Here’s My Story

About me

I am living proof that one can break free from the shadows of societal expectations and personal trauma to discover a life of authenticity and freedom. My story, like many, began with internalized messages of not being enough - not fitting the mold, not adhering to expected norms. Even before transitioning in my late 30s, I existed in a world rife with ingrained homophobia and transphobia. This journey, though fraught with challenges, became my crucible for transformation.

How I Got Here

From an early age, I felt a profound sense of disconnection, as if living outside my own body.

This detachment, initially a survival mechanism, shielded me from the things I wasn’t equipped to deal with—but eventually became an obstacle to my progress. Through my work with a somatic coach and committed self-study, I explored somatic practices and the principles of polyvagal theory.

This exploration illuminated how these protective mechanisms, while once necessary, had evolved into barriers preventing me from moving forward in a way that truly served me. It led me to a profound understanding and reintegration of my being, transforming these obstacles into stepping stones toward a more authentic self.

I often struggle with the question — How can I be a force for good in this world?

What I’ve come up with is this—what do I have control over?

Luckily, that list is pretty short.

I have absolute control over one thing and one thing only—the choices I make.

From there, the answer was pretty simple: I can choose to do the work to clear away the constructs that have been holding me back, providing me the ability to pause when triggered and choose something different from what has come before.

In other words—I can choose to do the work to be the best me I can be.

Trite, I know. But absolutely true. 😉

This philosophy gives me the foundation on which to build the rest of my life. Naturally, if I have the tools to reduce suffering in myself and others, the most profoundly positive effect I can have on the world is to share those tools and help others reclaim their vibrant selves.

And that is why I am here.

  • Peter Levine, PhD

  • Staci K. Haines

  • Nkem Ndefo, MSN

  • Albert Wong, PhD

  • Nikki Myers, SEP

  • Pat Ogden, PhD

  • Scott Lyons, PhD

  • Deb Dana, LCSW

  • Karine Bell

  • Nikki Myers, SEP

  • Richard Strozzi-Heckler

  • Dr. Rae Johnson

My Mentors & Influences

  • Bessel Van Der Kolk, MD

  • Lisa Dion, LPC

  • Arielle Schwartz, PhD

  • Frances D. Booth

  • Ruella Frank, PhD

  • Ruby Gibson, PhD

  • Dr. Stephen Porges

  • Manuela Mischke-Reeds, LMFT

  • Farzana Khan

  • Padma Diamond

  • Kai Cheng Thom

My Certifications

🔴 Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy, The Embody Lab

🟠 Applied Polyvagal Theory in Yoga (Level 1-3), The Embody Lab

🟡 Mindbody Coaching Certification, The Embody Lab

🟢 Grief & Bereavement Counseling Certification, Dr. Elmira Strange

🔵 Y12SR Peer Guide, Y12SR (Nikki Myers)

🟣 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (in progress), Movement Wisdom

🔴 SE™ Student, Somatic Experiencing International

Ways We Can Work Together

1:1 Mindbody Coaching

Online or in-person, this is designated for individuals to process and explore the mind-body connection and tap into the body’s inherent wisdom to heal. Typically, sessions are weekly or bi-weekly. Packages available.

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Bodha Blueprint Workshops

The Bodha Blueprint Workshops are a transformative six-week journey designed to foster healing and resilience through the practice of therapeutic yoga. Each session is crafted to facilitate trauma recovery by integrating gentle yoga postures, breathwork, and mindful meditation, creating a nurturing space for both physical and emotional healing. These workshops aim to empower you, offering tools and insights to reclaim a sense of wholeness and balance in your life. Online and in-person options available.

Coming Soon!

Yoga for Trauma Healing

My Trauma-Informed Yoga Classes are designed for individuals who want to work through their traumas and reclaim their vital selves. Through gentle movements, breathwork, and mindfulness practices, our workshops provide a safe and nurturing space for participants to explore the healing potential of yoga. We guide individuals towards releasing trauma stored in the body, cultivating self-compassion, and restoring a sense of balance and wholeness.

Y12SR Meetings

Y12SR (Yoga of 12-Step Recovery) meetings blend the practical tools of the 12-step program with the ancient wisdom of yoga. These sessions create an inclusive space where individuals can explore the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of addiction recovery. By integrating the 12-step philosophy with yoga's mindfulness and embodiment practices, Y12SR offers a holistic approach to healing, fostering resilience, self-awareness, and a supportive community for ongoing recovery. In-person and online.

Coming in 2025!