When we understand the organization of the brain and can see how different parts of the brain control different aspects of behavior and emotion, we gain greater control that ultimately affects our relationships, how we deal with stress, and how we walk in the world. Rhythm is so important in developing a greater harmony with our self.   When we know what brain state we are in, or when we are not in rhythm, I find we are better equipped to develop and use the right tools in our toolbox to get back into rhythm. 

Through the use of virtual therapy sessions, I naturally start with a bottom-up neurobiological approach to develop rhythm and regulation.  We will focus on intentional guided breathwork and meditation, purposeful focus, and immersion in the five senses.  We will explore stuck emotions and how to move them through and out of the body using vagus nerve stimulation, felt sense work, music, and movement.  We can also explore how nature therapy allows us to develop rhythm.  Through meditating in the natural environment, outdoor exercise, purposeful gardening, and/or being creative in the natural environment we have the ability to use our senses, felt sense, focus, and intention. These approaches allow for stuck chaotic energy to move through the body and our ability to give it back to nature and create rhythm.  

I also provide virtual sessions specific to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). EMDR is an approach to move us through stuck trauma as quickly as possible; it has been said that "20 minutes of EMDR therapy is worth 5 hours of talk therapy".  EMDR therapy gives attention to three time periods:  the past, present, and future.  We reprocess the traumatic things that happened and are able to identify and hold the true authentic beliefs about ourselves; all the while, developing the skills needed to create and sustain rhythm. Many of these skills are outlined above.  EMDR creates rhythm by building confidence, clarity, self-compassion, and healthy connection with the self and others.       

If you are looking for an in-person experiential and body centered approach to therapy, I also offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.  Equine Assisted Psychotherapy gives an opportunity to engage with another relational being. Horses function in a herd, or group that is constantly interacting. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy allows one to develop an authentic, healthy, connected relationship or rhythm. This relationship surpasses words and invites us to communicate with our entire being.  Experience interacting with the herd provides immediate feedback to give us the opportunity to try out new ways of connecting and communicating. 

Why horses?  Horses are living, breathing relational beings just as unique as humans are.  Each horse has its own personality, stories and ways of attaching, detaching, dissociating, ignoring, and resisting - just like humans do in relationships. But unlike humans, horses are evolutionarily wired to be in the moment due to being a prey animal.  Horses provide immediate feedback in each moment. This is something humans have difficulty consistently doing.

I leave you with a recent learning nugget from both nature and horses.  Both have shown me the importance of shedding; shedding of the season, shedding of the winter coat.  We must shed that which no longer suits us so that we may continue to grow and fully participate in our authentic selves.