1
Your site talks a lot about the body. It sounds different than what I'm use to. Do we still talk in session to process what I'm dealing with?
Yes! There is a misconception that because somatics privileges the wisdom of the body, that we don't spend much time talking in session. We actually do. I connect what you're saying and sharing in session to where it is those feelings or thoughts exist in your body. Have you ever noticed that your muscles tense up when you're stressed or your mind is racing? That's your body's physical response to the stress or anxiety. Your brain and your body work together in response to difficulties. To release the full impacts of stress, it's important to tend to where it's felt in the body. But not a lot of people are even aware of where or how stress impacts their body. That's what I help you do in session as you voice your struggles and feelings. I help guide you toward more awareness.
2
What is Somatic Stress Release™?
Somatic Stress Release™ is a wellness modality created by Dr. Scott Lyons in which the practitioner empowers the client to engage the wisdom of their body. It uses the natural stress response cycle of a person's nervous system to process through stress and other stimuli. It uses movement, mindfulness, and visualization to ease and release any stuck energy and builds capacity to increase resilience.
3
What if I'm new to somatics?
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I have experience working with folks with a range of exposure to this modality. You don't have to have prior experience to benefit from a session. That's one of my favorite aspects of this modality! We all have bodies and nervous systems and tending to them is a kind and healing experience no matter when you start.
It's also important to mention, regardless of your experience with somatics, the first handful of sessions are always foundational. We don't dive into addressing specific stressors until later. Our initial focus is on building a foundation of tools, resources, and trust with one another. Building a foundation allows us to do more meaningful and lasting work down the road.
4
What approaches do you use?
Somatic Stress Release™
Somatic Experiencing™
The Resilience Tool Kit by Nkem Ndefo
Narrative Trauma Care
Rest is Resistance Framework by Tricia Hersey
Story Work
Bottom-Up Approach
Process-Oriented Care
Trauma Centered Care
Salutogentic Care
Embodied Activism
5
Are you a licensed mental health professional?
No. Though my services can be experienced as therapeutic, I'm not a licensed clinician. One of the benefits for you, is that I'm not bound by location and provide care for people around the globe. I'm certified to practice as a somatic practitioner with extensive training in mental health and trauma. Though I'm not licensed in any of the traditional mental health modalities, I'm still required yearly to continue education to keep my certifications up to date.
I also often work in tandem with therapists, counselors, social workers, etc. who may not have the training themselves, but desire their clients to experience the benefits of a body-based approach and trauma centered care.
6
Do you accept insurance?
Unfortunately, I'm not able to take insurance at this time. Typically, somatic and wellness practitioners that have that ability are limited to HSA/FSA only and with a required referral.
7
What if I'm injured or don't have full mobility?
Good somatic care is still possible! I recommend signing-up for a free 30 minute consultation so that I can learn more in depth about your specific needs ahead of time. Please notify me when signing-up for the consultation of any accommodations you may need.
8
How does what you do differ from traditional therapy?
Traditional therapy looks to identify (label) a problem(s) and fix the issue through a variety of behavior based approaches. In somatics, we are less concerned with the behavior and labeling it, and more concerned with the context around the behavior and what support is lacking. My training leads me to identify where there is capacity, and work with that existing capacity. We don't push or work toward behavior change; instead, I believe in pausing and guiding clients to find rest or support in each moment. Supporting clients in finding a sense of felt safety and stability will increase their capacity over time to naturally adapt and adjust to living in ways that feels honoring to who they are and want to be.
9
What's the best way to sign-up for my first session?
There are two ways people can sign-up. The first one is by reaching out via the email provided on the Individual Session Service Page. The second option is to do it with me directly at the end of a session consultation. You can sign-up for a free session consultation via our scheduling calendar on the consultation service page.
10
What do I need for my session?
After you schedule your first session, you'll receive an informed consent form via a new client welcome packet. You'll need to complete that form prior to our first session.
You'll also need a reliable internet connection and ideally a computer or tablet for our private Zoom appointment.
I recommend that for each session you are in a space that allows for privacy as well as a sense of safety and comfort. It's best if you have enough space to sit, stand, lay, or move around a bit.
11
Do you speak Farsi?
Baleh, Azizaam. I speak at an advanced level 1, and as some of my relatives like to point out, ba lahje e Amricaee. :P If it's something you value, with your permission, I can incorporate it into our sessions. I believe it can be helpful to include, because as the saying goes, "trauma does not occur in a vacuum." Bringing all the parts of your identity into your healing is powerful and freeing.
