What should I expect from somatic therapy?

Beginning Something New Can Feel Uncomfortable

Each somatic session is 75 minutes, giving us time to slow down. We begin by checking in with what’s present for you — not just your thoughts, but the sensations, movements, and impulses in your body.

You can bring a topic to work on: something that happened this week, a deeply held desire, or an ongoing frustration.

You don't have to be in crisis to explore somatic therapy. And sometimes, there's nothing on your mind you want to to 'work on.' In these moments, we have the distinct pleasure of exploring with no story, no 'reframes,' just exploration of energy, emotion and what it is like to be you in this present moment.

Together we will:

• Track sensations in real time (like tightness, warmth, shakiness, or numbness), supporting release of long-held emotions and trauma.

• Move at your pace, with full consent, adjusting as needed and prioritizing a felt sense of safety

• Help you read the patterns of energy, bracing, and movement that are wanting to be expressed

• Explore simple somatic practices to regulate your nervous system and explore what's held in the subconscious mind (and body)

• Explore resolution of the patterns that arise, without forcing or rushing

  
  

If you're coming in for trauma work, I want you to know that there’s no pressure to tell your whole story or revisit every detail of traumatic events.

I'm here to listen deeply and help you truly process, rather than continue patterns of overthinking and self-analysis.

If and when we do talk about what has happened, we do so in a way that respects your sensitivity and the timing of your body.

Together, we co-create a safe and reflective space for your body to process and shift in its own way. As clients process old emotions and survival responses that have been pushed down, they report feeling lighter, more empowered, more energized and more clear.

Some types of somatic releases you can expect are:

• Burping, yawning or sighing

• Sensations of tingling, hot or cold rushes

• Emotional release, including crying or anger

• Shaking or trembling

• Feeling heavy or exhausted

After our sessions, you may feel tired or drained, but often people report feeling lighter, clearer and more connected to themselves.

Integration is key - after our sessions, your homework is to rest, do something supportive for yourself, and let yourself be open to the changes as as your neural pathways re-pattern themselves!

This way, you can actually feel relief, connection, relaxation and presence with yourself, rather than giving yourself another to-do list of coping strategies.

I'm here to collaborate with you so you feel seen & heard. Together we'll explore tools and practices you can use in your everyday life beyond our sessions.

1. Initial Free Consultation

We’ll meet on the phone for an open, relaxed conversation. You can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with, giving us both a feel for how we’ll work together.

2.Learn the Somatic Approach

In our sessions, we’ll take a gentle, step-by-step approach. You’ll learn to slow down, connect with bodily sensations, and gradually integrate new tools and practices that feel right for you.

Together, we’ll create a safe space to process emotions and address past experiences, approaching challenging emotions at a pace that feels manageable.

3.Healing & Integration

Video FAQ:

Curious about working together, but not sure what to expect? Check out some of the videos below to understand the basics of somatic therapy and my approach to treatment.

Part 1: Activation Cycles, Stress & Trauma - “What are we actually doing, and why?” (8 minutes)

Part 2: Somatic Releases
“Why am I yawning so much in session, and what are some other energetic releases that might occur?” (4 minutes)

FAQ

What can somatic therapy help with?

Somatic therapy supports anxiety relief, trauma healing, chronic pain, stress relief, emotional regulation, physical tension, burnout, and relationship challenges by helping you connect with your body, complete survival responses and release stored emotions, so you can build nervous system resilience. We can also explore imagination and possibility, connecting to your primal energy, alchemizing your emotions and much, much more.

How many sessions will I need?

I prefer to work with people long term. We usually start with a commitment of 6-12 sessions to establish a foundation of trust and body awareness. Many clients benefit from ongoing work for lasting change, but after six sessions, we’ll review and determine the best path forward. I suggest bi-weekly sessions until you have reached your goals.

How is a somatic therapist trained?

Relational Somatic Therapists are trained in trauma, attachment and body-centered approaches, including a specialized nervous system focus. I am currently pursuing certification as a Clinical Somatic Educator to better serve my clients who experience chronic pain through Clinical Somatic Exercises. My experience includes years of frontline mental health and harm reduction work in community.

Do you offer Clinical Somatic Exercises?

I am currently in an advanced 2.5 year training for certification as a Clinical Somatic Educator, and can bring Clinical Somatic Exercises for chronic pain into our sessions upon request. I will be creating more offerings around somatic exercises in the near future, subscribe below to stay in touch.

Do I need experience with somatics before I start?

No, I will explain everything as we go along, and we will collaborate to find a personalized style that works for you! Each person's process is unique, and we will work together to find what resonates most with you. I can also offer resources to help you understand the science and method behind the techniques.

What does a typical session look like?

Each session is unique and may involve guided attention to bodily sensations and body language, visualization, and somatic practices. We will sit together and talk about what you're feeling, working with mindfulness & movement alongside reflective conversation. The goal is to create a safe space for exploration and connection with your inner experience. I'm not interested in categorizing you or figuring you out - I'm curious about how the techniques land with you, and we will collaborate together to create a space for you to reflect on our process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is somatic therapy
right for me?

My services might be for you if:

• you've tried talk therapy or traditional counselling and haven't found a client-therapist relationship that feels right

• you're struggling from symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression and want to try 'alternative' treatments

• you're sick of psychoanalyzing yourself and want to experience a different view of healing

• you're curious about more intuitive, ancient and holistic approaches

• you want to learn about your nervous system so you can understand your reactions and responses

• you're interested trying new things, and want to try a creative (and sometimes playful) approach

it's not for you if....

• you're seeking counselling as a treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis such as bipolar II or schizophrenia.

• you're in urgent crisis or suicidal ideation - here are two BC crisis lines that offer immediate, 24-hour access to services for anyone in the province considering suicide or those with mental health or substance use challenges.

  • 1800SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) is for individuals considering suicide, or for those who are concerned about someone who may be at risk of suicide.

  • 310Mental Health Support (310-6789) is a crisis line that provides emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health and substance use disorders.

Still have questions? Send me a message.

To request a consult by email, fill out the form below. and I will connect with you to book.

We will answer your questions and talk about what you are looking for. There is no pressure to commit, just a conversation to see if we're a good fit.