Kelsey

As a health psychologist, psychological science researcher, and fellow mammal, I am passionate about attuned touch and its profound benefits to physical health, cognition, and emotional well-being. Renowned psychologist and UC Berkeley professor Dacher Keltner aptly describes touch as “our primary language of compassion,” fundamental to human communication, bonding, and health.

Unfortunately, various factors have led Western culture – and in particular, the United States – to stigmatize and fear touch. The rise of videoconferencing has further increased touch deprivation and exacerbated the loneliness epidemic, with 36% of American adults reporting serious loneliness. Loneliness is not just a serious social and mental health issue but a public health crisis, increasing risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and mortality.

The health benefits of touch are well-established, and have been most extensively studied in infants. A meta-analysis of 21 studies including data from over 3,000 infants found that those who received skin-to-skin contact had significantly reduced risk of infection, hypothermia, and mortality compared to those receiving conventional neonatal care.

Experimental research also shows the incredible power of touch to lower cortisol levels, dampen the neurological stress response, strengthen the body’s immune system, and enhance feelings of safety and connection. As a mind-body medicine researcher, I am well-versed in additional methods of enhancing release of stress-modulating neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, norepinephrine, oxytocin, and GABA. I am happy to provide facilitation of these practices (e.g., meditation, mindful movement, and sound therapy) upon request.

I possess a deep curiosity and desire to understand others on both an intellectual and emotional level. I am most passionate about helping people thrive, and I maintain a private clinical practice in Berkeley, CA. I also work as a researcher designing trials of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and provide psychedelic preparation and integration work to my ongoing clinical clients upon request. If you are interested in psychotherapy rather than professional cuddling, please inquire about my availability.

I look forward to working with you.