ABOUT
Frequently asked questions
About the Work
What does “trauma-informed” mean?
Trauma-informed means we work in a way that: • Prioritises safety and choice • Respects the pace of your nervous system • Understands symptoms as intelligent survival strategies • Does not push, override or force change It doesn’t mean we’re always talking about the past. It means we work with your whole system, not just your thoughts.
Do I need to have “big trauma” to work with you?
No...Many people I work with: • Are highly sensitive • Are burnt out or overwhelmed • Have lived in chronic stress for years • Feel stuck or disconnected Nervous systems don’t measure trauma in headlines. If your system feels overloaded or unsafe, this work can help.
Is this therapy?
No. I am a coach, not a therapist. However, my work is: • Trauma-informed • Nervous-system-aware • Somatic (body-based) Many clients work with me alongside therapy because coaching focuses on integration, embodiment and living differently day to day.
What is somatic coaching?
Somatic coaching includes the body in the process. It may involve: • Body awareness • Breath • Gentle movement • Noticing sensation and tension patterns This is always: • Optional • Consent-led • Adapted to your body and comfort level You never have to move or do anything you don’t want to.
I’m very sensitive / neurodivergent. Is this work suitable for me?
Yes: many of my clients are highly sensitive, autistic or ADHD (diagnosed or self-identified). I work in a: • Neurodiversity-affirming • Non-pathologising • Flexible and individualised way The work adapts to you, not the other way around.
About working together
What happens in a session?
Sessions are: • Relational and conversational • Sometimes reflective • Sometimes practical • Sometimes quietly embodied We follow what’s most alive and relevant for you. There is no script.
Do I have to talk about my past?
No. Sometimes the past comes in. Sometimes we work entirely in the present. We follow what your system is ready for.
Is movement always involved?
No. Movement or embodiment is: • Optional • Gentle • Adapted • And only used if it feels supportive
How long do people usually work with you?
Because this is bespoke, it varies. Some people come for a shorter period around a specific transition (e.g. 6 sessions). Others work with me longer-term for deeper integration and life change (e.g. 12-24+ sessions). There is no minimum requirement for an amount of time to work together.
I’m very sensitive / neurodivergent. Is this work suitable for me?
Yes: many of my clients are highly sensitive, autistic or ADHD (diagnosed or self-identified). I work in a: • Neurodiversity-affirming • Non-pathologising • Flexible and individualised way The work adapts to you, not the other way around.
Practical questions
Where do you work?
• In person in Burntisland, Fife and Edinburgh • Online across Scotland and internationally
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. Many clients work with me online very successfully.
How do I start?
The first step is to get in touch or book an initial conversation so we can see whether this feels like a good fit.
About SHINE
What is SHINE?
SHINE is a trauma-informed wellbeing programme for: • Children • Parents and carers • Schools It focuses on helping children feel: Safe, Heard, Important, Nourished and Empowered.
Is SHINE therapy?
No. It is a: • Wellbeing • Emotional literacy • Regulation and resilience programme
Where is SHINE delivered?
• In schools across Fife and Scotland • In community and family settings • Some parent support elements are offered online
A final note
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, you’re very welcome to get in touch.