Trauma is perhaps the most avoided, ignored, belittled, denied, misunderstood and untreated cause of human suffering
Integrative Somatic Psychotherapy is a present-centered, and experiential healing process which works with the body’s innate capacity to heal. Together we integrate psychotherapy with various somatically based healing modalities in order to access and heal trauma which is deeply held in the body.
When trauma is held in the body it often causes us to develop coping strategies which negatively impact our lives. These patterns Include mood disorders, fear of intimacy, difficulty in relationships and in work, and addictions. Our nervous system becomes dis-regulated from these experiences which keep us from feeling safe in our body. Most importantly, unprocessed trauma can leave us feeling alone, and isolated . Our relationship to ourself can feel broken.
Integrative Somatic Psychotherapy is informed by the latest neuroscience research related to trauma and attachment theory. Using modalities such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and the Comprehensive Resource Model, we discover together the most effective approach for your healing process. This integration is what makes Integrative Somatic Psychotherapy different from traditional or “talk” therapy. Many of us are aware of how our personal history affects our life but we cannot always translate this awareness to more lasting change.
I have devoted the last 25 years to working with and studying somatic psychotherapy, trauma, neuroscience, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I am passionate about my work and about the opportunity to guide you through your healing process to discover a more authentic, fulfilled and joyful life.
I believe that psychotherapy is a co-created process between myself and my client. I will support you in finding capacity to develop deep internal awareness of what is blocking you, discovering the underlying or root cause of these blocks, then building psychological capacity and somatic resiliency to effectively heal.
There are no two sessions which are exactly alike. My approach will support you to feel safe to access previously difficult places inside which go deeper than your current psychological narrative.
I work with individuals and couples. I welcome clients of all racial, cultural and ethnic backgrounds along with LGBTQ+, and Ethical Vegans.
Somatic Experiencing is a naturalistic approach to the resolution and healing of trauma or challenging life circumstances developed by Dr. Peter Levine author of “Waking the Tiger”.
SE is based on the observation that animals in the wild, though routinely threatened, are rarely traumatized. Humans, although born with virtually the same capacity as animals to resolve trauma, are often blocked or inhibited by negative patterns. These patterns do not allow the individual to regain a sense of trust or safety necessary for change. Symptoms such as anxiety and depression can then develop as a result of the body’s attempt to ”manage” or contain traumatic events.