Throughout my life, staying active – and paying attention to how I move – has helped me to keep all kinds of problems at bay, including depression and back pain. After working in social services for several years, I realized that I wanted to incorporate movement into my practice, to help people connect to their own bodies, and started looking.
In 2003, I suffered a debilitating neck injury that was “resistant to treatment.” I was lucky enough to be referred to a Feldenkrais Practitioner in Portland, Kim Cottrell. She moved my ankles in tiny little movements – she didn’t even touch my neck – and when I stood up I had much more range of motion and the pain was greatly reduced. I continued to learn more about the work and was impressed by the changes that were taking place in my self-image and emotional life. I entered a training in 2004, and continue to be amazed at the effects it has on me and on the students who come to see me. It has had a profound effect on my emotional, spiritual and professional life.
Professional Experience
I have worked as a Feldenkrais Practitioner since 2007 in a private practice. My social work experience includes work with people experiencing homelessness, parents involved in the child welfare system, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, people living with HIV/AIDS, and people with addictions. I am now an individual, child and family therapist with Conexiones and the Center for Trauma Recovery.
Credentials
Guild-Certified Feldenkrais Practitionercm #3573
Victoria Feldenkrais Teacher Training, Victoria, BC, Canada – graduated 2007
The Feldenkrais training includes at least 800 hours of training
Certified by the Feldenkrais Guild® of North America.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Oregon License #3843
Masters in Social Work from Portland State University – graduated 2000