Sense Your Embodied Self
RELATIONAL SOMATICS
In relational somatics we focus on present-time, embodied experiences in the relational field: the field between me and you, between you and the people in your life, between your adult self and your inner child, and between your mind and body.
We focus on repairing attachment wounds oriented in early childhood and shifting the deep-rooted imprints and identities that developed in response to failures in that primary environment.
We meet the pain of loneliness and disconnection in a new way, with love and nurturance.
In this work, I’ve seen the suffering that comes with repeating old patterns, and I’ve seen the joy and healing that comes with connecting to others.
Based in polyvagal theory, interpersonal neurobiology, developmental psychology, and attachment science, relational somatics can help you become a loving witness to your own experience, to cherish your inner life with gentle curiosity and caring presence.
My integrative approach is informed by NeuroAffective Touch, Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Focusing, Saphire Imagery, and various spiritual traditions.
I offer 90-minute sessions in Great Barrington, MA.
(Please note, I’m not scheduling online sessions at this time, but do reach out if you would like to be placed on my waitlist.)
NeuroAffective Touch
One of the primary modalities I work with is NeuroAffective Touch®. Developed by psychologist Dr. Aline LaPierre, NeuroAffective Touch uses gentle touch, mindfulness, body-mind dialogue, and nurturing support to integrate mind, body, heart, and the nervous system.
Dr. LaPierre defines NeuroAffective Touch as:
Neuro. Touch is a form of nonverbal communication that reaches deep into our inner personal space. Therapeutic touch not only touches the surface of the skin; it also touches thousands of sensory nerve receptors in the joints, muscles, connective tissue, and organs. These sensory receptors are nerve endings that carry information directly to the brain…hence the term “neuro.”
Affective. Touch has a strong emotional impact. During touch work, clients often said: “It’s like you’re touching my emotions.” The nervous system and emotions are deeply intertwined and cannot be separated…hence the term “affective.”
Through the interweaving of talk and touch, NeuroAffective Touch can facilitate an embodied awareness from which to build new possibilities for authentic identity and self-expression.
Safe and Sound Protocol
A certified provider of the Safe and Sound Protocol, I offer the SSP to support nervous system regulation. A truly integrative approach, it has been described as both a soul journey and a neural workout.
The SSP is a research-based auditory intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, founder of polyvagal theory, that uses a specialized listening protocol.
It has been shown to reduce a range of symptoms, including auditory sensitivity, stress, distractibility, and overwhelming emotional states. By breaking the cycle of nervous system dysregulation, it can help cultivate social engagement, create states of calm and relaxation, and improve resilience. I combine the SSP with somatic practice to deepen the experience of regulation.
For more information on the SSP, as well as research studies on its use with autism spectrum disorders, ADD, and chronic pain, visit: integratedlistening.com/ssp-safe-sound-protocol/
