Shefa Somatics
Comprehensive manual therapy connecting the body and mind
Offering several bodywork modalities including:
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Craniosacral Therapy
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Somatic Emotional Release
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Visceral Manipulation
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Lymphatic Drainage
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Myofascial Release
Services
Babies
Children
Adults
Craniosacral Therapy
A gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and treating the craniosacral system - comprised of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Practitioners releases tensions in the body tissues to balance the central nervous system, achieving both physical and emotional regulation. CST is used to facilitate the body's innate healing processes and to support resistance to disease.
Myofascial Release
Our bodies are connected via a web of connective tissue called fascia. This system runs from head to toe & encompasses every ligament, bone, muscle, nerve, & organ. If there's a restriction in one area of the fascia, it can create a line of tension causing pain or physical dysfunction. This method mobilizes fascia using gentle pressure applied slowly which allows fascia to elongate, thereby releasing tension to enable symptom relief.
Conditions Treated
Pediatrics:
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Developmental delays
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Birth trauma
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Feeding issues/oral ties
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Emotional dysregulation
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Behavioral issues
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Chronic physical conditions
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Excessive ear fluid/congestion
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ADHD
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Learning disabilities
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Incontinence & More
Adults:
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Headaches
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TMJ dysfunction
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Chronic pain
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Autoimmune conditions
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Trauma & Stress
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Anxiety & Depression
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Accidents & Surgery
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Digestive disorders
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Nervous system/emotional dysregulation
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Pelvic floor dysfunction/incontinence,
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Fertility, pre/post natal, & more
Somatic Emotional Release
Our bodies hold subconscious emotions & experiences on a cellular level. Specific areas of body restriction correspond to unresolved emotions, trauma, & negative experiences. This method identifies and releases tension in those areas in order to balance mental health. Every physical condition has an emotional component, we often need to address both the physical & emotional aspects in order to fully heal.
Visceral Manipulation
“Organ specific mobilization” to increase communication and function in the visceral systems. Every organ has intrinsic motion and connects to adjacent structures via connective tissues. This method releases restrictions in the connections between organs and in the organ function itself in order to create an optimal state of health.
Lymphatic Drainage
The lymphatic system is one of the bodys waste disposal systems. This method utilizes a gentle touch to mobilize the interstitial & lymphatic system to activate the bodys liquid circulation. This process stimulates the functioning of both the parasympathetic and immune system & helps drain toxins from the body.
About Us
Bracha Finman has been a licensed Occupational Therapist since 2010 with training in both pediatric & adult populations. Having spent many years working in the school system, Bracha has experience in various school based modalities including Sensory Motor Integration & Reflex Integration.
Bracha has advanced training with the Upledger Institute, Barral Curriculum, as well as the Chikly Institute. Bracha has always been passionate about holistic health, with a propensity towards the health sciences and emotional wellness.
Our bodies possess a Divine capacity to self-heal, with all tools resourced from within. Craniosacral Therapy/Bodywork allows us to discover our innate self-healing capacity. Our goal is to provide a safe space where clients feel comfortable to access and heal the deepest parts of themselves. Developing a felt sense in order to navigate our internal compass. From this place, we can live fully in alignment and ultimately utilize our greatest gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are sessions?
Sessions are about 1 hour. If the client wants more extensive lymphatic drainage, sessions could be up to 1.5 hours
How many sessions will I need?
Many people experience relief after a single session, however most cases take approximately 3-4 sessions to address. Chronic physical or emotional issues often require more consistent sessions. While many clients report positive changes following their initial session, a series of sessions is recommended for sustainable outcomes.
Do you take insurance?
Craniosacral therapy is not covered by insurance at this time. However, we’re happy to provide a super bill for those who have out of network coverage and many clients have received reimbursement.
When will I typically see results?
Some people experience results right away, for others, it can take time or subsequent sessions to see more functional outcomes. There is a concept called “processing time.” Following a session, it can take a few days, up to a week and sometimes more to yield results from a single session. Internal shifts & integration occurs within the body tissues as the release process continues.
What should I wear and do I need to do anything before the session?
It’s always a good idea to hydrate well before and after a session. The body uses fluids/minerals as the session processes. The most ideal attire is comfortable clothing with stretchy waistbands and shirts that can easily be lifted. Craniosacral therapy/somatic emotional release is done over clothing. However, visceral manipulation, lymphatic drainage, & myofascial release is ideally performed on skin. Therefore, it’s easier access in the event that we need to work on skin directly.
What’s the difference btwn CST and other somatic/touch therapies?
The Upledger/Barrral Institute maintains rigorous standards of skill and expertise for its therapists. Practitioners are required to demonstrate precise evaluation and treatment techniques, possess an exceptional understanding of anatomy, and hold licensure as healthcare professionals (e.g., Nurse, PT, OT, Chiropractor). This level of qualification sets them apart, as not all forms of bodywork meet these criteria.
