Somatic Therapists in Winnipeg, MB

Photo of Lisa Glendinning, MEd, CCC, SEP, Counsellor
Lisa Glendinning
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3L  (Online Only)
I am excited to have a private practice offering therapy that integrates somatic practices and the arts with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. While specialized, this integration provides infinite possibilities to support you in your journey of health, growth and healing.
I am excited to have a private practice offering therapy that integrates somatic practices and the arts with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. While specialized, this integration provides infinite possibilities to support you in your journey of health, growth and healing.
(204) 800-9851 View (204) 800-9851
Photo of Giselle Bernardo, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Giselle Bernardo
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2H
I integrate an attachment and trauma informed approach, weaving in modalities such as Somatic work, informed in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Therapy - the ebb and flow of healing. The navigation of relationships. The vulnerability we cultivate towards authenticity. Working through temporary discomfort to see the change and growth within ourselves. Acknowledging the fear with the unfamiliar. Seeking therapy can often be a difficult step and perhaps unpredictable. AND with that unpredicaibility, therapy may help you reconnect with curiousity, compassion and understanding. Having been through the therapeutic journey myself, please know that you do not have to walk along this journey on your own.
I integrate an attachment and trauma informed approach, weaving in modalities such as Somatic work, informed in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Therapy - the ebb and flow of healing. The navigation of relationships. The vulnerability we cultivate towards authenticity. Working through temporary discomfort to see the change and growth within ourselves. Acknowledging the fear with the unfamiliar. Seeking therapy can often be a difficult step and perhaps unpredictable. AND with that unpredicaibility, therapy may help you reconnect with curiousity, compassion and understanding. Having been through the therapeutic journey myself, please know that you do not have to walk along this journey on your own.
(204) 813-9068 View (204) 813-9068
Photo of Wendy Darlene Scheirich, MEd, CSSE, CSBW
Wendy Darlene Scheirich
MEd, CSSE, CSBW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3C
As a professionally trained and certified Somatic Sex Educator, I personally know the benefits of this modality.
I'm a sex and intimacy counsellor/educator and a dating coach. My approach is sex positive and practical. I can improve the sex and intimate life for those single or coupled, of all genders and sexual orientations. I can greatly improve dating success. My therapeutic approach involves mindfulness, relaxation (CBT), pleasure orientation and somatic awareness. I bring attention to choice and desire, give voice to clarity around needs and requests and centre the requirement of consent in the sex and intimacy realm. I am a certified Somatic Sex Educator with a masters degree in Educational Leadership, a former nurse and social worker.
As a professionally trained and certified Somatic Sex Educator, I personally know the benefits of this modality.
I'm a sex and intimacy counsellor/educator and a dating coach. My approach is sex positive and practical. I can improve the sex and intimate life for those single or coupled, of all genders and sexual orientations. I can greatly improve dating success. My therapeutic approach involves mindfulness, relaxation (CBT), pleasure orientation and somatic awareness. I bring attention to choice and desire, give voice to clarity around needs and requests and centre the requirement of consent in the sex and intimacy realm. I am a certified Somatic Sex Educator with a masters degree in Educational Leadership, a former nurse and social worker.
View
Photo of Lisa Davis-Peters - Answering The Call Art Therapy - Lisa Davis-Peters, BA, Pre-MSW, DKATI, Art Therapist
Answering The Call Art Therapy - Lisa Davis-Peters
Art Therapist, BA, Pre-MSW, DKATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3G
Using mindfulness and somatic techniques, we bridge mind and body to access our many parts, give them voice, and access body wisdom.
Starting or continuing a journey with therapy is a brave and big step towards listening to what or who is calling you. With me, a skilled and attuned art therapist, you can listen to what calls you and we can journey towards it together. I invite you, if inspired, to connect with me. By working from a trauma and attachment informed lens, safety and gentleness is at the heart of all I do. Together in relationship, we line the path with strengths and resources and can answer your call at your pace.
Using mindfulness and somatic techniques, we bridge mind and body to access our many parts, give them voice, and access body wisdom.
Starting or continuing a journey with therapy is a brave and big step towards listening to what or who is calling you. With me, a skilled and attuned art therapist, you can listen to what calls you and we can journey towards it together. I invite you, if inspired, to connect with me. By working from a trauma and attachment informed lens, safety and gentleness is at the heart of all I do. Together in relationship, we line the path with strengths and resources and can answer your call at your pace.
(431) 341-2630 View (431) 341-2630
Photo of Jett Peters, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jett Peters
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3C  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic therapeutic approach that draws from strengths-based, feminist, attachment, Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, and somatic therapies.
Hi folks! I'm Jett. I’m a white, queer & non-binary settler therapist. I strive to cultivate a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive & trauma-informed therapeutic space with clients. I welcome folks in non-traditional relationship structures and am sex, body & sex work positive. I practice harm reduction and believe that you are the expert in your life. My goal is to support you in ways that feel helpful, nourishing & encouraging. I am practiced in working with survivors of childhood abuse, 2SLGBTQ+ folks, neurodiversity, and folks experiencing struggles in their relationship with food & body.
I use an eclectic therapeutic approach that draws from strengths-based, feminist, attachment, Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, and somatic therapies.
Hi folks! I'm Jett. I’m a white, queer & non-binary settler therapist. I strive to cultivate a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive & trauma-informed therapeutic space with clients. I welcome folks in non-traditional relationship structures and am sex, body & sex work positive. I practice harm reduction and believe that you are the expert in your life. My goal is to support you in ways that feel helpful, nourishing & encouraging. I am practiced in working with survivors of childhood abuse, 2SLGBTQ+ folks, neurodiversity, and folks experiencing struggles in their relationship with food & body.
(431) 341-2106 View (431) 341-2106
Photo of Christina Chan, MSW, RSW, RPT-S, CPT-S, Registered Social Worker
Christina Chan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RPT-S, CPT-S
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2M
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in supporting children and families, I have honed my expertise in utilizing play therapy to enhance emotional regulation and bolster self-esteem among young individuals. My approach empowers parents by deepening their understanding of their children's needs and uncovering their potential. Moreover, as a certified Trauma Recovery Model Practitioner with specialized training in EMDR Therapy and Somatic Experiencing, I am adept at facilitating the healing process for both children and adults grappling with traumatic experiences.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in supporting children and families, I have honed my expertise in utilizing play therapy to enhance emotional regulation and bolster self-esteem among young individuals. My approach empowers parents by deepening their understanding of their children's needs and uncovering their potential. Moreover, as a certified Trauma Recovery Model Practitioner with specialized training in EMDR Therapy and Somatic Experiencing, I am adept at facilitating the healing process for both children and adults grappling with traumatic experiences.
(204) 813-6711 View (204) 813-6711
Photo of Erika Meadows, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Erika Meadows
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
CBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, and more).
Whatever it is that’s bothering you, there’s no need to struggle alone. Whatever it is, it can help to talk about it. Sometimes we just need someone to really hear us. Sometimes we need to learn new skills to help us cope. Sometimes we need help figuring out how what has happened to us affects how we think, feel and behave. Sometimes we need help to heal from things we have done, or things that were done to us. You’re here because you think it might be time to talk to someone, too.
CBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, and more).
Whatever it is that’s bothering you, there’s no need to struggle alone. Whatever it is, it can help to talk about it. Sometimes we just need someone to really hear us. Sometimes we need to learn new skills to help us cope. Sometimes we need help figuring out how what has happened to us affects how we think, feel and behave. Sometimes we need help to heal from things we have done, or things that were done to us. You’re here because you think it might be time to talk to someone, too.
(204) 817-8882 View (204) 817-8882
Photo of Dr. Tracie Parkinson, PhD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Tracie Parkinson
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3M
You might expect mindfulness, emotion processing/regulation (EFT/DBT), trauma processing (EMDR), acceptance (ACT), compassion, attachment (psychodynamic), and somatic-based approaches.
In my private practice work, I am a Clinical Associate at Prairie Psychology working under the supervision of Dr. Darek Dawda (Ph.D., C.Psych.). On a foundation of empathy and wholistic care, I work with individuals and couples in areas such as trauma (childhood, adulthood, intergenerational), relationships, attachment, gender issues, identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation. I believe strongly in cultural humility, and incorporate each person's unique history. Together, we may establish goals and work towards balance in a safe, respectful, compassionate, and authentic environment.
You might expect mindfulness, emotion processing/regulation (EFT/DBT), trauma processing (EMDR), acceptance (ACT), compassion, attachment (psychodynamic), and somatic-based approaches.
In my private practice work, I am a Clinical Associate at Prairie Psychology working under the supervision of Dr. Darek Dawda (Ph.D., C.Psych.). On a foundation of empathy and wholistic care, I work with individuals and couples in areas such as trauma (childhood, adulthood, intergenerational), relationships, attachment, gender issues, identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation. I believe strongly in cultural humility, and incorporate each person's unique history. Together, we may establish goals and work towards balance in a safe, respectful, compassionate, and authentic environment.
(204) 813-6994 View (204) 813-6994
Photo of Nicole Leclaire, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Nicole Leclaire
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2H
Nicole is a play-based therapist who uses a person-centered, trauma-informed and compassionate approach to focus on her client’s needs and therapeutic goals. She incorporates play, mindfulness, art, somatic, sand tray, attachment-based, and cognitive-behavioural strategies to help children and teens in navigating emotional, social, behavioural and mental health struggles. Nicole has a passion for helping children and youth learn coping strategies for their struggles while building strength and understanding for themselves and those around them.
Nicole is a play-based therapist who uses a person-centered, trauma-informed and compassionate approach to focus on her client’s needs and therapeutic goals. She incorporates play, mindfulness, art, somatic, sand tray, attachment-based, and cognitive-behavioural strategies to help children and teens in navigating emotional, social, behavioural and mental health struggles. Nicole has a passion for helping children and youth learn coping strategies for their struggles while building strength and understanding for themselves and those around them.
(431) 340-9554 View (431) 340-9554
Photo of Brian Theriault, MEd, SEP, CSAT, CCC, Counsellor
Brian Theriault
Counsellor, MEd, SEP, CSAT, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3G
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner (SEP), certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
I am currently accepting new clients. Life can feel overwhelming at times. Sometimes we can feel so confused that we don't know what direction to take. I will walk along side you to meet those challenges and help you find the next step to heal and grow. I will support you in developing insights into your thoughts, feelings and inner experiences and how they influence you in your everyday life. I believe in the already existing wholeness we are as human beings and I will help you find your authentic self and to live a rich and fulfilling life.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner (SEP), certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
I am currently accepting new clients. Life can feel overwhelming at times. Sometimes we can feel so confused that we don't know what direction to take. I will walk along side you to meet those challenges and help you find the next step to heal and grow. I will support you in developing insights into your thoughts, feelings and inner experiences and how they influence you in your everyday life. I believe in the already existing wholeness we are as human beings and I will help you find your authentic self and to live a rich and fulfilling life.
(204) 813-9189 View (204) 813-9189
Photo of Ashley Olynick, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Ashley Olynick
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3L  (Online Only)
I also often use somatic experiencing and mindfulness in my practice.
Life is really hard, right? I'd love to help you through it. I am passionate about being a therapist and walking with my clients through the things they struggle with. I have a lot of experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, self-harm, suicidality, abuse, parenting challenges, and PTSD. I am queer friendly and have experience in religious trauma, as well. As a parent myself, I love to offer support to other parents and caregivers of children of all ages.
I also often use somatic experiencing and mindfulness in my practice.
Life is really hard, right? I'd love to help you through it. I am passionate about being a therapist and walking with my clients through the things they struggle with. I have a lot of experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, self-harm, suicidality, abuse, parenting challenges, and PTSD. I am queer friendly and have experience in religious trauma, as well. As a parent myself, I love to offer support to other parents and caregivers of children of all ages.
(431) 804-5527 View (431) 804-5527
Photo of Charlie Dilk, BA, BSW, RSW, Counsellor
Charlie Dilk
Counsellor, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
I work with various approaches such as strenght-based, somatic experience and solution focused.
Being stuck can be an uncomfortable feeling. Life transitions can be difficult to surpass and sometimes, our big emotions can become out of hands. Therapy is about change and dealing with the discomforts. With you, I want to learn your definition of wellbeing and achieving your goals. It takes courage to start a healing journey and I believe in creating a collaborative, supportive and safe theraputic alliance with you. My hope is to assisst you in being your authentic self and overcoming obstacles with your inner strenghts.
I work with various approaches such as strenght-based, somatic experience and solution focused.
Being stuck can be an uncomfortable feeling. Life transitions can be difficult to surpass and sometimes, our big emotions can become out of hands. Therapy is about change and dealing with the discomforts. With you, I want to learn your definition of wellbeing and achieving your goals. It takes courage to start a healing journey and I believe in creating a collaborative, supportive and safe theraputic alliance with you. My hope is to assisst you in being your authentic self and overcoming obstacles with your inner strenghts.
(431) 533-0931 View (431) 533-0931
Photo of Jessica Heise, MA, MTA, CCC, Counsellor
Jessica Heise
Counsellor, MA, MTA, CCC
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
Do you have a child that struggles to understand their own emotions? Do they feel stuck in a moment or feeling that they can’t move past? Has this stopped them from relating to and finding connection with the people in your life? Maybe your child has tried counselling before but found that talking alone didn’t bring the healing or relief they needed. The holistic approach of music therapy can help to overcome emotional pain, disconnect, and numbness, and can increase a sense of purpose in the world. My unique approach blends talk therapy with body-based methods of somatic and music therapy to support the body-mind connection.
Do you have a child that struggles to understand their own emotions? Do they feel stuck in a moment or feeling that they can’t move past? Has this stopped them from relating to and finding connection with the people in your life? Maybe your child has tried counselling before but found that talking alone didn’t bring the healing or relief they needed. The holistic approach of music therapy can help to overcome emotional pain, disconnect, and numbness, and can increase a sense of purpose in the world. My unique approach blends talk therapy with body-based methods of somatic and music therapy to support the body-mind connection.
(431) 340-8089 View (431) 340-8089
Photo of Vanessa Honeyborne, BA, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Vanessa Honeyborne
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3C
I work from a strength based model, recognizing you as the expert in your life. Together we discuss goals for therapy, and collaborate on the best approach, while incorporating individualized coping strategies, attachment based perspectives, nervous system regulation, and mindfulness. I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy to treat trauma/PTSD/phobias. This is a brief therapy and treatment can be accomplished in 1-5 sessions. A.R.T uses bilateral stimulation, with a specific script (this allows you to go into the trauma without retelling). A.R.T is more somatic based than cognitive, compared to other treatments (EMDR)
I work from a strength based model, recognizing you as the expert in your life. Together we discuss goals for therapy, and collaborate on the best approach, while incorporating individualized coping strategies, attachment based perspectives, nervous system regulation, and mindfulness. I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy to treat trauma/PTSD/phobias. This is a brief therapy and treatment can be accomplished in 1-5 sessions. A.R.T uses bilateral stimulation, with a specific script (this allows you to go into the trauma without retelling). A.R.T is more somatic based than cognitive, compared to other treatments (EMDR)
(204) 817-9157 x100 View (204) 817-9157 x100
Photo of Michelle Ham, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Ham
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2H
My approach integrates insights from polyvagal theory, internal family systems, narrative therapy, EMDR, as well as somatic and mindfulness techniques to facilitate a process that honours the complexity of your nervous system and psyche.
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach embraces a holistic, integrative, and person-centred approach, ensuring you are always central in our collaborative process. I'm dedicated to fostering an inclusive and affirming environment, deeply valuing the wealth of diversity in its many forms. In my practice, I aim to cultivate a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic connection, encouraging tailored paths to personal growth. My academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s in Human Ecology, Family Social Sciences, and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, complemented by over a decade of experience in social work.
My approach integrates insights from polyvagal theory, internal family systems, narrative therapy, EMDR, as well as somatic and mindfulness techniques to facilitate a process that honours the complexity of your nervous system and psyche.
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach embraces a holistic, integrative, and person-centred approach, ensuring you are always central in our collaborative process. I'm dedicated to fostering an inclusive and affirming environment, deeply valuing the wealth of diversity in its many forms. In my practice, I aim to cultivate a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic connection, encouraging tailored paths to personal growth. My academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s in Human Ecology, Family Social Sciences, and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, complemented by over a decade of experience in social work.
(204) 400-2665 View (204) 400-2665
Hani Ataan .a.
Counsellor, RMFT, CCC, MA, BA, RCIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2N  (Online Only)
I attend to somatic needs, pave the road to connect to the SELF.
Do you need to talk about untreated Trauma or unhealthy relationships? do you feel stressed out & confused? ? Not motivated? Feeling stuck? Frustrated? No life goals? Well, you are taking first step towards a positive change by being here. Let us work together towards realistic and positive change in your life. Everyone deserves to live a healthy lifestyle equipped with skills to manage stress, anxiety, conflict, and hard life circumstances. To live a healthy lifestyle, we need life purpose & obtainable goals. With realistic & practical treatment plan, I can work with you to create personal goals that lead to a better lifestyle
I attend to somatic needs, pave the road to connect to the SELF.
Do you need to talk about untreated Trauma or unhealthy relationships? do you feel stressed out & confused? ? Not motivated? Feeling stuck? Frustrated? No life goals? Well, you are taking first step towards a positive change by being here. Let us work together towards realistic and positive change in your life. Everyone deserves to live a healthy lifestyle equipped with skills to manage stress, anxiety, conflict, and hard life circumstances. To live a healthy lifestyle, we need life purpose & obtainable goals. With realistic & practical treatment plan, I can work with you to create personal goals that lead to a better lifestyle
(431) 301-4650 View (431) 301-4650
Photo of Mary Berton, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mary Berton
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3N
As an eclectic practitioner, I can offer you individually tailored support from a variety of cognitive, dialectical, narrative, and somatic approaches.
Whether you’re seeking change or facing it unexpectedly, counselling can be an invaluable tool for your personal growth; And the right client-therapist relationship can help ease and accelerate that process. My approach is client-centered, non-judgmental, and affirming. Together, we can work towards your specific therapeutic goals in ways that feel right for you!
As an eclectic practitioner, I can offer you individually tailored support from a variety of cognitive, dialectical, narrative, and somatic approaches.
Whether you’re seeking change or facing it unexpectedly, counselling can be an invaluable tool for your personal growth; And the right client-therapist relationship can help ease and accelerate that process. My approach is client-centered, non-judgmental, and affirming. Together, we can work towards your specific therapeutic goals in ways that feel right for you!
(204) 818-0293 View (204) 818-0293
Photo of Christina Anania, RPC-C, Counsellor
Christina Anania
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2K  (Online Only)
This is a space for you to be seen, heard and fully witnessed as you journey through life. As a Registered Counsellor I take a gentle and empathetic approach in supporting my clients who are moving through time of anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, stress, life transitions and grief. Through a gentle exploration, counselling invites you to uncover your own answers, while providing the space to wander through your feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and parts of Self. My practice involves an all-embracing approach, welcoming somatic therapy, parts work, mindfulness, and narrative therapy into our shared space.
This is a space for you to be seen, heard and fully witnessed as you journey through life. As a Registered Counsellor I take a gentle and empathetic approach in supporting my clients who are moving through time of anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, stress, life transitions and grief. Through a gentle exploration, counselling invites you to uncover your own answers, while providing the space to wander through your feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and parts of Self. My practice involves an all-embracing approach, welcoming somatic therapy, parts work, mindfulness, and narrative therapy into our shared space.
(204) 817-1865 View (204) 817-1865
Photo of Kathryn Niebuhr, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kathryn Niebuhr
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3L  (Online Only)
I draw on EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and somatic approaches as tools for our time together but am always excited to start with where you're at.
Hello and welcome! It might be difficult to put into words what you’re looking for in therapy- that is a valid starting place, and one I’m personally familiar with. Maybe you feel like you’re meeting external expectations and are ‘getting things done’, but masking an internal experience that’s more complex, leaving you feeling exhausted, unseen, and stuck. Perhaps you struggle with serving the needs of others first and use unhelpful habits to cope with emotions and get through day-to-day. Things don’t have to reach a boiling point before you seek support or prioritize your well-being.
I draw on EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and somatic approaches as tools for our time together but am always excited to start with where you're at.
Hello and welcome! It might be difficult to put into words what you’re looking for in therapy- that is a valid starting place, and one I’m personally familiar with. Maybe you feel like you’re meeting external expectations and are ‘getting things done’, but masking an internal experience that’s more complex, leaving you feeling exhausted, unseen, and stuck. Perhaps you struggle with serving the needs of others first and use unhelpful habits to cope with emotions and get through day-to-day. Things don’t have to reach a boiling point before you seek support or prioritize your well-being.
(204) 808-1435 View (204) 808-1435
Photo of Mark Johnson-Russell, RSW, MMFT, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Mark Johnson-Russell
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3L
Experienced registered therapist and Somatic Experience Practitioner in Training interested in assisting men and women who struggle with anxiety, depression, fears, numbness, isolation and trauma.
Experienced registered therapist and Somatic Experience Practitioner in Training interested in assisting men and women who struggle with anxiety, depression, fears, numbness, isolation and trauma.
(431) 804-4772 View (431) 804-4772

See more therapy options for Winnipeg

Nearby Somatic Counsellors Searches for Winnipeg

See More Somatic Counsellors
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.