My approach to treatment is very flexible and is led by your preference and the nature of your complaint.  In reality many people benefit from treatment with both homeopathy and herbs, either simultaneously or in sequence. At your first consultation please bring a list of any medicines (and supplements) you are currently taking.  You won't be asked to stop taking them but it is important that I know of any medication as some herbs can interact with some medicines (I need this information for homeopathic consultations too).

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A CONSULTATION

HOMEOPATHY

Your first consultation will take one and a half hours to two hours and each follow-up visit will take about an hour.   We will chat about many aspects of your life, your current health, any past health issues and family health history.  I will also ask some more unusual questions, such as your likes and dislikes, your food and climate preferences, your sleep patterns, your fears and how you express your emotions; all designed to get a picture of you as an individual and to understand the unique way your symptoms affect you.  Patients new to homeopathy can find this process surprising and intriguing but they usually find it enoyable.  It is all designed to enable me to find the particular remedy (or remedies) which is just right for you.

Remedies may be prescribed on the spot but it is more likely that I will take time to reflect on the information you have given me.  In that case I will post them after the consultation - you should receive them within a few days.

After the first consultation at least another one or two follow-up appointments will be needed, at four to five-week intervals, to assess your reaction to the remedy.  During that time I may ask you to monitor some of your symptoms and we will discuss your progress at your next consultation.

Skype/webcam consultations are available for follow-up appointments (see practice information for further details).  These are not suitable for children however and I find that first consultations are always better face to face.

HERBS

Your initial consultation will take an hour or so, and each follow up visit will take about three-quarters of an hour.  We will talk about all aspects of your current health problems, including lifestyle, diet, medical and family history, and together we will devise solutions to your health concerns.

Unlike homeopathic consultations, herbal consultations will include some physical examinations including blood pressure, looking at your tongue and taking your pulse.

You will be given a personalised health programme that includes herbal medicine, dietary and lifestyle advice, and exploration of self-help possibilities.  Any herbs prescribed will be posted to you directly after the consultation, from quality-controlled, sustainable sources.  Herbs are organic where possible.  Adjustments may be made to your herbal medication at follow-up appointments.