Private Sessions
I have been in private practice since the mid-1970s. I do both brief and long-term work. The goal of this work is awareness. It is to help the client become aware of the difference between that which is authentically true for them and that which diverts from that truth.
It becomes a guide in navigating the constraints and difficulties of our inner conditioned mind and challenges from the outer circumstances of life..
An environment of safety is provided: confidentiality, good boundaries, pacing the work in a way that is right for each individual, providing relevant referrals when necessary.*
Huma Somatic Psychotherapy has traditionally been a hands-on method in which I have used my hands to listen to the flow of energy in the central channel in the core of the body. I have also developed the ability to track that flow without the touch, by feeling the client’s responses in my own body. This enables me to work with people by video platform or phone.
I talk with the client about what is happening in their experience. We talk about any concerns they may have.and whatever emerges. As we do this, I am tracking the responses in their body as described above. Unconscious memories and feelings may come into awareness. Also, the client can begin to identify chronic habits of thought (i.e.: chronic anger, resentment, a feeling of habitual helplessness, continuous planning, worry, etc.).
Together, we discern what is supported in their experience and what is not. I say “together” because the client can also begin to feel these responses once we begin this work of naming them. This is a help in navigating the pushes and pulls of one’s psyche.
Sometimes the movement of energy through the core of the body gives way to a dynamic stillness there. The client may experience this as a shift to another state: peace, wholeness, the Mystery, a longing that has fullness, etc. It is a tranquil place where there is no worry.
There is a deep longing in each of us which ultimately requires that we bow our heads to legitimate suffering. This accepting or surrendering can then lead to glimpses of a tranquil place. The memory and fragrance of these moments can become a resource in daily life.
Louise Barrie
*There are many modalities of psychotherapy. This method is not suited for everyone. . If someone wants to work with me, I recommend trying two or three sessions, so that they and I can see if this method is a good fit for them.