In times past, shamans were the tribe’s psychotherapists. People sought them out when in need of healing, be it physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. Shamans provided wise counsel and were the intermediaries between the human and spirit realms. In modern times, we separate these roles as shamanic work can be foreign, and in some cases feared, by those who lack understanding and context for it. Merging the healing of mind and emotions with that of body, soul and spirit provides a truly holistic experience that deepens and broadens treatment. It is a potent recipe for deep and lasting transformation.
 
There has always been a psychological component to Cathy’s shamanic healing sessions, as she realized early on that clients stored experiences and issues in their energy bodies (chakras), as well as their physical bodies. She found that healing would accelerate when they had both mental awareness and emotional intelligence, which helped to unwind patterning and release stuck energies.
 
The combination of psychotherapy and shamanism can be particularly effective in treating trauma which can create disassociation, shock, fracturing of one’s energy field, intrusive and obsessive thoughts, mood imbalances, and difficulties in relating to Self, others, the physical body and the outer world. For example, Soul Retrieval, an ancient shamanic technique, can help re-integrate parts of self that have split off from trauma. These parts can then be accessed more readily and worked with using the Internal Family Systems model, as well as somatic work. Traumatic memories can be reprocessed using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Shamanic Extractions can help release stuck energies and energy work can mend the auric field to help restore balance.
 
Other shamanic techniques which broaden and deepen the therapeutic process include ancestral healing to address generational trauma, past life work to clear overlays and imprints in this life, and the cutting of unhealthy energetic cords. Shamanic work can foster a connection to guides, ancestors, nature, and the spiritual realms. This can also include experiencing a drum journey to learn how to access one’s own guidance, learning specific ceremonies for transitions, and methods for cleansing and protection.

Integrated Sessions are for those who are open to shamanic work being woven into therapy sessions, when appropriate, and would like to work on a consistent basis. Some insurances accepted.