Frequently asked questions

Getting Started

  • Yes — a free discovery call is the natural first step. It's a chance to explore what you're working with, ask questions, and see if we're a good fit. You don't need to be certain before reaching out.

  • That's completely okay and very common. The initial consultation is here to help you explore that. Come curious.

  • Somatic Coaching (SC) is a longer-term container — we work together over six months to shift patterns, change how you're showing up, and create lasting change. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is more emergent: it's shorter-term, ad-hoc support for your nervous system, suited to people who are already fairly resourced but need help in a specific area. Not sure which is right? We can talk it through on a discovery call.

  • Most talk-based approaches work from the top down — starting with thoughts and stories. This work starts with the body. We bring in the nervous system, the emotional body, and embodied practice alongside conversation and strategy. The result is change that actually sticks, because it's integrated at every level — not just understood intellectually.

  • Somatic simply means relating to the body. Somatic approaches work with the body's sensations, movement, and physiology as part of the healing or coaching process — rather than treating the mind and body as separate.

  • No — sessions are fully clothed and although there can be occasional physical touch, it’s minimal and not a requirement. But the work does include the full experience of the body: tracking sensations, working with breath and movement, and tuning into what the nervous system is holding.

  • It's particularly well-suited to people who already have some self-awareness, are willing to slow down and tune inward, and are ready to do something different. If you've tried purely cognitive approaches and found they only go so far, this is often a good fit. If you're unsure, reach out — we can work it out together.

  • Yes. Somatic Experiencing was developed by Dr Peter Levine and has a substantial body of research behind it. Strozzi Institute Somatic Coaching draws on decades of applied practice in leadership and personal development. Both approaches are grounded in neuroscience, trauma research, and the study of the nervous system.

  • Shifting long-standing patterns; feeling stuck despite doing all the "right" things; navigating a life transition or major change; building confidence and sense of self; working through anxiety, overwhelm, or disconnection; birthing something new and needing support to see it through.

  • Anxiety and phobias; old or recent trauma surfacing; relational difficulties; specific blocks or areas of life that feel stuck; nervous system dysregulation. SE is for people who are fairly well-resourced but need targeted support in a particular area.

  • Alongside Strozzi Somatic Coaching and SE, I draw on parts work, psycho-education, embodied relationship work, EFT, Matrix Reimprinting, and practices from my background in yoga, mindfulness, and theatre. The approach is always tailored to you.

  • Most people who come to this work are. That might actually be a good reason to try it.

  • No, I only work with clients 18+.

Sessions & Practicalities

  • Online via Zoom, or in person in Totnes at the Nautilus Rooms.

  • The Nautilus Rooms are in the centre of Totnes, tucked away in a quiet alley with easy parking nearby and a ten-minute walk from Totnes train station. Please wait in the waiting room until you're called. Address: 35A Fore St, Totnes TQ9 5HN.

  • There are genuine pros and cons to both — it really depends on your situation. This is best explored on a discovery call.

  • A quiet, private space where you won't be interrupted and a stable internet connection. A laptop is preferable to a small screen. Have a comfortable chair with back support, a glass of water, and a blanket or cushion to hand. It's also useful to have space to stand up or move around if needed.

  • Generally 9am–6pm on weekdays, with occasional exceptions by agreement.

  • For coaching packages, we'll aim to schedule sessions ahead of time with the understanding that these can be moved around if needed. For SE sessions, we agree a time at booking.

  • Weekly sessions are ideal for building momentum. Fortnightly suits those integrating alongside a busy schedule. Some clients book on an ad-hoc basis.

  • It depends on you and what you're working with. SE is a re-training of the nervous system, and slower is often the quickest way. I usually suggest starting with one session, then agreeing a number to work through before reassessing.

  • Yes. Everything shared in sessions is held in confidence. The only exceptions are the standard legal and safeguarding obligations that apply to all practitioners.

  • Completely normal — especially with body-based work. We always go at your pace, and you have choice and control throughout.

Booking & Payment

  • Book a free discovery or consultation call via the booking link. We'll arrange sessions from there.

  • If we're working online, you'll receive a Zoom link, a T&Cs form to sign, and payment details. For in-person sessions, we'll arrange the practicalities together.

  • For coaching, yes — practices, reflections, and exercises are part of the work. For SE, we might agree on some between-session practices if it's appropriate.

  • I’m a member of the Complementary Therapists Association and is insured with Holistic Insurance Services.

  • I hold a small number of concession slots. Please get in touch to ask.

  • If a clear 48 hours notice is given, and the session is rescheduled within an appropriate time span, there will be no cancellation fee.

    Otherwise, a 100% cancellation fee for less than 48 hours notice will be charged.