Lynn Vereenooghe

School Principal

My journey into this wonderful world started back in 1988 when a desire to understand how essential oils could be so potent and therapeutic led me to my first courses in complementary therapies. To my surprise at the time I fell in love with anatomy and physiology and the wonders of the human body and its innate ability to heal itself. The massage and aromatherapy courses that followed took me from being curious and interested to absolutely hooked! I knew this was the world I wanted to be in. To everyone’s surprise I walked away from my lucrative corporate career and set up in practice full-time. Further training followed culminating in qualifying as an Osteopath.

The knowledge I gained along the way gave me the desire and skill-set necessary to set up a training programme specifically for complementary therapists. At the time, good quality training was hard to find, standards were questionable and although the interest was growing in complementary therapies there was a shortage of good schools.  MSCM was born and the rest is history.

I am so proud of all we have achieved at MSCM; the many thousands of therapists we have been privileged to teach, our amazing teaching team whose passion and enthusiasm knows no bounds, the lives we have changed, the incredible therapists we have come to know and love, but most importantly it is an honour to realise that we have made a difference! Every student who passes through MSCM and goes on to share their gift of therapies to others is paying it forward and making the lives of others better. I am honoured to have helped make this happen.

Did you know? My interest lies in pain management – possibly due to many years as an Arsenal fan!

Lucy Bush

For me, the joy of being a tutor with MSCM is having the privilege to see people develop and flourish as they absorb new skills. Whether it be that they are discovering touch and Reflexology for the first time or that they are adding new techniques to their repertoire, it is one of the greatest feelings that there is.

My background is in Energy Healing, developing from a natural medicine upbringing by my parents and from my grandmother who recognised the flow of energy in me as a child.  I have always had a fascination for the body and its ability to heal itself when given the chance to do so. Eventually, Energy Healing took me on a journey to discover subtle therapies such as Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, Aromatherapy and Sound. It was whilst working as a dental nurse in a holistic practice, that I realised that more detailed anatomy and physiology knowledge would be a good idea! So, I enrolled on an Anatomy and Physiology course with MSCM in 1998 and went on to qualify in Massage, Indian Head Massage, Aromatherapy and Reflexology – I had found another family. The journey and learning continue!

Having worked at MSCM since 2006 as our Training Co-ordinator, I am now amazed and happy to be a tutor in Reflexology, Crystal and Subtle Energy courses.  I also have the joy of being involved in the Wellbeing Retreats and the Sound Bath Meditations. Alongside this, I have my complementary therapy business and my treatments focus on light, balance and working from the heart. I have a passion for books, nature, photography and music - each of which connect with the complementary therapies and natural medicine that make life complete.

Did you know? Lucy means Light. I was named Lucy because of my mother’s love of CS Lewis’ Narnia books which she read to us again and again – she passed the love on to me! The girl who believes in magic and that nothing is impossible.

Anita Snowball

I have been associated with the Middlesex School of Complementary Medicine since 1997 when I started my training, this was for something different to do from my normal day to day life as a police officer. I fell head over heels with the whole concept of complementary therapies.  I continued with my training in various techniques in massage and Indian Head Massage, and my passion just grew and grew. In 1999 I resigned my 20-year career from the police and I joined the school as a member of staff. I went on to study reflexology and became absolutely intrigued by this therapy.

I was soon encouraged, to start teaching, a very scary thought initially but once again, I just loved it and have continued to remain passionate and excited about sharing my knowledge and skills. I teach the Massage and Reflexology course as well as the Anatomy and Physiology course, also the advanced massage and some of the advanced reflexology courses.  To see the students, develop their application and passion for the therapies they train in is an absolute delight. I continue to work as a mobile therapist offering massage and reflexology.

Did you know? Before my massage course I had never received a professional massage, something was obviously guiding me in the right direction

Robert Lewis

I started my career as a Fitness instructor with Nottingham based SHAPE Fitness in 1990, teaching a range of classes around the East Midlands and in the mid-nineties ‘down south’ in London.

Fitness led to Massage, Reflexology and Sports Therapies with a host of other Holistic skills. During this time discovering MSCM, attending several of their excellent courses.

In 2003 I undertook a career change and following the successful completion of my Teacher Training Qualifications, took up post as Lecturer in Anatomy, Physiology & Holistic Practice at East Berkshire College in Slough, all whilst still practising Fitness and Complementary Therapies – a busy time!

In 2015 again looking to develop my role within healthcare, I Joined the Ambulance Service as front line staff and now enjoy a career combining all aspects of Health & Social Care.

I am a father to four teenage children and teaches Sports Massage, Warm Bamboo Massage, Onsite Massage, Kiniseo Taping and Thai foot Massage with MSCM

Did you know? I used to share a flat with George Michael (the popstars') Sister, met the star and attended several Wham concerts as a VIP guest.

Gill Greig

It’s a scary thought but I have been teaching and assessing First Aid for over 20 years! During which time there have been many changes. Some of my knowledge came from nursing, having been a Ward Sister & Nurse Tutor plus from my ongoing experience as a first aider at sporting and corporate events. I am also a complementary therapist having originally trained in aromatherapy & reflexology but like many therapists my portfolio has grown having attended many other courses including Reiki, baby massage, Indian Head Massage…….

I love teaching first aid because the dynamics of every group is different all bringing and sharing their own knowledge and experiences. Knowing that potentially any of my students could actually save someone's life or support someone through sudden injury or illness is so rewarding. As professionals it is vital that all therapists recognise the importance of being confident & competent in first aid as we can often be treating clients with complex health needs but could also be faced with the unexpected.

I deliver my courses in a relaxed, light-hearted fun way to help aid learning of a subject that can be quite frightening, but also to compensate for having to study at a weekend and to encourage students to return to renew their certificate every three years - always great to see familiar faces as well as new ones!

Did you know?  My daughter was delivered naturally less than three hours after arriving in hospital with no painkilling drugs/gases due to, I believe, REFLEXOLOGY through my pregnancy. Thank goodness for Complementary Therapies

Jacqueline Dark

My name is Jacqueline and I run my own small business offering complementary therapies. I have been a therapist since 1997 and still have a massive passion for my work, specialising in Fertility, Pregnancy and Women’s Health. I have continued my training over the years and gained qualifications in a huge array of subjects including Hot Stones Massage, Traditional Thai Yoga Massage, Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage, Reflexology, Baby Massage Instructors, Angelic Reiki, Heated Bamboo therapy as well as advanced workshops on Pregnancy, Fertility Massage and Reflexology. I am currently very interested in Women’s Health, particularly menstrual issues and menopause, helping my clients manage both of these with hopefully ease and comfort. I have found myself using more crystals in my work of late and am slowly enhancing my knowledge and use of these.

A number of years ago I developed a keen interest in Mindfulness and Meditation, I found it very difficult to meditate, I thought I had to sit there with my eyes closed and keep my mind still - I have since learnt a number of different ways to meditate that in fact are quite the opposite of this image - sound/gong baths and trance dances are my 2 favourites.

Since gaining my AET qualification in teaching I have run a few small retreats, chakra dancing and meditation workshops which I have thoroughly enjoyed, I always try to make my classes informative, interactive and fun.

Did you know? – In 2012 I decided I wanted to play netball. I didn’t want to join a club so decided with a friend to start my own club; I didn't know the rules and could barely play. I now have 5 teams that play as part of my club - although I do know the rules, I still can't play very well :-)

Nigel Watkins

Having been a great believer in, and user of, complementary therapies for as long as I can remember, I had always promised myself to find out more about reflexology ‘someday’. After many years in the corporate world, the opportunity presented itself in 2011 when I was finally able to make good on that promise.

Having qualified as a reflexologist, massage therapist, reiki master teacher and aromatherapist (in that order!), I have been fortunate enough to have delivered clinical complementary therapies at The Disability Foundation, University College London Hospital MacMillan Cancer Support Centre, Paul's Cancer Support Centre and Pembridge Hospice.

I currently work as Lead Oncology Complementary Therapist for The LOC (Leaders in Oncology Care) and The Harley Street Clinic.

I have been awarded Fellowship Member status of both the Association of Reflexologists FMAR and the Federation of Holistic Therapists FFHT.

My passion has always been teaching and I look forward to meeting you on one of my courses in the future.

Did you know? I grew up in South Africa and find that nothing soothes the soul quite like being on safari and waking up to find a wild animal on your doorstep!

Lisa Gwilliam

I was lucky to be brought up with complementary medicine and massage, even though I was too ticklish to enjoy massage until I was older! I have always been interested in how the body works and what we can do to support ourselves using natural remedies and therapies.

I completed my Cidesco, Thai massage and aromatherapy diplomas in 2006 and later travelled to Thailand to study at TMC Thai Massage School in Chang Mai in 2008. I joined Neal’s Yard Remedies in 2012 as a tutor, delivering courses to staff, therapists and the general public covering many topics including aromatherapy, skincare, natural remedies and making your own products.

Over the years I have received further training in deep tissue, hot stone, facial rejuvenation, teacher training and an additional diploma in Essential Oil Science and Therapeutics.

I continue my private massage practice alongside my teaching. I truly love teaching, meeting new people and sharing knowledge. I find it extremely rewarding when students return and it is fantastic to hear how they have progressed or been inspired in their own practice and life.

Did you know? ..............My grandfather was a naturopath and osteopath, he ended up having to move away to the Isle of Man to retire as his clients kept pestering him to come back and practice!

Ruth Hoey

I am a nurturer by nature. I have spent over half of my life caring for others, mainly children and their families as I established a career in childcare. However, at the beginning of 2020 something within me changed. As opposed to focusing so much on the growth of others, I was provided with the opportunity to direct my energy towards my own self-improvement. 

A turning point in my journey of self-healing came through the power of sound. I remember clearly my first attendance at a sound bath - a shift in my energetic state, the feeling of elevation and a connection to self, to source and to endless possibilities. I loved it so much that I knew had to share this healing modality with others. By 2021 I began my training to become an Integrated Sonic Medicine therapist and I have continued to learn about sound and energy healing ever since. I use an ever-growing collection of instruments ranging from the gong, quartz crystal singing bowls, shamanic drums, chimes and my voice, each designed to take you on a journey which will enable you to drop into a deeply relaxed state and bring physical and emotional wellbeing. For some, it has been life-changing!

I am also a space holder who works with the beautiful heart-opening plant, Cacao. With this magic, I create circles which allow us to meet as a community, drink, listen to the wisdom of our hearts, share our voices, move and celebrate the beauty of life. 

I would love to welcome you to one of my sessions which truly are a chance for you to be held in a safe space and feel harmonised and at peace once again.

Mark David Woollard

 
I joined this marvellous industry in 2004 when I started my training in Swedish massage. At first I was doing it as my ‘back up’ career as I wanted to be a full time writer. Before I knew it, I fell in love with holistic therapy and it has now been my full time career for almost twenty years.

 
After catching the bug, I trained in Indian Head massage, Reflexology, facials, reiki, deep tissue massage and many more. I keep adding courses to my belt every year as I think it’s important not to become stagnant and to keep learning. As the old adage goes, “Knowledge is Power!” And there’s nothing more powerful than complementary medicine.

 
I currently run my own mobile therapy business and it makes me feel old that I’ve now been treating some of my clients for nearly fifteen years! I love nothing more than seeing the joy on a client’s face after every single treatment. I specialise in Reflexology for fertility, IBS, mental health and arthritis and regularly write for ‘Massage World’ magazine.

 
I can’t wait to see you on a course in the future. I just love passing on my knowledge and passion to the therapists of the future.

 
Did you know? My childhood dream was to move to Australia and star in 1980’s soap, “Prisoner: Cell Block H.” It broke my heart when my mother broke the news that it was axed in 1986!

Vivienne Campbell

I qualified as an herbalist in 2003. I live Ireland and have a herbal medicine clinic there. I run classes on herbal medicine, wild food foraging and natural cosmetic-making for the general public as well as CPD classes for professionals and I also teache worldwide via my online video course.

I have appeared on Irish television numerous times and am a recognised speaker at international conferences and events. I gave a lecture and lead foraging walks at the Botanica conferences. I was interviewed for the upcoming documentary Uncommon Scents: The Movie. In my lecture for Formula Botanica (an international organic skincare school) I explored the potential of using sustainable local herbs in professional natural products.

I love teaching people how to use herbs simply, effectively and joyfully. I believe it is everyone’s birth-right to know how to use common local plants as nutritious wild foods and health-enhancing natural remedies. I am currently writing my first book. You can discover more on my website: https://theherbalhub.com/ 

Qualification: BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine

Professional memberships: The National Institute of Medical Herbalists, The Association of Foragers

Amanda Philipe-Savage

My journey as a holistic practitioner began in 1994, after a 12-year career in the legal profession. During that time, I saw my colleagues, friends and familiar commuter faces, falling into the abyss of physical, physiological, and emotional dis-ease and I did not want to end up in the same place. So, I left it all behind and mastered various techniques to help restore and maintain people’s well-being, including my family, ageing parents, and children.

Every technique I have learned and practise, I have personally experienced. These include; aromatherapy, massage, kinesiology, Reiki, crystal healing, meditation, and mindfulness. The most significant technique though is Bowen. I started this journey in 2010 but as fast as I started, I was involved in a car accident that left me with substantial injuries, including paralysis of the right arm. This was my ‘wake-up’ call on many levels. Fortunately, I regained full function and mobility against all the odds, through weekly Bowen treatments and kinesiology to ‘neutralise’ the trauma of the accident, allowing me to drive again with confidence. Although this is a personal journey, it was the start of a new approach in my practice and one that I still use today, to accelerate healing.

Through my ever-growing skill set, I find the root cause of dis-ease and help the body restore its well-being from a cellular level. The body is like an onion; you often need to peel back many layers to find the root cause of symptoms - the experience, the first drop of water in your bucket, which is stored at a cellular level.  There is so much more to tell you, so it might be easier to share a link for the most up-to-date information: www.enjoybetterhealth.co.uk. 

Alongside my practice, I teach Bowen, Reiki, crystal healing, meditation, mindfulness, self-muscle testing, and functional movement to share my knowledge and experience with a wider audience. I am very excited to be part of the MSCM team and offer  CPD courses I devised to help manual therapists support clients holding trauma in their bodies.

 

Did you know … I have danced since I was 2 ½ years old – ballet, contemporary, jazz, ballroom, and Latin. Lockdown was the hardest time for me, being away from the dancefloor, so I devised a functional movement sequence to maintain my physical and mental health. This programme is now shared with all my clients today, as part of their well-being programme.

Toni Vyse

Toni Vyse is an experienced energy worker and has studied various therapeutic traditions, including massage, myofascial release, meditation, TRE (tension, trauma and stress releasing exercises), Reiki, crystal healing, a shamanic tradition, Rahanni, Pellowah and various sound healing modalities, including voice, light language, drum and gong. She also holds a diploma in adult education.

‘My ongoing learning, curiosity and exploration has deepened my connection with nature. I have learnt to open my heart, trust and follow my feet, it has lead me intuitively into the sacred art of drum rebirthing.

I have always been interested in how energy healing supports our self healing and personal development. Self healing is such an important part of the work I do and it is fundamental in the way I teach. 

I am very empathic and have needed to learn a level of emotional intelligence, to be able to recognise what is mine and what is not.  

My self healing exploration has taught me how to put myself at the centre of my healing process. I am aware of and able ‘listen’ to my body’s expression as the healing process begins to unfold. My knowledge TRE and the fundamentals of the stress response has taught me a lot about how to create safety and comfortably negotiate my healing process in conscious, grounded, supportive and manageable way.’ 

Did you know … I am a twin. I have a twin brother and we did a lot together growing up and were fairly sporty, so whatever he did, I tried too. I played golf and chess competitively.