Individual Therapy

 

Somatic Psychotherapy

My practice is focused on trauma therapy and somatic (body-based) psychotherapy. In somatic psychotherapy, awareness of body sensations is incorporated into the psychotherapeutic process. This can allow for deeper healing, and insight that is more fully integrated.

Somatic approaches can be especially helpful in the trauma recovery process, particularly for those who have a history of complex or developmental trauma. The body’s chronic fight-or-flight and freeze-collapse-dissociate states can be addressed using somatic psychotherapy approaches that are tailored to each person.

I have completed the 3-year Somatic Experiencing training program, and regularly consult with colleagues and leaders in the field. I also have post-advanced somatic psychotherapy training in the areas of complex and developmental trauma, attachment, chronic pain, chronic illness, and near-death experiences.

 
 

Trauma is a lasting emotional and nervous system response that can happen after being overwhelmed, trapped, or overpowered.

Trauma- and stress-related conditions can develop as a result of:

  • Accidents, falls, & concussions

  • Bullying

  • Burnout & vicarious trauma in medical, veterinary, and mental health professionals

  • Childhood abuse, neglect, or caregiver misattunement

  • Childbirth

  • Cultural & colonial mistreatment and abuse

  • Cumulative stress

  • Domestic violence

  • First responder work

  • Medical procedures

  • Military service

  • Natural disasters

  • Religion- & shame-based abuse

  • Sexual violence

  • Witnessing violence

 
 
 

Many different concerns can co-occur with a history of trauma. I work with people to address:

  • Abuse or neglect in childhood

  • Anger

  • Anxiety & depression

  • Attachment & relationships

  • Borderline personality traits

  • Chronic pain & chronic illness

  • Dissociation

  • Existential issues & spirituality

  • Grief

  • Identity & self-concept

  • Intensity, giftedness, creativity

  • LGBTQ-related issues

  • Neurodiversity

  • Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD)

 
 

I offer the following types of therapy:

 
 

Upcoming Groups

 
Red and gold painting of a dragon.

Visual Arts for Emotional Wellness — Ages 9-13

This unique group combines art instruction and emotional wellness. Participants will receive instruction in beginner drawing and painting techniques from a local professional artist, and will try short art exercises and longer projects related to self-exploration; emotional awareness; stress relief; and flow state. Free or sliding scale participation is available.

Next Start Dates: September-October 2024.

Drawing & painting group theme: Creatures & dragons.

Emotional exploration themes: Self-concept; emotions; image & symbol.

 

Trauma-Informed Mindfulness & Somatics

Next Start Date: TBD

Mindfulness, meditation, and somatics practices can contribute profoundly to mental health, healing, and well-being. In this group program, participants have the opportunity to try out short practices that can help with anxiety, sleep, self-acceptance, and management of emotions. We'll go over adaptations to these practices that are useful for people with post-trauma symptoms. Sessions will also cover basic concepts that are key to recovering from trauma, anxiety, and cumulative stress. Participants will be supported in their efforts to create a home practice that works for each individual. The overall goal of this group program is to build your nervous system’s capacity to feel safe, centered, connected, and resilient. This group is held in person.