If you have never done body-based work before, a Core Energetics session can be difficult to picture. People sometimes imagine that they need to arrive ready for intense movement or emotional release. You do not.
We begin with what is actually present.
We start with conversation
You might bring a relationship conflict, a repeating pattern, a decision, grief, anger, numbness, anxiety about closeness, difficulty with boundaries, or simply the feeling that something in your life is stuck. We talk about what is happening and notice how it is showing up in the moment.
Then we may bring attention to the body
I may invite you to notice your breath, posture, sensations, impulses, or where you feel energy and where you do not. Sometimes simply slowing down enough to notice is the work.
Movement, breath, and voice can become part of the session
Depending on what is useful, we may work with grounding, movement, breath, sound, or voice. These are not performances and there is no correct way to do them. They are ways of listening more closely to what the body is already communicating.
When appropriate and mutually agreed upon, consensual non-sexual therapeutic touch may also be used. Consent and the ability to change your mind are part of the work.
The relational moment matters
We also pay attention to what happens between us. If you disagree with me, want more space, feel misunderstood, hesitate to ask for something, or notice yourself trying to please me, those moments can become useful material. The relationship can be a place to practice boundaries, needs, honesty, and connection.
You do not have to push past your capacity
Core Energetics can be expressive, but more intensity is not automatically better. We work at your pace. Pausing, orienting, grounding, changing direction, or deciding not to do an exercise are all valid parts of a session.
After the session
You may leave with a new awareness, a felt sense of more space, something to practice, or simply a clearer understanding of a pattern. The aim is for what happens in the room to become usable in everyday life and relationships.
I offer Core Energetics and Somatic Therapy in Washington, DC for individuals and couples, as well as ongoing process groups. Sessions are also available online.
