Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
Certified Wellness Practitioner
Workshop Facilitator
Professional Speaker
Our bodies send us signals about our state of wellness, but most of us do not know how to listen to the cues. This TEDxYYC talk deals with stress, cues in the body and the basics of Somatic Therapy.
After leaving a 26 year career as a television journalist, it was a big shock to learn that during my career I'd had all the signs of Vicarious Trauma, a condition that can develop when we work around other peoples' trauma. At that time, none of us in the newsroom knew Vicarious Trauma was a potential risk.
Years later, while studying to become a counsellor, I learned how stress can turn toxic and that much of my condition could have been prevented. All I could think was, 'Why are we not taught this?' We can learn to care for ourselves in the moment of stress and trauma and prevent long-term impacts.
After trying many types of therapy, I found healing in a process called Somatic Experiencing, founded by Dr. Peter A. Levine, Ph.D. I am so grateful for his work, and am now passionate about sharing how all of us can manage stress, heal, and foster our own well-being.
Somatic Experiencing is a gentle approach to releasing toxic stress that can store up in your body.
Sessions are currently conducted via Zoom (until Covid-19 restrictions allow for more face-to-face interaction).
Please Note: I am only taking new clients by referral from other therapists
(as of January 2021)
VICARIOUS TRAUMA
Why It's So Tricky
& How Our Bodies Lead Us To Health
This workshop is for professionals who deal with other peoples' trauma; Including: social workers, media, clergy, and those in the teaching, legal and medical/emergency professions.
Mixing personal stories with the latest in scientific research, this workshop helps you detect how your stress really shows up, and shares how your body can play a critical role in healing and prevention.
EXPERIENCE:
BACKGROUND:
Somatic therapy works with your nervous system to foster natural stress release and well-being. For more information go to:
https://traumahealing.org/about-us/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapy-types/somatic-therapy
Embodied Awareness attunes us to sensations, intuition and other ways of knowing
The Satir method is a hopeful approach to therapy. Virginia Satir (1916-1988) was a social worker known for her compassion and belief that every person has inherent self-worth.
Shock vs. Developmental Trauma - Dr. Peter A. Levine, Ph.D.
Collective Trauma - Gina Ross, MFCT
Body-Mind Centring - Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen, OTR/L, RSMT, RSME
Body Wisdom - Anastacia Metcalf Lundholm
Anger, Boundaries & Safety - Greg Gurel
Reiki Levels I & II - Phyllis Kane, Reiki Master
Shamanic and Nature Practices - Sandra Ingerman, New Mexico; Jaki Daniels, Calgary
"With Barb I always felt comfortable enough to reveal the deepest parts of myself that I was too afraid to show the world. At a time when I felt like no one could truly understand what was happening in my life, Barb did. She was able to see and help me through some of life's toughest problems. I now walk with my head a little higher because I know that anything I encounter in life can be compassionately worked through using the skills that I've gained when working with my own emotion." B.
" I consider myself lucky to have had the chance to work with Barbara as my Counsellor. Although I've had training before and did a considerable amount of work to connect with my body, Barb took me to a new level. Her respect to my previous knowledge was great. Barb worked with me in a new format without limiting me into a time frame and instead allowed my body to lead the sessions. Barb supported me during the sessions, and between. Today, I refer back to many teachings and inspirations I learned about myself through the sessions I had with Barb, the biggest one was learning my body's language. I would confidently recommend Barbara's services and her abilities to support anyone who's looking to connect deeper with their body, soul and mind." R.
'I have worked with Barb extensively in the past. Barb was insightful, kind, warm and accepting in her guidance and skill as a counsellor. I was able to unravel my tangled thought patterns that were keeping me trapped in a self imposed prison of perfection. She helped me find my own answers by tapping into my inner wisdom and deep knowing; she created space for me to accept and embrace my imperfections which in turn decreased my overall anxiety and increased my self love. If you are interested in doing your own 'deep work', I recommend Barb Higgins wholeheartedly! S.