SOMATIC COUNSELLING THERAPY
Come Home to the Body
Somatic therapy recognizes the connection between body, mind, and spirit, exploring how life experiences can shape our nervous system, emotions, and sense of self.
What is somatic counselling?
MY APPROACH
Sensations are information, and in somatic therapy, we learn to listen to what they are telling us.
Sometimes we work with an image that springs from a sensation to understand an experience more fully. Sometimes it is learning how movement, the breath, or using our senses support a fiery state so that your system can restore balance.
It is an integrative approach that treats the whole person — thoughts, feelings, sensations, attitudes and belief systems, and how all of it lives in the body. Building a kinder connection with what is happening inside you creates awareness and as a result allows for self-regulation and healing.
Where I most often walk alongside my clients
AREAS OF FOCUS
Stress & Anxiety
Chronic stress, fatigue, & being unseen by the system.
2SLGBTQIA+/Gender & Sexuality
A safe anti-oppressive space to explore & become.
Sexual & Reproductive Health
Birth, loss, choice & the identity shift of parenthood.
A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ME
Vanessa Bailey, RN, RCC
Before completing my master’s in counselling, I spent years as a labour and delivery nurse, often in complex and tender situations. I have also worked in health care related to sexuality and gender affirming care. This includes working with survivors of sexual violence. I have and continue to do transgender hormone and surgery readiness care plans (assessments).
Now in my work, much of what I do is help people notice what they have been stepping over. We live in a world that prizes the thinking, analytical mind and diminishes the body — and when we step over the body, we step over our own knowing.
My clients are curious. They know this is vulnerable work, and they are willing to go into the challenging... I think most people are afraid to go to the dark places, even though this sounds poetic, I think I want to make it seem less scary...? places with care. Whether you arrive with shame, chronic stress, a shifting sense of who you are, or an experience you have not had words for yet — you are welcome here, exactly as you are.
I am registered with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and the BC College of Nurses and Midwives.
Request a Consultation
A complimentary 20-minute consultation is a gentle first step toward finding the right support. We’ll have a chance to connect, talk about what you’re looking for, and see if we’re a good fit. Please complete the enquiry form or email info@baileycounsellingtherapy.com.
(250) 858-7770