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 mayalso 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.

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:Completion of TVM™ training (online and in person)Satisfactory completion of a practical assessment during the TVM™ trainingCompletion of 20 volunteer sessions, with signed & dated declarationsAnother interview & formal practical assessment 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. Review & signing declaration of TVM™ Practitioner in good standing contractCompletion of HIPAA certification and privacy of information protocols.

A trained Triple Vagal Method (TVM) Practitioner works within the scope of their TVM training to provide hands-on, trauma-informed somatic support. This may include:Providing hands-on TVM sessions using the techniques and Master Points taught within the Triple Vagal MethodSupporting nervous system regulation and helping clients move toward greater safety, connection, and regulationSupporting the somatic processing of stress, trauma, and stored emotional responsesHelping clients develop greater awareness of bodily sensations, patterns, and nervous system responsesUsing grounding, resourcing, embodiment, and nervous system regulation techniquesSupporting clients through emotional or physical sensations that may arise during somatic workProviding education about nervous system regulation and the body's responses to stress and traumaSupporting integration following a TVM sessionWorking alongside other health and mental health professionals as part of a client's broader wellness support

TVM Practitioners are not medical or mental health professionals unless they hold separate qualifications in those fields. TVM training alone does not qualify a practitioner to:Diagnose medical conditions, injuries, or diseasesDiagnose mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, or other psychiatric conditionsPrescribe medications or supplements, or advise clients to begin, change, or discontinue prescribed medicationProvide medical treatment or replace care from a physician or other qualified healthcare professionalProvide psychotherapy, psychological assessment, or clinical counselling unless separately qualified to do soProvide massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, or another regulated healthcare service unless separately trained and licensed in that professionManage acute psychiatric or medical emergenciesGuarantee that TVM will cure, heal, or resolve a particular medical or mental health condition TVM is a complementary somatic practice and is not intended to replace appropriate medical, psychological, or emergency care.

Absolutely. TVM can complement other forms of somatic, therapeutic, and mental health support, and having a strong support system is encouraged when engaging in deeper somatic work.During your intake, we will discuss your existing support system and how resourced you currently feel — including the people, practices, and professional supports you can turn to if difficult or intense emotions arise. This helps ensure that we approach the work at a pace that feels appropriate for you and that you have support available outside of your TVM sessions.TVM Practitioners are not qualified to provide mental health services unless they hold separate professional credentials. If something arises that would be better supported by a counsellor, therapist, physician, or other healthcare professional, I will encourage you to seek the appropriate care.I also maintain connections with trusted practitioners and community resources and am happy to help you explore additional support when needed.