Joshua Welz M.A., M.Div, M.Ed, SEP
With a scholarly interest in quantifiable research and a deep intuitive felt sense, I blend and integrate both respectful approaches to complete and whole person care. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, a Masters of Education, a Masters of Divinity, and a Masters of Arts in Psychology, this rich tapestry brings a diverse educational background that incorporates the body, mind, and spirit.
In addition to formal education, I am a certified Kripalu yoga instructor, focusing on a trauma informed practice, while guiding individuals to further connect and experience themselves more fully and gently. Additionally, I hold a background in nutritional psychology, which looks into the impact of nutrients upon emotions and neurochemistry. Furthermore, I take time to consider the psycho-spiritual understanding of each person, integrating both Western and Eastern understandings which acknowledges not only the intellectual foundations for a person’s beliefs (be they religious, spiritual, or non-theistic) but also the psycho-emotional impact upon the nervous system. This approach is to fundamentally ground oneself in a practice of deep embodiment with an appreciation for one’s own inward path; notwithstanding reflections of spiritual or religious trauma as well.
Finally, I specialize in a trauma informed practice which reflects the branch of somatics, including Somatic Experiencing, Transforming Touch, Neuroaffective Touch, Somatic Movement, trauma informed yoga, and embodiment techniques, offering a multidisciplinary approach to whole person care.
My Journey
Early experience taught me that the development of healthy habits does not imply a direct relationship to a healthy nervous system. Diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder in my early teens, as well as later life struggles, the curious journey of understanding the layers of health formed out of necessity. Initially, through naturopathic medicine, then spiritual practices, finally culminating through somatic awareness and traumatology. Through my own education, passion, and a persistent push to heal, grow, learn, and experience life most fully I began to develop a holistic approach to well-being.
Over time, through the integration of healthy habits, be they exercise, nutrition, and top-down approaches to regulation such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness; I began to bridge the gap into bottom-up processing experiences through giving the nervous system its own space to uniquely find safety. This approach gives room for knowing and not knowing, science and mystery. In the end, this small beginning led to a much broader understanding and gave deeper meaning to my own experiences as a somatic practitioner and ways in which I can bring this same lifelong journey of experience into the individual space I share with others.