Psychosomatic Therapy is a fully-embodied, integrative treatment using our signature method, The Firefly Method®. We employ a wide range of psychodynamic, neurodynamic, and somatic healing techniques, carefully tailored to each client’s unique needs. This is an intuitive, hands-on, and practical treatment that addresses both the psycho (mind) and somatic (body) aspects of Self.

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An Integrative Approach: Bridging the Mind and Body

Psychosomatic therapy with Firefly Somatics™ bridges mind and body, combining psychodynamic insight, somatic awareness, neuro-muscular techniques, vagal activation, and trauma integration. By addressing both conscious and unconscious patterns, clients experience deep emotional, physical, and energetic transformation. Each psychosomatic therapy session follows a structured, yet intuitive flow, designed to move from mind to body and integrate both. We begin by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and subconscious patterns, creating a safe container for self-discovery. From there, we transition into body-oriented work, releasing stored tension, activating the nervous system, and processing unresolved trauma. The session unfolds step by step, allowing your mind and body to communicate, integrate, and heal in a deeply embodied way.

Exploring the Mind: Psychodynamic Integration

Utilising elements of Psychodynamics, we guide you into your shadowed, programmed self, exploring your subconscious mind and limiting beliefs that have shaped your psyche, self-concept, and personal reality. We help you identify troubling emotions, recurring thought patterns, dysfunctional behaviours, and repetitive cycles that may be causing limitations and blockages in your life. From here, we work to bridge the gap between mind and body. As Carl Jung once stated, “wholeness is not achieved by cutting off a portion of one’s being, but by integration of the contraries.” We help you connect psycho-emotional patterns with somatic experiences, creating space for integration and wholeness.

Somatic Attunement: Body Awareness – Trauma Processing – Nervous System Healing

In connecting with the Somatic System, we help you attune to your internal electrical system, neuronal matrix, sensory network, unconscious patterns, fascia and connective tissue, as well as the neuromuscular and intraskeletal systems. The aim is to create a stronger, more cohesive, and coherent pathway between the brain, gut, and body. We work with you to release any stored or undischarged nervous energy and stress that may have become stagnant within your body in relation to a traumatic experience or event. Through this process, we guide you in releasing the imprint of past trauma that is viscerally held within the body, supporting both emotional and physical integration.

Following The Firefly Method®, we support you in understanding, seeing, and feeling how your limbic system, subconscious mind, embodied neural network, fascial system, and neuromuscular system are responding to—or have previously responded to—stressful experiences, including past traumatic events that may have caused extreme overwhelm. We guide you through a trauma cycle completion, processing nervous energy, past emotions, thoughts, perceptions, sensations, and neuroceptions in relation to both past events and current stressors. This process often—but not always—elicits involuntary neurogenic responses, such as swaying, shaking, or tremoring. These movements provide essential neuro- and biofeedback, signalling that your nervous system and somatic body are releasing the energetic imprints of past trauma, the pain experienced at the time, and the internal stress created during the event—but which remained unprocessed, undischarged, and unintegrated.

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The Structure of a Psychosomatic Therapy Session

Each session begins with Psychodynamics, typically lasting around 30 minutes, depending on your level of self-awareness and whether you have previously completed self-exploratory work. This process allows your therapist to ‘read’ you, tuning into your unique essence, energies, and nervous system. During this phase, we explore the structures of your psyche by looking at:

• Childhood background and adverse events
• Past traumas and recurring dynamics
• Residing fears, core beliefs, and limiting beliefs
• Awareness of dysfunctional behavioural patterns
• Recurring thoughts and automatic judgements
• Cyclical emotional states and personal biases (e.g., socio-cultural conditioning)
• Cyclical body discomfort and present somatic awareness
• And much more

Schema may also be employed to, identify maladaptive behaviours, understand their underlying causes (such as Adverse Childhood Events – ACEs), and recognise habitual thought and emotional patterns. This phase also helps you settle into your immediate environment, creating a sense of safety and care before any physical touch or body-oriented work is introduced.

Following psychodynamic exploration, clients are guided through Body-Oriented Therapeutic Work, typically lasting around 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the therapist facilitating you. Our body-awareness approach aims to resurface, process, and integrate stored embodied trauma, both unseen and unresolved.

We work directly with the limbic system (the emotional brain and subconscious mind), the nervous system, and the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, with approximately 80% of its branches within the parasympathetic nervous system—our “rest and digest” system that supports anti-inflammatory responses throughout the body. It acts as a bi-directional highway, regulating the brain-gut axis and influencing neuroceptive, interoceptive, and proprioceptive awareness.

Danielle has developed a vagal activation protocol that stimulates this nerve step by step, from crown to colon, through a series of active, engaging exercises. This includes:

• Activating vagal pressure points through stretching, movement, and massage
• Active vagal breath patterns
• Meridian point stimulation
• Adjusted massage techniques for vagal manipulation
• And MUCH more

Through this consciously connected stimulation, afferent-to-efferent vagal mobilisation occurs, helping to switch off defence mechanisms and threat responses in the autonomic nervous system. As the parasympathetic nervous system comes online, biofeedback cues indicate its activation, triggering anti-inflammatory biochemical responses throughout the body. This process also engages the neuroendocrine and immune systems, slowing various biological functions such as heart rate and respiratory state. It reduces high-frequency brain activity (Beta and Alpha waves), guiding you into Theta or Gamma brain wave states, creating a profound sense of relaxation and a “floaty” sensation.

We then employ Neuro-Muscular Techniques, Active Releasing, and Biodynamic Movements in the body-work portion of The Firefly Method®. The intention is to relax the muscles and alleviate bodily pain, tightness, and tension that arise from cyclical stress and prolonged mobilisation, which often result in intense contraction, constriction, and bracing within the body.

Techniques used include:

• Deep tissue manual work
• Fascial flossing and muscle scraping
• Stretching and manoeuvring
• Nerve gliding to mobilise, stretch, and release nerves that may be trapped, injured, or compressed due to muscle contraction or fascial adhesion
• Trigger point release, addressing palpable nodules within taut bands of skeletal muscle fascia

When releasing trigger points, direct compression may be applied to the area. This can elicit a jump sign, local tenderness, a local twitch response, or referred pain, which often manifests in a pattern distant from the local area. The goal is to disrupt the core positive feedback loop of chronic tension. Trigger points are hyper-irritable and hypersensitive areas within muscles, suffering from reduced circulation, increased contraction, and spasms due to the accumulation of metabolic waste. Lack of circulation leads to a build-up of toxins and heightened nerve sensitivity, which may present as anything from low-level ache to sharp pain.

The techniques employed aim to improve lymphatic drainage, blood circulation, and vascular function, enhancing the smooth muscles’ ability to dilate. This allows the muscles to receive oxygen more efficiently and supports the removal of waste products—such as creatinine and various acids—into the bloodstream for filtration and excretion.

Additionally, biodynamic movements and active stretching exercises are used, including:

• Pelvis and hip opening
• Shoulder internal and external rotation
• Psoas mobilisation
• Gluteus medius and piriformis stretching
• Sacroiliac release
• Ribs, trunk, and diaphragmatic stretching
• And MUCH more

All manual and movement-based techniques are tailored to your individual needs, which are identified in your pre-assessment and continually assessed throughout the session.

Depending on the individual, gentle spinal alignment may also be employed. Spinal misalignment can occur as a result of ongoing stress and mobilisation. Essentially, when the nervous system signals the body to mobilise, muscles can constrict, contract, and become tight or even hypertonic. This tension can pull on the bones to which the muscles are attached, leading to misalignments. Other common contributors to chemical imbalance include nutrient deficiencies (such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium), as well as lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, and other toxins. We use manual techniques to gently restore spinal alignment. Clients often notice audible cracking or popping sounds, along with various sensations. These occur when the spinal facet joints are guided back into their natural position.

Our manual work also encompasses Digestive System Reset, which includes visceral massage of the internal organs within the abdominal cavity, such as the stomach, navel, intestines, liver, and spleen. This involves massaging, rolling, and manipulating the area to promote optimal function and reduce discomfort. It is normal for clients to experience biofeedback during this work, such as peristalsis, which may include wave-like sensations and motions in the abdominal region, water-like noises, swooshing sounds, or popping. This process may also induce bowel movements post-session, particularly for those who experience constipation, bloating, gassing, or irregular bowel habits. For clients with bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease, IBS, colitis, or diarrhoea, improvements may also be observed in psychological symptoms, reflecting the mind-body connection facilitated by this work.

Depending on the client, and if your facilitator intuitively senses that you are ready, you may be guided through Recalling to Reimprint. Recalling traumatic events while the nervous system is activated provides the subconscious with space to neurologically engage and unearth unresolved inner pain. In this process, we work directly with structures in the emotional mid-brain, including:

• Amygdala – the brain gland that records pain and non-declarative, non-verbal memories
• Hippocampus – stores declarative memories and consolidates memory
• Hypothalamus – the body’s central control centre, maintaining homeostasis and directly influencing the nervous system and hormone responses
• Thalamus – composed of various nuclei, it relays sensory and motor signals while regulating consciousness and alertness

Recalling traumatic memories while the vagus nerve is actively stimulated allows the emotional brain and body to process the information in coherence. It is common for clients to experience emotional and energetic responses in the body as they reconnect with previously suppressed or “flighted” emotions. These emotional charges often remain dormant in the neural pathways and somatic system until they are safely activated. While in a Theta brain wave state, we can then manipulate the neuronal signature by imprinting a more favourable outcome. The subconscious and unconscious mind does not distinguish between past and present, so this allows the information being processed and retained to be reframed and integrated in a way that supports healing and coherence.

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Who Can Benefit from Psychosomatic Therapy?

Our approach to Psychosomatics following The Firefly Method® can be benefited by absolutely everyone. It is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing:

Danielle has directly worked with individuals living with chronic illness or complex health conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Hashimoto’s, Crohn’s Disease, Breast Cancer, genetic disorders, brain cysts, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease  (COPD), and Alzheimer’s. to name a few.

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Psychosomatic Healing: What to Expect and How Long It Takes

Depending on the level, length, and magnitude of trauma experienced, most individuals require more than one session to process and heal traumatic imprints. We generally recommend an in-person session every 6 to 12 weeks, while the aftercare pack supports your nervous system at home between sessions.

Please be aware that it takes time to desensitise the nervous system and establish regulated neural pathways. Achieving a stable state of homeostasis that functions at a healthy capacity does not happen overnight. On average, it can take a minimum of 100 days (approximately three and a half months) to notice autonomic changes, depending on the capacity of the individual’s nervous system. For those experiencing high stress states such as anxiety or panic, it may take up to 12 months to establish ventral vagal regulation. For individuals in a frozen, disembodied, or dissociative state, this process could take up to 15 months.

Finding regulation involves consistent and repetitive practice of neuroplasticity protocols, which gradually prune old neuronal patterns and create new, upgraded neural pathways. These new connections must be consolidated through repeated action over a defined period, as our unconscious and subconscious minds operate through neuroception and outside conscious awareness. We literally become embodied in what we repeatedly do and act upon, which is why steady, ongoing practice is essential for lasting change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Many clients wonder about things like possible side effects, how this work supports healing, or whether it can be done while on medication or during pregnancy. To make things simple, we’ve put together a comprehensive FAQ page where you’ll find answers to these and other common questions.

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What Does a Psychosomatic Healing Experience Include?

A Firefly Somatics™ psychosomatic healing experience is designed to support profound, lasting transformation by working with the nervous system safely, gradually, and with integrity. Healing is not a one-time event—it occurs over time, through repetition, integration, and consistent support, allowing the nervous system to create new, healthy neural pathways. This is why all sessions are offered within a 12-week somatic container, ensuring that every client receives the guidance, resources, and continuity necessary to process, integrate, and embody the shifts that occur during the session. By combining full-embodied work, structured aftercare, and accessible tools for at-home practice, we create a comprehensive approach that honours the science of neuroplasticity, the physiology of the nervous system, and the mind-body connection.

A Firefly Somatics™ Psychosomatic package includes:

• Pre-Screening and Pre-Assessment – To understand your history, needs, and nervous system patterns
• Guided Mind-Body Preparation Protocol – Guidance to follow ahead of your session
• Full-Embodied Session – Conducted online or in person, tailored to your unique needs
• 72-Hour Check-In – Follow-up support immediately after your session
• 3-6-9-12 Week Personal Check-Ins – Via the Firefly Telegram Messenger Portal, allowing you to send texts, voice notes, videos, and images updating your coach on your progress
• One Check-In Video Call – 30 minute video call on one of your check-in dates via Telegram
• Nervous System Aftercare – Access to the Vagus Nerve Mastery Protocol, a transformative nervous system programme designed by Danielle, including guided practical work, theory, videos, and reading material to support your home practice
• Community Support – Access to our private Facebook group, where you can connect and walk the path alongside other Firefly clients on their somatic healing journey

Every aspect of your one-to-one experience is designed with co-regulation, embodied healing, and deep connection at its core, ensuring you leave feeling supported, grounded, and fully attuned to yourself.

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Nervous System Aftercare: Vagus Nerve Mastery

As part of your experience, you will receive access to our Nervous System Aftercare Pack, designed to support your ongoing nervous system healing and somatic regulation from home. This transformative package includes:

• The Vagus Nerve Mastery Protocol – Created by Firefly Somatics™ founder Danielle Hayes, this neuroplasticity programme guides you through vagal activation, somatic clearing, and nervous system regulation. It includes guided practical exercises, theory, videos, and reading material, allowing you to self-activate at home as part of your 12-week somatic healing and regulation journey.
• Video Tutorials – Step-by-step guidance for each vagal activation exercise in the protocol, helping you integrate the techniques safely and effectively.
• Educational Modules – Additional resources created by Danielle, including Trauma, Neuroscience and Psychophysiology, A Beginner’s Guide to Polyvagal Theory, and Upholding Good Energetic Hygiene.
• Downloadable Books – Recommended readings such as The Body Keeps the Score, Rewire Your Brain, and Accessing the Healing Powers of the Vagus Nerve, providing deeper insight into somatic healing and nervous system regulation.
• Lifetime Online Access – The entire aftercare pack is hosted on the Firefly Somatics™ online drive, accessible on your phone or any device, so you can revisit and continue your healing at any time.

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Client Stories & Transformations

Many clients who have experienced Psychosomatic Therapy with Firefly Somatics™ share stories of deep healing, nervous system regulation, and life-changing breakthroughs. To see some of these journeys for yourself, visit our Testimonials Page, where both written and video stories are shared.

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Your Investment in a Psychosomatic Therapy Experience

Pricing for Firefly Somatics™ sessions varies depending on the therapist you work with. Sessions with Danielle, the Founder and Creator of Firefly Somatics™, are priced differently from sessions with our trained facilitators.

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Begin Your Healing Journey

Your nervous system, body, and mind deserve the highest level of care and attention. Firefly Somatics™ one-to-one sessions are designed to support lasting transformation, integration, and nervous system regulation. If you are ready to experience deep, embodied healing in a safe, guided, and personalised way, now is the time to take the next step.

Book your session today and start your journey towards alignment, wholeness, and embodied freedom!

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