Practitioners

Clinic Director, Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Intergrative Health Practitioner- Ivy 


I come from a long lineage of Acupuncturists and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, spanning three generations in Wuhan, China. My passion lies in promoting the ancient art of Acupuncture, blending the wisdom of classical Chinese texts with modern Western research to provide holistic and effective care.

 

In July 2009, I graduated from the University of Westminster with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture, achieving an Upper Second Class Honours degree. My training was accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB), and I am a proud member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), the UK’s largest professional body for traditional acupuncturists. This membership also allows me to work with major private medical insurance providers, including Aviva, WPA, Simple Health, Westfield Cash Plan, Bupa Cash Plan, and Bupa International. I am also a member of British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS) which is a recognised provider register for major UK insurance companies. 

 

I furthered my education by completing a Master of Science (MSc) in Chinese Herbal Medicine with merit at the University of Westminster in August 2017. In August 2019, I trained in Balance Acupuncture, an advanced system developed by the late Dr. Richard W. B. Tan, known for its ability to deliver immediate pain relief and effective results.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I actively participated in the Jade Screen Project, supporting frontline workers with Chinese herbal medicine. I also attended bi-weekly online seminars and training courses to stay updated on the latest developments in acupuncture and herbal medicine.

 

With over 17 years of clinical experience in both NHS and private practice, I specialize in comprehensive health assessments and tailoring treatments to enhance and restore well-being. My approach combines a deep understanding of TCM principles with personalized care, ensuring the most effective treatment for each client.

I am committed to continuous professional development, regularly attending seminars and training courses to refine my skills and stay at the forefront of TCM practice.

 

For more insights into my work, please visit my blog, where I share anonymized case studies of clients who have benefited from acupuncture for conditions such as Musculoskeletal Pain, Digestive/Respiratory Issues, Women’s Health, Paediatric Acupuncture, Insomnia, Emotional Support, Complex/Unexplained Cases and Fertility. In my practice, I focus on root causes, lifestyle, and prevention, offering personalized care plans involving nutrition, acupuncture, and mindfulness to support long-term health.

 

Click here to read testimonials from patients and learn how my service has transformed their lives.

 

Outside of work, I enjoy maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing ballet, and vounteering at my local hockey club

Ivy-Xu

“Ivy Xin Xu took part in a large nationwide study that investigated how non-specific effects (e.g. the therapeutic relationship, patient and practitioner beliefs and attitudes towards the treatment, the clinic environment, and characteristics of the treatment) influence patients' recovery/management of their lower back pain. Ivy Xin Xu was a participating practitioner, who introduced the study to eligible patients and gave them patient invitation packs. Ivy Xin Xu also completed treatment follow up questionnaires and liaised with the University of Southampton for the duration of the study. Support from practitioners like Ivy Xin Xu was vital for the success of the study. The research team at the University of Southampton are very grateful for practitioners like Ivy Xin Xu who support research that is important to the improvement of future lower back pain treatments.”   

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                      - MOCAM study coordinator, University of Southampton

Associate Acupuncturist and Naturopath - Helena 

From a young age, I was captivated by the healing arts and knew I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others through healthcare. However, it wasn’t until I experienced the transformative power of acupuncture first hand that I found my true calling in Chinese medicine.

 

I graduated with qualifications in Acupuncture and Naturopathy from the College of Naturopathic Medicine. During my studies, I developed a deep understanding of holistic healing, learning to treat each patient as a unique individual with tailored care.

 

In my practice, I strive to create a safe, warm, and nurturing environment where your overall well-being is the focus. My treatments aim to restore optimal physical and emotional balance, often integrating Chinese medicine principles with personalized lifestyle and nutritional advice to enhance the healing process.

 

My special interests lie in treating musculoskeletal and pain conditions, as well as supporting women’s health and fertility. I am passionate about helping my patients achieve their health goals and feel their best.

 

As a fully insured member of the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ATCM), I am committed to upholding the highest standards of care in my practice. 

Helena-Franco

Massage Therapist - Kurtis

Kurtis specialises in evidence-based Sports Massage, Deep Tissue Therapy, and Traditional Thai massage technique Tok Sen from Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai). These treatments are designed to correct musculoskeletal dysfunction and relieve pain effectively.

 

Each session is carefully tailored to address issues such as office syndrome, postural imbalances, repetitive strain, and sports-related injuries. Whether you are a desk-based professional managing chronic stiffness or an athlete aiming to enhance performance, mobility, and recovery, the approach is precise, structured, and results-focused.

 

A registered member of Complementary Therapists Association(CThA), Kurtis brings professionalism and expertise to every session. He welcomes clients at the massage clinic on Monday afternoons, offering a sanctuary for those seeking balance and rejuvenation.

Kurtis-West

Massage Therapist - Keanah

Keanah is a holistic massage therapist specialising in Swedish and Deep Tissue techniques, blending relaxation with targeted therapeutic work. Her integrated approach supports both body and mind, helping clients release accumulated tension, improve mobility and find calm in a soothing, restorative environment.

 

Her treatments are tailored to ease a wide range of everyday concerns, including muscular tightness, postural discomfort, stress-related tension and the effects of busy routines or active lifestyles. Whether clients are looking for deeper pressure to relieve persistent knots or a gentle, calming treatment to unwind, her style is intuitive, balanced and centred around each person’s needs.

 

Qualified in Full Body Massage (Swedish/Holistic, 2021) and holding an Advanced Diploma in Deep Tissue Massage, Keanah is a registered member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT). She brings a grounded, nurturing presence to her sessions, offering a space where clients can fully relax, reset and reconnect with their wellbeing.

 

Keanah welcomes clients at the massage clinic on Thursdays.

Keanah-Forrester

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