Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Therapy & Counselling Experts in Edinburgh
Founded in 1991, we are Edinburgh's most established complementary therapy and counselling centre, operating from a meticulously restored 17th-century townhouse in the city's historic Old Town. Our family-run business was conceived to provide a client-centred hub for holistic health, combining professional excellence with a deep commitment to wellbeing. With over 50 practitioners offering diverse therapeutic approaches, we bridge traditional and modern practices to address physical, mental, and emotional health needs. Our premises, steeped in history, create a unique environment where clients experience therapeutic sessions in spaces that have absorbed centuries of human interaction.We maintain rigorous standards by ensuring all practitioners are fully accredited, while our Assessment Service has guided over 23,000 clients towards appropriate therapeutic pathways. Through continuous service enhancement and collaboration with medical professionals, we've become a trusted referral destination for Edinburgh GPs. Our three-decade legacy reflects our dedication to demystifying complementary therapies, prioritising evidence-based practices, and maintaining transparency in all client interactions. We actively promote public education about therapeutic effectiveness while upholding strict ethical standards that prohibit commercial exploitation of our services.
Services
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Reflexology
Acupuncture
Massage Therapy
Assessment Service
Complementary Therapies
Craniosacral Therapy
Homeopathy
Swedish Massage
Cancer Care Massage
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in holistic therapy provision
- Our team comprises 50+ accredited complementary therapy practitioners
- We offer 30+ evidence-based therapeutic modalities under one roof
- Our historic premises provide a uniquely therapeutic environment
- We maintain strict ethical standards with no commercial product sales
Services
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Our counselling and psychotherapy services encompass 40+ practitioners offering diverse approaches including CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and EMDR. We specialise in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues through evidence-based interventions. Clients benefit from our Assessment Service which matches individual needs with appropriate therapeutic modalities.
Complementary Therapies
We provide 30+ complementary therapies including acupuncture, reflexology, and massage. All treatments are delivered by accredited practitioners using evidence-based methodologies. Our therapies address musculoskeletal issues, stress-related conditions, and chronic pain management through holistic approaches.
Assessment Service
This one-hour consultation helps clients navigate therapeutic options, costing 30-60 based on employment status. Over 23,000 clients have used this service to clarify their therapeutic needs. The session includes treatment recommendations without obligation to proceed with therapy.
Reflexology
Our reflexology treatments map body systems through foot pressure points. Practitioners use this ancient technique to promote systemic wellness. Sessions follow strict professional standards while maintaining holistic therapeutic principles.
Massage Therapy
We offer multiple massage modalities including Swedish, deep tissue, and pregnancy massage. Therapists address musculoskeletal issues and stress-related conditions using evidence-based techniques. Treatments are tailored to individual health requirements and therapeutic goals.
People
Dr Deborah Ritchie
Clinical Advisor
With 50 years' experience in mental and public health, Deborah co-founded The Whole Works in 1991. Her expertise bridges community health initiatives with holistic therapy provision, shaping our client-centred approach.
Rob Ritchie
Managing Director
Rob co-founded The Whole Works in 1991, overseeing the restoration of our historic premises. His background in community health projects informs our operational standards and commitment to therapeutic excellence.
Claire Hay
Practice Manager
Claire manages daily operations with over 20 years' experience in holistic healthcare administration. Her organisational expertise ensures seamless delivery of our multidisciplinary therapy services across Edinburgh.
Susie Atkin
Clinical Advisor
Susie contributes clinical expertise developed through decades of practice. Her therapeutic approach integrates professional standards with compassionate care, reflecting our core values of integrity and client empowerment.
Cathie Wright
Clinical Advisor
With professional experience spanning social work, counselling, and mental health management, Cathie provides clinical oversight. Her background informs our holistic approach to client care and service development.
Questions
What therapy options are available at The Whole Works?
We offer 30+ evidence-based therapies including counselling, acupuncture, reflexology, and massage. Our 50+ practitioners provide both complementary therapies and psychotherapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs.
How can I choose the right therapy for me?
Our Assessment Service matches clients with appropriate therapies through one-hour consultations. Experienced therapists evaluate your requirements and recommend suitable interventions based on evidence-based practices.
Are your practitioners qualified?
All practitioners are fully accredited by professional bodies. We maintain strict standards requiring evidence of training, professional indemnity insurance, and adherence to ethical guidelines for all our 50+ therapists.
What makes your centre unique?
We combine 30+ years' experience with operation in a historic 17th-century building. Our client-centred approach integrates holistic therapies with evidence-based practices, creating a distinctive therapeutic environment in Edinburgh's Old Town.
Is the centre accessible?
While our historic building has architectural limitations, we provide alternative access options. Please inform us of specific requirements when booking, and we'll arrange suitable accommodations for your visit.
