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Trauma informed bodywork is client-centered and collaborative. Techniques are employed gently and with great compassion for the unique person on the massage table. They are also applied at a slower pace to allow the client and their nervous system space to process the work on a deeper level. A slower pace also allows room for greater communication between client and therapist.
Generally speaking, any massage administered by a trained, “Trauma Informed LMT” who brings understanding, awareness & presence to the massage is trauma informed bodywork. All of the sessions I offer are trauma-informed. Along with bringing trauma awareness & sensitivity into all my work, I offer a protocol for Trauma Survivors: "Trauma-Specific treatment," which is designed to support those who are new to experiencing safe touch, or are re-introducing themselves to safe touch. |
In a trauma-specific treatment you can expect:
- Consent. We will discuss the details of your session and collaborate to ensure you are comfortable with the session plan and the areas of the body addressed.
- To experience the healing power of safe, comforting touch.
- Although it varies person to person, if you are new to trauma-specific massage & healing touch work, one can expect light to medium pressure to start off with. As the session or our work together progresses, or as the client receiving the massage prefers, pressure can be increased.
- Listening to one's body, honoring one's preferences & utilizing one's voice to ask for "more or less pressure" are all wonderful tools for supporting the healing of trauma.
- Compressions, joint mobilization, rocking, stretching. All performed with great sensitivity & as gently as the client needs.
- Enhanced body awareness and proprioception through body awareness exercises.
- An example of an awareness exercise would be the therapist placing their hands over different areas of the hand, arm & shoulder while naming the part of the body they are acknowledging. This exercise is reminiscent of Yoga Nidra, a form of guided meditation where consciousness is shifted throughout the body. The practice of using touch allows the exercise to become more easily accessible.
- There is also an opportunity to incorporate breathwork, guided imagery & affirmations into the session.
- To remain fully clothed. Come in your favorite comfy clothes! Sweatpants, athletic shorts, yoga pants, t-shirt, sweater - whatever makes you feel cozy & secure.
- Starting with a 60 minute session. 90 minute sessions are also available for those who would feel comfortable with, and prefer a longer session. We can start wherever you are.
- Are currently working with a licensed psychotherapist.
- Are at a point in their recovery where they are ready to include touch therapy into their healing work.
- Experience C-PTSD, PTSD, anxiety and/or depression.
- Feel disconnected / numb and want to strengthen the body / mind connection.
- Consider themselves HSP’s - highly sensitive people.
- Would like to experience the benefits of massage but don’t feel comfortable at this point in time with conventional or traditional massage.
- Have recently suffered a trauma & have yet to work with a licensed mental health professional around it.
- Have not worked with a licensed professional regarding their trauma.
- Are not currently able to self-regulate.
- Feel there is a high chance they would be triggered by touch within the healing context.
To schedule a session, please email me directly at nataliemcgrealyoga@gmail.com
Sessions are $120 for 60 Minutes or $145 for 90 Minutes
Sessions are $120 for 60 Minutes or $145 for 90 Minutes
