FAQ
Where are you located?
How does Somatic Experiencing (SE) differ from talk therapy?
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-based modality, so we focus on your body’s responses rather than retelling or re-living a story.
SE is known as a “bottom-up” modality rather than a “top-down” modality, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or traditional talk therapy. In SE, we work with your body’s memory and real-time responses, so healing occurs with what your body is experiencing now.
Is SE as effective in the online environment?
In my experience, yes. Working online, I typically can’t see your legs, feet, and hands as I would if we were sitting in my office together. This means I may sometimes ask you what is happening in those areas of your body to help me get the full picture of how your body is responding to our work together.
As long as we have our cameras on and interact together throughout the session, I have found SE quite effective online.
How long does it take before I feel better?
Feeling better depends on many factors, including your definition of “feeling better.”
Many clients feel better after one session and feel calm and connected. Learning anything new takes time for new ways of being to become integrated and automatic.
I frequently recommend clients work with me for 12 sessions over three months as an introduction to SE and the ability to integrate the work. Depending on your personal goals and history, you may want to continue additional work to address other challenges after the initial 12 sessions.
There is no set timeline for healing, and every system is different.
What is your educational background?
The long and winding road! I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy, which requires a BS from a four-year university (The American University) and three additional years in a clinical doctorate program. I completed my PT school education at Marymount University in Arlington, VA. PT school also requires a year of clinical internships, basically unpaid work, to gain practical experience in the field.
I completed the three-year training program to be a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner through Somatic Experiencing International and additional 20 hours of approved consultations and private sessions. I currently assist with SE trainings and help support new students in this work through their learning process.
I have a background as a bodyworker and holistic health practitioner, training in Chinese medicine, theory, and zen shiatsu acupressure.
What kind of training did you go through to become a SEP?
The training to become a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner is a three-year program. It requires class attendance at three (4-day) modules per year for the first two years and two (6-day) modules for the final year.
In addition to class times, all students must complete between 6-8 personal sessions and 6-8 case consultation sessions per year with a designated provider within the three years.
Can I see you if stress or substance use disorder isn’t my primary area of focus?
Do you do Physical Therapy online as well?
Can I continue to see my regular therapist while I do SE with you?
How do I know if I need a recovery coach?
If you are over a year into sobriety and living an alcohol-free lifestyle but wondering, “What’s next?” this is a good indication that recovery coaching would be helpful for you.
If you have difficulty aligning who you were as a drinker with who you are now and feel confused about really stepping into yourself, coaching can help.
Many of my clients come to me because they want additional support and a fresh approach to their recovery. They want to try a new approach to life in relationships, careers, or hobbies but aren’t sure where to start or how to make progress once they have started.
Many of my clients find they are replacing drinking with other behaviors like eating, binge-watching tv, or even exercising or workaholism. They want a deeper level of purpose and satisfaction in their lives.
Do I have to tell you everything?
Do you go to therapy yourself?
Yes! I have been seeing the same therapist and Somatic Experiencing practitioner for over five years and always look forward to our sessions together.
I love practicing Somatic Experiencing with a skilled professional, someone with whom I have developed a trusting professional therapeutic relationship. Investing in my mental health with regular therapy is as important as the time and money I spend taking care of my physical body!
How do I get started?
Give me a call! I offer a free 20-minute consultation call for new clients to assess if working together is a good fit and answer any questions you have.
You can also send a message via the contact form on the site with questions. I reply to all my calls and messages within 48 hours, Monday – Friday, typically much sooner.
Do you ever see clients in person in San Diego?
Yes, I do occasionally see clients at my office in Shelter Island and work with some clients on a hybrid basis, doing a combination of Zoom and in-person sessions