“If trying harder doesn’t work, try softer.”
—Lily Tomlin
Healing from the Inside Out
My work is based on the belief that the body carries its own wisdom.
Instead of starting with thoughts or analysis, we begin with what your body is already telling you. This is called a bottom-up approach, and it helps you reconnect with your natural sense of safety, calm, and inner strength.
By gently paying attention to your physical sensations (your breath, your muscles, your belly, your shoulders) we help your nervous system learn new ways of responding to stress and emotions.
What a Bottom-Up Approach Really Means
A bottom-up approach means working through the body instead of around it.
Your body reacts before your mind does:
Your stomach tightens before you know you’re anxious.
Your breath becomes shallow before you say you’re overwhelmed.
Your jaw clenches long before you admit you’re stressed.
These reactions are messages from your nervous system.
In our sessions, we get curious about these signals.
We slow down and notice what’s happening inside, without pressure, without judgment.
As your awareness grows, your nervous system begins to shift.
You slowly teach your body:
how safety feels,
how to relax more easily,
how to stay present even with strong emotions,
how to respond with more ease instead of protecting through tension or shutting down.
So how do I create a safe and supportive environment?
1
Respect and Trust
Think of me as your body's best friend -always listening, never judging. Your comfort is my command, and everything you share stays between us.
2
Comfortable Setting
Imagine walking into a cozy oasis with soft lighting and with or without relaxing music. It's like your body’s favorite vacation spot.
3
Trauma-Informed Approach
I handle your body with care and respect, ensuring you feel safe and in control. If something doesn’t feel right, just give me a heads-up, and we’ll switch things up.
4
Personalized Sessions
No one-size-fits-all appointments here! Every session is like a custom-made suit, designed just for you and your unique needs and preferences.
5
Clear Communication
I keep things clear and simple, checking in with you regularly. If something feels off, just let me know - no telepathy is required!
6
Professional Boundaries
I keep things strictly professional. Think of it as a “no weird stuff” zone where your comfort and safety come first.
Reminder:
As a trained professional in bodywork and somatic therapy, I am here to support you with care, presence, and safe guidance. My sessions can be a powerful resource on your healing journey, but they are not designed for moments of acute medical or mental health crisis. If you find yourself in such a situation, or you feel you are at breaking point and you need urgent help please reach out:
your GP
Ambulance/Health emergency – 112
Netherlands Suicide Hotline – 0800 0113
As a CAT collective therapist, I fall under Wkkgz complaint law and disciplinary law at the Alternative Therapists Dispute Body (GAT). GAT is a state-recognized and complete independent Wkkgz dispute committee. For more information about my complaints procedure see https://gatgeschillen.nl/ .