Hi, I’m Nancy.
Working with teens for nearly two decades in school environments, and when counseling adults individually, I have discovered that Somatic Experiencing® therapeutic modality helps move you from surviving to thriving.
My Approach
I approach each session with a playful, positive, and non-judgmental attitude. My core belief is trauma happens to you; it does not define you. I believe that clinical labels identify symptoms, not who you are as an authentic person. I help you to come to a peaceful and more grounded manner of navigating the world around you by creating a warm and safe space for you to express your issues at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Each session is ended where you feel a sense of closure for the hour we spend together, allowing you to feel supported until we meet again.
What is Somatic Experiencing ®? Somatic Experiencing® is a therapeutic modality that works by exploring the fight, flight, and freeze responses that occur with a traumatic event, big or small. By making mind and body connections to explore these reactions, and having a safe space for them to be expressed, aids in the healing process. Somatic Experiencing® helps people manage stress and anxiety by connecting the mind and body and tuning into physical sensation which helps brings regulation to the nervous system. This process allows you to ultimately become calmer and more grounded during times that were once triggering to you.
Ways Unresolved Trauma and Stress Disorders Present:
Avoidance:
Social situations or activities once enjoyed are now avoided leading to isolation and a sense of disconnection from friends and family.
Nervous habits:
Physical manifestations of anxiety, such as fidgeting, nail-biting, or hair-twirling, may become more pronounced while trying to cope with overwhelming feelings.
Difficulty concentrating:
Fear and dissociation can impair ability to focus on schoolwork, work assignments or conversations, making it challenging to engage in daily tasks.
Emotional numbness:
Experiencing a feeling of detachment from emotions, leading to a sense of emptiness or core shame that prevents connecting with yourself and others.
Mood swings:
The interplay of anxiety and shame can lead to unpredictable emotional responses, ranging from irritability to sudden outbursts, further complicating interactions and experiences.
Case Studies
“Sarah” female age 24
Sarah was going through a breakup with her boyfriend and sought Somatic Experiencing® due to strong physical sensations that she was struggling to manage. By having her become aware of places of calm within her body, she was then able to gently explore the unpleasant sensations. Through our work together Sarah learned to utilize this technique during other stressful events in her life.
“Jonathan” male age 12
Brought to me by his concerned mother, Jonathan was very fortunate to survive a massive apartment building fire that he never spoke about. Even two years after the event he was struggling to go to school due to severe stomach pains before school each day that were not medically substantiated. Through Somatic Experiencing® we were able to resolve his stomach problems by providing him the space and safety to explore sensations surrounding his experience with the traumatic event. After our time working together, Jonathan no longer experienced pain and was attending school on a regular basis.
What Clients are Saying
"When my cousin died I kept crying in school and she guided me through the loss of someone I really cared for. Nancy has always been a helping hand when I felt like I couldn’t talk to my own family and talking to her lifted a weight off my shoulders.”
“Raquel”, Female, Age 14
“I’ve worked with Nancy through many different challenges, but one of the most impactful experiences was after I witnessed a car accident. My nervous system became very heightened that I started waking up every time my dog moved. He has seizures, and any small movement would startle me, convinced something was wrong. This was new and never happened before witnessing the car accident. Through our sessions, Nancy helped me settle my body, understand what was happening, and rebuild a sense of safety. I can sleep again, and I no longer jolt out of bed every time my dog shifts.”
“Michelle”, Female, Age 31
“During a rough patch when it seemed like nothing made sense and everything was wrong, I struggled to understand my racing worries and constant thoughts. My chest had been feeling tight and heavy almost as if I hadn’t been breathing fully. During my Somatic Experiencing® sessions with Nancy, she helped me understand where my physical body was reflecting my emotional state. I began to understand how to ground those racing thoughts and put me in control of myself again.”
“Sarah”, Female, Age 24
FAQ
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We will start with a free video chat to allow me to understand your needs and learn about why you are seeking therapy. I will share my approach and how I incorporate Somatic Experiencing® in sessions. Then you decide if we are a good fit and if we move forward in working together.
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My fee is $150 for a one hour session.
At this time I do not accept insurance, yet do offer a sliding scale if needed.
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Each individual comes with a unique history and set of goals.
We will continue for as long as needed to have you feel confident that your goals have been met.
Typically clients report feeling ease with symptoms within six months.
Get in Touch!
Schedule a free 1:1 video consultation or Individual Somatic Experiencing® session here.