Photography credit: Holly Stevens
Hello. I offer a safe space for you to explore your body’s story. I am honored to be part of people’s deep transformation.
I began my somatic studies nearly 20 years ago after experiencing a particularly profound craniosacral therapy session. I felt a deep connection with my body in a way I hadn’t known was possible, and that moment became a touchstone. In 2009, I enrolled in craniosacral therapy certification training, and I’ve been dedicated to this path ever since.
In my practice, I integrate NeuroAffective Touch with other body-based, trauma-informed modalities. My work is informed not only by training and study, but also by my own lived experience of relational trauma and childhood neglect. I understand first-hand the nervous system’s protective patterns—how they once kept us safe, and how, with care and support, they can be gently reshaped when they no longer serve.
Over the years, my approach has continued to evolve, influenced by advances in neuroscience as well as my own growth. While I’ve stepped away at times to explore other helping fields, I always return to somatic work, each time with a new thread of understanding to weave into my practice.
I am especially grateful to Dr. Aline LaPierre, whose unique articulation of relational trauma and the body–mind connection continues to inspire and inform my work.
Today I come to this work as someone who sees the natural world as alive and sovereign. The natural world can be a powerful co-regulating force for each of us when we orient to it. This understanding grounds and resources my work and is why “rooted” is in my name. I take inspiration from the evergreen trees in the PNW and the connectivity and sturdiness of their extraordinary root systems.
Qualifications
NeuroAffective Touch Foundational Training, Dr. Aline LaPierre
NeuroAffective Touch Practicums:
The Language of Tenderness
Working with Neglect
Developing Interoceptive Awareness
Channels of Embodiment
Somatically Engaging Negative and Positive Emotions
Disassociation
Shame
Relational Trauma Program with Dr. Albert Wong
Healing Trauma Program with Dr. Jeffrey Rutstein
ICEERS Psychedelic Integration Training, Marc Aixalà
Integrating Focusing and Bodywork, Jack Blackburn
Craniosacral Therapy additional studies with Carol Gray, Ged Sumner, Upledger Institute and Ursula Popp
Licensed Massage Therapist, Port Townsend School of Massage
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Certification Program, Cranial Rhythms
More about me…
I am a white, able-bodied, cis woman. I am committed to unpacking my biases and the privileges of my various identities to contribute to a more caring, just world.
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest. I have always lived on the west coast and feel most inspired where there are trees, mountains and streams. I am the mother of two and identify as neurodivergent.
I believe our experiences in our bodies do not exist in a vacuum. Bodies exist in the context of power and culture and these forces are deeply reflected in our bodies and held within. I am inspired by asking, “how are we using our healing to heal the collective?” and vice versa.
My ancestors came from Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Wales and England with many coming to Turtle Island as settler colonialists over 300 years ago. I also am down line from Finnish immigrants, arriving to the Great Lakes region in the late 1800’s. I’m in the process of leaning into understanding my ancestry, the connections to the present, and participating in the intentional act of “remembering.” I bring this understanding and tending to my sessions.
Gratitude & Lineage
I have been especially shaped by the following teachers and am grateful for their generous sharing with podcasts, writing and course offerings.
Embodiment
Susan Raffo
Judith Blackstone
Jack Blackburn
Reginald Ray
Somatic Lineage
Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen
Emilie Conrad
Eugene Gendlin
Thomas Hanna
Healing Work
Francis Weller
Besty Bergstrom
Daniel Foor’s Ancestral Healing
Staci Haines