I am fascinated by the power of massage and other hands-on therapeutic approaches to assist in the deepening of voice and body awareness, and I am excited to be able to offer Vocal Massage Therapy as a complementary aspect to my practice.
I studied Therapeutic and Remedial Massage at the Southern School of Natural Therapies and have been a qualified Therapeutic Masseuse since 1995. Recently I have honed my skills to focus on vocal care, completing my Certificate in Vocal Massage Therapy from the Voice Care Centre in London in 2025.
Vocal Massage Therapy, or laryngeal massage, is a manual, therapeutic technique designed to release tension in the muscles of the throat, neck, head, jaw, upper chest and shoulders to improve vocal function and comfort.
It is highly beneficial for singers, speakers, and other professional voice users (including lecturers, teachers, clergy, lawyers, politicians, sales professionals, fitness instructors, and receptionists). It helps to alleviate strain, increase range, and prevent fatigue.
Key Aspects of Vocal Massage Therapy:
- Techniques Used: direct soft tissue mobilization to reduce laryngeal stiffness and may include myofascial release and trigger point therapy
- Target Areas: Focuses on the larynx (voice box), tongue, jaw, neck, head, upper chest and shoulders, as these areas directly influence voice production.
- Benefits: Reduces vocal fatigue, improves vocal quality and range, alleviates pain from conditions such as Muscle Tension Dysphonia, TMJ (jaw) Disfunction, Bruxism (teeth grinding), and promotes voice and body awareness.
- Target Audience: Ideal for any professional voice users and for individuals with chronic vocal tension or voice disorders.
- Complementary Care: Often used alongside vocal coaching, speech therapy, vocal physiotherapy and osteopathy, or in conjunction with ENT specialists.
Testimonials:
I came for a massage from Susan to gain some release for my voice and larynx. This happened, but I also felt a deep and delicious release through the whole of my upper body, as if my nervous system had been re-set. She has a gift.
Margaret Mills – actor, director and vocal coach
I have had the pleasure of both receiving treatment from Susan and referring clients to her. She is a highly skilled and professional vocal massage therapist whose work is precise, gentle, and deeply person-centred. The work ripples long after a session has ended.
Sarah Wilmot – Speech Pathways