Frequently asked questions
What is somatic therapy?
Somatic therapy, also called somatic psychotherapy, works with the connection between body and mind. It recognises that emotional experiences are held in the body, not just in our thoughts. By bringing gentle awareness to sensations, posture and feeling as they happen, we can work with patterns at their root rather than only talking about them.
What is Hakomi therapy?
Hakomi is a gentle, mindfulness-based approach to psychotherapy. Rather than only talking about what’s hard, we slow down and notice what’s happening in your body right now, so old patterns and beliefs can come to light and shift with care.
What conditions can somatic therapy help with?
Somatic therapy can be supportive for a wide range of experiences, including anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, a nervous system that feels out of control, relational trauma and attachment wounds, repeating relationship patterns, depression, low self-worth, emotional numbness, and feeling stuck despite understanding yourself well.
How does somatic therapy differ from traditional talk therapy?
While traditional talk therapy often focuses on verbal expression and cognitive processes, somatic therapy emphasises the physical body’s role in storing and processing emotional experiences. By exploring bodily sensations and movements and the use of intentional touch at times (in-person sessions), somatic therapy can access and address areas that talk therapy alone may not reach, facilitating deeper and more integrated healing. We can spend decades talking about our story, but deeper shifts can only occur in the feeling space.
Is somatic therapy available near Byron Bay or in the Northern Rivers?
Yes. InnerBloom offers in-person somatic psychotherapy at a private home studio in the Byron hinterland, a short drive from Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, Bangalow and Brunswick Heads, and easy to reach from across the Northern Rivers, including Ocean Shores, Lismore and Ballina. Online sessions are also available for clients anywhere in Australia.
Who can benefit from somatic psychotherapy?
Somatic therapy suits people who are ready to slow down and turn towards what they feel, even if part of them wants to run. Many of the people I work with are sensitive and self-aware, have done a lot of personal growth work or talk therapy, and still feel stuck. It’s especially helpful if you understand your patterns but can’t seem to shift them, or if you know about regulation but can’t do it on your own.
How do you ensure a safe and supportive environment?
Creating a safe and supportive environment is at the centre of my practice. I use trauma-informed care principles to ensure that our sessions are empowering and responsive to your needs. This means prioritising safety, trust, and collaboration throughout our work together, and adapting my approach to suit your comfort and readiness.
Is somatic therapy the same as Somatic Experiencing?
They are related but distinct. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a specific trauma resolution method developed by Peter Levine. Somatic psychotherapy is a broader field that uses the body as the primary entry point in psychological healing. I have training in both SE and Hakomi, and draw on multiple somatic frameworks depending on client needs.
What can I expect during my first session?
We take time to get to know each other, talk about what’s bringing you here and what you’re hoping for, and gently begin to notice what’s happening in your body. You’re always in charge of the pace.
What happens during a regular session?
We work together to explore the connection between your body, emotions, and mind. Sessions often begin with a check-in, where we discuss how you’re feeling and what’s been coming up for you. From there, we gently bring attention to bodily sensations, emotions, or physical experiences. This could involve noticing areas of tension, breathing patterns, or how certain thoughts affect your body.
The aim of this work is to be guided by what is currently here in the present moment, as that is the portal to true revelation and change. So there will be a balance between naming the story of what’s happening, but then feeling and monitoring how that is showing up in the body in real time.
The process is gentle and collaborative. You won’t be pushed into any exercises you’re not comfortable with. We work at your pace, and I’ll guide you with care, using body-centred techniques to help uncover any unconscious patterns or emotional blocks that are stored in the body.
At times, there might be verbal discussion, but we’ll also pay attention to how your body responds during the conversation. This holistic approach helps us access deeper layers of healing, working with both your mind and body to facilitate lasting change.
How long does it take to see results?
The timeline for seeing results can vary depending on individual circumstances and the nature of the issues being addressed. Some clients may notice shifts in their emotional wellbeing and physical sensations relatively quickly, while others may experience gradual changes over time. Healing is a process and what I found is that once I had these tools it became a lot more enjoyable, and I no longer felt like I wanted to rush it or ‘get it over with’. Instead I had this sense of curiosity and fascination of how things were evolving and what I was learning, a very different perspective than needing to ‘fix’.
Most people come weekly or fortnightly, as regular sessions bring deeper and more lasting change.
Do you offer online or remote sessions?
Yes. I offer online sessions to people anywhere in Australia over a secure video call. For many people, online somatic therapy is just as effective as in person. Somatic work is about noticing your own body, and that can happen just as well through a screen. Many clients find it easier to settle and feel safe in their own home. Read more about online somatic therapy.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a fee. If you have any specific concerns about scheduling or need to discuss your situation, please contact me directly.
Do I need any prior experience with body-centred practices to start somatic therapy?
Not at all. You don’t need to have any prior experience with meditation, body-centred work, or somatic techniques. I’ll guide you gently, starting with simple practices, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.
What happens if I feel overwhelmed during a session?
If you ever feel overwhelmed, we will pause and return to a place of safety and comfort. We can focus on grounding techniques or move back to talking. Your wellbeing is the top priority, and we’ll go at a pace that feels right for you. I am equipped with the skills needed to identify when you are outside of your window of tolerance, and how to bring you back to a safe and grounded space.
Are my sessions confidential?
Absolutely. Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of our work together. All sessions are conducted with strict adherence to privacy and confidentiality standards, ensuring that your personal information and experiences are protected.
How much do sessions cost?
Sessions are $150 and run for 60 to 75 minutes. If you have any questions about fees, you’re very welcome to get in touch.
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes. I offer a free 20 minute video call for anyone wanting to explore whether somatic therapy is right for them. You can book it online at a time that suits you, with no obligation. Book your free call
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with me, no referral needed.
How often will we meet?
Most people come weekly or fortnightly. Regular sessions help your nervous system build trust and allow change to settle in and last.