Oncology massage is a specialist approach to massage therapy that supports people living with cancer – safely, effectively, and compassionately. At the School of Natural Therapies, our Diploma in Oncology Massage & Cancer Care has become one of our most sought-after qualifications, reflecting both the growing demand from clients and the commitment of therapists who want to make a difference.

In this guide, we’ll explain what oncology massage involves, why it matters, and how you can train with us to offer this life-changing therapy.

What Is Oncology Massage?

Oncology massage is adapted massage therapy designed specifically for clients with cancer, whether they are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or in recovery.

It focuses on comfort, safety, and emotional support, using specialist techniques that avoid contraindications while still offering the profound benefits of human touch.

For many clients, oncology massage provides:

Relief from stress and anxiety
Improved sleep and relaxation
Comfort from pain and fatigue
A sense of dignity, connection, and care

Why Proper Training Is Essential

Standard massage training does not cover the complex needs of clients with cancer. Misunderstandings around contraindications often leave therapists lacking confidence, or worse, declining to treat those who need it most.

Our oncology diploma ensures you gain the knowledge, clinical understanding, and confidence to deliver safe, effective care. This includes:

Understanding cancer treatments and side effects
Learning adaptations for positioning and pressure
Exploring the psychological impact of cancer and how to respond with empathy
Practising hands-on skills with real models living with cancer

Our course tutors, Marc Innes (with 25 years in the NHS) and Joseph O’Dwyer, combine clinical knowledge with decades of teaching experience.

SATCC Approval – Raising the Standard

The School of Natural Therapies is a SATCC-approved course provider. SATCC (Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care) is a board of spa and wellness professionals with three key aims:

Helping clients find safe, welcoming therapists and spas.
Providing a register of approved training providers.
Offering guidance, research, and inspiration for those seeking authentic cancer care training.

Choosing an SATCC-approved course means your qualification carries recognition, credibility, and trust across the industry.

The Student Experience

Our learners consistently highlight the profound impact of oncology massage training – both professionally and personally.

Here’s what Juan Carlos Recuero Serrano shared:

“I truly believe this course has changed the way I see massage and what it can bring to people… With Oncology Massage, I’ve learned that massage goes far beyond the physical – it can touch people on an emotional and personal level too. The impact is more personal, more caring, more meaningful, more rewarding than I ever imagined. Thanks to Marc and Joseph, I now understand the true meaning of ‘helping people.’”

And from Max Tea, Local Guide:

“The School of Natural Therapies Oncology Massage and Cancer Care Level 3 Diploma course is excellent. Three days of comprehensive learning about cancer types, diagnosis, staging, genomics, treatments, and how to deliver bodywork safely for people living with and beyond cancer. The final afternoon saw volunteers with cancer attending for students to deliver a session to complete our learning. The fact that these volunteers return again and again speaks volumes about the quality of teaching by Marc and Joseph, and the care they take with both their students and their volunteers. I completed the course confident that I now hold the knowledge necessary to deliver beautiful bodywork for people living with and beyond cancer. The course is also recognised by the SATCC for its quality and depth of content. Thank you Marc and Joseph!”

These stories reflect what so many of our graduates say: oncology massage training doesn’t just expand your skills – it transforms your outlook as a therapist.

You’ll also find more student stories on our Reviews page.

See the Course in Action

We’ve captured the impact of this course in two short videos:

Therapists’ Perspectives – Hear directly from attendees about their learning experience and why they found it so valuable:

Client Models’ Voices – Listen to people living with cancer who volunteered as models, describing how the massage helped them feel relaxed, supported, and seen:

These videos highlight the unique blend of skill, compassion, and professionalism that defines oncology massage training at SNT.

Where to Train

Our oncology massage diploma is delivered at our professional base in Battersea, South London, in small, supportive groups. We also provide bespoke training for massage teams with our Diploma in Oncology Massage and Cancer Care for Beauty and Spa Therapy Teams. Many of our students also go on to expand their skills with complementary CPD such as:

Ready to Train in Oncology Massage?

If you want to expand your practice and make a real difference to people’s lives, this diploma is an inspiring next step! Explore the full course details and book your place today!