Body-based care for transitional times
Somatic:
of, relating to, or affecting the body; also an umbrella term for therapeutic modalities that focus on (re)connecting with the whole body
Doula:
a person who provides non-medical care (physical, emotional, logistical, educational, spiritual) through a significant life experience
Ashley Hartman Annis offers full spectrum doula support (fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, miscarriage, termination, pregnancy loss), somatic support (TRE, Somatic Experiencing), and makes zines in Madison, WI.
Is somatic support like talk therapy?
Nope! Somatic support uses a different toolkit than psychotherapy: the attention is focused on information coming from the the body (sensations, images, behaviors, emotions) and the state of the present moment nervous system—which doesn’t include diagnosing or advice from a mental health perspective. With somatic support, clients get to practice listening to their body with compassion & patience and explore different tools for bringing those listening skills into everyday moments. Sessions are typically a combination of talking / checking in and also grounding practices, movements, exercises, etc. that engage the physical body.
Is working with a doula like having a midwife?
Nope! Doula support includes emotional, physical, mental, informational, logistical, and / or spiritual support—which doesn’t include medical-related care or advice from a medical perspective. Doula clients often appreciate having a support person who is dedicated solely to their emotional wellbeing during birth, death, or other health-related experiences (surgeries, procedures, appointments, etc.) and who can be with them before / during / after in a way that a nurse or doctor simply can’t. Doulas help create care plans, ask questions, find resources, and help people to feel witnessed and cared for while interacting with a fast-paced medical system.
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Interested in learning more? Set up a free 20 minute virtual consultation.