What to Expect
Somatic therapy works with neuroplasticity and your nervous system responses, so it requires depth, repetition and integration over time.
I work with clients long-term on a standing-appointment basis, meaning you have me in your corner as you explore your inner world and work on your goals.
Each somatic session is 75 or 90 minutes, giving us time to slow down, formulate a question, process deeply, and reflect afterwards.
Some sessions will be deep work, and others will focus on integration or problem solving.
You can begin by talking about your week, sharing something that's been bothering you, or naming something important you want to work on.
Each session is different. We might explore nervous system techniques, do experiential activities for grounding, work on boundaries or discuss psychoeducational topics. And sometimes, you just want to chat about what's on your mind.
I'm here to help you slow down and interrupt patterns of overthinking and self-analysis.
Together we will:
Track sensations in real time (like tightness, warmth, shakiness, or numbness), supporting release of long-held emotions and incomplete survival responses.
Move at your pace, with 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 through your body
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, there’s no pressure to tell your whole story or revisit every detail of traumatic events.
When we do talk about traumatic events, we do so in a way that respects the timing of your nervous system.
As people process emotions and survival responses that have been suppressed, they often 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
Feeling lightness and expansive
Feeling peaceful or more energized
After sessions:
You may feel tired or drained, but often people report feeling lighter, clearer and more connected to themselves. Your job is to rest and let yourself integrate - insights tend to arrive in between sessions.
Emotions will likely come up between sessions, and you can pay attention to the things you want to reflect on next time together.
After our sessions, you may receive some homework or something to reflect on over the coming weeks.
"From the very first session, I felt a sense of safety & understanding that was deeply comforting.
Andree has a remarkable ability to listen without judgement. Throughout our sessions, I've gained valuable tools to handle my anxiety and improve my life in all areas.
Each appointment feels like a step forward in a journey of self-discovery and healing.
FAQ
What can somatic therapy help with?
Somatic therapy supports anger, anxiety relief, trauma healing, chronic pain, stress relief, emotional regulation, physical tension, burnout, and relationship challenges. It can help you connect with your body, complete survival responses, release stored emotions and rebuild nervous system resilience.
How is a somatic therapist trained?
Relational Somatic Therapists are trained in specialized trauma therapy techniques, attachment theory, somatic experiencing skills and other body-centered approaches, including a specialized nervous system focus.
Do I need experience with somatics before I start?
No, I will explain everything as we go along, and we will collaborate to find an approach that works for where you are at. Somatic therapy isn't the best starting point for everyone. If that's the case, I will let you know and help you find a different approach.
What does a typical session look like?
Each session is unique. We will sit together and talk about what you're feeling, working with mindfulness, experiential activities & movement alongside reflective conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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This work is done on stolen ancestral Coast Salish land. Traditional territory of the Tsawwassen, Kwantlen, Katzie, and Semiahmoo, and home to the Metis and many diverse Indigenous people.