I often contemplate my career path as one that mimics a winding river, for I have ventured through diverse landscapes, navigating numerous twists and turns along the way.
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My journey towards depth psychologically oriented Somatic Experiencing work began with my role as a physical therapist, a path that resonated deeply with my inherent passion for athletics, movement, medical science, and serving others. In this field of practice, the convergence of my skills and interests was evident. Physical therapy offered me experience in a field with a diverse array of clients and clinical settings, from infants, children, adults, and elders, all grappling with pain, injuries, and disabilities.
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In the early stages of my professional career, I became intimately aware of the profound interconnection between one's physical experience and one's mental health. My experience in the field yielded a wealth of examples showcasing the intricate connections between physical conditions and pain on one hand, and emotional distress and the stress that often lives under the surface of clients' lives, influencing their moods, perspectives, and relationship to the body on the other.
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My holistic approach to this intricate connection between our physical bodies and our psyche crystallized when I was treating patients with chronic pain. I could see how unresolved traumas from the past could manifest in somatic symptoms and enduring emotional issues such as anxiety, tension patterns, and depression. I was moved to explore this profound connection more deeply.
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With these experiences in the clinic, I was inspired to embark on another academic quest into the psychology of the body. I chose to pursue a Ph.D. in Depth and Jungian psychology, driven by the desire to not simply treat the body's structural ailments but to encompass the entirety of the person—their body, mind, and soul. In the spirit of Jungian psychology, in connection with Peter Levine's profound contributions through Somatic Experiencing, I seek to embrace a more complete picture of each person's individuation journey, embracing the intricate dance of the conscious and unconscious, the physical and the psychic, in the profound tapestry that makes up the human experience.
hi there,
i'm danielle
Currently, I take the role of a practitioner, facilitator, and educator who supports clients in 1:1 or group containers to develop the necessary awareness of psychic, somatic, and imaginal processes that can lead to a deeper understanding and engagement with any symptoms that resulted from unresolved trauma and stress.
I use a Somatic Experiencing (SE) approach combined with an inclusive Depth Psychological perspective.
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Though SE is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy, I do not offer licensed psychotherapy.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and Depth Psychology PhD candidate, not a licensed psychotherapist.
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If we break down psycho-therapy.
"Psyche" meaning soul,
"Therapy" meaning to tend and care for,
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I actually consider what I do to be deep tending and caring for the soul.
It is just not under the regulation of a traditional licensing board, although I have extensive education in the realm of the psychophysiological experience.
As a clinically trained physical therapist, I do not believe that our true integrative healing lays exclusively in our physical bodies only.
Our psyche and soma are intricately connected in so many ways that I could not ethically treat people exclusively serving only the physical body.
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My work is fortified by PhD level training in Jungian and Archetypal Psychology (Depth Psychology), Somatic Experiencing, and my clinical experience of the body/mind psyche as a physical therapist.
This experience as a doctor of physical therapy deeply informs the way I listen to and interact with bodies.
I have worked with groups of various populations including women, men, veterans, and other at-risk populations.
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This history has offered resources combining creative depth psychological practices with somatic approaches to trauma renegotiation. Drawing on this background, if desired, I may propose movement, writing, dream tending or other creative/expressive exercise to complement the tools of Somatic Experiencing.
education & credentials
Stage I Jungian Analyst Training Candidate
C.G. Jung Institute of New England
Newton, MA
M.A., Ph.D. (c) Depth Psychology with Jungian and Archetypal Studies Emphasis
Pacifica Graduate Institute
Carpinteria, CA
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Certified Somatic Experiencing Practitoner®
Somatic Experiencing® International
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Doctor of Physical Therapy, PTL.0016731
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
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Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
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Associate of Science in Pre-Physical Therapy
Potomac State College of West Virginia University
Keyser, WV
Is the way you are living your life truly meaningful and fulfilling to you?
If your answer is “no” or “I’m not sure”
you are in the right place.
MY APPROACH TO WHOLENESS, INTEGRATION, AND EMBODIMENT
My work is all about turning towards soul and finding a greater capacity to safely process the tensions that are moving through you.
It is about finding creative ways to approach inner conflicting energies, as Peter Levine says, "moving from fixity to flow."
In those fixed places, we frequently encounter what is called liminal space.
This space is a space of threshold, a potential space of potent transformation.
In this space, one may be called to leave what is known behind, yet, simultaneously, the next space has not fully revealed itself.
This liminal space involves embracing the mystery and the power of transition from “what has been” to “what will be.”
This is what I help you do.
I guide individuals through this space in a way that is re-membering, rather than fragmenting.
I take all physical, mental, emotional, mythical, and imaginal experiences that arise in this space as important content.
When this space is unconscious, it may feel like:
“I just feel stuck,”
“I know there is more,” or
“I am not going fast enough.”
If left unconscious, this space can become very constricting:
“I am unworthy”
“Life feels meaningless.”
“I am not strong enough to handle this.”
These are not just mental stories, they are also body stories.
Most often, these become body stories of survival when this fixed energy is left unconscious.
This is where we can turn towards the symptoms in a slow, titrated way and see through what it presents on the surface into what the unconscious may be revealing.
This gives us a way to name and reintegrate those disintegrated parts of ourselves that are the hardest to be with and can bring immense stagnation.
This is where we turn with curiosity towards our inner, deepest Self.
outside the office
In the moments when I step away from client work, I do my best to immerse myself in life's colorful experiences. Just as this work is about exploring the multifaceted dimensions of the human psyche, I, too, cherish the diversity of interests that make me who I am.
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Colorado's Wilderness:
Nestled in the heart of Colorado, I find solace and rejuvenation amidst the untamed wilderness. The majestic mountains and landscapes of this beautiful state are a constant source of inspiration. Nature, with its rugged beauty and serene allure, provides me with a space to reflect, recharge, and connect with the deeper rhythms of life.
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The Love of Reading:
The written word is a gateway to infinite worlds, and my passion for reading is a reflection of my innate curiosity and desire for knowledge. Whether I'm delving into the intricacies of depth psychology, exploring alchemical texts, or escaping into the realms of fiction, like Harry Potter, books are and have long been a cherished part of my life's journey.
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Quality Time with My Husband:
In the midst of life's busy currents, I treasure the moments spent with my husband. Together, we embark on our own journey, nurturing the bond that is at the core of our shared experiences and the foundation of our shared dreams. Our relationship feels like a testament to the healing and transformative power of human connection.
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Chihuahua Playtime:
My two Chihuahuas, with their boundless energy and unwavering affection, bring pure joy into my everyday life. Watching them play and embracing their lively presence reminds me of the importance of spontaneity and living in the moment.
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These facets of my life are not just hobbies or pastimes but integral elements that shape my approach. In these moments, I find inspiration, joy, and a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of existence.