ADAS is able to provide a range of
different complementary therapies to help support clients manage
physical and psychological problems associated with drug or alcohol
use. As for counselling, these therapies are free and are not limited
to a fixed number of sessions but they are structured and goal orientated.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the controlled use of essential oils derived from
flowers, herbs and trees to help alleviate physical and psychological
problems. Essential oils are chosen for an aromatherapy treatment
on the basis of an assessment with the complementary therapist,
bearing in mind the conditions which are of greatest importance
to the patient. Each oil used addresses at least one of the client’s
conditions, with consideration also given to how the oils will blend
for optimum effect. Certain conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy,
high/low blood pressure and pregnancy need to be notified to the
therapist as they will influence the decision for treatment. Although
aromatherapy is normally associated with massage, it can be administered
by inhalation, gargle/mouth wash, bath, compress, cream/lotion or
burner.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a traditional technique of manipulating
soft tissue in the shoulders and scalp. The complementary therapist
uses a range of different massage pressures and rhythms to stimulate
the head and neck area. A typical massage lasts approximately 40
minutes. Indian head massage may:-
- aid the circulatory, muscular and nervous
systems
- stimulate arterial circulation and increase
venous and lymphatic flow
- reduce stress and induce feelings of euphoria
- free knots of muscular tension and relax
connective tissue
- stimulate the skin and underlying nerve
endings
- aid in the elimination of accumulated toxins
and waste products
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese massage which aims to rebalance the body’s
energy. It works along lines of energy – meridians –
that flow deep within the body and relate to different organs and
functions. Using these meridians and specific pressure points, a
treatment allows a client to relax deeply and to get in touch with
their own body’s healing abilities. Shiatsu means finger pressure
in Japanese, but the complementary therapist also uses palms, elbows,
knees and feet, applying pressure to different parts of the body.
Stretches and rotations are also used to open up the meridians and
release blockages. Shiatsu is given through loose, comfortable clothing
with the client usually lying on a futon on the floor, though it
is possible to receive a treatment sitting in a chair.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a holistic therapy which treats the whole person
as opposed to just focusing upon symptoms. This therapy can bring
relief to a wide variety of conditions and it is suitable for people
of all ages, including children. A treatment usually lasts for approximately
one hour, during which time the client will feel pressure on the
various reflex points of the feet. Some of the areas touched may
feel tender at first but his is purely transitory and may be an
indication of congestion or tension or imbalance in a corresponding
part of the body. The treatment is designed to relax the client
but also stimulate the body’s own natural healing processes.
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