Touch and Consent

In our work together, touch may be offered as part of trauma-informed somatic therapy, drawing from both Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) and NeuroAffective Touch® approaches. These methods use gentle, supportive touch alongside body awareness to help regulate and support the system, always prioritising your wellbeing and choice.

What to expect:

Where appropriate, and guided by my clinical judgment, I may offer touch to support your process.

Touch is always optional and will only be used with your clear, verbal consent. You have full control to say yes, no, or pause at any time.

Touch may include gentle holding, grounding, or supportive contact to help your nervous system regulate and discharge stress.

There are some clients for whom touch is not appropriate or possible, due to boundaries, distance, or clinical considerations; in these cases, touch will not be used. Self-touch may be another option.

The work progresses gently and incrementally.

Any touch-based work will be explained before it begins, and you will be checked in with throughout.

You are encouraged to share your experience openly, including any discomfort or effects during or after sessions.

Potential benefits and considerations:

Touch and somatic work can support greater regulation and a deeper sense of safety in your body.

You may experience temporary discomfort, such as strong emotions, vivid memories, or physical sensations. These are often part of the process and will be supported gently and attentively.

Consent:

By agreeing to engage in this work, you acknowledge that you understand the nature of somatic touch therapy, its potential benefits, and possible effects. You also understand your right to choose, refuse, or withdraw consent for touch at any time, without pressure or judgment.