HEARTS Process Training

 

Supporting Comfort, Calm and Wellbeing Through the Power of the Senses

Galway Hospice is delighted to offer the internationally recognised HEARTS Process Training, delivered by our experienced Complementary Therapy Team in collaboration with internationally respected educator, researcher and author Dr Peter Mackereth (UK).

The HEARTS Process provides a practical, holistic framework for supporting comfort, calm and wellbeing in supportive and palliative care settings, benefiting both patients and carers.

Programme Details

Dates: Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August 2026
Venue: Galway Hospice, Old Dublin Road, Galway
Duration: Two full days (in person)
Fee: €250 per participant

Book your place today.

 

What is the HEARTS Process?

HEARTS stands for Hands-on, Empathy, Aromas, Relaxation, Textures and Sound. This evidence-informed approach combines therapeutic touch, sensory awareness and relaxation techniques to help reduce stress and promote wellbeing in a wide range of care environments.

Participants will learn how to safely integrate these elements into their practice and support patients, families and carers experiencing challenging circumstances.

 

Who is the Programme For?

The programme is suitable for:

• Complementary therapists
• Healthcare professionals
• Social care professionals
• Hospice staff
• Volunteers working in supportive or therapeutic roles
• Professionals working in palliative care, oncology and dementia care settings

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles of the HEARTS Process.
• Utilise hands-on, sensory and relaxation components safely.
• Support and promote relaxation and calm for patients and carers (including self).
• Adapt HEARTS for a variety of supportive care situations/settings.
• Explore the option of completing additional reflective case study work towards a HEARTS Process Practitioner Certificate.

 

Course Format

Duration: 2 days (in person)

The programme combines:

• Presentations
• Demonstrations
• Practical workshops
• Guided practice sessions

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and if possible, a large towel or blanket and a pillow for the hands-on sessions.

 

Meet the Facilitators

Dr Peter Mackereth (UK)

Dr Peter Mackereth is an internationally recognised nurse, educator, researcher and author with extensive expertise in complementary therapies, oncology care and wellbeing. He has worked in intensive care, neurology and oncology and spent over 15 years leading the Complementary Health and Wellbeing Team at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester.

A respected speaker and trainer, Peter has authored numerous publications and co-authored, with lead author Ann Carter, the landmark book Combining Touch and Relaxation Skills for Cancer Care: The HEARTS Process, which has helped shape practice internationally.

 

Ann Marie McGrath

Ann Marie McGrath is a valued member of the Therapies Department at Galway Hospice, supporting patients and families through complementary therapies and holistic care in specialist palliative care. With over 20 years’ experience in hospice care, she brings both expertise and a compassionate, person-centred approach to her work.

Originally qualifying as a Registered General Nurse, Ann Marie has undertaken specialist training in Aromatherapy, Massage Therapy, Reflexology, Manual Lymphatic Drainage and the HEARTS Process. Her work focuses on enhancing comfort, dignity and quality of life for people living with life-limiting illness and those close to them, helping patients and families feel supported, cared for and at ease.

 

Donna Toughey

Donna Toughey is a valued member of the Therapies Department at Mayo Hospice, supporting patients and families through complementary therapies in specialist palliative care. With over 30 years’ experience, she brings both expertise and a compassionate presence to her work.

Trained in Aromatherapy, Massage Therapy, Reflexology, Infant Massage, Yoga Teaching and the HEARTS Process, Donna supports comfort, wellbeing and relaxation for people living with life-limiting illness and those close to them. She offers a calm, person-centred approach, creating a nurturing space where people feel cared for, supported and at ease.

 

Course Fee

€250 per participant

The fee includes:

• Two days of expert-led training
• Course materials
• Certificate of attendance

To book your place, click here.

 

Why Train with Galway Hospice?

As a recognised leader in specialist palliative care, Galway Hospice Foundation is committed to advancing education, innovation and best practice. This programme offers participants the opportunity to learn directly from experienced practitioners and one of the leading international experts in the HEARTS Process.

 

Further Information

For any queries regarding the programme, please contact Nuala Logue, Education Manager at nlogue@galwayhospice.ie