I combine tools from Structural Integration, Hellerwork, Cranial Sacral Therapy, and Movement Education. Structural Integration and Hellerwork are deep tissue modalities that improve posture and physical functioning by working deeply in the myofascial system. The work feels similar to deep tissue massage, but is deeper, slower, and more specific. Like physical therapy and chiropractics the intention is to relieve symptoms, but the technique is focused on deep tissue release. The work is usually done as a series of sessions designed to bring the whole body into greater alignment part by part. The work is ideal for people suffering from chronic pain such as back pain and migraines, repetitive strain injuries, deep muscular tension, as well as emotional struggles such as depression and anxiety. Clients range from athletes addressing injuries to women struggling with post partum depression. The scope of the work is broad because the approach includes four components:

~ postural analysis and assessment
~Deep tissue bodywork
~Dialogue about relationship between the mind and body
~Movement re-education.

The work begins with an initial session to gather information using an intake form as well as doing a postural assessment, myofascial length tests, and an assessment of the mind/body relationship. The initial discussion is followed by treatment on the bodywork table and a movement lesson. The goal of the first session is to gather information, give the client a chance to experience the work, and determine how to move forward.

The next step in the work is to create a plan. This plan considers the client’s needs, goals, and the initial assessment. The remaining sessions combine discussion, bodywork, and movement education in various ways depending upon the client’s needs and goals. For some clients the work is very psychological and for others the focus is on improving physical mechanics with bodywork and movement. The number of sessions can be determined ahead of time, but is sometimes subject to change based on the client’s response to the work and their ability to do their homework. 

All of the work is organized around Ida Rolf’s original ten session series and Joseph Heller’s conception of the mind and body as interrelated. The work also includes elements of cranial sacral therapy, energy work, yoga, dance, and various other body centered techniques. What makes my work unique is my extensive background in movement and counseling.  What makes the work unique in general is that it works so well!

The sessions conclude with a completion process, which involves client feedback and plans for moving forward. These plans include recommendations regarding future work such as taking a yoga class, entering therapy, or learning to meditate. The goal of the work is to increase mind/body awareness so that the client is empowered to act as an advocate in the ongoing process of caring for the body and the self.