Wellwellwelltherapy is me, Jessica Starr.  I am a holistic therapist based in Caerphilly, South Wales. 

A holistic therapist considers the "whole" client as a complex human being when selecting the appropriate treatment for them, rather than focusing on a particular symptom or condition.  The therapies practised are considered to be complementary as they complement and enhance the existing healthcare provided by the client's doctor.

Complementary therapies are growing in popularity in the UK as people are turning to safe, gentle and natural approaches to health maintenance.  My treatments work to restore the healthy balance of the body, addressing the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of ourselves.

Almost everyone can benefit in some way from complementary therapies.  Aside from the significant benefits of relaxation, stress relief, improved energy levels and sense of wellbeing, specific therapies can also be effective for a wide range of chronic and acute health problems.

I began my training as a complementary therapist in 2006.  I had become disillusioned with traditional medical care and wanted to deliver a safe, natural route to better health.  I am passionate about educating people about their health and giving them the power to look after themselves. 

The first therapy I learned was reiki.  I studied with reiki master Alyson Everett and was awarded my Shoden (first degree) in November 2006.  After practising for just over a year at this level I progressed onto the second degree (Okuden).  I studied for this with reiki master teacher Louise Adams.  I gained my second degree in February 2008. 

I began my reflexology training in January 2007.  I took a Level III Diploma in Reflexology accredited by the Association of Reflexologists (AOR).  To date, this course is the most highly regarded and stringent reflexology training available in the UK, meeting and exceeding National Occupational Standards.  The course not only covers reflexology techniques but also in depth anatomy and physiology, knowledge of diseases and disorders, and nutrition.  My tutor, Judith Whatley, runs her own Academy of Reflexology and is a tutor on the BSc(Hons) Complementary Therapy course in UWIC.  I successfully completed the course in December 2007.  I am an AOR accredited reflexologist. 

My massage qualifications are Level 3 Certificate in Swedish Massage and Practitioner's Certificate in Indian Head Massage.  I also have a Practitioner's Certificate in Hot Stone Therapy.

I am committed to continuing professional development (CPD) and regularly top-up my existing knowledge and qualifications through extra training, including post-graduate courses and therapy shares with other therapists.  I will be studying aromatherapy massage (Level III Diploma) starting September 2008.  I am also currently taking a practitioners' course in Naturopathic Nutrition. 

Before my career as a holistic therapist I was a primary school teacher.  I have a BA(Hons) degree in English Literature and a PGCE.  I am hoping to put my Qualified Teacher Status to good use and begin teaching therapies in the future. 

Apart from my AOR reflexology qualification all my other therapies are accredited and insured by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT). 

Note: Please make sure that any therapist you choose is properly qualified and insured.  A genuine therapist will be accredited by, and be a member of, a professional organisation and will hold insurance. 

Unfortunately there are some people who call themselves therapists who do not have recognised qualifications.  These people give our profession a bad name and need to be stopped.  If in doubt then ask.  A legitimate therapist will not be offended and will be only too happy to provide evidence of accreditation and insurance.   

To keep up to date with my current training (and to find out about special offers and promotions) please visit my offerspage.