Denise Huajardo Springer: Artist, Archetypal Astrologer, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
What’s it like to work with me?
People often come to me in states of over-ride or freeze. They feel like they can’t let down and relax, or they feel low energy, lack of motivation, or depression. I hold safe, attuned, compassionate, and non-judgmental a space for my clients. It is with presence that the power of Somatic Experiencing® begins to unfold. It becomes a place for exploration of bodily sensations and memories and, eventually, each client’s unique body wisdom begins to present itself. I am relational, accepting, open-hearted, gentle, and curious. It is truly an honor to help people heal and to witness them in this powerful and intimate way.
What are my roots?
Born and continuing to live on unceded Muwekma Ramaytush Ohlone territory, I am multi-racial. I have always identified most strongly with my Mexican and Peruvian native roots. My Mexican and Peruvian ancestors lived in connection with the earth more recently in my ancestral history than my German, English, Scottish, and Irish ancestors. Earth connection lead to my healing many of the wounds of my lineage; I am deeply grateful. Because I lacked a feeling a safety with humans, I developed relationships with plants and the natural world. I cannot help but see the needs of plants. I had my first non-dual experience as a young teenager backpacking in the Ansel Adams Wilderness sitting on a rock above timberline and gazing at the granite spires of the Minarets.
Who am I?
Determined, compassionate, and vibrant, I have experienced and continue to heal from medical, racial, sexual, sexist, and socio-economic trauma.
What is my training?
I am most influenced by over 400 hours of one-on-one guidance from my mentor, an SEP, MFT, and student of Chagdud Tulku. Consistent relationship allows for the formation of deep trust and healthy attachment, which provides the foundation of bodily safety for profound healing work. This mentorship and healing is my greatest distinguishing characteristic in doing this work.
A Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I have completed all the training, required personal sessions and case consultations. My SE™ practice is deeply influenced by the Somatic Practice work of Kathy Kain and my SE mentor.
I began self-studies in astrology in 1991. I studied with several astrologers along the way. I am currently most informed and influenced astrologically by Karen Hawkwood. I maintain an extensive astrological library and continue to refer to the writings of authors including Liz Greene, Robert Hand, and Tracy Marks.
I practiced vipassana (mindfulness) meditation for two years of weekly half-day retreats. Currently, I practice somatic meditation evolved from Somatic Experiencing.
I have been interested in neuropsychology since I was a child entranced with perceptual tricks and brain teasers. I went on to get a formal degree in neuropsychology and I continue my studies to this day.
Experience
I have experience working with chronic illnesses including asthma, multiple sclerosis, Lyme disease, mold-related illness, fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s disease, as well as giftedness, AD(H)D, learning disabilities, and neurodiversity. I work with clients ranging in age from teen to adult to senior.
Additional Trainings
Eye of the Needle Demonstration Day with Peter Levine, Corte Madera, CA, May 2019.
Archetypes and Developmental Trauma with Peter Levine and Ian McNaughton, San Diego, CA, March 2020.
Group Case Consultation with Peter Levine, Online, May 2020.
Group Case Consultation Series with Kathy Kain, Online, Fall/Winter 2021.
Sacred Wounds: Trauma Healing on the Spiritual Path with Peter Levine, Euphrasia Nyaki, and Joshua Sylvae, May 2021.
Somatic Skills Online with Kathy L. Kain, 2022.
Holding Connection Centered Space, Reclaiming Our Own Transcendence with Rosa Cabrera, Amy Paulson & Sage Hayes, 2022.
Chronic Pain, Syndromes, and Long COVID-19 with Peter Levine and Dave Berger, June 2023.
Systemic Trauma & Shame Pilot with Dea Parsanishi, Euphrasia Nyaki, and Francine Kelley, October & November 2023.