The HEARTS Process Training
A gentle touch therapy rooted in presence, stillness, and care, that is developed to support those living with cancer, frailty, or emotional distress.
The HEARTS Process is a gentle touch therapy developed within cancer care to bring calm and connection to those who may be too unwell, anxious, or emotionally vulnerable for traditional hands-on therapies.
HEARTS stands for:
Hands-on, Empathy, Aromas, Relaxation, Texture, and Sound - a blend of sensory elements that work together to create safety and stillness.
At its heart is the use of light, rhythmical touch over clothing, combined with therapeutic presence, voice, and scent to support deep relaxation and nervous system regulation.
Now used in a wide range of care settings, HEARTS offers a simple yet powerful way to bring comfort, reassurance, and human connection through intentional touch.
It has been applied effectively in:
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Hospices and palliative care to support those at end of life
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Oncology wards and cancer support centres for people undergoing treatment
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Dementia care to soothe agitation and offer grounding connection
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Children with autism or sensory processing needs, using adapted rhythm and commentary
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Carer support environments, where stress relief and emotional regulation are essential
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Community groups and volunteer teams seeking simple tools to offer calm presence
The process is adaptable, portable, and meaningful - no massage tables or clinical settings required. Just gentle presence, a calm hand, and the willingness to offer stillness.
What you'll Learn
The HEARTS Process is a gentle, multi-sensory approach designed to support individuals who are anxious, emotionally distressed, frail, or nearing the end of life. This training blends theory with hands-on practice to help you offer comfort through mindful presence and safe, over-clothing touch.
Theoretical Foundations:
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The meaning and intention behind each HEARTS element:
Hands-on, Empathy, Aroma, Relaxation, Texture, and Sound
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The role of therapeutic presence and empathy in care
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Understanding the difference between offering calm and “fixing”
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The use of commentary (voice) as a tool for reassurance and connection
Practical Applications:
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Practising a library of gentle touch techniques over clothing
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Creating a sensory environment using texture, sound, and scent
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Offering relaxation in a variety of care settings: home, hospice, dementia care, palliative care, and more
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Adapting your approach for adults, children, or those with complex needs (e.g. autism, dementia)
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Understanding scope, safety, and consent in fragile or emotionally vulnerable situations
This training is suitable for carers, volunteers, complementary therapists, and healthcare professionals seeking to bring softness, safety, and connection into their care practices - especially where words or conventional treatments may not reach.
Why the HEARTS Process Is Trauma-Informed
The HEARTS Process is a gentle, sensory-based approach developed within cancer care to support individuals experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, or end-of-life transitions. It’s especially powerful because it naturally follows the core principles of trauma-informed care - ensuring every session is rooted in safety, choice, and empathy.
Trauma-informed care isn’t about treating trauma directly. It’s about creating spaces where people feel respected, safe, and in control - which is vital for those living with medical trauma, chronic illness, neurodiversity, or grief.
HEARTS supports trauma-aware practice through:
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Hands-on techniques offered with clear consent, always unhurried
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Empathy over fixing - emotional presence is the priority
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Aromas that support personal choice/experience, grounding, and self-expression
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Relaxation that unfolds at the pace of the nervous system
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Grounding textures and gentle temperature for sensory comfort
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Soft narration (Commentary technique) that brings predictability and reduces vulnerability
This makes HEARTS an ideal method for carers, therapists, health care assistants and volunteers who want to offer meaningful support - without overwhelming themselves or those they care for.
Whether in hospice care, dementia support, cancer services, schools or community wellbeing, HEARTS helps build connection through touch that is gentle, respectful, and trauma-aware.
Training Format
HEARTS can be learned in a format that suits your needs and availability:
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1-hour, 2-hour, or half-day tasters
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1-day introductory training
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12-hour full training programme (required for practitioner certification)
Training is delivered in small, supported groups with time to practise, reflect, and receive.
It can also be tailored for organisations, whether that’s a care home, hospice team, volunteer group, or support service.
If you’re interested in hosting this training within your team or community, please get in touch to explore options.
Who is it For?
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Family or unpaid carers
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Volunteer and hospice workers
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Therapists and wellbeing practitioners
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Anyone supporting someone through cancer, frailty, end-of-life care, or trauma
Certification
There are no prerequisites to attend.
However, certification as a HEARTS Practitioner is available only to qualified therapists or health professionals who:
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Complete the full 12-hour training, and
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Submit two successful case studies
All attendees receive a Certificate of Attendance.
Pricing & Inclusions
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Full programme (12 hours): £300 per person
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Short tasters and intro sessions are priced separately
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Group or organisational training is available, please enquire
Real Moments of Connection
True stories of how the HEARTS Process made a difference
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
That’s completely okay. You’re welcome to get in touch anytime.
We’ll find the pace and path that feels right for you.
Ready to Explore or Join?
If you’re unsure whether HEARTS is right for you or your setting, just reach out. I’d love to chat.