Contracting a Complementary Therapist

Written By Orla Gillespie

Job Title: Complementary Therapist/Support Worker

Location: Rock Rose House, Castlebar with possible outreach locations.

Contract: Part-Time

Reporting To: CEO

Hours: TBC

Salary: TBC

Probation Period: Six months

About the Role:

We are seeking to contract a compassionate and qualified complementary therapist to work with the team at Mayo Cancer Support Association and clients of the charity.

This role is focused on providing holistic, client-focused care in a warm and welcoming environment.

The successful candidate will support clients who have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis or a cancer bereavement through a range of therapeutic services, while also assisting with the day-to-day running of the centre.

About Mayo Cancer Support:

Mayo Cancer Support is a registered charity that has been providing free emotional and psychological support to people affected by cancer for over 25 years.

These supports include a professional one-to-one counselling service, complementary therapies and group activities.

We are a member of the Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres and all of our services are delivered in line with the National Cancer Control Programme’s Best Practice Guidance for community cancer support centres.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Support & Centre Operations

  • Welcome clients to the centre in a professional and empathetic manner and provide emotional support, active listening and information to clients both over the phone and in-person.

  • Conduct intake (registration) sessions where required, briefing clients on the services of Mayo Cancer Support and ensuring all relevant information is gathered sensitively and confidentially.

  • Schedule appointments and assist in maintaining and updating the client database and diary.

  • Assist in the planning and coordination of group activities as appropriate.

  • Signpost clients to relevant external supports where necessary.

  • Carry out light housekeeping duties to include making refreshments for clients, preparing rooms for therapies and activities and maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment.

Therapeutic Service Delivery

  • Deliver complementary therapies in line with your qualifications and training. This may include, subject to agreement with the CEO: massage, reflexology, bio energy, reiki and any other appropriate therapy.

  • Create and maintain a calm, safe, confidential and therapeutic environment for all clients.

  • Conduct thorough consultations with clients in advance of commencing treatment and seek GP/consultant permission to proceed with therapies where necessary.

  • Participate in in-house multi-disciplinary team meetings where appropriate.

  • Provide outreach services as required and agreed with management.

Professional Development and Compliance:

  • Attend mandatory CPD/training, supervision and refresher courses.

  • Maintain membership of a relevant professional body and professional insurance cover on an annual basis and provide proof of same to the CEO.

  • Ensure compliance with the policies and procedures of Mayo Cancer Support Association and all other relevant codes and standards at all times.

  • Maintain awareness of personal wellbeing and practice appropriate self-care.

Person Specification

Essential:

  • Recognised qualifications in one or more complementary therapies.

  • Membership of a relevant professional organisation and professional insurance cover

  • Experience working with vulnerable individuals or in a supportive care setting

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

  • Empathy, discretion and a client-centred approach.

  • Candidates must be of good character. Garda vetting may form part of the recruitment process for this role.

Desirable:

  • Cancer-specific training in relation to the delivery of complementary therapies.

  • Experience working with cancer patients or in a healthcare/charity setting.

  • Knowledge of holistic or integrative care approaches.

  • Experience facilitating groups or workshops

How To Apply:

Please submit your CV and an optional cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to: Orla Gillespie, CEO, Mayo Cancer Support Association by emailing orla@mayocancersupport.ie or send by mail to Orla Gillespie, CEO, Mayo Cancer Support Association, Rock Rose House, 32 St Patrick’s Ave, Castlebar, Co Mayo, F23 P659.

Closing Date:

Monday, May 18th, 2026.

Mayo Cancer Support Association is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

Orla Gillespie
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