Diane Sumter

About

I graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Exercise Science with a focus on Human Development and Family Studies as well as geriatrics.  I have held a variety of jobs teaching movement related skills such as: skiing, gymnastics, aerobics and personal training.

After an automobile accident left me with a back injury, I made the decision to return to school where I earned a Master of Occupational Therapy degree from University of Washington.  

Living and working in a rural areas as well as a major city, I have been exposed to a large variety of diagnosis and age groups from infants to 100 years old.  My experience ranges from home health care, hospice/comfort care, acute and rehabilitation hospitals and facilities, pediatric, special needs, neurodiversity and trauma. 

I love helping clients meet their goals and feel better in a safe and comfortable environment.  I also accept most major health insurance.

My Skills

I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including Total Body Balancing, Neurovascular Integration, Visceral Manipulation, Energetic Balancing, Essential Mouthwork as well as trauma informed practices.

All modalities are performed fully clothed.

Total Body Balancing: Full body evaluation and treatment reducing body tension using gentle, rhythmic mobilization to relax the muscles, fascia, joints and ligaments. This technique increases circulation, nerve and energy flow, promotes lymphatic drainage and relaxes an overly stressed nervous system.

Neurovascular Integration: Lightly connecting to the skin in engage the autonomic nervous system in a non-threatening way. This allows the nervous system to create pathways of safety that then allow better fluid flow, respiration and neurochemical signaling for relaxation and healing.

Essential Mouthwork: This technique provides work in the mouth by relieving the stress and restrictions from inside the skull. Locating where the cerebral spinal fluid is not generously flowing can facilitate correction. By releasing tension in the occiput region, the skull can begin to open up to healing throughout the head and neck.

Visceral Manipulation: Organs lose mobility due to physical trauma, surgery, lifestyle, infection, pollution, diet, posture, pregnancy, etc. When an organ is restricted it creates abnormal points of tension and chronic irritation give way to functional and structural problems throughout the body. The treatment is a gentle compression, mobilization and elongation of the soft tissues.

Professional Associations / Memberships

American Occupational Therapy Association