Somatic Counselling in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Ruby Bellchambers - Inner Motus Therapy, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Inner Motus Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Watson, ACT 2602
I use somatic tools, breathwork and process work to release or integrate patterns that no longer serve us.
I’m Ruby, owner of Inner Motus Therapy (www.innermotustherapy.com). I am a Counsellor and a Breathwork practitioner. I have worked in multiple areas such as domestic and family violences spaces, with the LGBTIQA+ communities, youth and children, mental health and a range of alternative therapeutic spaces. I am deeply interested in how the body stores trauma and patterned states. I work with clients with a gentle approach to help integrate or find new ways of being that help us move towards what we want and need. I use techniques and tools such as somatic work, needs following, breathwork and talk therapy.
I use somatic tools, breathwork and process work to release or integrate patterns that no longer serve us.
I’m Ruby, owner of Inner Motus Therapy (www.innermotustherapy.com). I am a Counsellor and a Breathwork practitioner. I have worked in multiple areas such as domestic and family violences spaces, with the LGBTIQA+ communities, youth and children, mental health and a range of alternative therapeutic spaces. I am deeply interested in how the body stores trauma and patterned states. I work with clients with a gentle approach to help integrate or find new ways of being that help us move towards what we want and need. I use techniques and tools such as somatic work, needs following, breathwork and talk therapy.
(02) 8105 6471 x61 View (02) 8105 6471 x61
Photo of Elysha Fordham-Young - Integrated Self Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Integrated Self Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mawson, ACT 2607
I enjoy interweaving cognitive, somatic and interpersonal modalities to assist the individual to explore possibilities and organically heal from within.
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place. I have worked with clients with complex trauma histories, dissociative disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. I have devoted my career over the past 20 years to working with children, adolescents and adults with complex needs or experiencing mental health challenges within the foster care system, rehabilitation services, education department and general public.
I enjoy interweaving cognitive, somatic and interpersonal modalities to assist the individual to explore possibilities and organically heal from within.
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place. I have worked with clients with complex trauma histories, dissociative disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. I have devoted my career over the past 20 years to working with children, adolescents and adults with complex needs or experiencing mental health challenges within the foster care system, rehabilitation services, education department and general public.
0412 403 639 View 0412 403 639
Photo of Abelina Wolf - Abelina Wolf (Psychology with Abelina), MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Abelina Wolf (Psychology with Abelina)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
Therapy approaches: somatic-informed trauma practices, attachment or psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, compassionate inquiry, self-compassion or inner child work, CBT.
My passion is to offer a safe and reflective space to those who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and re-gain the capacity to cope with or overcome the difficult emotional challenges that life can bring. It is re-building a sense of connection to ourselves that can help us live a more meaningful life aligned with our values. I work with adults (18 and above) and am passionate about the area of trauma and self-esteem concerns.
Therapy approaches: somatic-informed trauma practices, attachment or psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, compassionate inquiry, self-compassion or inner child work, CBT.
My passion is to offer a safe and reflective space to those who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and re-gain the capacity to cope with or overcome the difficult emotional challenges that life can bring. It is re-building a sense of connection to ourselves that can help us live a more meaningful life aligned with our values. I work with adults (18 and above) and am passionate about the area of trauma and self-esteem concerns.
(07) 3477 9296 View (07) 3477 9296
Photo of Fiona Thomson - Fiona Thomson - Blooming Lotus Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Fiona Thomson - Blooming Lotus Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
As a somatic trained therapist, I believe the key to living your most authentic and joyful life lies within the wisdom of the body.
If you know there's meant to be more to life than feeling exhausted, anxious, burnt out, stressed, disconnected and unfulfilled, you're right. Whether it's with your career, relationships or life in general. There is! It's the trauma and societal conditioning that has got in the way of you being the most authentic version of you. Imagine waking up feeling more joyful and excited about life, having a clear sense of purpose and direction, more harmonious relationships and unlocking your true potential. I wholeheartedly believe this is possible for you
As a somatic trained therapist, I believe the key to living your most authentic and joyful life lies within the wisdom of the body.
If you know there's meant to be more to life than feeling exhausted, anxious, burnt out, stressed, disconnected and unfulfilled, you're right. Whether it's with your career, relationships or life in general. There is! It's the trauma and societal conditioning that has got in the way of you being the most authentic version of you. Imagine waking up feeling more joyful and excited about life, having a clear sense of purpose and direction, more harmonious relationships and unlocking your true potential. I wholeheartedly believe this is possible for you
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Photo of Fernanda Megda, PsychD, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Fernanda Megda
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Through somatic body-based therapies such as IFS, EFT tapping, Somatic experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches, I have been able to help my clients shift their mindsets, create a safe inner space for reflection and work through the issues that are holding them back.
Hi, I am Fernanda! I am compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, healing and empowerment.I offer individual and couples's therapy and EFT tapping sessions to individuals seeking a deep shift in their lives. My clients reach out to resolve: Relationship issues Anxiety Depression Childhood trauma Phobias OCD Parenting Issues Low self-esteem Personal Growth
Through somatic body-based therapies such as IFS, EFT tapping, Somatic experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches, I have been able to help my clients shift their mindsets, create a safe inner space for reflection and work through the issues that are holding them back.
Hi, I am Fernanda! I am compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards self-discovery, healing and empowerment.I offer individual and couples's therapy and EFT tapping sessions to individuals seeking a deep shift in their lives. My clients reach out to resolve: Relationship issues Anxiety Depression Childhood trauma Phobias OCD Parenting Issues Low self-esteem Personal Growth
(02) 9100 0179 View (02) 9100 0179
Photo of Ess Binet, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Ess Binet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
I work with a gestalt therapy foundation and favour parts work (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, creativity and ACT.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
I work with a gestalt therapy foundation and favour parts work (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, creativity and ACT.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
(02) 8074 5874 View (02) 8074 5874
Photo of Harriet Jane Wilson Iles, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Harriet Jane Wilson Iles
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Harriet considers knowledge as power, and regards building self-awareness and mindfulness as the catalyst for positive behavioural, somatic and cognitive change.
Grounding, professional, safe, informative, reflective, contemporary. Restorative Space's vision is to provide a safe space for individuals to empower, learn, grow, ground, and restore. Restorative Space is a modern professional psychology practice; it is based in Sydney, Australia and provides its services online.
Harriet considers knowledge as power, and regards building self-awareness and mindfulness as the catalyst for positive behavioural, somatic and cognitive change.
Grounding, professional, safe, informative, reflective, contemporary. Restorative Space's vision is to provide a safe space for individuals to empower, learn, grow, ground, and restore. Restorative Space is a modern professional psychology practice; it is based in Sydney, Australia and provides its services online.
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Photo of Diya John, MPsych, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Diya John
Counsellor, MPsych, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Casey, ACT 2913  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in Trauma-Focused ACT (TFACT), also incorporating somatic techniques when appropriate.
I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in Trauma-Focused ACT (TFACT), also incorporating somatic techniques when appropriate.
I offer a safe space for expats, immigrants and the international community around Asia Pacific. As someone who moved to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, I understand the complex feelings that come with moving homes, beginning a new journey and integrating into a new culture without losing what makes you unique. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood or loss of motivation, coping with life changes, trauma, grief & loss, and navigating loneliness/ relationships & dating life in a foreign city. I also draw from my 10 years of corporate experience in my approach to work-related issues.
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Photo of Sasha Gobbart Mason, PACFA, Counsellor
Sasha Gobbart Mason
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout and stress. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout and stress. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
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Photo of Dr Gabe Marranci - Dr Gabe Marranci- IFS -Act Right Now Counselling, PhD, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Dr Gabe Marranci- IFS -Act Right Now Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, dissociation, or any challenges impacting your relationships and daily life, I'm here to help you right now. with me you will rediscover your true Self and find joy again. I've helped many like you navigate their toughest times when other solutions haven't worked. My approach is compassionate and personalised, drawing on methods like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Metacognitive Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Somatic Therapy. On Google Reviews you can read my clients' experience.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, dissociation, or any challenges impacting your relationships and daily life, I'm here to help you right now. with me you will rediscover your true Self and find joy again. I've helped many like you navigate their toughest times when other solutions haven't worked. My approach is compassionate and personalised, drawing on methods like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Metacognitive Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Somatic Therapy. On Google Reviews you can read my clients' experience.
(02) 8403 0602 View (02) 8403 0602
Photo of Joanne Deaker
Joanne Deaker
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Do you remember a time when... life felt good, easy and familiar? When struggle, mistrust and that sense of feeling lost in it all weren’t the “norm”? Do those days feel like a distant memory? Hi, I'm Joanne Deaker and I help people like you break free of Good Girl Syndrome so they can unapologetically be themselves and enjoy life like they were meant too. I also specialize in divorce recovery. I use creative (arts therapy) and embodied ( somatic) processes to help you get out of your head and into your body so we can go deep, get to the root of your challenges and move them.
Do you remember a time when... life felt good, easy and familiar? When struggle, mistrust and that sense of feeling lost in it all weren’t the “norm”? Do those days feel like a distant memory? Hi, I'm Joanne Deaker and I help people like you break free of Good Girl Syndrome so they can unapologetically be themselves and enjoy life like they were meant too. I also specialize in divorce recovery. I use creative (arts therapy) and embodied ( somatic) processes to help you get out of your head and into your body so we can go deep, get to the root of your challenges and move them.
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Photo of Esther Ogilvie, MSc
Esther Ogilvie
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
My unique approach is tailored to each individual and includes somatic embodiment, mindfulness based therapies, transpersonal therapy, ACT and CFT to achieve the best outcome.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
My unique approach is tailored to each individual and includes somatic embodiment, mindfulness based therapies, transpersonal therapy, ACT and CFT to achieve the best outcome.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
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Photo of Abby Draper - They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being, MA
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being
Occupational Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
We offer a variety of Psychological and Positive Behaviour Therapies- ACT; CBT; DBT; Schema Informed Care; Sensory Modulation, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and Somatic Interventions.
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent and TGS Affirmative Practice (Allies Welcome!) is client centred, culturally inclusive, recovery and strengths based and trauma informed. We provide a non judgemental calm/alert environment to enhance emotional, physical and psychological safety. Increasing your 'Window of Tolerance' to be more present, regulate your emotions and your capacity to process, reflect and communicate yourself during Therapy.
We offer a variety of Psychological and Positive Behaviour Therapies- ACT; CBT; DBT; Schema Informed Care; Sensory Modulation, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and Somatic Interventions.
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent and TGS Affirmative Practice (Allies Welcome!) is client centred, culturally inclusive, recovery and strengths based and trauma informed. We provide a non judgemental calm/alert environment to enhance emotional, physical and psychological safety. Increasing your 'Window of Tolerance' to be more present, regulate your emotions and your capacity to process, reflect and communicate yourself during Therapy.
(03) 9111 5377 View (03) 9111 5377
Photo of Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
CBT, ACT, sensorimotor ( somatic) psychotherapy, mindfulness, psychoeducation, diet & exercise.
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma, body-based and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD (EMDR), mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, and tic disorders. My service Graciously You is a telehealth ONLY service which is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer a range of online course options (incl. on-demand) on how to start supporting your nervous system.
CBT, ACT, sensorimotor ( somatic) psychotherapy, mindfulness, psychoeducation, diet & exercise.
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma, body-based and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD (EMDR), mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, and tic disorders. My service Graciously You is a telehealth ONLY service which is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer a range of online course options (incl. on-demand) on how to start supporting your nervous system.
(02) 9100 0843 View (02) 9100 0843
Photo of Stefanie Marris - Arena Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Arena Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phillip, ACT 2606
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Stefanie, I am a trauma informed and neurodiversity affirming, PaCFA clinically registered counsellor. I am a practitioner who approaches counselling in a collaborative way, helping you to move beyond simply surviving and be able to deal with life stressors with greater ease. Working together, we will explore your experience and difficulties to achieve a deeper understanding of who you are; how you think, feel and behave. My goal is to encourage you to be curious about your internal world and to heal the parts of yourself that hold your emotional wounds.
My name is Stefanie, I am a trauma informed and neurodiversity affirming, PaCFA clinically registered counsellor. I am a practitioner who approaches counselling in a collaborative way, helping you to move beyond simply surviving and be able to deal with life stressors with greater ease. Working together, we will explore your experience and difficulties to achieve a deeper understanding of who you are; how you think, feel and behave. My goal is to encourage you to be curious about your internal world and to heal the parts of yourself that hold your emotional wounds.
0456 655 658 View 0456 655 658
Photo of Kieran Vaughan - Full Potential Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Full Potential Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ainslie, ACT 2602
Many people feel 'stuck' with behaviours, feelings, habits or situations that they find hard to change. This can limit the potential to flourish and live life fully. Everyone has their own strengths and coping skills, and the right counsellor will help you to notice your pre-existing strength and resilience, and work with you to find ways to tackle your challenges and live the life you really want to live.
Many people feel 'stuck' with behaviours, feelings, habits or situations that they find hard to change. This can limit the potential to flourish and live life fully. Everyone has their own strengths and coping skills, and the right counsellor will help you to notice your pre-existing strength and resilience, and work with you to find ways to tackle your challenges and live the life you really want to live.
(02) 6188 7072 View (02) 6188 7072
Photo of Jaisy Antony, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jaisy Antony
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Kambah, ACT 2902
I am an Australian Indian therapist, mother of two wild teenage girls and a somatically oriented certified psychedelic-assisted therapist. I work with a client base that is multicultural and aged 13 and above. I work at Canberra Child Psychiatry on Tuesdays looking after adolescents and family therapy. My specialities include grief and bereavement (death, divorce, empty nesting), couple/family relational conflict space, older adolescents/young adults, issues stemming from miscommunication and bicultural conflict in workplaces and families. I offer trauma counselling for NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients.
I am an Australian Indian therapist, mother of two wild teenage girls and a somatically oriented certified psychedelic-assisted therapist. I work with a client base that is multicultural and aged 13 and above. I work at Canberra Child Psychiatry on Tuesdays looking after adolescents and family therapy. My specialities include grief and bereavement (death, divorce, empty nesting), couple/family relational conflict space, older adolescents/young adults, issues stemming from miscommunication and bicultural conflict in workplaces and families. I offer trauma counselling for NDIS self-managed and plan-managed clients.
(02) 5943 7562 View (02) 5943 7562
Photo of Angie Hazlehurst, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Angie Hazlehurst
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deakin, ACT 2600
Are you struggling with a challenging relationship or stressful situation at home or work? Are you the parent of a child or adolescent with their own mental health challenges - you're busy caring for them, and feel like no one is caring for you? Are you feeling overwhelmed by rising levels of stress and anxiety in this uncertain world? Does life just feel too fast and too hard? You don't have to struggle alone. I would be privileged to walk with you awhile.
Are you struggling with a challenging relationship or stressful situation at home or work? Are you the parent of a child or adolescent with their own mental health challenges - you're busy caring for them, and feel like no one is caring for you? Are you feeling overwhelmed by rising levels of stress and anxiety in this uncertain world? Does life just feel too fast and too hard? You don't have to struggle alone. I would be privileged to walk with you awhile.
(02) 6189 2764 View (02) 6189 2764
Photo of Matthew Musgrave - Strong Space Counselling - Supporting Men, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Strong Space Counselling - Supporting Men
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunlop, ACT 2615  (Online Only)
Men are often taught not to reach out for help. You may have been made to believe that to seek help for yourself was to admit weakness or that it would make you a burden. Maybe you don't know where to start. But you've been thinking about getting professional support for some time now, that's why you are here. You know you need help, maybe because you're experiencing social anxiety or an overwhelming difficulty to get out of bed. You might no longer enjoy the things that used to make you happy, or you're having darker, more intrusive thoughts. It's starting to impact your relationships, your work & your physical health.
Men are often taught not to reach out for help. You may have been made to believe that to seek help for yourself was to admit weakness or that it would make you a burden. Maybe you don't know where to start. But you've been thinking about getting professional support for some time now, that's why you are here. You know you need help, maybe because you're experiencing social anxiety or an overwhelming difficulty to get out of bed. You might no longer enjoy the things that used to make you happy, or you're having darker, more intrusive thoughts. It's starting to impact your relationships, your work & your physical health.
(02) 5135 1111 View (02) 5135 1111
Photo of Deborah Durie Enliven Counselling Canberra, PACFA, Counsellor
Deborah Durie Enliven Counselling Canberra
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turner, ACT 2612
People often feel confused, unsure or overwhelmed. Anxiety, distress, emotional pain and sadness can impede one's ability to engage fully in life. I will work with you to explore your own strengths, and build your resilience and coping skills. Together we will explore your challenges, and find ways to move forward. Safety, warmth and respect for individual differences are key to my approach. With a foundation of trauma informed practice, I use strengths based, person centred counselling, deep listening, art therapy, goal setting and mindfulness meditation. I have counselled people from all walks of life, on all life's challenges.
People often feel confused, unsure or overwhelmed. Anxiety, distress, emotional pain and sadness can impede one's ability to engage fully in life. I will work with you to explore your own strengths, and build your resilience and coping skills. Together we will explore your challenges, and find ways to move forward. Safety, warmth and respect for individual differences are key to my approach. With a foundation of trauma informed practice, I use strengths based, person centred counselling, deep listening, art therapy, goal setting and mindfulness meditation. I have counselled people from all walks of life, on all life's challenges.
(02) 5118 9033 View (02) 5118 9033
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Somatic Counsellors

How does somatic therapy work?

Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.

Is EMDR a somatic therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.

Is somatic therapy evidence-based?

Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.

What is somatic trauma therapy?

Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.