Nicola Bradbury is a qualified and experienced medical herbalist and counsellor who has worked in clinical practice with cancer patients

offering holistic support therapy for patients undergoing orthodox medical treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery.The need for a cancer support therapy regime to work alongside conventional treatments for cancer administered by medical doctors and oncologists evolved during clinical observations of patients experiencing fear, anger and a general feeling of helplessness once they receive a diagnosis of cancer by their doctor.

The aim of complementary support therapy for cancer is not to encourage false hope, but to create a feeling of control and personal responsibility in the lives of the patients and their families so that they can focus their attention on a positive daily programme which will enhance their quality of life, in many cases increase their longevity and in some instances even contribute to a remission from the illness.

The support programme looks at the environmental factors which may be undermining the patients immune system, their emotional stresses before and during their diagnosis, herbal, nutritional and dietary changes which may help to support the patient through the rigours of their conventional treatment protocols. It also provides an empathic and confidential sounding board for patients and their families.

After twenty years in clinical practice in Cheshire Nicola has moved to the Isle of Skye to renovate a property in a tranquil coastal location to become a Retreat or Sanctuary where people can come to stay to benefit from the support therapy or to just take time out to reflect and recharge. Workshops and teaching seminars will be available at various times throughout the year at the centre.

Nicola Bradbury, BEd ( Hons ), MH, is a member of the British Herbal Medicine Association and Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners, abides by the code and conduct of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy and is a member of the National Federation of Spiritual Healers.