Did you know that emotional tension = physical tension?
My clients tend to be people who have experienced:
a traumatic event like an accident or injury,
relational abuse including narcissistic abuse,
medical trauma,
a history of childhood trauma,
managing physical symptoms of anxiety,
physical tension or pain unrelated to trauma
Often my clients have been to doctors, therapists and they feel frustrated and unheard, and this causes more anxiety and often, a feeling of hopelessness.
The work we will do is based on nervous system regulation. If there is trauma or anxiety present, we begin our work by buidling capacity in the nervous system so that there is a container to hold the bigger work when we get there.
All of our work is informed through the lens of the Somatic Experiencing® trauma and Polyvagal Theory approach. We use robust bodywork and somatic techniques as are appropriate, depending on each client’s baseline and goals. This integrated somatic approach may include Feldenkrais (a somatic movement method), Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, Ortho-bionomy, Havening Technique, and HeartMath.
We focus first on nervous system regulation, and as the client’s body system feels safe, unresolved trauma often begins to arise naturally and gently for healing and integration. We process this trauma, held in the body, with SE techniques designed to resolve and dissipate physical pain and tension as the thwarted energy releases.
Some of the physical symptoms of trauma and anxiety include:
TMJ or jaw pain or tension
Migraines or frequent headaches
Insomnia
Tinnitus
Vertigo
Rapid heart rate or POTs
Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
Tightness in throat or chest
Muscle pain or tension (Jaw, neck, shoulders, back, hips)
IBS or other digestive issues
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Private Sessions
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Group classes + Private sessions
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Testimonials
"I began working with Susan after losing my spouse to lung cancer after 41 years together and the difficult time during her illness, prior to her death. I went to her in a profound state of exhaustion and grief. I most appreciate Susan's ability to integrate her breadth of training and experience, each session and apply her skill and compassion to what I need. Her wholistic approach allows me to heal and recalibrate my system, while experiencing a revival of vitality and stamina."
— Lea M., Washington, DC
“I’ve been working with Susan for nearly three years. During this time I’ve experienced marked improvements around how natural and at ease I feel in my body. Susan is an expert and experienced in her field, and her healing work has had a lasting impact for me. Susan is extremely professional and is constantly motivated to learn new healing techniques - I feel I’ve benefited tremendously from her deep well of resources and knowledge. I highly recommend working with Susan, regardless of your wellness goals...she will listen and meet you where you are.”
— Katie W., Washington, DC
“Susan has been a very special person in my life. She has paid very close attention to the issues I have with my normal 69 year-old body and has managed to find the key areas that need special attention. She has always asked what I needed most each time I had an appointment. And I always leave feeling incredibly loose and relaxed. I am already missing her terribly since she moved to CA.”
— F. E., Washington, DC