Special Interests:
Nervous system regulation, Trauma recovery, Addiction, Emotional wellbeing, Shame, Self Regulation & Safety, Authentic Self Expression.
Featured In...
Hannah Westphal is a Neuroscientist (BSc.), educator, and certified Felt Sense Polyvagal Model (FSPM) Practitioner specialising in nervous system regulation, trauma recovery, addiction, and emotional wellbeing.
Her work is grounded in contemporary neuroscience and focuses on translating complex scientific concepts into practical, personalised approaches that help individuals better understand their nervous system, build resilience, and create lasting change.
Hannah's approach is based on a simple but powerful principle: most people are not living with a "broken" nervous system. Rather, they are experiencing the effects of a nervous system that has adapted to the increasing demands of modern life. By understanding these adaptive responses, individuals can move beyond self-blame, strengthen resilience, and create the internal conditions that support recovery, health, and wellbeing.
As part of The Forbes Clinic's interdisciplinary team, Hannah offers both one-off Nervous System Mapping Sessions and the 12-week Nervous System Regulation Program. Her work complements psychological and functional medicine approaches by helping clients understand how their nervous system influences recovery and by creating the physiological conditions that allow other interventions to become more effective.
Hannah Westphal holds a BSc in Neuroscience, bringing scientific precision to her holistic practice. In addition to her neuroscience background, she is a certified Felt Sense Polyvagal Model (FSPM) Practitioner and a trained therapeutic photographer.
Her commitment to ongoing professional development ensures she provides clients with evidence-based strategies to regulate the nervous system and foster resilience.
Throughout her career, Hannah has worked across a range of international settings, including addiction recovery centres in Thailand and somatic rehabilitation programmes in Portugal. In these environments, she co-developed an innovative recovery programme integrating neuroscience, mindfulness, movement, and social reintegration.
As a therapeutic photographer, she has also led projects using creative expression to help individuals process trauma, reduce shame, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
Hannah understands that healing is a multifaceted journey. Her approach integrates scientific knowledge with somatic practices and creative expression, offering a compassionate and personalised path to recovery.
Our services aim to support the body's natural healing processes and improve overall health and well-being. However, we do not guarantee a cure for any condition or disease. The content of our website is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Practitioners at The Forbes Clinic do not diagnose medical conditions or prescribe medications. Our care should not replace engagement with your primary care provider and our services are not intended for emergency or urgent care. You should contact your primary care provider or emergency services in the case of an acute or emergent medical event or mental health crisis.