My approach

what about pain?

If you believe that experiencing pain during bodywork will ultimately help you feel better, there is a chance you won’t connect with my work. The brilliant field of pain science tells us that our central nervous system can become sensitized to pain: the more we feel pain, the more pain we feel. The converse is also true: when our brains recognize feelings of ease and comfort, we experience less pain.

I believe that bodywork should not hurt. I will work as deeply as your body is ready to invite me in, allowing for as much sensation as possible without pushing beyond what your body is asking for. As your tissue begins to unravel and create more space and ease, I will often be able to work more deeply, knowing that it takes time for your body to learn to trust my hands.

Bracing or guarding is often our bodies communicating that it is not ready for the kind of contact it is experiencing, and generally means that, even if our brain knows we are safe, our nervous system is experiencing that input as a threat. This runs counter to the work of tending to your nervous system that we are doing together. By listening to what your system needs, we will allow your body to set the pace as you continue to transform the patterns that no longer serve you, redefine your relationship to pain, and find more expansive ways of connecting with your body.

my commitments

I always believe you when you tell me your experiences, your story, your pain. I trust that you know your own body best.

I honor your gender identity and pronouns, always. I do my best to never make assumptions about your body, your experiences, your identity.

I never comment on your weight or your size. I never suggest your body weight is the cause of your pain. I always welcome you exactly how you are.

I recognize the power dynamic inherent in bodywork, as well as my own positionality as a white, cisgender woman. I use clear consent culture, perceptive choices, and gentle guidance to stay present to support your process.

I remember that we hold our whole histories in our bodies, and I allow space for any emotions that the work may bring to the surface. I know that you always remain in the lead.

I never see your body as a problem I need to fix or a formula I am trying to solve. I know you are not broken. I see our work simply as an opportunity for our systems to get to know each other as we work together to metabolize and integrate the grief, trauma, and pain your body may hold.

“Mollie is an amazing healer. I have loved working with her and seen a big difference in my overall health. As a trauma survivor, I have always felt safe and respected with Mollie. I also thought I would never get rid of my chronic pain I have from being in a few car accidents, but Mollie has shown me that my body can truly feel at ease. My body feels so much better after session-the lasting results are remarkable. Mollie is very thoughtful with her clients. It can be so hard to find a good massage, and I feel beyond lucky to have found Mollie. I could not recommend seeing her enough!”