2 mins
SUPPORT TO THRIVE
Mindful menopause coach Tracy Munro tells us how therapists can help menopausal clients to manage their physical and mental symptoms
How can therapists recognise if a client is going through menopause?
“When therapists do a medical history, they should do their research into what medication clients are on. Some clients might not be at that point yet, so questions around how often they feel stressed or how well they sleep are good to ask.
“There are changes in the skin which therapists carrying out facials will notice. There’s dryness and dehydration, and quite often there is redness and sensitivity. If this is the case, then therapists need to be looking at rebuilding the skin’s barrier. You also often see more pigmentation and if clients have a history of breakouts then these can reappear as well.”
What treatments are best to recommend?
“From a physical point of view, needling is good to help with collagen production. From a relaxation perspective, calming facials and LEDs are useful.
“I would encourage therapists to be creative and come up with some new treatments that embrace the mind, body and spirit. So, incorporating calm music, maybe some meditation while clients are under LED lights, chakra balancing if you’re qualified in those sorts of things – it’s a real opportunity to create a signature treatment that can help clients.”
How should therapists adapt their regular treatments?
“Something to be mindful of is that a lot of menopausal clients will be experiencing hot sweats. Be aware of synthetic blankets. When the weather is warm, ask clients whether they want a blanket or offer alternatives like a cotton sheet. It’s about being practical with your help for the physical symptoms.”
What can therapists do to support clients emotionally?
“Ask them how they are and really listen to what they tell you. Give them permission to take some time out for them.
“Current publicity around the menopause is helping, but a lot of people won’t necessarily want to talk about the menopause. Clients might have tried to talk about it at home and not got anywhere, they may have spoken to their GP and been told they’re too young and their symptoms are something else. Therapists need to support them in that space and try to give them help and make sure they feel supported.”
What lifestyle changes would you suggest to help clients manage menopausal symptoms?
“Clients need to speak kindly to themselves – it should be as if they’re speaking to their best friend. We’re very good at beating ourselves in our heads, but we’re doing the best we can and that’s all anyone can ask.
“Another suggestion is mindfulness. Clients’ morning and evening skincare routines give them the perfect opportunity to practise mindfulness regularly and bring their focus back to the present.
“Therapists should also encourage clients to embrace support. Your clients’ support networks are happy to help them, and asking for help shows strength.”
Tracy Munro will discuss “How a beauty therapist can successfully recognise, support and treat a menopausal client” at Professional Beauty North 2022. Don’t miss her session on the Skin and Advanced Treatments live stage at 3pm on September 26.