Somatic means body-based, simple as that. Somatic psychotherapy recognizes the deep interconnection between our mind and our body and the importance of including the body in our efforts toward health and healing. This therapeutic approach acknowledges that every experience we’ve ever had is recorded and held in the body; that the body – through its nervous system, muscular system, respiratory system, endocrine system “remembers” every thought and feeling, fear and trauma, joy and celebration; everything we’ve ever experienced. That, as Bessel Van der Kolk says “The body keeps the score.” 

Central to somatic psychotherapy is the belief in the body’s innate intelligence. And that when we can “get out of our mind and come to our senses” there is a wealth of healing that can happen. Somatic therapy helps you focus on your physical experiences, sensations, and bodily responses to better understand and heal emotional wounds. It’s powerful work that works.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, somatic therapy may incorporate non-verbal techniques like breathing exercises, movement, or guided imagery to facilitate healing and self-awareness. Sometimes it’s just a matter of slowing down, tuning in, and allowing what is inside to show up, be heard, heeded, expressed, and released, and with new awarenesses it can be integrated.

Somatic Psychotherapy includes:

• Somatic techniques to help you feel more grounded, present, and resourced

• Body-based tools to regulate your nervous system and cultivate inner calm, joy and support

• Experiential learning in an organic, interactive way

• Body-centered explorations that provide insights, self-compassion, and increase body-mind connection

• Deep healing of past traumas through experiential exercises that include parts work, portrayals, and authentic movement techniques.

What Does a Somatic Therapy Session Look Like?

In a somatic therapy session, healing happens in the here and now. Just like with talk therapy, every session is different. Your therapist may guide you through a body-focused exercise, mindful movements, or breathwork techniques to help you connect with your bodily sensations and emotions. Through this exploration, you’ll release emotional tension, gain insight, and foster self-awareness and self-compassion.

In somatic therapy transformation happens IN the session, in the here-and-now. It’s experiential by nature, and the experiences you have, guided and supported by your therapist, create real neuro-physiological, emotional and cognitive change. Each session is tailored to your individual journey, promoting healing, personal growth, and holistic wellbeing.

All of our therapists utilize and incorporate Somatic Psychotherapy techniques in various degrees.