Body-based care for transitional times
Somatic:
of, relating to, or affecting the body; also an umbrella term for therapeutic modalities that focus on (re)connecting with the body
Doula:
a person who provides non-medical care (physical, emotional, logistical, educational) through a significant life experience
Hi there, I’m Ashley.
I’m a full-spectrum doula, a somatic practitioner, and a zine maker. If those words don’t mean much to you, that’s okay!
It’s hard to describe the work I do in one little blurb because it looks a little different for everyone. Sometimes I’m sitting with someone while they go through a hard thing. Sometimes I’m offering someone tools or practices or little experiments. Sometimes I’m educating someone on how bodies work. But ultimately, my role is to be present with whatever is coming up in our bodies, minds, & spirits in a compassionate and attuned way.
Is somatic support like talk therapy?
Nope! Somatic support uses a different toolkit than psychotherapy: we focus our attention on the information coming from the the body (sensations, images, behaviors) and the state of the present moment nervous system—which doesn’t include diagnosing or advice from a mental health perspective. As a somatic practitioner I offer a space where people can practice listening to their body with compassion & patience and explore different tools for bringing those listening skills into everyday moments. Sessions are typically a combination of talking / checking in and also grounding practices, movements, exercises, etc. that engage the physical body.
Is working with a doula like having a midwife?
Nope! Doula support includes emotional, physical, mental, informational, logistical, and / or spiritual support—which doesn’t include medical-related care or advice from a medical perspective. Doula clients often appreciate having a support person who is dedicated solely to their emotional wellbeing during birth, death, or other health-related experiences (surgeries, procedures, appointments, etc.) and who can be with them before / during / after in a way that a nurse or doctor simply can’t. As a doula I help create care plans, ask questions, find resources, and help people to feel witnessed and cared for while interacting with a fast-paced medical system.
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Interested in learning more? Set up a free 20 minute virtual consultation to see if we’re a good fit.