base. Complete
non-response after such contact suggests one of the following three explanations:
1. The organisation is no longer active
2. The organisation does not hold an active practitioner list
3. The organisation’s administration was not effective

Confidentiality
Following identification of practitioners in Bedford, practitioners were contacted
individually for consent to be included in the directory.

IDENTIFICATION OF CAM IN NHS PRACTICE

 5
Following previous research6 which identified GPs as the ‘gatekeeper’ in allocating
special resources, including CAM, a questionnaire was sent to all local general
practitioners requesting information on which CAM therapies they offered on the
NHS, and whether these were provided either by themselves; another practitioner
within the surgery, or referral to a NHS hospital/other NHS provider.

Coverage
73 GPs were identified within the Borough of Bedford, practising across 26
Surgeries. Surgery addresses and GP listings were obtained from the local
Community Health Council and cross-referenced with the local yellow pages. Each
surgery was then contacted to confirm their GP list to account for any post
publication changes.

Compliance
25 out of 26 surgeries responded to the mailing, and of the 73 GPs identified, 39
responded, giving a response rate of 53%. GPs are frequently pressed for time
and do not tend to give questionnaires priority. For these reasons surveys and
questionnaires do not tend to achieve high response rates. However, the response
rate of 53% compares well with other noted local surveys.7. A 2nd mailing to non-
responders would have been preferable, however, this was not possible due to time
and funding constraints.

Of the 39 GPs who responded, 87% offered local provision to CAM:

• 56% offered group 1 therapies
• 66% offered group 2 therapies (counselling only)
• 0 % offered group 3 therapies

However, the above does include the provision of counselling as a group two
therapy. If counselling was eliminated from the above equation (as some may
already consider this mainstream), the percentage of GPs offering group two
therapies would drop to zero, as this was the only CAM therapy that GPs referred to
in this grouping. This would also mean that only 62% of GPs (as opposed to 87%)
of GPs offered local provision of CAM.

Reasons for non compliance

The main reasons for non-compliance were thought to be:
• Time constraints
• Lack of interest/validity in complementary medicine

Confidentiality
Only 26% of the GPs who responded to the questionnaire gave consent. Reasons
for non-consent may include:
• Confusion over completing the questionnaire (some GPs did not remember
completing the original questionnaire).
• Concern that publication of their name may encourage excessive patient
enquiries to the surgery.
• Budget restrictions over the provision of CAM within a given practice.

6
Complementary Therapies within the NHS, published by Labour party, 1994
7
Comparison of response rate: all local studies, involving postal questionnaires to GPs, published in 1994 in the
British Journal of General Practice.
 6

SECTION 1 - Group 1 Therapies

Those therapies believed by the House of Lords Select Committee Report on

CAM5 to be professionally organised disciplines with their own diagnostic
approach. They have some scientific evidence of effectiveness and
recognised systems of training for practitioners”

Therapies included in this group are:

• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic
• Herbal Medicine
• Homoeopathy
• Osteopathy

Overview of therapies available in private practice

A 100% response was received from the 18 associations and governing
bodies identified in this group, requesting information on registered
practitioners in the area.
32 registered practitioners were identified offering 1 or more of the above
therapies.

Acupuncture Chiropractic Herbal Homoeopathy Osteopathy

Number of registered
private practitioners 12 4 2 2 12
providing CAM

Number of non registered

private practitioners 3 0 0 1 0
providing CAM

Total number of 15 4 2 3 12
private practitioners
providing CAM

Both Osteopathy and Chiropractic have now achieved state regulation, each having
only one governing body. All other therapies are well regulated with only one or two
main governing bodies, which offer validated training.

Overview of therapies available on the NHS

56% of the GPs that responded to the initial questionnaire, offered one or
more of the above Group 1 therapies, however, only 32% of those GPs who
responded gave consent to inclusion of their name in the directory.
 7
Acupuncture Chiropractic Herbal Homoeopathy Osteopathy
Number of GPs providing
CAM themselves 0 0 0 1 0

Number of GPs referring

CAM to another member 0 0 0 1 0
within their practice

Number of GPs referring

CAM to another NHS 4 0 0 3 0
provider

Total NHS provision of 4 0 0 5 0

CAM
 8

Acupuncture
updated Nov 2001
Acupuncture is the stimulation of special points on the body, usually by insertion of fine needles. How
the points to be treated are selected depends on the teaching and background of the practitioner.
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture theory sees illness in terms of excess or deficiencies in various
exogenous and endogenous factors and treatment is aimed at restoring balance. Needles are
inserted in specific points which lie under the skin on invisible channels. The channels carry energy
and are called ‘meridians’. Western/Medical acupuncture tends to be used by practitioners who
also have an orthodox medical training and builds on Western Style diagnosis. Here treatment may
be based on ‘trigger spot’ stimulation as well as the more traditional meridian form. (Department of
Health, Complementary Medicine: Information Pack to Primary Care Groups, 2000)
Conditions benefiting from acupuncture treatment include:
• Musculo-skeletal (western/medical acupuncture) Systemic disease (traditional chinese
acupuncture)
Length of training: Minimum of 24 – 30 hours for Medical Acupuncturists (BMAS, AACP).
Minimum of 4 years training for members of the British Acupuncture Council. Standards
vary with other bodies.

Private Practice
Associations/Governing Registered Practitioners in Bedford
Bodies
JJ O’Brien, Tel: 01234 304906
Maxwell Naiken, Tel: 01234 212788
MAIN GOVERNING BODIES
David Rodgers, Tel: 01234 855527
NON-MEDICAL
Jethrow Rowland, Tel: 01234 353630
British Acupuncture Council
Fredrick Steele, Tel: 01234 355937
63 Jeddo Road, London W12 9HQ
J. Wang, Tel: 0800 7833569
Tel: 020 8735 0400 (n=2020)
www.acupuncture.org.uk
Michael Curtin, Tel: 01234 381190
MEDICAL
Dr Camp, Tel: 01234 881312
British Medical Acupuncture Society
Dr Tillu, Tel: 01234 355122
Royal London Homeopathic Hospital
60 Great Ormond Street, London. WC1N
3HR
Tel: 020 7278 1615 (n=1680)
Juliette Johnson, Tel: 01234 266222
www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk
Caroline Fraser, Tel: 01234 266222
Acupuncture Assoc of Chartered
Val Marston, Tel: 01234 266222
Physiotherapists
18 Woodlands Close
Southampton SO45 4JB
Tel: 01747 861151 (n=1600)
www.accp.uk.com

None
OTHER GOVERNING BODIES:
MEDICAL
British Academy of Western
None
Acupuncture
Tel: 0151 343 9168 (n=250)
Membership list not available
NON-MEDICAL
European Federation of Modern
None
Acupuncture
Tel: 01942 678092
None
Fook San Acupuncture & CH Association
0118 966 5454
The Modern Acupuncture Association
(Auricular)
01744 883 737 (n=30)
Society of Auricular Acupuncture
01474 813902
Practitioners not registered with any of Mr Ali, Tel: 01234 261932,
the above bodies Dr Wan, Tel: 01234 307744,
Dr Zhang, Tel: 0800 970 7850
 9

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Acupuncture
via NHS referral, to patients registered in Dr Basra
their surgery Dr Griffith
Dr Lotay
Dr
Saparamdu

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 10

Chiropractic
Updated Nov 2001
Definition: Chiropractic is a health profession concerned with the diagnosis,
treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculo-skeletal system and
the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general
health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal manipulation or
adjustment. (World Federation of Chiropractic, 1999).

By restoring normal function to the musculo-skeletal system, chiropractors can play a

major part in relieving disorders, and any accompanying pain or discomfort, arising
from accidents, stress, lack of exercise, poor posture or illness (General Chiropractic
Council, 2001).

Conditions benefiting from chiropractic treatment include:

• Low back pain
• Neck Pain
• Sciatica
• Other joint problems

Average length of training 4 years. Practitioners awarded BSc (Chiro)

Private Practice
Statutory Governing Body State Registered Practitioners in
Bedford
NOTE: As of June 2001 a bill of
Parliament requires all chiropractors to
Debbie Kibblewhite, Tel: 01234 353273
state register with the council below. It
Frank Kin-Po So, Tel: 01234 853444 (application
is now illegal to practice as a
in process)
chiropractor, unless registered with the
Shayan Peterson, Tel: 01234 853444 (application
General Chiropractic Council below.
in process)
Colin Warin, Tel: 01234 353937
General Chiropractic Council
344-354 Grays’ Inn Road
London
WC1X 8BP
Tel: 0845 601 1796
(n=1200 appx)
www.gcc-uk.org
 11

NHS Provision in
Bedford
No GPs in the Bedford area provide
Chiropractic via NHS referral to patients None
registered in their surgery

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 12

Herbal Medicine
updated Nov 2001
Definition : Herbal Medicine is the use of plant remedies in the treatment of
disease. The advancement of science has enabled identification of the individual
active chemical constituents in plants that can be used for therapeutic purposes.
Medical herbalists are trained in the same diagnostic skills as doctors but take a
more holistic approach to illness. Once the underlying cause of the problem is
sought and identified, it is this which is treated, rather than the symptoms alone.
(Taken from literature supplied by NIHM, 2001).
This method of treatment/selection is different to Chinese Herbal Medicine (which
can be found under the relevant heading)

Conditions benefiting from herbal medicine include:

• Systemic disease, especially where there may be poor prognosis without an
alternative approach.
• Those who suffer from repeated episodes of acute illness.
• Those where drug treatments are poorly tolerated or contra-indicated.

Length of training:
The NIHM and CPP are both associated with BSc university courses.
IIRCH requires correspondence course and 100 hours training
No information available on Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners
 13

Private Practice

Associations/Governing Registered Practitioners in

Bodies Bedford

National Institute of Medical Jayne Clarke, Tel: 01234 343408

Herbalists Lynn Judge, Tel: 01234 343408
56 Longbrook Street
Exeter
EX4 6AH
Tel: 01392 426022 (n=340)
www.btinternet.com/~nimh/
None
College of Practitioners of
Phytotherapy
Bucksteep Manor
Bodle Street Green
Hailham,
East Sussex
01323 834800 (n=67)
www.collegeofphytotherapy.com None
Unified Register of Herbal
Practitioners
P.O Box 126
Crowborough
TN7 4ZR None
Tel: 01342 814816

The International Register of

Consultant Herbalists
32 King Edward Road
Swansea
SA1 4LL
Tel: 01792 655886 (n=37)
www.irch.org

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Herbal
Medicine via NHS referral, to patients None
registered in their surgery
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).
 14

Homoeopathy
updated Nov 2001
The profession of homoeopathy is practised by two broad groups: GPs (and other medical
practitioners) and specialist homeopathic practitioners. Homeopathy achieved recognition in
the original National Health Act in 1948 making treatment available via the NHS (with
medical practitioners only).
Definition: Homoeopathy is a “system of medicine which aims to help the body heal itself.”
Homeopathic medicines act through stimulating the body’s own defence and healing
systems. Homoeopathic remedies are prepared from natural sources and are diluted and
“succussed” (a process of vigorous shaking and mixing) many times. This results in the
production of safe substances, which cannot poison you. An important aspect of
homeopathy is its safety and minimal side effects. (The Homeopathic Trust, 2001)
Conditions benefiting from homeopathy include:
• Systemic disease, especially where there may be poor prognosis without an
alternative approach.
• Those who suffer from repeated episodes of acute illness.
• Those where drug treatments are poorly tolerated or contra-indicated.
Length of training:
Medical practitioners via the Faculty of Homeopathy – minimum of 40 hour Society of
Homeopathy and UK Homeopathic Medical assoc – minimum 4 years
IRCH - correspondence course, plus 100 clinical hours
 15

Private Practice
Associations/Governing Registered Practitioners in Bedford
Bodies

Stephanie Field, Tel: 01234 826407

MAIN REGISTERING BODIES
Society of Homoeopaths
2 Artisan Road, Northampton. NN1 4HU
Tel: 01604 621400
www.homeopathy-soh.org (n=1400)

Joseph Lynch, Tel: 01234 212788

The UK Homoeopathic Medical

Association
6 Livingstone Road
Gravesend, Kent DA12 5DZ
Tel: 01474 560336
None
www.homoeopathy.org (n=450)

The Faculty Of Homoeopathy

(Medical)
2 Powis Place
London, WC1N 3HT
None:
0207 7566 7810
(n=660)
www.trusthomeopathy.org

OTHER REGISTERING BODIES

The International Register Of
Consultant Herbalists & Homeopaths
32 King Edward Road
Swansea SA1 4LL
Tel: 01792 655886 (n=44)
www.irch.org

Other practitioners in the area not

registered with above homoeopathic Tree of Life Tel: 01234 211144
bodies

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Homoeopathy Dr Agrawal
via NHS referral, to patients registered in Dr Kanungo
their surgery Dr Lotay
Dr Norris
Dr
Saparamdu

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 16

Osteopathy
Updated Nov 2001
Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that lays
its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body. It is distinctive in the fact
that it recognises much of the pain and disability we suffer stems from abnormalities
in the function of the body structure as well as damage caused to it by disease.
Osteopathy uses many of the diagnostic procedures used in conventional medical
assessment and diagnosis. Its main strength, however, lies in the unique way the
patient is assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint and the
manual methods of treatment applied to suit the needs of the individual patient.
(General Osteopathic Council, 1998).

Conditions benefiting from osteopathic treatment include:

• Low back pain
• Neck Pain
• Sciatica
• Other joints problems

Average length of training: 4 years. Practitioners awarded BSc (Ost), and or DO.

Private Practice
Statutory Governing Body State Registered Practitioners in
Bedford
NOTE: As of May 2000 a bill of
parliament required all osteopaths to
state register with the council below. It
is now illegal practice as an osteopath,
unless registered with the General
Osteopathic Council below.

General Osteopathic Council Stephen Bass, Tel: 01234 308338

Osteopathy House Jo Bowyer, Tel: 01234 211844
Sarah Cottrel, Tel: 01234 823621
176 Tower Bridge Road
Sarah De Lacy Munday, Tel: 01234 219070
London Annette Fair, Tel: 01234 823621
SE1 3LU Kate Highstead, Tel: 01234 211844
0207 357 6655 (n=3500 Jane Honeyman, Tel: 01234 211844
appx) Joanna Hyne, Tel: 01234 211844
www.osteopathy.org.uk Vicki Manners, Tel: 01234 212788
Joanne Pinny, Tel: 01234 823621
Jason Pinny, Tel: 01234 823621
Luisa Whitlock, Tel: 01234 353800
 17

NHS Provision in
Bedford
No GPs in the Bedford area provide
Osteopathy via NHS referral to patients None
registered in their surgery

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

Group 2 Therapies

Those therapies believed by the House of Lords Select Committee Report on

CAM5 to be complementary therapies which lack a firm scientific basis and
are not regulated to help protect the public, but which give help and comfort
to many people.
Therapies included in this group are:
• Alexander Technique
• Aromatherapy
• Bach Flower Remedies
• Counselling
• Healing
• Hypnotherapy
• Maharishi Ayurvedic Medicine
• Massage (Bodywork) Therapies
• Nutritional Medicine
• Reflexology
• Shiatsu
• Yoga

Overview of therapies available in private practice

A 76% response was received from the 108 associations and governing
bodies identified in this group, requesting information on registered
practitioners in the area.
70 practitioners were identified offering 1 or more of the above therapies.
 18
Number of Number of non- Total number of
registered registered private
private private practitioners
practitioners practitioners providing CAM
providing CAM providing CAM
Alexander 4 0 4
Technique
Aromatherapy 8 0 8
Bach Flower 3 0 3
Remedies
Counselling 13 5 18
Healing 5 0 5
Hypnotherapy 4 0 4
Maharishi 1 0 1
Ayurvedic
Bodywork/Massage 10 0 10
Nutrition 1 0 1
Reflexology 19 0 19
Shiatsu 3 0 3
Yoga 2 0 2

Overview of therapies available on the NHS

Counselling was the only CAM therapy that GPs offered for referral under
the NHS. The initial questionnaire noted that 26 GPs offered counselling
under the NHS, however only 6 GPs consented to have their names included
in the directory.

It should be noted that a PCT budget for counselling is available to all GP

practices in the Bedford area.
 19

Alexander Technique
Updated June 2001
In the Alexander Technique, the practitioner teaches the pupil to develop a more efficient
postural behaviour through a series of lessons in which awareness of the body, posture and
postural bad habits are enhanced. (Department of Health: Complementary Medicine,
Information Pack for Primary Care Groups, 2000).
It has established itself as a distinctive educational approach in healthcare, and
practitioners consider themselves teachers rather than healthcare practitioners. As a pupil
you learn to appreciate the practical implication of thought and its effect on muscle activity.
The teacher’s hands encourage a specific quality of muscle tone. Together with words of
instruction, this helps to release inappropriate tension and allows the body to become
better aligned and balanced. A few lessons can make a difference, but for continuous self-
improvement a minimum of 20 lessons is recommended. (Society of Teachers of
Alexander Technique, 2001)
Average Length of training: 3 years full time, 4 years part-time
 20

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
MAIN GOVERNING BODY
Society of Teachers of Alexander
Technique
20 London House Rosamond Hoskins, Tel: 01234 218602
266 Fulham Road Eileen Johnson, Tel: 01767 262174
London Ms Helen Osborn, Tel: 01234 216889
SW10 9EL Roy Palmer, Tel: 01234 708777 and 01234
0207 352 1556 354688
www.stat.org.uk (n =809)

OTHER GOVERNING BODIES

Professional Association for

Alexander Teachers None in area
40 The Southend
Ledbury
Herefordshire
HR8 2HD
Tel: 01531 632502
www.paat.org.uk (n =57)

Interactive Teaching Method Assoc Eileen Johnson, Tel: 01767 262174

3 South Road
Redland
Bristol
BS6 6QP
0117 942 8867 (n =21)

Alexander Teaching Network No response to enquiries

PO Box 53
Kendal
Cumbria LA9 4UP

Alexander Technique International No response to enquiries

142 Thorpedale Rd
London N4 3BS

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Alexander
Technique via NHS referral None
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).
 21

Aromatherapy
Updated June 2001
Aromatherapy is based on the healing properties of essential plant oils. These natural oils
are diluted in a carrier oil and usually massaged into the body, but they can also be
inhaled, used in a bath or as a cold compress next to the skin. An aromatherapy massage
is based on massage techniques which aim to relieve tension in the body and improve
circulation, whilst allowing oil molecules to be absorbed into the bloodstream during
massage. Benefits of the aroma may also be obtained when oils are inhaled both directly
and during the massage treatment to bring about a general feeling of well-being in an
individual. (Department of Health: Complementary Medicine, Information Pack for Primary
Care Groups, 2000)
 22

Private Practice
Aromatherapy Organisations Council
PO Box 19834, London SE25 6WF
Tel : 020 8251 7912 www.aromatherapy.org.uk
This governing has amalgamated the following
professional associations :
Aromatherapy & Allied Practitioners Assoc
8 George Street, Croydon, Surrey. CR10 1PA
Tel 020 8680 7761 (n=105) No response to enquiries
International Society of Prof. Aromatherapists
82 Ashby Road, Hinckley, Leicestershire. LE10 1SN None in area
01455 637987 www.ispa.demon.co.uk (n=1850)
The Register of Qualified Aromatherapists
PO Box 3431, Danbury, Chelmsford, Essex. CM3 4HA None in area
Tel: 01245 227957 www.R-Q-A.demon.co.uk (n=650)
Association of Medical Aromatherapists None in area
Abergare, Rhu Point, Rhu, Helensburgh . G84 8NF
0141 332 4924 (n=104)
International Federation of Aromatherapists Karen Chandler, Tel: 01234 782868
Stamford House,2/4 Chiswick High Road. London .W4 Sara Pryce, Tel: 01234 741462
1HT
0181 742 2605 (n=1500) No response to enquiries
www.intfed-aromatherapy.co.uk
Holistic Aromatherapy Foundation
13 The Terrace, Rochester, Kent. ME11 1XN None in area
01634 843663 (n=150)
Association of Holistic Therapies Int.
8 Llys Soar, Scott Street, Tynewydd, Rhondda. Mid None in area
Glamorgan. CF42 5NA
01443 771804 (n=49)
Association of Physical and Natural Therapies None in area
27 Old Gloucester Street. London . W1N 3XX
0966 181588 (n=35)
English Societe de l’Institute Pierre Franchomme None in area
Belmont House, Newport. Essex. CB11 3RF
01799 540622 (n=50) Donna Milligan, Tel: 01234 353800
Association of Natural Medicine Jane Satherley, Tel: 01234 741487
19a Collingwood Road, Witham. Essex CM8 2DY Kevin Walsh, Tel: 01234 404823
01376 502762 www.anm.org.uk (n=97)
Guild of Complementary Practitioners No response to enquiries
Liddell House, Liddell Close. Finchampstead. Berks.
RG40 4NS None in area
01189 735757 www.gcpnet.com (n=2333)
Renbardou Institute
Acorn House, Cherry Orchard Road, Croydon, Surrey
CR0 6BA No response to enquiries
0181 686 4781
International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) Melanie Reynolds, Tel: 01234 212788
10/11 Heathfield Terrace, Chiswick, London. W4 4JE. Cynthia Bachi, Tel: 01234 354499 or 07932
Tel: 020 8994 756 www.itecworld.co.uk 3345797
THOSE NOT REGISTERED WITH THE AOC
Institute of Aromatic Medicine
Aromed House, 66 Upper Bond St, Hinckley, Leics. LE10
1RS
Tel: 01455 615503 (n=20)
IIHHT Bedford College of FE, teaches aromatherapy
and awards the IIHHT diploma, however, a detailed
membership list is not unavailable.

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Aromatherapy via
NHS referral None
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).
 23

Bach Flower Therapy

updated June 2001
Bach Flower Remedies are homoeopathically prepared plant and flower-based remedies
that aim to relieve/treat negative emotional states by stimulating the body’s own capacity
to heal itself. There are 38 remedies in total, each one of which works on a specific
emotional state, for example ‘Willow’ is prescribed for feelings of resentment and ‘Pine’ is
prescribed for feelings of guilt and self-reproach.
Remedies are available for self prescription and can be purchased from most major
pharmacies and health-food stores, alternatively, members of the public may seek advise
on the selection of the most appropriate remedies from a trained Bach Practitioner.
(Extract taken from literature published by the Dr Edward Bach Foundation, 2001).

Average length of training: 9 – 12 months.

All practitioners are regulated under 1 governing body only (detailed below)

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

The Dr Edward Bach Foundation

Mount Vernon
Sotwell, Judith Brookes, Tel: 01767 640124
Wallingford Vicki Manners, Tel: 01234 212788
Oxon. OX10 0PZ Davina Powell, Tel: 01234 405314
Tel: 01491 834678
www.bachcentre.com
 24

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Bach
Remedies via NHS referral None

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association)

 25

Counselling
Updated June 2001
The aim of counselling is to provide an opportunity for a client to work towards living in a
more satisfying and resourceful way. It involves discussion between a counsellor and client
and is voluntary from the patients’ point of view. Counselling is a contractual arrangement
where a counsellor meets a client in privacy and confidence to explore a difficulty, distress
they may be experiencing, perhaps their dissatisfaction with life or a loss of a sense of
direction or purpose. Often termed ‘talking therapies’, some people use the term
counselling and psychotherapy inter-changeably, others, from well-established traditions,
distinguish between them. There is much overlap between the two and, fortunately, the
distinction is not a matter which need greatly concern anyone seeking help. Most
practitioners will want to be sure that what they offer is appropriate for the client before
there is any commitment on either side. (Extract taken from British Association of
Counselling literature, 2001).
No information is available on association numbers or length of training.

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

British Association for Counselling Adriana Cracknell, Tel: 01234 309817

(BAC) Jenny Heron, Tel: 01234 349242
1 Regent Place Maureen Pape, Tel: 01234 261162
Rugby Allan Turner, Tel: 01234 349242
Warwickshire CV21 2PJ
Tel: 01788 550899
None in area
National Hypnopsychotherapy
Council
145 Chapel Lane
Longton
Preston
PR4 5NA Joanne Evans, Tel: 01234 764866

The National Council of

Psychotherapists
PO Box 6072
Nottingham NG6 9BW
Te: 0115 9131382 Suzanne Clackson, Tel: 01234 356996
www.natcouncilofpsychotherapists.org.uk Louise Clare, Tel: 01234 267405
Andrew Dutton, Tel: 01234 267903
UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) Sue Hickman, 11 Colchester Way, Bedford
167-169 Great Portland Street Barbara McKay, 54 Wood End Rd, Kempston
London W1N 5FB Rosemary Moore, Tel: 01234 344736
Tel: 0207 436 3002 Annabelle Paramour, Tel: 01234 345553
Miriam Richardson, Tel: 01234 310679
Other practitioners in the area not Sue Beaumont: Tel: 01234 742357
registered with a governing body John Dixon, Tel:01234 273282
Deanna Selby, Tel: 01234 309856
Kelly Summers, Tel: 01234 212788 or 07977
142501
Janis Young, Tel: 01525 751691
 26

NHS Provision in Bedford

Dr Agrawal
The following GPs confirmed access to Dr Daz
Counselling via NHS referral. It should be Dr Griffith
noted, however, that a PCT budget for Dr Lotay
Counselling is currently available to all Dr Odunsi
GPs. Dr
Saparmandu

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 27

Healing (including Reiki)

Updated June 2001
Healers believe that healing energy exists all around us: what they do is channel it to heal
people. The energy helps repair the aura around a person, which breaks or swells up if he
or she is ill. There are various forms of healing: Faith Healing – this takes place in a
religious context usually during a church service, or in prayer groups. Spiritual healing -
the most common name in the UK for the laying on of hands. Healing energy in this
context is said to come from a divine source, but it does not require any faith on the part of
the person who is being healed. Therapeutic Touch – similar to spiritual healing, except
that the healer works just above the surface of the body. (predominantly practised in the
USA). Reiki – a system of spiritual healing developed in Japan. (Rowland 1997, The Which
Guide to Complementary Medicine). No information is available on length
of training.
Private Practice
The Confederation of Healing Organisations
Registered Charity amalgamating 16 different
assocs No response to enquiries
Suite J, Second Floor, 113 High Street,
Berkhamstead, Herts. HP4 2DJ (n=11000) None in area
Spiritualists National Union
Redwoods,Stanstead Hall, Stansted,
MountfitchetEssex CM24 8UD (CHO member) Betty Burnage, Tel: 01234 363496
01279 816363 Geoffrey martin, Tel: 01234 267360
(n=3800) David Monks, Tel: 01234 325826
National Federation of Spiritual Healers
Old Manor Farm Studio,Church Street Geoffrey Martin, Tel: 01234 267360
Sunbury-on-Thames
Middx. TW16 G (CHO member) (n=5600)
College of Healing No response to enquiries
Runnings Park, Croft Bank
West Malvern, Worcs. WR14 4DU (n=257)
Association of Therapeutic Healers None in area
6 Cleaver House, Adelaide Rd
London NW3 3PT (CHO member) (n=50)
International Self-Realisation Healing None in area
Association
1 Hamlyn Road,Glastonbury
Somerset BA6 8HS (n=55) None in area
International Network of Esoteric Healing
15 Shakespear Road, Worthing No response to enquiries
W Sussex BN11 4AR
Foundation of Spiritual Healing & Guidance
35 Sutton Park Rd No response to enquiries
Seaford, East Sussex BN25 1SJ (n=37)
Healer Practitioner Association
1a Northcote Street No response to enquiries
Cardiff CF2 3BH (n=2200)
British Energy Healing Association
Newstead House, 108 St Johns Rd Mr Wojtek Krajewski, Tel: 01234 391704
Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6UT
Reiki Association
Cornbrook Bridge House None in area
Clee Hill, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 3QQ
01981 550829 (n=1100)
World Federation of Healing None in area
8 Earl Road, Penarth
Vale of Glamorgan,CF64 3UN (n=1222)
The Corinthian Church and Healing None in area
Association
Primrose Hall, 15a London Road
Hailsham, East Sussex. BN27 (n=200) No response to enquiries
UK Polarity Therapy Association
Monomark House, 27 Old Gloucester Street
London WC1N 3XX. 01483 417714 None in area
British Association of Therapeutic Touch
Redmire Farm, Mungrisdale
Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0T (n=75)
Healing Energy Therapy Academy
Newstead House, 108 St Johns Rd
Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6UT (n=40)
Doctor Healing Network
27 Monteflore Court, Stamford Hill
London N16 5TY (n=150)
 28

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Healing via the None
NHS
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association)
 29

Hypnotherapy
Updated June 2001
Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness brought about by deep relaxation. When you
are hypnotised you are not unconscious; you remain fully aware of people around you,
talking to you, and are totally relaxed, absorbed in the message you are hearing. You
remain in control and no hypnotist can make you do something against your will. Once you
are in a relaxed state, the therapist will make suggestions aimed at helping you to change
the way you experience or respond to something. (Rolwand 1997: The Which Guide to
Complementary Medicine).
Private Practice
UK Confederation of Hypnotherapy Orgs Joanne Evans, Tel:01234 764866
Suite 401, 302 Regent Street, London. W1R 6HH
Tel: 0161 881 1677 (n = 2000)
Association for Professional Therapists None in area
Katepwa House, Ashfield Park Avenue
Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. HR9 5AX None in area
British Hypnotherapy Association
67 Upper Berkeley Street,
London W1H 7DH Mary Haley, Tel: 01234 406720
British Society of Clinical Hypnosis
229a Sussex Gardens, Lancaster Gate
London W2 2RL Tel 0207 499 2813 (n=340) None in area
British Society of Medical & Dental Hypnosis
17 Keppel View Road, Joanne Evans, Tel: 01234 764866
Kimberworth, South Yorkshire S61 2AR (n=331)
The National Council for Hypnotherapy
& Hypnotherapy Register Pauline Gilkes, Tel: 01234 269873
PO Box 5779, Burton on Wolds, Loughborough
LE12 5ZF. Tel: 0800 9520545 ( n=823)
The National Register of Hypnotherapists & None in area
Psychotherapists
12 Cross Street, Nelson, Lancashire. None in area
BB9 7EN 01282 716839 (n=370)
Association Of Qualified Curative Hypnotherapy
10 Balaclava Road, Kings Heath No response to enquiries
Birmingham, BS14 7SG (n=48)
British Association Of Therapeutical Hypnotists No response to enquiries
Llanyre, Llandrindod, Wells
Powys LD1 6EA (n=57)
British Hypnosis Research None in area
St Matthews House,Brick Road
Darbey Abby,Derby. DE22 1DQ None
British Society Of Hypnotherapists
37 Orbain Road
London SW6 7JZ (n=56) No response to enquiries
National Hypnopsychotherapy Council
145 Chapel Lane, Longton Joanne Evans, Tel :01234 764886
Preston PR4 5NA Tel : 01772 617663 (n=80)
Corporation Of Advanced Hypnotherapy
PO Box 70, Southport. PR8 3JX. None in area
Tel : 01704 576285 (n=286)
Guild Of Curative Hypnotherapists None in area
16 Sansome Walk, Worcester
Worcstershire WR1 1LN (n=18)
General Hypnotherapy Register None in area
Hazelwood, Broadmead, Sway, Lymington
Hants. SO14 6DH. Tel: 01590 683770
Academy of Curative Hypnotherapists None in area
16 Station Road, Cheadle, Hulme
Stockport, SK8 5AE. Tel: 0161 485 4009 (n=99) None in area
Brief Stategic Therapy Foundation
34 Arthur Rd, Motspur Park, Martin Newman, Tel: 341059
New Maulden, Surrey. KT3 6LX (n=60)
British Institute of Hypnotherapy
12 Heycroft Road, Eastwood, Essex. SS9 SW
Tel: 01702 524484 (n=170)
Central Register of Advanced Hypotherapists
28 Finsbury Park Road, London, N4 2JX
Tel: 020 7226 6963 (n=190)
International Assoc of Hypno-Analysts
PO Box 180, Bournemouth, BH3 7YR
Tel: 01202 316496 (n=420)
National Assoc of Holistic Hypnotherapists
19/20 St Georges Avenue, Northampton, NN2 6JA
NHS Provision in Bedford
The following GPs provide Hypnotherapy None
via NHS
 30

Maharishi Ayurvedic Medicine

updated June 2001
The word ’ayurveda’ comes from two Sanskrit words – ayus, or ‘life’ and veda,
meaning ‘knowledge’ or ‘science’: the science of life. Rather than alleviating or
curing illness, ayrurveda is designed to achieve a state of health through a blend of
meditation, yoga, astrology, herbal medicine and dietary advice. It is the Indian
version of aromatherapy, relaxation, herbal medicine, diet, and physical and
spiritual exercise, all rolled into one. Followers of the system view the body as a
microcosm of the universe governed by energies, and believe that good health is
achieved through a balance of these energies. (Rowland 1997, The Which Guide to
Complementary Medicine).

No information is available on training standards or membership numbers.

Private Practice

Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in

bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

Ayurvedic Medical Association Dr S Wickramasinge, Tel: 01234

The Hale Clinic 343734
7 Park Crescent
London
W1N 3HE
Tel 0207 631 0156

Maharishi Ayur-Veda Centre

Freepost WN5 5128 None in area
Skelmersdale
Lancashire
WN8 6BR
0990 143733

Ayurvedic Living
PO Box 188 No response to enquiries
Exeter
Devon
EX4 5AY

The Ayurvedic Company of Great

Britain None in area, London only
50 Penywern Road
Earl’s Court
London
SW5 9SX
0207 224 6070
 31

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Maharishi
Ayurvedic Medicine via NHS referral None

Massage/Bodywork Therapies
Updated June 2001
Massage is a system of treatment by stroking, kneading or pressing the soft tissues of the
body with the aim of achieving mental and physical relaxation. There are many different
types range from light relaxation massage to deep sports-type massage. (Rowland: 1997,
Which Guide to Complementary Medicine)
 32

Private Practice
British Massage Therapy Council/British Fed. Wendy Cox, Tel: 01234 720773
17 Rymers Lane
Linda Jones, Tel: 01234 309426
Oxford OX4 3JU
Tel: 01865 774123
Manual Lymphatic Drainage(MLD) UK None
PO Box 149
Oxfordshire OX10 7LD
The Academy of On-Site Massage
Samantha Baylis, Tel: 01234 267483
New Street, Charfield
Wotton-under-Edge
Glos. GL12 8ES
Assoc Of Holistic Biodynamic Massage Therapists None
42 Catherine Street
Cambridge
CB1 3AW
Tel: 01223 240815 (n=60)
Association Of Massage Practitioners No response to enquiries
101 Bounds Green Road
London N22 4DF
Fellowship Of Sports Masseurs And Therapists No response to enquiries
B M Soigneur
London WC1N 3XX (n=1300)
Guild And Register Of Sports Therapists
No response to enquiries
B M Soigneur
London WC1N 3XX
Tel : 0208 886 3120
The London And Counties Society Of Judith Brooks, 01767 640124
Physiologists
330 Lytham Road
Blackpool FY4 1DW
Tel: 01253 408443 None in area
The Massage Therapy Institute GB
PO Box 2726
London NW2 4NR (n=450)
0207 226 5313 Linda Jones, Tel: 01234 309426
The Massage Training Institute
90 – 92 Islington High Street
London N1 8EG
0207 226 5313 (n=250) No response to enquiries
British Association for Massage Therapy
36 Lodge Drive
Palmers Green
London N15 5JZ No response to enquiries
Association of Physical and Natural
Therapists
38 South Street
Exeter
Devon EX1 1ED Jenny Mobbs, Tel: 01234 720694 (Harold)
01392 410954 (n=122)
International Therapy Examination Council
James House
Oakelbrook Mill
Newent No response to enquiries
Gloucestershire GL18 1HD
Guild of Complementary Practitioners
Liddell House, Liddell Close
Finchamptstead Joseph Lynch, Tel: 01234 212788
Berks RG40 4NS Tel : 01392 410954
The Bowen Association
Joy Fisher, Tel: 01234 750547
PO Box 4358
Dorchester
Dorset 0770 8324 Rosalyn Gerrard, Tel: 01234 824593
www.bowen-technique.co.uk
European College of Bowen Studies
Joseph Lynch, Tel: 01234 212788
38 Portway Jane Robbins, Tel: 01234 720225
Frome Maureen Smith, Tel: 01234 771855
Somerset BA11 1QU
Tel: 01373 461873

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Massage via None
the NHS
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).
 33

Nutritional Medicine
updated June 2001
Nutritional Medicine is not just about healthy eating, it is a form of complementary
medicine in which practitioners will work with a patient using combinations of special diets
or nutritional produce to help the body repair itself. Nutritional therapists aims to improve
the body’s efficiency by identifying if the body is able to assimilate its food properly and if
there is a build-up of unwanted waste substances which may get in the way of efficient
functioning. Food allergies or intolerances can also cause unpleasant symptoms. A
nutritional therapist aims to improve the body’s efficiency by identifying and then dealing
with these problems using special diets, herbs, vitamins and other nutritional products
according to individual needs. (Extracted from literature supplied by the Society for the
Promotion of Nutritional Therapy, 2001)

No information given on length of training.

Private Practice

Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in

bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

British Association of Nutritional Kelly Summers, Tel: 01234 212788

Therapists
London WC1N 3XX
Tel : 0870 6061284 (n=225)
Institute for Optimum Nutrition None in area.
13 Blades Court
Deodar Rd,
London SW15 2NU
0181 877 9993 (n=142) Kelly Summers, Tel: 01234 212788
Society for the Promotion of
Nutritional Therapy
PO Box 47
Heathfield
E Sussex TN21 8ZX
01825 872921 No response to enquiries
http://visitweb.com/spnt
Register of Nutritional Therapists
Hatton Green
Warwick None in area
CV35 7LA (n=95)
British Society For Allergy
Environmental And Nutritional
Medicine*
PO Box 7 None in area
Knighton LD7 1WT
Tel: 01547 550380
Nutrition Therapy Council
Plaskett Nutritional Medicine College
3 Quoins House
Trevallett Kelly Summers, Tel: 01234 212788
Cornwall PL15 8SL
Tel: 0870 532 9244
Association of Natural Medicine
19a Collingwood Road
Witham
Essex CM8 2DY
Tel: 01376 502762
 34

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Nutritional None
Therapy via NHS referral

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 35

Reflexology
Updated June 2001
Reflexologists apply massage to “reflex zones” most often on the soles of the foot, in order
to effect benefits elsewhere in the body. As a non-intrusive treatment, it is considered
unlikely to interfere with conventional medical treatment and is popular among nurses,
midwives and other health service professionals (University of Exeter, 2000: Professional
Organisation of CAM in the UK).
Average Length of training 60 – 100 hours over 6 months.
 36

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

Association of Reflexologists Anthea Huband, Tel: 01234 261477

27 Old Gloucester Street Ursula Melen, Tel: 01234 303158
London WC1N 3XX Michael Page, Tel: 01234 302214
0870 5673320 Sue Owen, Tel: 01234 823778
(n=5090) Kay Trenby, Tel: 01234 822278
Nicholas Holt, Tel: 01234 881330
Annette Richer, Tel: 01234 888861
Patricia Day, Tel: 01234 822422
Marion Muirhead, Tel: 01234 768262
Avril McConnell, Tel: 01234 767619
Christopher Osbourne, Tel: 01234 767619
Lesley Roachford, Tel: 01234 782473
Christine Curnock, Tel: 01234 771637

The British Reflexology Association No response to enquiries

Monks orchard
Worcester WR6 5RB
Tel: 01886 821207 (n=730) Louise Holmes, Tel: 01234 822499
International Federation of Reflexologists
78 Edridge Road
Croydon, Surrey CR0 1EF
020 8667 9458 (n=2700)
Reflexologists Society None in area
PO Box 5422
Leicester LE2 2YG
0870 6073241 (n=360)
International Institute of Reflexology None in area
(UK)
255 Turleigh Road
Beadford on Avon
Wiltshire BA15 2HG
01225 865 899 (n=300) None in area
Holistic Association Of Reflexologists
Holistic Healing Centre
92 Sheering Road, Old Harlow
Essex CM17 0JN (n=700) None in area
01279 429 060
British School- Reflex Zone Therapy
23 Marsh Hall, Talisman Way
Wembley Park HA9 8JJ
Tel: 0208 904 4825 (n=950) None in area
Federation of Precision Reflexologists
38 South Street
Exeter, Devon EX1 1ED
01392 499 360 (n=97) Penelope Jones, Tel: 01234 364099
Guild of Complementary Practitioners
Liddell House, Lidell Close
Finchhampstead
Berks RG40 4NS
Tel 0118 973 5757 (n=1711) ‘Reflexology by Deborah’, Tel: 01234 302698
IIHHT Bedford College of FE, teaches Cynthia Bachi, Tel: 01234 354499
reflexology and awards the IIHHT diploma in Judith Meighan, Tel: 01234 306158
Reflexology, however, a detailed membership Melanie Reynolds, Tel: 01234 212788
list is not available for these practitioners.

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Reflexology via None
the NHS
n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association)
 37

Shiatsu
Updated June 2001
Shiatsu literally means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese. Through touch, pressure, stretching
and counselling, it induces deep relaxation in the body tissues and the mind, which helps
the immune/health systems to function properly. (Extract supplied from literature supplied
by the International Shiatsu Commission, 2001).
Shiatsu is a physical therapy in which the practitioner uses fingers, thumbs, elbows and
occasionally knees to apply pressure and stretching to the energy lines in the body known
as meridians. Shiatsu helps to release toxins from the body and also releases deep-seated
tension from the muscles. (Extract from literature supplied by Shiatsu International)

Average Length of training: 2 – 3 years part time.

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

The Shiatsu Society Joy Fisher, Tel: 01234 750546

Eastlands Court Gillian Hodshon, Tel: 01234 825369
St Peters Road Julia Marshall, Tel: 01234 354668
Rugby
CV21 3QP
Tel: 01788 555061
www.shiatsu.org (n = 2000)

International Shiatsu Commission None

68 Fairfield Road
East Grinstead
West Sussex
RH19 4HB
01342 328240 (n=72)

Shiatsu International
Maulak Chambers None
The Centre
High Street
Halstead
Essex C09 2AJ
01787 220373 (n = unknown)

Federation of Clinical Shiatsu None

Practitioners
36a Walnut Road
Chelston
Torquay
Devon
TQ2 6HS
Tel: 01803 605025 (n=35)
 38

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Shiatsu via None
NHS referral

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 39

Yoga
Updated June 2001
Yoga is a system of physical, mental and spiritual development which originated in India at
least 3000 years ago. It is not a religion or creed and can be practised by one of any age
and by either sex. Yoga takes into consideration the entire man/woman, in every respect –
nothing has been overlooked and the methods of physical discipline need improvement, as
they comprise everything that man needs for perfection of his health – correct breathing,
posture, exercise, diet, physical and mental relaxation and hygiene. (British Federation of
Yoga, 2001)

No information is available on membership numbers, or length of training.

Private Practice

Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in

bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

Yoga for Health Foundation Veronica Lafferty, Tel: 01234 212788

Ickwell Bury
Biggleswade
Beds
SG18 9EF
01767 627 271

Yoga Biomedical Trust Research and No response to enquiries

Info
PO Box 140
Cambridge
CB4 3SY

Iyengar Yoga Institute None

223a Randolf Avenue
W9 1NL

British Wheel of Yoga

Central Office Dorothy Turner, Tel: 01234 771538
1 Hamilton Place
Boston Road
Sleaford
Lincolnshire
NG34 7S
01529 306851

Yoga Therapy Centre No response to enquiries

Royal London Homoeopathic Hospital
60 Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3HR
0207 837 8833 or 0207 419 7195

Friends of Yoga society None

5 Weston Crescent
Old Sawley
Long Eaton
Nottingham
NG10 3BS
0115 973 5435
 40

NHS Provision in Bedford

The following GPs provide Yoga via
NHS referral None
 41

Group 3 Therapies

Those therapies believed by the House of Lords Select Committee Report on

CAM5 to be alternative disciplines which offer diagnostic information as well
as treatment, but for which the Committee did not find convincing evidence
of efficacy.
Those listed in this section included
• Anthroposophical Medicine
• Ayurvedic Medicine (for information see page 17)
• Chinese Herbal Medicine/Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Crystal Therapy
• Dowsing*
• Eastern Medicine (Tibb)*
• Iridology
• Kinesiology
• Naturopathy
• Radionics*

*Governing bodies/associations could not be identified for these

therapies and we could find no evidence of practitioners in the area.

Section Summary – Private Practice

A 62% response was received from the 16 associations and governing bodies
identified in this group, requesting information on registered practitioners in
the area.
6 practitioners were identified offering 1 or more of the above therapies:

Number of Number of non- Total number of

registered registered private private
private practitioners practitioners
practitioners providing CAM providing CAM
providing CAM
Anthroposophical 0 0 0
Medicine

Crystal Therapy 0 0 0

Iridology 1 0 1

Kinesiology 1 0 1

Naturopathy 1 0 1

Traditional Chinese 3 0 3
Medicine

No GPs provide access to the above CAM therapies

 42

Anthroposophical Medicine
Updated June 2001
Anthroposophical medicine provides a wide range of co-ordinated therapeutic
interventions linked to a rigorously holistic strategy. It is less commonly used in
the UK, than it is in German speaking countries, where it is a relatively well
accepted medical alternative, associated with sophisticated professional and
educational establishments and represented by a federal government committee.
Anthroposophy is represented in the UK by a medical association, a nursing
association by art and movement therapists. All rely on core professional training
outside anthroposophy. (University of Exeter, 2000: Professional Organisation of
CAM)

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
Anthroposophical Medical
Association None in area
c/o Park Attwood Clinic
Trimpley, Bewdley
Worcestershire DY12 1RE
(n=56) None in area
Anthroposophical Nurses’
Association
c/o Park Attwood Clinic
Trimpley, Bewdley No response to enquiries
Worcestershire DY12 1RE
(n=50)
Association of Anthroposophical
Art Therapists None in area
52 Coniston Rd
Kings Langley
Herts WD4 8DE
(n=50) None in area
Rhythmical Massage Therapy
Association
c/o Park Attwood Clinic
Trimpley, Bewdley
Worcestershire DY12 1RE
(n=15)
Association of Eurythmy
Therapists
c/o Park Attwood Clinic
Trimpley, Bewdley
Worcestershire DY12 1RE
(n=40)
 43

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide
Anthroposophical Medicine via NHS None
referral

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 44

Crystal Therapy
Updated June 2001
Crystal therapists believe that crystals contain ‘ancient energy’ which resonates
with the energies of the body to bring about healing. Therapists maintain that
crystals can alleviate spiritual, mental and physical ailments. The therapists may
put crystals around you or on your body; the gems or crystals may he held either
by you or by the practitioner or the therapist may use a combination of these
approaches. A session lasts between 40 and 90 minutes. Different stones are
believed to be suitable for a particular ailment. Quartz, for instance, is believed to
be good for general healing while Garnet is said to help depression. (Rowland
1997, Which Guide to Complementary Medicine)

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
Affiliation of Crystal Healing
Organisations
PO Box 100 None in area
Exminster,
Devon, EX6 8YT
Tel: 01479 841450
This body amalgamated 10 different
associations
No response to enquiries
International Federation of
Crystal, Sound & Natural Therapy
35a Mayfield Road
South Croydon
Surrey CR2 0BJ
None in area
The School of Electro-Crystal
Therapy
117 Long Drive
South Ruslip
Middx. HA4 0HL
 45

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Crystal
Therapy via NHS referral None
 46

Iridology
Updated June 2001
Iridology is the study of the iris of the eye, (the coloured sector), to determine
information about the bodily genetic strengths and weaknesses, levels of
inflammation and toxaemia, efficiency of the eliminative systems and organs, and
the causes of symptoms and disease. It helps the patient learn about their
strengths and weaknesses and become more personally aware of what they can do
to help them heal themselves. (Extract taken from literature supplied by the Guild of
Naturopathic Iridologists, 2001)

It is diagnostic only and does not provide a method of treatment.

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists
94 Grosvenor Road Kelly Summers, Tel: 01234 212788
London SW1V 3LF
0207 834 3579

International Association of No response to enquiries

Clinical Iridologists
853 Finchley Road
London NW11 8LX

The Holistic Iridology Association No response to enquiries

90 Tudor Drive
Morden
Surrey SM4 4PF

National Society of Iridologists No response to enquiries

998 Wimbourne Road
Bournemouth
BH9 2DE
 47

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Iridology via None
NHS referral
 48

Kinesiology
Updated June 2001
Kinesiology is a system of natural heath-care, which combines manual muscle-
testing with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Like acupuncture, it
works on the concept that disease results from blocked or imbalanced energy
channels. Special techniques are used to unblock or balance them to restore the
body to a state of health and harmony. By balancing all aspects of the person –
structural, chemical and mental – kinesiology puts the body in the optimum state
for self healing. According to kinesiologists, certain muscles are linked by energy
with acupuncture meridians, which are in turn linked with organs and glands.
Through muscle testing practitioners can evaluate the energy in the meridians and
therefore in the organs. (Rowland 1997, Which Guide to Complementary
Medicine)

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
Association for Systemic
Kinesiology Gillian Shaw, Tel: 01234 782358
39 Browns Road
Surbiton
Surrey KT5 8ST
 49

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Kinesiology None
via NHS referral
 50

Naturopathy
Updated June 2001
Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct system of healing – a philosophy, science, art
and practice which seeks to promote health by stimulating and supporting the
body’s inherent power to regain harmony and balance. The task of the
naturopathic practitioner is two-fold: first, to educate their patients to take more
responsibility for their health and to assist them to understand the fundamental
laws of health relating to rest, exercise nutrition and lifestyle. Second: using
natural therapies, to increase the vitality of the individual and to remove any
obstructions which may be interfering with normal functioning and internal
harmony of the organs and tissues. This is achieved using a number of therapies,
which include nutrition and dietetics, fasting, osteopathy, hydrotherapy and
education. (Extract taken from literature supplied by the General Council and
Register of Naturopaths, 2001).

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)

General Council and Register of Louisa Whitlock, Tel: 01234 353800

Naturopaths
Goswell House
2 Goswell Road, Street
Somerset BA16 0JG
01458 840072 (n=310)

The Incorporated Society of No response to enquiries

Registered Naturopaths*
The Coach House
293 Gilmerton Road
Edinburgh
EH16 5UQ (n=26)
 51

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Naturopathy None
via NHS referral

n = (this refers to the number of practitioners registered with an association nationally).

 52

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Updated June 2001
Chinese Medicine is a complete medical system that is capable of treating
disease in all its forms and consists of a number of therapies which include,
prescription of Chinese herbs, acupuncture, dietary therapy, exercise and
lifestyle management. (Extract taken from literature supplied by the
Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine, 2001).

Private Practice
Associations/governing Registered Practitioners in
bodies Bedford
(listed by association)
Register of Chinese Herbal
Medicine Maxwell Naiken, Tel: 01234 212788
PO Box 400 Jethrow Rowland, Tel: 01234 353630
Middlesex HA9 9NZ W & Z Clinic of Chinese Medicine, Tel: 0800
0207 224 0883 7833569
 53

NHS Provision in
Bedford
The following GPs provide Traditional None
Chinese Medicine via NHS referral