Derek McMillan
My academic qualifications include:
BA (Hons) Philosophy and Sociology (Stirling University – 2005)
MA History of Medicine (Oxford Brookes University – 2006)
PGCE Religious Education (Oxford Brookes University – 2007)
You will find my qualifications and experience for compassionate inquiry, bodywork, meditation and traditional martial arts on my other pages.
Hi there, I’m Derek.
I have a background teaching philosophy, psychology and religious/moral studies in secondary schools and more recently have been involved in leading a centre supporting teenage children with complex social, behavioural and emotional needs.
I also love to travel and whilst my home is in Edinburgh, Scotland, I have spent over three decades immersing myself in the study and practise of bodywork, martial arts, movement, meditation and music throughout the UK, Europe and Asia.
There is no division between my personal and professional life. My offerings come out of my own deeply personal journey and interests, whether it be exploring the deeper meaning of life, growing in relationship to myself and others, addressing childhood trauma and old patterns/beliefs, developing a healthy relationship with my body or creating more peace and harmony in my life, which is grounded in authenticity.
When working with individuals and groups I offer a safe space, non-judgemental presence, natural curiosity, humility, and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing or personal growth, to develop a martial art or meditation practice, or to offer you support and guidance in your work as a facilitator, spaceholder or therapist/helping professional.
I work with a wide range of people of all ages, genders and backgrounds exploring many issues including addiction, relationships, identity, religion/spirituality, child abuse and ADHD. I also support people in maintaining their physical and mental health and recovery from physical injuries and illness, including back pain, hypertension, plantar fasciitis, IBS and musculoskeletal disorders.
I offer therapeutic and mentoring sessions from my home and online via Zoom, as well as facilitating monthly trauma exploration workshops in Edinburgh. I also help to run weekly Tai Chi Chuan classes and offer one to one and group sessions in tai chi, self defence and meditation in and around Edinburgh.
