Transforming Spaces With Sacred Art

TVM is a somatic (body-based) therapy designed to increase nervous system

regulation and resilience. Through physical stimulation of key points on the body,

TVM helps to activate our own healing system and promote physical and emotional

well-being.

This is a hands-on therapy in which the practitioner works with a number of points along the front and/or back of the body to release blocks in the nervous system and fascia.

More information can be found through the Integrated Somatic Institute.

When  we experience a traumatic event, the body sends us into a survival  response in a bid to keep us safe. If the trauma cycle in the body  remains incomplete, for example, when the body has not come back down to  a sense of safety (“I survived”) or of relaxation/presence, the body  will hold on to the information of the event to ensure our future  survival. This leaves behind an energetic charge in the nervous system,  and can manifest as calcification in the fascia.

When the body holds a lot of unprocessed trauma, the nervous system becomes dysregulated. With TVM, we complete the trauma cycle by releasing these charges from different parts of the body where it is stored, and meet them with safety.

The Triple Vagal Method is largely based on the framework outlined in Polyvagal Theory. This framework was developed by Stephen W. Porges and outlines how our autonomic nervous system and more specifically, the vagas nerve, navigates through the three primary nervous system states: Ventral Vagal, Sympathetic State, and Dorsal Vagal.

Ventral Vagal is a parasympathetic state that generally feels safe and connected, enabling social bonding and co-regulation and flexible responses to the world around us.

Sympathetic State is typically called 'fight or flight' and becomes activated when there is a perceived threat.

Dorsal Vagal is a parasympathetic state typically called the 'freeze' or 'shut down' response and occurs when fight or flight isn't possible and is characterized by numbness or disassociation.

The discovery call is a chance for us to get acquainted and ensure that I am able to help you prior to booking an initial appointment. The initial appointment is extensive - the discovery call is a chance for you to ask any last minute questions and for me to determine if you are a good candidate for the TVM. During the discovery call I will be asking questions to determine your risk for re-association.

As we begin to heal from trauma, the body and nervous system work to “complete the

charge” and recode these stored experiences. In this process, previously unfelt

sensations, flashbacks or memories may come to the surface. It is important to

understand that during this reassociation, we may experience heightened emotions

and sensations - our hearing or vision may become more acute and bright, we may

also experience emotional and physical discomfort as we uncover unprocessed

feelings. Resistance may arise if the nervous system signals a return of danger and we

may also project discomfort onto others or external circumstances. During a session

you may be guided to recognize and manage these projections and receive the

support, safety and co-regulation needed for healing to continue.

Our bodies retain memories of traumatic events, often without our conscious

awareness. When the nervous system is activated, but cannot resolve an experience

due to fear or perceived threat, it stores the experience as an "incomplete charge”.

Even though we have survived the threat, we may still shut down as a way to protect

ourselves from potential pain. When unresolved, this disconnection from emotional

or physical sensation can result in disassociation. Disassociation can alter our daily

perception of reality, significantly affecting how we experience emotions,

relationships, and ourselves.

Throughout the session I work with the Vagas Nerve which runs along the front of the body and to many of the major organs. Standard points used throughout the session are near the rib cage, throughout the abdomen, and on the collar bone. Prior to hands-on work, we will always have a discussion and ensure that you feel safe with any touch that occurs. A large part of this type of therapy is consent and nothing will be done without prior consent and ensuring both your comfort and the comfort of the practitioner.

Make sure you are well hydrated. If possible, it’s also best to reduce stimulants, including caffeine, chocolate, or sugary foods the day of our session. Please wear unrestrictive, comfortable clothing and avoid jeans, belts, hanging jewelry and underwire bras.

The intake session we will be going through some forms together. The depth of the conversation depends on the type of intake we are doing with nervous system resets being less in depth than trauma transformation sessions. The intake is a chance for us to discuss in depth what your goals are, past mental or emotional blocks that may come up in sessions, physical areas of concern when receiving sessions, etc. We will also have a session following the intake.

Throughout  the sessions you will remain fully clothed and lie on a massage table,  where you will receive gentle and sustained stimulation to specific  points related to nervous system function.

Most people experience the session in a state of silence and deep relaxation. The goal

is not to uncover intense emotional releases, although they may arise and are also

welcome and supported.

Please  note that this hands-on therapy can trigger a strong nervous system  response. While you are most likely to experience calm, relaxation or a  deep meditative state, emotional releases may also occur. Your body’s  response and level of perceived safety will guide the treatment at the  pace that is best for you.

It  is optimal if you have time to rest following the session, allowing  your body adequate time and space to integrate the treatment.

As  with any deep treatment, be gentle with yourself. A range of emotional  and physical sensations may arise in the hours and days following your  session.

The  process of TVM will continue even after the session has ended.  Integration is best supported by staying really well hydrated and  getting adequate rest. Receiving TVM can be like a workout for your  nervous system. These protocols along with any self-care practices help  replenish ATP (the energy within your cells), that may be depleted as a  result of the session. Give yourself time to be in nature, walk, swim or  float in water, take in sunlight, especially sunrise and sunset. If  possible, try to be in environments that feel safe and supportive. If  you have access, have an epsom salt bath, avoid the stimulation of  devices and television as much as possible. TVM triggers neurological  reprogramming - the days following a session are not the time to make  big life decisions or confront difficult situations, but to treat  yourself with compassion and care. 

You will be sent a after-care protocol sheet for your reference following your session.

Rachelle has received her TVM Practitioner certification from the Integrated Somatic Institute. Certification requirements include:

1. Completion of TVM™ training (online and in person)
2. Satisfactory completion of a practical assessment during the TVM™ training
3. Completion of 20 volunteer sessions, with signed & dated declarations
4. Another interview & formal practical assessment 
5. Completion of 16 personal TVM™ sessions for trainees personal development & nervous system regulation, to be conducted by a TVM™ Practitioner in good standing, not a fellow trainee. 
6. Review & signing declaration of TVM™ Practitioner in good standing contract
7. Completion of HIPAA certification and privacy of information protocols.

Rachelle has received her TVM Practitioner certification from the Integrated Somatic Institute. Certification requirements include:

1. Completion of TVM™ training (online and in person)
2. Satisfactory completion of a practical assessment during the TVM™ training
3. Completion of 20 volunteer sessions, with signed & dated declarations
4. Another interview & formal practical assessment 
5. Completion of 16 personal TVM™ sessions for trainees personal development & nervous system regulation, to be conducted by a TVM™ Practitioner in good standing, not a fellow trainee. 
6. Review & signing declaration of TVM™ Practitioner in good standing contract
7. Completion of HIPAA certification and privacy of information protocols.