NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION

The body, by way of the nervous system, is heavily influenced by the mind.  We all experience this when we are stressed and feel tension, or when we are anxious and feel jittery.  As neuroscience research is uncovering the depths of the mind-body relationship, we are learning that the nervous system and the mind are inextricably linked; any symptoms that emerge from one will inevitably impact the other.  So, by learning how to regulate the nervous system, we can improve psychological issues of the mind. 

 

WHAT FOR?

  • Stress
  • Sleep
  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Somatic issues
  • Physical pain
  • Trauma
  • Existential issues
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Identity issues
  • Boundaries
  • Relationships
  • Well-being

 

GOAL

While this approach addresses a variety of psychological and physical concerns, ultimately the goal is to help people feel more comfortable in their bodies, quiet their minds, and learn how to listen to and trust themselves.  

 

FORMAT AND ORIENTATION

My approach is based on the principles of mindfulness and draws from my training in various psychological and bodywork approaches, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy,  Visceral and Neural Manipulation, Craniosacral Therapy, and Vipassana Meditation.  I am informed by the theories and literature from the fields of trauma, neuroscience, and somatic psychology, including the polyvagal theory, interpersonal neurobiology and EMDR resourcing.  Please feel free to contact me for more resources or information on my approach. 

 

WHAT TO EXPECT IN A SESSION:

  • When you arrive for your first session, we will talk briefly to determine your physical and emotional goals.
  • During the session, you will lie on a massage table in loose or comfortable fitting clothing. 
  • As appropriate, I will use light touch on your feet, shoulders, torso, and head to help track your body sensations.
  • You will be asked to observe and notice what is happening in your body during the session and how they may be linked to thoughts or emotions that arise for you.

The purpose is to learn how to observe your experience without judging or reacting to it. This will help quiet the mind, which in turn calms the nervous system.  Research has demonstrated that this factor is a key to relieving both physiological and psychological suffering (Davidson & Kabat-Zinn, 2003).

 

NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION AND TRADITIONAL TREATMENTS

This approach is effective on its own or as a complementary practice. This training is not meant to replace traditional medical care or psychotherapy, but rather deepen one’s experience of it.  

It may also be useful for clinicians interested in implementing body awareness into their clinical practice.

 

DURATION AND FEES

  • Sessions are 60 minutes long.
  • People can benefit from as little as one session. Average trainings last about 6 sessions.
  • Package rates and sliding scales may be available for motivated individuals.
  • Please contact me with questions or for further consultation.