Somatic Therapists in Ventura, CA

Photo of Maggie Hernandez - Maggie Hernandez - First Responders, Trauma, LGBTQ, MA, AMFT
Maggie Hernandez - First Responders, Trauma, LGBTQ
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I'm EMDR-trained and incorporate attachment & somatic work in the healing process to help my clients get back in touch with the truths their bodies hold.
As a first-responder, finding a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with can be challenging. I help my clients achieve post-traumatic growth in a relaxed environment through my straightforward (no BS), compassionate approach. I understand healing can be messy, and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with some dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences. We all have our own unique stories, and I hope it offers comfort to my clients that I have invested in my own trauma healing.
I'm EMDR-trained and incorporate attachment & somatic work in the healing process to help my clients get back in touch with the truths their bodies hold.
As a first-responder, finding a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with can be challenging. I help my clients achieve post-traumatic growth in a relaxed environment through my straightforward (no BS), compassionate approach. I understand healing can be messy, and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with some dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences. We all have our own unique stories, and I hope it offers comfort to my clients that I have invested in my own trauma healing.
(805) 918-8218 View (805) 918-8218
Photo of Maria Avila, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Avila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Hola! My name is Maria Avila, I am a first generation Latina therapist seeing clients in person in Ventura (and virtually) through my private practice Raices Trauma Therapy. I specialize in treating complex trauma (CPTSD) and attachment trauma. My focus is working with individuals looking to process childhood sexual abuse or childhood challenges due to emotionally immature or unavailable parents. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my practice, including talk therapy Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic healing, and Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR).
Hola! My name is Maria Avila, I am a first generation Latina therapist seeing clients in person in Ventura (and virtually) through my private practice Raices Trauma Therapy. I specialize in treating complex trauma (CPTSD) and attachment trauma. My focus is working with individuals looking to process childhood sexual abuse or childhood challenges due to emotionally immature or unavailable parents. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my practice, including talk therapy Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic healing, and Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR).
(805) 273-8827 View (805) 273-8827
Photo of Martena Rachel Wilson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martena Rachel Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Recognizing the immense potential for combining traditional therapy with holistic approaches, I combine mindfulness and somatic experiencing into my therapy sessions. By creating a safe and nurturing space, I encourage my clients to explore their inner landscape, cultivating a deep sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Recognizing the immense potential for combining traditional therapy with holistic approaches, I combine mindfulness and somatic experiencing into my therapy sessions. By creating a safe and nurturing space, I encourage my clients to explore their inner landscape, cultivating a deep sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
(805) 272-7624 View (805) 272-7624
Photo of Linda J Bronzan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda J Bronzan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is trauma-focused and includes a somatic approach utilizing the Trauma Resiliency Model.
Sometimes we can’t share how we really feel, even with the people we're closest to. Maybe you worry about burdening others or hope things will just get better. Perhaps you avoid your feelings or overthink them to exhaustion. Whatever it is, you don’t have to face it alone. Having experienced my own struggles in life has inspired my passion to help others. As a therapist, I've seen firsthand how depression, anxiety, and trauma can leave you feeling isolated and out of control. I want to be a beacon of hope. I want to help you tap into your inner strength, regain your confidence, and help you make lasting positive changes.
My approach is trauma-focused and includes a somatic approach utilizing the Trauma Resiliency Model.
Sometimes we can’t share how we really feel, even with the people we're closest to. Maybe you worry about burdening others or hope things will just get better. Perhaps you avoid your feelings or overthink them to exhaustion. Whatever it is, you don’t have to face it alone. Having experienced my own struggles in life has inspired my passion to help others. As a therapist, I've seen firsthand how depression, anxiety, and trauma can leave you feeling isolated and out of control. I want to be a beacon of hope. I want to help you tap into your inner strength, regain your confidence, and help you make lasting positive changes.
(805) 500-0962 View (805) 500-0962
Photo of Erin Lavery, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erin Lavery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Through a combination of somatic techniques, compassion-focused therapy, and evidence-based modalities, I collaborate with clients to foster resilience and facilitate positive change.
I specialize in working with humans of all ages. I see individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues. I provide compassionate and grounded evidence-based approaches for a holistic and effective treatment. Clients needs may include validation of their experiences, a safe space to express themselves, and practical tools to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Client’s goals may involve gaining a better understanding of their mental health, developing coping strategies, enhancing self-esteem, and ultimately achieving a higher quality of life.
Through a combination of somatic techniques, compassion-focused therapy, and evidence-based modalities, I collaborate with clients to foster resilience and facilitate positive change.
I specialize in working with humans of all ages. I see individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues. I provide compassionate and grounded evidence-based approaches for a holistic and effective treatment. Clients needs may include validation of their experiences, a safe space to express themselves, and practical tools to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Client’s goals may involve gaining a better understanding of their mental health, developing coping strategies, enhancing self-esteem, and ultimately achieving a higher quality of life.
(805) 622-2632 View (805) 622-2632
Photo of Sigrid Jensen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sigrid Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques in my practice.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques in my practice.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
(310) 740-9862 View (310) 740-9862
Photo of Dianne Nicholas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianne Nicholas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93004
I integrate the mind, body connection through the use of somatic exploration and mindfulness techniques.
Life's challenges today are increasing levels of trauma, anxiety, depression, dramatic mood shifts and lowering self-esteem. I can offer a safe, sensitive, compassionate, relationship based solution. Together we will explore the impact of painful thoughts and emotions enabling us to develop a basis for clear insight and set the stage for hopeful growth and transformation.
I integrate the mind, body connection through the use of somatic exploration and mindfulness techniques.
Life's challenges today are increasing levels of trauma, anxiety, depression, dramatic mood shifts and lowering self-esteem. I can offer a safe, sensitive, compassionate, relationship based solution. Together we will explore the impact of painful thoughts and emotions enabling us to develop a basis for clear insight and set the stage for hopeful growth and transformation.
(805) 874-5084 View (805) 874-5084
Photo of Kasey Curtis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
(805) 856-6458 View (805) 856-6458
Photo of Ana Luiza Nogueira, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana Luiza Nogueira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I offer a mix of Somatic, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness skills to assist you to connect with your body, identify your thinking patterns, be more aware of your feelings, develop better coping and communication skills, and find your own solutions.
One of the bravest things we can do is work to understand our own stories. While we are a product of our family, ancestors, environment, and society, we don't have to stay stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. We all have the ability to change and live a more balanced, meaningful life. You might be feeling stuck juggling school/work, other's expectations, and conflicts with family, or you might be struggling to find meaning as you go through life transitions, immigration, work and relationships. I am here to support you as we create a safe space for you to explore your journey and goals.
I offer a mix of Somatic, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness skills to assist you to connect with your body, identify your thinking patterns, be more aware of your feelings, develop better coping and communication skills, and find your own solutions.
One of the bravest things we can do is work to understand our own stories. While we are a product of our family, ancestors, environment, and society, we don't have to stay stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. We all have the ability to change and live a more balanced, meaningful life. You might be feeling stuck juggling school/work, other's expectations, and conflicts with family, or you might be struggling to find meaning as you go through life transitions, immigration, work and relationships. I am here to support you as we create a safe space for you to explore your journey and goals.
(805) 410-5747 View (805) 410-5747
Photo of Sipora B. Weissman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sipora B. Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
I am also training in Somatic Experiencing.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies to support change. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable. I view therapy as a collaboration, and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
I am also training in Somatic Experiencing.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies to support change. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable. I view therapy as a collaboration, and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
(805) 219-7241 x718928 View (805) 219-7241 x718928
Photo of Dr. Nicole Auckerman, PsYD , Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Nicole Auckerman
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsYD
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Thus, when we are working towards healing it is important to utilize multiple therapeutic modalities including CBT, psychodynamic approach, and somatic integration to facilitate healing.
I get excited about neural plasticity and the opportunity to help people rewire their brains towards health and healing. I believe that trauma can be healed by working with the body to access our 'stuck children" from early life. I also help people recognize how our cultural and societies influences might be making them unhappy. Specifically our poor treatment of the natural world and loss of relationship with nature. I believe a normal response to an unhealthy culture does involve some depression and or anxiety. I help clients to find peace and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world .
Thus, when we are working towards healing it is important to utilize multiple therapeutic modalities including CBT, psychodynamic approach, and somatic integration to facilitate healing.
I get excited about neural plasticity and the opportunity to help people rewire their brains towards health and healing. I believe that trauma can be healed by working with the body to access our 'stuck children" from early life. I also help people recognize how our cultural and societies influences might be making them unhappy. Specifically our poor treatment of the natural world and loss of relationship with nature. I believe a normal response to an unhealthy culture does involve some depression and or anxiety. I help clients to find peace and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world .
(805) 272-7922 View (805) 272-7922
Photo of Jean C Lampert, MS, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean C Lampert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93006
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and offer somatic focused approaches including Somatic Regulating Touch, EMDR, and ritual for deep healing.
The last few years have been hard for many of us, both individually and collectively. Grief and overwhelm are high, and you may rightfully be feeling anxious, overwhelmed or collapsed. If you are physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually depleted, there are ways to bring yourself back into balance.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and offer somatic focused approaches including Somatic Regulating Touch, EMDR, and ritual for deep healing.
The last few years have been hard for many of us, both individually and collectively. Grief and overwhelm are high, and you may rightfully be feeling anxious, overwhelmed or collapsed. If you are physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually depleted, there are ways to bring yourself back into balance.
(805) 870-9052 View (805) 870-9052
Photo of Teresa R. Morales - Irimiya Trauma Therapy, Inc., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irimiya Trauma Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Our therapists provide EMDR, Somatic Techniques, Parts Work, CBT and Talk Therapy, focusing on internal healing, growth and fulfillment.
Accepting New Clients! We are a group practice providing trauma therapy to adult survivors of childhood abuse. Unresolved childhood abuse, can leave you feeling overwhelmed, not fully present, living with intrusive thoughts and memories of past trauma, struggling with everyday tasks, dealing with depression, anxiety and C-PTSD. As clinical trauma professionals, we believe you have the courage to heal from emotional pain by facing it, rather than avoiding it. Together in therapy, we will work to achieve empowerment, safety and strength, in order to better concentrate, have healthy relationships, and achieve internal growth.
Our therapists provide EMDR, Somatic Techniques, Parts Work, CBT and Talk Therapy, focusing on internal healing, growth and fulfillment.
Accepting New Clients! We are a group practice providing trauma therapy to adult survivors of childhood abuse. Unresolved childhood abuse, can leave you feeling overwhelmed, not fully present, living with intrusive thoughts and memories of past trauma, struggling with everyday tasks, dealing with depression, anxiety and C-PTSD. As clinical trauma professionals, we believe you have the courage to heal from emotional pain by facing it, rather than avoiding it. Together in therapy, we will work to achieve empowerment, safety and strength, in order to better concentrate, have healthy relationships, and achieve internal growth.
(805) 883-6273 View (805) 883-6273
Photo of Martena Rachel Wilson, LMFT, MACP , MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martena Rachel Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MACP , MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
As a strength based therapist, I see infinite potential in all of my clients to live fulfilled and meaningful lives. My therapeutic approach is strength based and uses your innate strengths and abilities to determine the most effective solutions. My work is influenced by two modalities. The first is a family centered practice which uses the your unique family of origin “story" to explore, in which ways, that “story” has influenced your life, love and happiness or unhappiness. The second modality is somatic, I have been extensively trained in utilizing the mind/body/breath connection.
As a strength based therapist, I see infinite potential in all of my clients to live fulfilled and meaningful lives. My therapeutic approach is strength based and uses your innate strengths and abilities to determine the most effective solutions. My work is influenced by two modalities. The first is a family centered practice which uses the your unique family of origin “story" to explore, in which ways, that “story” has influenced your life, love and happiness or unhappiness. The second modality is somatic, I have been extensively trained in utilizing the mind/body/breath connection.
(805) 900-4503 View (805) 900-4503
Photo of Nicole Mosher, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Mosher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
I draw from talk therapy, somatic work, parts work, EMDR, mindfulness practices, art therapy, dream work and depth psychotherapy.
Trauma often leaves us feeling stuck, unable to trust ourselves, others, or that things can get better. It is my goal to work collaboratively with you to uncover and untangle the underlying feelings, memories, beliefs, and patterns that keep you feeling stuck. Together we will learn to make sense of your story, explore your symptoms as ways you have learned to survive, and discover ways of creating a sustainable sense of safety, and fulfillment.
I draw from talk therapy, somatic work, parts work, EMDR, mindfulness practices, art therapy, dream work and depth psychotherapy.
Trauma often leaves us feeling stuck, unable to trust ourselves, others, or that things can get better. It is my goal to work collaboratively with you to uncover and untangle the underlying feelings, memories, beliefs, and patterns that keep you feeling stuck. Together we will learn to make sense of your story, explore your symptoms as ways you have learned to survive, and discover ways of creating a sustainable sense of safety, and fulfillment.
(805) 298-7478 View (805) 298-7478
Photo of Jacqueline F Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline F Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I specialize in mindfulness and somatic awareness to help bring you back to your true self.
The experiences we move through in life are complex; the balance of thought, emotion, and sensation is delicate. Life experiences create a pattern that we will unconsciously replay, often leading to symptoms and suffering. In order to break an unhealthy pattern, we must first become aware of the traumas, influences, and beliefs that create this paradigm. Through self-awareness, we gain insight into our true nature, develop the ability to self-regulate, and become empowered to create a new lifestyle. True recovery is attaining and maintaining a lifestyle that emphasizes a positive relationship with yourself.
I specialize in mindfulness and somatic awareness to help bring you back to your true self.
The experiences we move through in life are complex; the balance of thought, emotion, and sensation is delicate. Life experiences create a pattern that we will unconsciously replay, often leading to symptoms and suffering. In order to break an unhealthy pattern, we must first become aware of the traumas, influences, and beliefs that create this paradigm. Through self-awareness, we gain insight into our true nature, develop the ability to self-regulate, and become empowered to create a new lifestyle. True recovery is attaining and maintaining a lifestyle that emphasizes a positive relationship with yourself.
(805) 237-5080 View (805) 237-5080
Photo of Araceli Bejar Lua, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Araceli Bejar Lua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
With this approach, I focus with patients to explore, as well as educate, on becoming aware of behavioral patterns, thoughts, and somatic/emotional responses.
I believe that experiencing hardships can be seen as an invitation to learn more about ourselves and evolve in our life journey to reach our highest potential. I offer to help patients increase self-awareness, increase coping skills to manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Most importantly, I provide a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment in which patients can explore their symptoms, feelings, and life difficulties. By working together through the therapeutic process, I guide patients into a path of self-discovery and empowerment.
With this approach, I focus with patients to explore, as well as educate, on becoming aware of behavioral patterns, thoughts, and somatic/emotional responses.
I believe that experiencing hardships can be seen as an invitation to learn more about ourselves and evolve in our life journey to reach our highest potential. I offer to help patients increase self-awareness, increase coping skills to manage symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Most importantly, I provide a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment in which patients can explore their symptoms, feelings, and life difficulties. By working together through the therapeutic process, I guide patients into a path of self-discovery and empowerment.
(661) 241-9738 View (661) 241-9738
Photo of Katrina Wood - Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers, Psychologist
Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Treatment modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, long and short term, Somatic, analytic, Cognitive Behavioral & more.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
Treatment modalities include EMDR, CBT, DBT, long and short term, Somatic, analytic, Cognitive Behavioral & more.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
(747) 207-4245 View (747) 207-4245
Photo of Katrina Johnson, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katrina Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
My integrative approach draws from mindful self-compassion, somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, relational cultural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to meet clients' unique needs and goals.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
My integrative approach draws from mindful self-compassion, somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, relational cultural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to meet clients' unique needs and goals.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
(805) 590-9341 View (805) 590-9341
Photo of Gia Herndon, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gia Herndon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I utilize an eclectic approach that includes depth-oriented, somatic, Internal Family Systems and CBT techniques.
I believe that we each have an innate force that drives us towards wholeness and the fulfillment of our individual  potential. However, life experiences can lead to a break from our personal experience of the soul, resulting in a deep sense of loss and isolation from self and others. I work collaboratively with my clients to remove obstacles that block the connection to a deeper experience of the soul and authentic self, and then move towards the realization of a fulfilling and purposeful life. "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there... " Rumi
I utilize an eclectic approach that includes depth-oriented, somatic, Internal Family Systems and CBT techniques.
I believe that we each have an innate force that drives us towards wholeness and the fulfillment of our individual  potential. However, life experiences can lead to a break from our personal experience of the soul, resulting in a deep sense of loss and isolation from self and others. I work collaboratively with my clients to remove obstacles that block the connection to a deeper experience of the soul and authentic self, and then move towards the realization of a fulfilling and purposeful life. "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there... " Rumi
(916) 426-4254 View (916) 426-4254
Somatic Therapists

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.