Jo Short

From an early age, Jo was passionate about supporting individuals with communication difficulties and understanding the impact that being unable to express oneself can have on emotional wellbeing. This inspired her to train in Speech and Language Therapy, graduating in 1993.

She began her career working in NHS clinics and schools as a paediatric therapist, supporting children with a range of speech, language, and communication needs, including those on the Autism Spectrum. During this time, she observed that many students with ongoing communication difficulties at secondary school also faced social, emotional, and mental health challenges. This motivated her to pursue further training and focus on supporting these areas more specifically.

Working at an independent specialist secondary school as part of a multidisciplinary team highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to care. She witnessed firsthand the benefits students gained from complementary therapies alongside traditional therapeutic interventions.

Reflexology had long been part of her personal self-care routine, and her experience at Shipston Therapy Centre inspired her to train professionally in this field. Jo was drawn to reflexology as a gentle, non-invasive therapy capable of promoting deep relaxation, supporting overall wellbeing, reducing stress, and strengthening resilience. Reflexology works on the principle that all systems and organs of the body are reflected in peripheral areas such as the feet, hands, ears, and face, allowing the body to restore balance and support optimal health.

During a first session, she offers up to an hour for a full consultation and treatment, including personalised feedback and aftercare advice. All treatments begin with a thorough cleansing of the feet to ensure comfort and hygiene. Sessions provide a deeply relaxing experience: some clients enjoy conversation throughout, while others find themselves so relaxed they drift off to sleep, a response she considers a compliment. Reflexology can support a wide range of conditions, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and pain management.

Outside of work, Jo leads a busy family life and shares her home with a miniature schnauzer, who keeps her active and grounded through daily walks in nature. She believes that taking time for oneself and investing in health and wellbeing allows individuals to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and embrace opportunities they might otherwise overlook.

A blonde woman with blue eyes, wearing an olive green blouse, sitting in front of a stone wall with some green plants in the background.