The Story of the Institute

The Irish Institute of Natural Therapy has been part of Cork's holistic health community since 1993.

The Institute was founded by Gerry Longfield, a graduate of the Bayly School of Reflexology in the United Kingdom. At a time when complementary therapies were still relatively unknown in Ireland, Gerry established one of Cork's first natural therapy clinics and became a passionate advocate for Reflexology and professional standards within the industry.

As Reflexology grew throughout Ireland, Gerry helped establish the Society of Reflexologists Ireland, one of the country's first professional organisations dedicated to promoting high standards of practice and education. His commitment to professionalism, integrity and client care laid the foundations for everything the Institute stands for today.

My Journey into Complementary Therapies

I became part of the Institute story in 1993 when I began my Reflexology training, seven years later following Gerry's retirement, I took over the Institute but my journey began in nursing.

While training as a Registered General Nurse at the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork, I witnessed Reflexology being used in a maternity setting on women whose labours weren’t progressing, the nun was applying pressure to the pituitary reflex on the big toe, in doing so she was helping stimulating the release of oxytocin, the body’s natural hormone that helps initiate labour. I had never seen anything like it before and was fascinated by both the results and the remarkable connection between the feet and the rest of the body. Some time after qualifying as a nurse, I was considering which postgraduate path to follow when I came across a Reflexology advertisement. I decided to enrol while I considered my future options. Little did I know that more than 30 years later, reflexology would still be at the heart of my life's work.

From the moment I began practising, I was amazed by the positive changes I saw in people of all ages experiencing a wide range of concerns. Many clients came to Reflexology as a last resort and their improvements reinforced my belief in its value. I knew I had found my calling. Soon after completing my training, a position for a Reflexologist opened up at the clinic where I had trained,  I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to practise at a thriving complementary therapy clinic. As my experience grew I became involved in the training courses and found out I really enjoyed teaching this therapy to people. I eventually took over that clinic and am proud to continue its legacy today. Along the way, I have qualified in all specialist areas of Reflexology including fertility, maternity, children's and cancer care, as well as Acupuncture, Auriculotherapy, Aromatherapy, EFT and Reiki.

Our Philosophy

Drawing on both my nursing background and training in Eastern medicine, I combine more than three decades of professional practise, and a deep commitment to complementary therapies to support, educate and empower people on their individual wellness journeys. Alongside a thorough understanding of Western anatomy and physiology, students are also introduced to the principles of Eastern medicine. Exploring concepts such as Qi, meridian pathways and the relationship between body, mind and spirit offers a broader perspective on health and wellbeing while complementing modern scientific knowledge.

Our Values Today

While much has changed since 1993, our values remain the same. Professional excellence, compassionate care, lifelong learning and a genuine belief in the benefits of complementary therapies continues to guide everything we do.

So whether you are looking for professional training or holistic treatments, our aim is to support you with knowledge, experience and care.