Somatic Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Derek McMillan, MA
Derek McMillan
MA
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10  (Online Only)
I feel blessed to be a compassionate inquiry practitioner working with this somatic based trauma informed approach.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry, and currently on the mentor training program. I have a 20 year background in teaching and mentoring in psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies. Along with my professional career I have three decades of experience exploring mind/body practices and academic studies. My therapeutic approach is one deeply rooted in trusting my clients' process, where I offer a safe space, non-judgemental presence, natural curiosity, humility and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
I feel blessed to be a compassionate inquiry practitioner working with this somatic based trauma informed approach.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry, and currently on the mentor training program. I have a 20 year background in teaching and mentoring in psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies. Along with my professional career I have three decades of experience exploring mind/body practices and academic studies. My therapeutic approach is one deeply rooted in trusting my clients' process, where I offer a safe space, non-judgemental presence, natural curiosity, humility and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
01934 315055 View 01934 315055
Photo of Melissa Favre-Lorraine, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Melissa Favre-Lorraine
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH11  (Online Only)
I believe everyone’s journey is unique, so I integrate various therapeutic approaches like person-centred, psychodynamic, trauma-focused, and somatic practices.
Maybe you've spent years feeling like you had to be someone else—constantly trying to meet the expectations of others. Whether it’s unresolved trauma, attachment wounds, or the weight of anxiety and depression, it can leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. You might find yourself stuck in people-pleasing, overworking, masking, or repressing your emotions. Coping can turn into unhealthy patterns like self-harming, developing addictions, OCD, or eating disorders. Together, we can unravel those patterns, understand how your past is shaping your present, and help you develop what you need to feel good in your own skin.
I believe everyone’s journey is unique, so I integrate various therapeutic approaches like person-centred, psychodynamic, trauma-focused, and somatic practices.
Maybe you've spent years feeling like you had to be someone else—constantly trying to meet the expectations of others. Whether it’s unresolved trauma, attachment wounds, or the weight of anxiety and depression, it can leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. You might find yourself stuck in people-pleasing, overworking, masking, or repressing your emotions. Coping can turn into unhealthy patterns like self-harming, developing addictions, OCD, or eating disorders. Together, we can unravel those patterns, understand how your past is shaping your present, and help you develop what you need to feel good in your own skin.
0131 322 0964 View 0131 322 0964
Photo of Bennie Sanio - BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, MBACP, Psychotherapist
BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
I use breath work, mindfulness, body work and somatic approaches where necessary as i believe in their ability to help ground and bring awareness to our bodies.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
I use breath work, mindfulness, body work and somatic approaches where necessary as i believe in their ability to help ground and bring awareness to our bodies.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
0131 381 8083 View 0131 381 8083
Photo of Benji Pérez, MA, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Benji Pérez
Psychologist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH3
Offering a unique blend of somatic tools (Yoga, breath-work and mindful practices) alongside verbal exchanges, you will learn to tuning into what your body's trying to tell you, unlocking profound insights and releasing tension.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to navigate through the complexities of your emotions and experiences? Do you find yourself yearning for a deeper connection between your mind and body, seeking a holistic approach to growth? If so, you've come to the right place. Together, we will explore the underlying patterns and beliefs that shape your experiences, gently peeling back the layers to uncover what makes you tick. Through empathetic listening and insightful dialogue, we will cultivate a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions, fostering self-awareness and acceptance.
Offering a unique blend of somatic tools (Yoga, breath-work and mindful practices) alongside verbal exchanges, you will learn to tuning into what your body's trying to tell you, unlocking profound insights and releasing tension.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to navigate through the complexities of your emotions and experiences? Do you find yourself yearning for a deeper connection between your mind and body, seeking a holistic approach to growth? If so, you've come to the right place. Together, we will explore the underlying patterns and beliefs that shape your experiences, gently peeling back the layers to uncover what makes you tick. Through empathetic listening and insightful dialogue, we will cultivate a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions, fostering self-awareness and acceptance.
0131 322 0982 View 0131 322 0982
Photo of Kirsty Laing - Kirsty Laing Counselling , MBACP, Counsellor
Kirsty Laing Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH3  (Online Only)
I favour working with trauma informed, somatic approaches, tools, and techniques, including felt sense and EFT tapping technique.
I am an Edinburgh based counsellor, currently working online only, available for clients across the UK. I work with couples and individuals. I welcome diversity including all body sizes, abilities, races, sexualities, genders, working inclusively with GSDR (gender, sexual and relationship diversity), religions and political values. I have personal experience with Neuro Diversity; I welcome all clients curious, questioning, and diagnosed neruo diverse.
I favour working with trauma informed, somatic approaches, tools, and techniques, including felt sense and EFT tapping technique.
I am an Edinburgh based counsellor, currently working online only, available for clients across the UK. I work with couples and individuals. I welcome diversity including all body sizes, abilities, races, sexualities, genders, working inclusively with GSDR (gender, sexual and relationship diversity), religions and political values. I have personal experience with Neuro Diversity; I welcome all clients curious, questioning, and diagnosed neruo diverse.
0131 381 4849 View 0131 381 4849
Photo of Dr Anna Dako
Dr Anna Dako
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
My aim as a somatic facilitator is to create conditions for your personal journey of re-connection and self-discovery steered by the expansion in sensory system, embodied thinking and new depths of awareness and emotional resilience.
A warm welcome. My name is Dr Anna Dako. As a trained therapist in somatic psychology, I believe that we are all born with inner resources that we inherit and embody and which are there to support us during hard times. What we often do not inherit are the skills in tapping into those resources. Being able to grow in capacity to help yourself with a gentle help of a practitioner is always a huge step in the right direction. In my practice, I always try to activate most natural methods for working with somatic experience, reflective expression, inner awareness and creative openness for change. To book a session, visit Dunami website.
My aim as a somatic facilitator is to create conditions for your personal journey of re-connection and self-discovery steered by the expansion in sensory system, embodied thinking and new depths of awareness and emotional resilience.
A warm welcome. My name is Dr Anna Dako. As a trained therapist in somatic psychology, I believe that we are all born with inner resources that we inherit and embody and which are there to support us during hard times. What we often do not inherit are the skills in tapping into those resources. Being able to grow in capacity to help yourself with a gentle help of a practitioner is always a huge step in the right direction. In my practice, I always try to activate most natural methods for working with somatic experience, reflective expression, inner awareness and creative openness for change. To book a session, visit Dunami website.
01224 057048 View 01224 057048
Photo of Blair Jeremy Bowker, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Blair Jeremy Bowker
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
I offer a transformative approach that integrates talk therapy with somatic processing, allowing you to heal trauma and emotional pain at their root.
Hello, my name is Blair. I'm a psychotherapist and trauma therapist with nearly 25 years of experience in helping people navigate their challenges. I provide a warm, confidential space for you to come as you are. Together, we'll work to overcome challenges, cultivate well-being, and create meaningful changes. If you're experiencing difficulties with anxiety, trauma, bereavement, grief and loss, depression, relationships, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family issues, ADHD, or other struggles, know that you're not alone.
I offer a transformative approach that integrates talk therapy with somatic processing, allowing you to heal trauma and emotional pain at their root.
Hello, my name is Blair. I'm a psychotherapist and trauma therapist with nearly 25 years of experience in helping people navigate their challenges. I provide a warm, confidential space for you to come as you are. Together, we'll work to overcome challenges, cultivate well-being, and create meaningful changes. If you're experiencing difficulties with anxiety, trauma, bereavement, grief and loss, depression, relationships, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family issues, ADHD, or other struggles, know that you're not alone.
0131 381 4871 View 0131 381 4871
Photo of Morgan Mitchell Emdr, GMBPsS, Counsellor
Morgan Mitchell Emdr
Counsellor, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
Using a range of different modalities (EMDR, Flash technique, Internal family systems, Somatic therapy, CBT and others), we find more useful ways of coping and understanding ourselves within the context of our lives.
Trauma can include life-threatening events or simply moments where you were overwhelmed and felt helpless. A troubling or terrifying event has an impact on the whole person – it is held in the body, changes ways of thinking, and often comes with an overwhelming set of emotional and behavioural responses. At times, these changes and responses are unhelpful and seriously affect people’s quality of life and their ability to move forward. Working together, we explore and come to understand your current responses. We identify tools that you can use to rebuild your life in a way that works for you.
Using a range of different modalities (EMDR, Flash technique, Internal family systems, Somatic therapy, CBT and others), we find more useful ways of coping and understanding ourselves within the context of our lives.
Trauma can include life-threatening events or simply moments where you were overwhelmed and felt helpless. A troubling or terrifying event has an impact on the whole person – it is held in the body, changes ways of thinking, and often comes with an overwhelming set of emotional and behavioural responses. At times, these changes and responses are unhelpful and seriously affect people’s quality of life and their ability to move forward. Working together, we explore and come to understand your current responses. We identify tools that you can use to rebuild your life in a way that works for you.
0131 381 8084 View 0131 381 8084
Photo of Kerimeh Mia Irvine - HolisticMe , Psychotherapist
HolisticMe
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
I’m a qualified CBT therapist, Yoga instructor, and studied somatic psychotherapy (movement based). At times life can feel very over whelming, we can lose perspective and fall into a pattern of unhealthy habits. These behaviours may be your coping strategies to help you feel better but aren’t so helpful to your physical and mental well being resulting in feeling anxious and depressed. Having an outside perspective on what’s going on in your life can help refocus your mind and realign your life style with your core values so you can begin living with balance, integrity and autonomy.
I’m a qualified CBT therapist, Yoga instructor, and studied somatic psychotherapy (movement based). At times life can feel very over whelming, we can lose perspective and fall into a pattern of unhealthy habits. These behaviours may be your coping strategies to help you feel better but aren’t so helpful to your physical and mental well being resulting in feeling anxious and depressed. Having an outside perspective on what’s going on in your life can help refocus your mind and realign your life style with your core values so you can begin living with balance, integrity and autonomy.
01236 809211 View 01236 809211
Photo of Sormila Saha, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sormila Saha
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH1  (Online Only)
I offer and integrate the following approaches into my practice: - CBT, CFT , EMDR and Somatic Trauma Therapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years of experience working in the NHS , within the Secondary Adult Mental health services. I am experienced in providing psychological therapies to individual presenting with distressing emotions and a wide range of difficulties due to the impact of adverse life events both in childhood and in adult life. My special interest is in working in trauma, with issues around sense of self, feelings of guilt and shame and relationship with self and others.
I offer and integrate the following approaches into my practice: - CBT, CFT , EMDR and Somatic Trauma Therapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years of experience working in the NHS , within the Secondary Adult Mental health services. I am experienced in providing psychological therapies to individual presenting with distressing emotions and a wide range of difficulties due to the impact of adverse life events both in childhood and in adult life. My special interest is in working in trauma, with issues around sense of self, feelings of guilt and shame and relationship with self and others.
01803 221758 View 01803 221758
Photo of Virginia Messina, MBACP, Counsellor
Virginia Messina
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH11  (Online Only)
I also incorporate IFS and somatic techniques so that you can build internal safety, trust and be in control.
Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor, passionate for supporting clients who have experienced abuse in meaningful relationships, whether parental or romantic. I work with individuals ready to rebuild own self-esteem, trust with themselves and create safe, fulfilling, and reciprocal connections. I am an individual who thrives when doing the deep work, surface-level chatting are just good for a friday night. Therefore, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves, get dirty, and take accountability for your own wellbeing, I would love to hear from you. Let's arrange a consultation!
I also incorporate IFS and somatic techniques so that you can build internal safety, trust and be in control.
Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor, passionate for supporting clients who have experienced abuse in meaningful relationships, whether parental or romantic. I work with individuals ready to rebuild own self-esteem, trust with themselves and create safe, fulfilling, and reciprocal connections. I am an individual who thrives when doing the deep work, surface-level chatting are just good for a friday night. Therefore, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves, get dirty, and take accountability for your own wellbeing, I would love to hear from you. Let's arrange a consultation!
01453 702647 View 01453 702647
Photo of Salvatore Andrea Caci, Counsellor
Salvatore Andrea Caci
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1  (Online Only)
My diploma is in somatic counselling but I integrate it with psychodynamic and person-centered (rogersian) theories and techniques.
What happened to us, doesn't have to define us. The narrative of our issues can be transformed in something different. A healing story that can give you empowerment and freedom. Maybe you are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger. Maybe you are looking for happiness or you feel you are lost. Or maybe, you still don't know what's missing. Regardless, I understand it's important for you to know how to cope, where you want to go in your life and what really matters to you. Finding and/or redefine your personal story, that fits your own true self, may give you the answers you are looking for.
My diploma is in somatic counselling but I integrate it with psychodynamic and person-centered (rogersian) theories and techniques.
What happened to us, doesn't have to define us. The narrative of our issues can be transformed in something different. A healing story that can give you empowerment and freedom. Maybe you are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger. Maybe you are looking for happiness or you feel you are lost. Or maybe, you still don't know what's missing. Regardless, I understand it's important for you to know how to cope, where you want to go in your life and what really matters to you. Finding and/or redefine your personal story, that fits your own true self, may give you the answers you are looking for.
01224 007284 View 01224 007284
Photo of Stuart P Morgan-Ayrs Frssa Frsph, MSc
Stuart P Morgan-Ayrs Frssa Frsph
MSc
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH2
My clients have experienced trauma, neglect, abuse or Adverse Childhood Experiences. Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C-PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships. Many have multiple diagnosis, underpinned by trauma or emotional "lack". Many have ADHD or ASD. Welcome: students, LGB & poly, ex forces, domestic violence survivors. Specialist post grad certifications include; Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, ADHD, Mood Disorders & Integrative Therapy. Many have had therapy before & now want specialist help. I support LGB & Kink.
My clients have experienced trauma, neglect, abuse or Adverse Childhood Experiences. Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C-PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships. Many have multiple diagnosis, underpinned by trauma or emotional "lack". Many have ADHD or ASD. Welcome: students, LGB & poly, ex forces, domestic violence survivors. Specialist post grad certifications include; Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, ASD, ADHD, Mood Disorders & Integrative Therapy. Many have had therapy before & now want specialist help. I support LGB & Kink.
0131 322 1320 View 0131 322 1320
Photo of Jean Itier
Jean Itier
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
Are you suffering from chronic pain that impacts your quality of life? Have you tried everything with very few results? Do you feel misunderstood and powerless facing this persistent pain? I understand. I know how alone and misunderstood this can feel. Your pain is invisible to others. I understand your constant worries about the future. I feel your helplessness and discouragement. But there is hope. You are not doomed to eternally endure your symptoms. It is possible to understand and tame your pain to regain a fulfilling life. I use a holistic mind-body approach to help you free yourself from pain.
Are you suffering from chronic pain that impacts your quality of life? Have you tried everything with very few results? Do you feel misunderstood and powerless facing this persistent pain? I understand. I know how alone and misunderstood this can feel. Your pain is invisible to others. I understand your constant worries about the future. I feel your helplessness and discouragement. But there is hope. You are not doomed to eternally endure your symptoms. It is possible to understand and tame your pain to regain a fulfilling life. I use a holistic mind-body approach to help you free yourself from pain.
0131 381 8506 View 0131 381 8506
Photo of Maggi Scott, BACP, Counsellor
Maggi Scott
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
From my own life experience & personal development trainings and counselling career, I have a deep compassion and understanding that underpins my work as a therapist supporting people experiencing emotional suffering and difficult circumstances.I have supported clients with many different issues and situations and can offer a wide range of helpful things such as teaching breathwork and visualisations for practising outside sessions. i have extensive experience working with clients experiencing struggles with bereavement, chronic illness, depression, anxiety and trauma.
From my own life experience & personal development trainings and counselling career, I have a deep compassion and understanding that underpins my work as a therapist supporting people experiencing emotional suffering and difficult circumstances.I have supported clients with many different issues and situations and can offer a wide range of helpful things such as teaching breathwork and visualisations for practising outside sessions. i have extensive experience working with clients experiencing struggles with bereavement, chronic illness, depression, anxiety and trauma.
0131 381 0006 View 0131 381 0006
Photo of Irina Campbell, PhD, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Irina Campbell
Psychotherapist, PhD, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH9
I am an integrative psychotherapist with 19 years of experience dedicated to helping you achieve happiness and fulfillment. Specializing in root-cause resolution of psychological symptoms, I believe change can be easier and quicker than you think. The toughest step is deciding to make a change. Through my work, I’ve seen the powerful connection between mind and body and witnessed incredible transformations. Imagine feeling better, calmer, and more clear-headed. Let’s embark on this journey together to unlock your potential and improve your well-being.
I am an integrative psychotherapist with 19 years of experience dedicated to helping you achieve happiness and fulfillment. Specializing in root-cause resolution of psychological symptoms, I believe change can be easier and quicker than you think. The toughest step is deciding to make a change. Through my work, I’ve seen the powerful connection between mind and body and witnessed incredible transformations. Imagine feeling better, calmer, and more clear-headed. Let’s embark on this journey together to unlock your potential and improve your well-being.
01764 915868 View 01764 915868
Photo of Alison Cooper, MBACP, Counsellor
Alison Cooper
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH4
Are you looking for a space to talk, be listened to and make sense of how you feel? I understand it can be hard to open up to someone. I'll provide a safe, confidential and nonjudgmental place where you will be supported to explore any issues which may be affecting your life and help you to find a way to move forwards. I believe that we all have the ability to grow and achieve our potential and that a positive therapeutic relationship can greatly aid this process.
Are you looking for a space to talk, be listened to and make sense of how you feel? I understand it can be hard to open up to someone. I'll provide a safe, confidential and nonjudgmental place where you will be supported to explore any issues which may be affecting your life and help you to find a way to move forwards. I believe that we all have the ability to grow and achieve our potential and that a positive therapeutic relationship can greatly aid this process.
0131 357 5713 View 0131 357 5713
Photo of Michael And Sungjoo Durrington - Chai Counselling Ltd, DCounsPsych, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Chai Counselling Ltd
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH3
When you encounter difficult times in our day to day lives it is helpful to be able to talk these through with someone who is trained and objective. To help you explore the issues that matter to you, bringing insight and understanding to enable you to find your way through problems and dilemmas.
When you encounter difficult times in our day to day lives it is helpful to be able to talk these through with someone who is trained and objective. To help you explore the issues that matter to you, bringing insight and understanding to enable you to find your way through problems and dilemmas.
07723 435840 View 07723 435840
Photo of Doreen Morici, MSc
Doreen Morici
MSc
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
Therapy is a an act of self-care--giving yourself permission to receive, to be heard, to learn healthy & adaptive ways to be in relationship to self and others. Helping identify and transmute beliefs that no longer serve, from "I'm not good enough" to "I am worthy"; moving from fear to love & acceptance. Offering a wholistic, integrative, and person-centered approach to wellness and empowerment while supporting you to feel and understand your emotions, regulate the nervous system, hold boundaries, explore spirituality, and connect to your authentic self--moving out of your head and grounding into your heart and body.
Therapy is a an act of self-care--giving yourself permission to receive, to be heard, to learn healthy & adaptive ways to be in relationship to self and others. Helping identify and transmute beliefs that no longer serve, from "I'm not good enough" to "I am worthy"; moving from fear to love & acceptance. Offering a wholistic, integrative, and person-centered approach to wellness and empowerment while supporting you to feel and understand your emotions, regulate the nervous system, hold boundaries, explore spirituality, and connect to your authentic self--moving out of your head and grounding into your heart and body.
0131 381 0296 View 0131 381 0296
Photo of Melanie Peele, BACP, Counsellor
Melanie Peele
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH14  (Online Only)
While there is so much joy in getting to know ourselves deeply and authentically, living as a queer and/or transgender person in this world is not always easy. I specialise in gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I work with adults and older adolescents who are LGBTQIA+/gender non-conforming, or questioning their identities. I also specialise in trauma recovery, treating healthcare professionals, and working with English speaking immigrants. I work from multiple affirming perspectives, including Health at Every Size, neurodivergence affirming, disability affirming, and fat-positive perspectives.
While there is so much joy in getting to know ourselves deeply and authentically, living as a queer and/or transgender person in this world is not always easy. I specialise in gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I work with adults and older adolescents who are LGBTQIA+/gender non-conforming, or questioning their identities. I also specialise in trauma recovery, treating healthcare professionals, and working with English speaking immigrants. I work from multiple affirming perspectives, including Health at Every Size, neurodivergence affirming, disability affirming, and fat-positive perspectives.
0131 381 4596 View 0131 381 4596
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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.