frequently asked questions
Some things you might be curious about.
How is A Somatic Approach different from therapy?
The word "somatic" comes from the Greek soma, meaning body. This work is grounded in the understanding that our emotions, experiences, and beliefs live not just in the mind, but in the tissues, posture, and nervous system of the body.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focus primarily on analyzing thoughts and feelings, a somatic approach invites your body into the conversation. We work with physical sensation, breath, movement, and nervous system regulation to help you shift deeply held patterns, not just think about shifting them. In a session, you might be asked to pause and notice what you feel in your chest, your belly, your breath. You might be guided through a short grounding or centering exercise. You might be invited to move slightly as a way of accessing something that words alone can't reach.
It's gentle, it's relational, and it meets you where you are. You won't be pushed to do anything that doesn't feel right.
While a somatic approach occupies a different space than therapy by a licensed therapist and does not diagnose mental health conditions, it pairs beautifully with therapy and is often a powerful complement to clinical care.
If you are currently in therapy, 12-step recovery or both, a somatic approach can work alongside that support. If you are managing a serious mental health condition or in active crisis, please prioritize licensed clinical care first.
what does 12-step recovery-informed mean?
My work with women one-on-one is informed by over 20 years of personal experience with recovery from the effects of someone else's alcoholism. This framework allows me to offer practical, spiritually grounded tools for letting go of control, moving through grief, and rebuilding an identity outside of caretaking or enabling patterns.
You do not need to be in recovery, or related to someone in recovery, to benefit from this approach. The principles of honesty, self-compassion, accountability, and spiritual openness are universal.
who do you work with?
I work exclusively with women who may also be in midlife, though women at any life stage are welcome.
Many of my clients are highly capable, intelligent women who are used to figuring things out on their own—and have reached the edge of what figuring things out alone can do. This is especially true when navigating a major life transition, rebuilding after loss, stepping out of long-term caretaking roles, or giving themselves permission to reimagine the life they want.
what is your background & training?
I have 20+ years of experience working with women one-on-one and I bring 30 years of experience across arts, entertainment, manufacturing, project management, and supply chain—which means I'm comfortable working with both the emotional, creative, and practical dimensions of a life.
I am currently completing the 4-year Somatic Practitioner Program (Integrative Body Psychotherapy) at the Institute of Core Energetics in New York City to deepen my skills and expand my offering. I hold a B.A. from the University of Virginia and an M.A. in Media Studies from The New School.
do you offer a discovery call before booking?
Yes! If you’re not sure this is the right fit, you’re welcome to reach out through my contact form and we can connect before you commit to a session.
do you work with clients anywhere in or outside of the us?
Yes. All sessions are held online via Zoom, and I work with women wherever they are in the world. (I also accept payment in all currencies via credit or debit card).
Head to the Work with Me page and use the scheduler to book a session. New clients complete a short intake form (even when scheduling an intro session). This helps me get a sense of where you are right now so we can make the most of our time together.
how do i get started?
That depends on you. Some clients meet weekly, some bi-weekly, and some come for a focused short-term engagement and return as needed. We’ll talk about what makes the most sense for you after your first session, and allow it to evolve as we get into the work. Either way, you are in driver’s seat and I will help you name what you want and need—including from me.
how often do we meet?
The somatic approach to personal healing that I offer is not a licensed clinical service. Therefore, it is not covered by health insurance. If cost is a concern, please reach out. I’m happy to have a conversation about what’s possible.
is this covered by insurance?
That uncertainty is completely normal. The best thing to do is reach out through my contact form and tell me a little about where you are. I'll give you an honest answer about whether I think this work is a fit or if I am the best person for you to work with. If it's not, I have access to wide range of practitioners, coaches and therapists and will do my best to point you in a direction and towards someone who might be a better fit.
what if i’m not sure A somatic approach is what i need?
Have a question that isn’t answered here? Send me a message and I will get back to you.