I originally trained as a linguist, gaining an MA from the University of Edinburgh in 1972. After teaching English abroad and freelancing as an interpreter and translator, I worked in educational administration, taught in schools and colleges and wrote a couple of textbooks, before returning to study at the University of Manchester. I took a BA in 1981, and carried out research among Italian immigrant communities in the UK, which led to an MA in 1982, and I completed my PhD in 1987. I worked for many years as a university lecturer of Italian language and linguistics and moved into quality assurance consultancy work and training in higher education in 1996. I have led over 50 review visits to universities for the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the Quality Assurance Agency, and advised higher education institutions on their quality assurance systems.

I have long been interested in what is sometimes called lifestyle management. In 1987, I took a short course in assertiveness training, which proved to be a turning point in my life. I later qualified as an Assertiveness Trainer and this led to developing an interest in areas such as time management and stress management, as well as a commitment to my own personal development and to achieving balance between the various aspects of my life.

I have also benefited from complementary therapies over many years, and decided to train as a professional practitioner in Indian Head Massage and Reflexology. At the beginning of 2003, I trained in Indian Head Massage in Bristol and gained the Practitioner's Certificate in Indian Head Massage, which is accredited by the Institute of Indian Head Massage in London. I was awarded the Diploma in Reflexology, accredited by the International Federation of Reflexologists in May 2004. I am a member of the International Federation of Reflexologists (MIFR) and the Complementary Therapists Association (MCThA) of EMBODY.

Based on a varied personal career and life opportunities, I have built up a range of business activities that reflect my experience and belief in the importance of the individual and work/life balance: if an individual feels validated and has balance in all aspects of life, that individual will be capable of making a greater contribution to work and the community. As someone who has seen and experienced the debilitating effects of stress, I now specialise in this area, whether it be treating the symptoms of stress, or helping clients review their lifestyle to try and minimise harmful stress.

You can find more information on the treatments I offer by clicking on the relevant section. I welcome further enquiries by telephone or email, and I look forward to welcoming you as a client in the near future.