A naturopath suggested I try Structural Integration, and half way through the series I felt a profound shift. Not only was I able to stand upright comfortably, without the usual back pain or shortness of breath sensation, but my perception of myself started changing. Over the weeks and months that followed I continued to let go of my old protective patterns, and felt freer to take up space and relate to the world around me in a more open way. In addition to the physical work of easing restrictions in my fascia, my rolfer had taught me how to find my feet and my connection through the ground, how to position my pelvis in a way that supported my whole structure, and to remember that I had choices about how I used my body. I understood that Structural Integration is about more than just symptom relief— it is truly about integrating the parts that make you you, so that you can feel more whole and experience a higher expression of your potential. Experiencing these changes and working with my rolfer in Washington inspired me to go to school to learn how to help others through this process.
I finished my 700+ hour basic training at The Guild for Structural Integration in Salt Lake City in 2021, and have been practicing since. This work is endlessly interesting, and though I am early in my career, I am already seeing how much it helps people. In 2023 I decided it was time to move back to my hometown of Austin, Texas. I’m thrilled to be back under the oaks and pecan trees again, and excited to be joining the structural integration practitioners doing this work in my community.
My practice is based on the concept that the tissues in the body are more open to change when the nervous system is calm and a person feels safe, empowered, and engaged in the process. I also believe that we are strong and capable of a lot when those basic needs are met. I incorporate body awareness and movement re-education in my sessions, and use Liz Gaggini's BioMechanics of Natural Alignment framework to customize this work even more to each individual. My work is trauma-informed, body-positive, queer/trans+ friendly and competent, and always about meeting people where they are at and finding out where they’d like to go. Structural Integration is a collaboration, and I’m honored to work with so many people who are on their journey toward a more comfortable, powerful, and embodied self. Thanks for reading, and don’t hesitate to get in touch.
How I Got Here
Before I studied Structural Integration I worked as a carpenter and landscaper, among other physical jobs. I’ve always preferred hands-on work and would ask a lot of my body, without giving it much thought in return.
I decided to become a Structural Integration practitioner after it changed my life. People often seek this therapy to help with chronic pain or injuries— neither of which I was struggling with at the time. I did however have “bad posture” my whole life, and standing up straight for long didn’t feel possible or comfortable. More than that, despite being relatively fit and strong, I didn’t really feel at home in my body.