Somatic Therapy
Somatic Therapy is an integrative, body-centered approach to healing that focuses on the body-mind connection. Rooted in mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, and Polyvagal Theory, this therapeutic approach helps individuals process trauma, stress, and emotional blockages by exploring how experiences are held in the body. It’s based on the understanding that the body stores emotional and psychological experiences, and addressing these physical sensations can lead to profound healing and transformation.
Drawing from proven theories like EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, Somatic Therapy aims to help clients become more aware of their bodily sensations and create a safe environment for processing emotions, memories, and experiences that may be trapped in the nervous system.
How does Somatic Therapy work?
Somatic Therapy works by tapping into the body’s natural capacity for healing. It recognizes that trauma and emotional distress are not only experienced in the mind but also deeply affect the body. By using mindfulness techniques and focusing on bodily sensations, individuals are able to access and release trapped emotions that may have been suppressed or ignored for years.
Key elements of Somatic Therapy include:
Mindfulness: Practicing present-moment awareness to observe physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts without judgment. This process helps clients gain insight into how past trauma continues to affect their body and mind.
Somatic Experiencing: A method developed by Peter Levine that encourages clients to track sensations in the body to process unresolved trauma. It involves gently releasing stored tension and restoring balance to the nervous system.
Polyvagal Theory: This theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, focuses on how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) influences our reactions to stress and trauma. Somatic Therapy uses this framework to help clients regulate their nervous system and create a sense of safety.
EMDR Principles: EMDR therapy’s focus on processing traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation can be integrated into somatic therapy to help clients reprocess unhealed trauma, integrating both body and mind in the healing process.
The goal of Somatic Therapy is to help you reconnect with your body, heal from stored trauma, and restore a sense of safety, balance, and regulation to your nervous system.
What does Somatic Therapy help?
Somatic Therapy is effective for a wide range of emotional and physical concerns, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Chronic stress and anxiety
Depression
Panic attacks
Emotional dysregulation
Self-esteem and self-worth issues
Childhood neglect or abuse
Addictions and compulsive behaviors
Sleep disturbances
Chronic pain or tension
Dissociation or feeling disconnected from the body
Physical symptoms related to unresolved emotional trauma
None of the above symptoms or experiences fit you?
Are you feeling disconnected from your body or struggling with physical tension that seems to have no clear cause? Do you experience emotional numbness, heightened anxiety, or a sense of being overwhelmed by stress or past trauma? Are you seeking to restore balance to your nervous system and find more peace in your daily life?
If so, Somatic Therapy may be the right approach for you. Contact me today for a free phone consultation to explore how Somatic Therapy can support your healing journey and help you reconnect with your body and mind.