Somatic Psychotherapy

The word “somatic” means relating to the body, and in psychotherapy it means sensing our body from the inside out. Our bodies become a source of wisdom and a path to healing and self-discovery.  Using mindfulness to study present experience, we notice developmental holding patterns in our physical form, the parts of us that are expressed and not expressed, and the core beliefs that shape us.  When we are aware of our patterns, it frees us to connect with our true Self and to live more full, authentic lives. This approach is non-pathological and recognizes that people are always seeking wholeness.

Somatic Experiencing is a highly effective and gentle approach that processes experiences held in our nervous system. It is the foundation of how I approach therapy, whether we are working with touch on the table or sitting in a chair. Most sessions include both. The intention is to slowly increase our ability to go in and out of our trauma-wired survival states of fight/flight/feeze/collapse and our body’s natural state of freedom and flow. Our natural intelligence is where life force energy and aliveness reside, and is something we are all born with and can access. Often people talk about losing themselves, whether through persistent neglect and abuse, or through shock traumas that jolt us out of our sense of orientation in the world. By going in and out of states of survival and ease, our brain re-wires for safety, connection, and growth. Trauma fragments and isolates, healing synchronizes and re-connects.

Craniosacral Therapy

This gentle type of bodywork focuses on the movement of fluids and energy throughout the brain and spinal cord. The craniosacral rhythm is at the core of our nervous system, influencing our physical tissues, mind and emotions, subtle energy body, and beyond. It views health as being the free movement of energy, and when it is blocked by stress, trauma, or any number of factors, disease and illness arise. Releasing blocks in the physical, emotional, and energetic bodies can bring forward our innate health and profound peace.  I often end sessions with this deeply regulating bodywork.

Energy Healing

The bridge between body and mind is the subtle energy body.  It provides the circuitry for our evolution and awakening, a way to understand where and why we get stuck, and can be seen as the doorway to healing. I perceive the human energy (chakra) system through the lens of Vedic philosophy, tantric yoga practices, and Kundalini Vidya (yogic science). I have studied and practiced yoga for two decades in the lineage of T. Krishnamacharya and the Ashtanga yoga system.