Therapists lease space at health centre

The Peninsula Women's Health Centre has announced it will host new low cost alternative therapy services including acupuncture, herbal medicine and massage therapy.

"The Central Coast Community Women's Health Centres are committed to providing a low cost quality holistic care service," community development worker Ms Katherine Bradfield said.

"We have therefore leased rooms at our centres, including on the Peninsula, to qualified alternative therapists at a minimal charge, so that they can provide a low cost service to the community.

"The therapists have signed a contract with the centre and are responsible for their own bookings, cancellations and collection and receipting of fees.

"Appointments must be made with the therapist."

Ms Bradfield said fees and charges would be kept at a low cost for the Peninsula community.

Massage therapy with Yvonne Jones is available on Monday and Saturday by appointment.

Yvonne has more than 17 years experience as a massage practitioner and specialises in Shiatsu and Remedial massage.

She said regular massage treatments help the client feel better physically, by relaxing and easing body aches, relieving restricted movement and calming the mind.

Another qualified massage therapist is available for bookings on Tuesday and Friday.

"Debbie understands the pressures and demands on women in society and has a great passion for women's health," Ms Bradfield said.

"She deeply acknowledges and believes in the benefits of massage for women and making time to nurture themselves in their busy and demanding lifestyles.

"Women have a right to expect to be treated in a holistic way in the area of health and Debbie feels massage is an important approach.

"Ongoing massage therapy has a cumulative effect, which can improve energy levels, circulation, body posturing, general health, stress management and overall confidence."

Mei Lan has practised acupuncture in Australia since 1980.

She is an accredited member of the Australian Traditional Chinese Medicine Association.

"Acupuncture treats the body as an integrated whole," Ms Bradfield said.

"The goal of treatment is to restore the body's balance, allowing natural healing and repair to take place.

"Acupuncture can assist in a wide range of health problems, including headaches, dental pain, back, neck and shoulder pain ache, arthritis, pregnancy, gastrointestinal disorders and gynaecological conditions, to name a few."

Mei Lan's acupuncture therapy is available on Friday and Saturday between 10am and 3pm.

Herbalist Julie Ivision will also be providing her services to the Peninsula Women's Health Centre later in the year.

For more information contact the Peninsula Women's Health Centre on 43425905.

Press release, 29 Aug 2008 Katherine Bradfield, Peninsula Women's Health Centre