The Nutritional Supplement

Which course did you graduate from at CNELM and when did you graduate?

BSc Nutrition Science + NTPD 2020

What did you do before doing this course?

I worked on a super yacht and in fine dining.

What made you decide to embark on this course of study and what attracted you to CNELM? 

After coming off the boat I tidied up my lifestyle and all the factors involved in that and felt so much better, so I started to look for ways I could make that way of life into a career.  I had always wanted to do further study so was on the lookout!  I had a chance conversation at a yoga class with the MSc leader for Nutritional Therapy at Worcester University.  She mentioned CNELM and said how great it was.  I spoke with The Centre and felt their flexibility in terms of attendance and timings and their demographic would really suit me.

What was your first role after graduating?

I set up my own business in Nutritional Therapy and I also started working as a Course Interviewer and Support Coach (Coaching in Personalised Nutrition Practice module) for CNELM.

How did you kickstart your practice / career?

By having patience, flexibility and taking on a portfolio of roles (which proved to be invaluable).  I also joined local marketing groups; although I work online I have found I get more clients who are local to me.

Where has your career taken you so far? 

I set up a private practice as an NT and went on to do a further qualification to become a Trauma Informed Wellbeing Coach with The Chrysalis Effect.  I was also working as a Course Interviewer and Support Coach for CNELM.  I then applied for a role with the NHS as a Health and Wellbeing Coach.  These NHS roles are exciting, new positions that are being rolled out across the country.  It is early days but all the work I have done so far has helped me succeed in obtaining this role and I am very happy to help bring health and wellbeing coaching into the public sector.

Do you specialise in a particular area of health? 

I have never specialised however I am now leaning towards chronic pain conditions and I hope to roll out a group project in this area in the New Year in my primary care network.

Which part do you think has been the most rewarding or successful? 

Following my love of coaching has been the most successful, it informs how I practice nutritional therapy and has led me to this new role in the NHS.  Every step you make has its place and nothing is wasted.  I am so grateful to have been given some great opportunities and proud of myself for walking through those doors.

Is there anything you wish you’d known before finishing your studies that you might have prepared for differently?

That there is a whole host of opportunities out there, you just have to think outside of the box.

What or who has most inspired you in your work? 

Chris Rasey started my love of NLP and coaching for which I am forever grateful.  I love the clear and focused attitudes of Dr Mark Hyman and Dr Rangan Chatterjee and their unwavering promotion of functional medicine.  My peers who are wearing many hats as self-employed NT’s and Coaches, it takes grit and determination to run your own business.  Finally, Kate Neil for all she has done and continues to do for our profession.

Do you have any tips, hints, things you’d have done differently...? 

Do all the formatives, record as you go for your clinic log and keep communicating - especially if you are struggling.

Listen to your gut on how you want to work.  I do packages and see people on a weekly basis to start with in my private clinic (this is the coach in me).  This is not the traditional paradigm, but I find it works.

It is more challenging to study when you have other responsibilities as you get older, but you can do it and you will be studying because you are passionate about making a difference.  Don’t be afraid to ask all the questions you need to.  Just know that the outcome of your studies may not be what you expect!