Somatic Therapists in Streeterville, Chicago, IL

Photo of Emily Perepa, LCSW, ICST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Perepa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611
I specialize in bottom-up brain approaches such as EMDR, Sandtray therapy, and use other expressive arts and somatic techniques.
I have worked with kids, families, and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and looking at the need behind the behavior. It's important for us to be curious at what the need underlying thoughts, feelings and actions. Often, if we can work on strategies to help regulate, we find that thoughts, feelings, or actions feel less overwhelming and stressful.
I specialize in bottom-up brain approaches such as EMDR, Sandtray therapy, and use other expressive arts and somatic techniques.
I have worked with kids, families, and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and looking at the need behind the behavior. It's important for us to be curious at what the need underlying thoughts, feelings and actions. Often, if we can work on strategies to help regulate, we find that thoughts, feelings, or actions feel less overwhelming and stressful.
(312) 248-6250 View (312) 248-6250
Photo of Sophia Ou, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Ou
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I approach my work through trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lenses, using mindfulness-based, somatic-based, solution-focused modalities.
I specialize in trauma recovery, racial/gender/sexuality identity development, intergenerational healing, depression and anxiety. I am committed to working with adult children of immigrants and QTBIPOC folks who might be navigating complexities of trauma, marginalization, mental health stigma, perfectionism, identity and belonging. My identities: Cambodian, queer, nonbinary, child of refugees, ex-Christian. These identities inform how I move through the therapy space.
I approach my work through trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lenses, using mindfulness-based, somatic-based, solution-focused modalities.
I specialize in trauma recovery, racial/gender/sexuality identity development, intergenerational healing, depression and anxiety. I am committed to working with adult children of immigrants and QTBIPOC folks who might be navigating complexities of trauma, marginalization, mental health stigma, perfectionism, identity and belonging. My identities: Cambodian, queer, nonbinary, child of refugees, ex-Christian. These identities inform how I move through the therapy space.
(630) 360-8459 x1 View (630) 360-8459 x1
Photo of Nui Waris, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nui Waris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I gravitate towards using attachment work, polyvagal theory, somatic/body work, and parts/inner-child work.
I believe everyone has their own story and deserves a space where their experiences are understood. This belief shapes my practice, which is especially focused on supporting women of color, adult children of immigrant parents, individuals working to manage their anxiety/overthinking, & individuals exploring their spirituality, cultural identity, self-worth, & relationship attachments. I am also dedicated to supporting couples, as I believe that our connections with others are fundamental to the healing process. I value honesty, directness, and openness in my communication style and I work best with clients who share similar traits.
I gravitate towards using attachment work, polyvagal theory, somatic/body work, and parts/inner-child work.
I believe everyone has their own story and deserves a space where their experiences are understood. This belief shapes my practice, which is especially focused on supporting women of color, adult children of immigrant parents, individuals working to manage their anxiety/overthinking, & individuals exploring their spirituality, cultural identity, self-worth, & relationship attachments. I am also dedicated to supporting couples, as I believe that our connections with others are fundamental to the healing process. I value honesty, directness, and openness in my communication style and I work best with clients who share similar traits.
(872) 246-9105 View (872) 246-9105
Photo of Amanda Jonikaitis-King, LPC, RYT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Jonikaitis-King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I incorporate somatic approaches like yoga therapy and EMDR into my sessions to address your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being, guiding you toward holistic healing and self-discovery.
Are you seeking clarity, balance, and a deeper connection to your authentic self? I'm here to help. Navigating uncertainties about who we are and what we want in life can be challenging and isolating. I offer a judgment-free space where we will explore your core values and life purpose, helping you navigate life's uncertainties with confidence. My expertise extends to couples counseling, where we can work on improving communication, understanding, and intimacy in your relationships.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I incorporate somatic approaches like yoga therapy and EMDR into my sessions to address your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being, guiding you toward holistic healing and self-discovery.
Are you seeking clarity, balance, and a deeper connection to your authentic self? I'm here to help. Navigating uncertainties about who we are and what we want in life can be challenging and isolating. I offer a judgment-free space where we will explore your core values and life purpose, helping you navigate life's uncertainties with confidence. My expertise extends to couples counseling, where we can work on improving communication, understanding, and intimacy in your relationships.
(872) 250-5082 View (872) 250-5082
Photo of Erika Chavez, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Erika! My work focuses on providing culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and affirming therapeutic services to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks experiencing anxiety, depression, generational trauma, immigrant struggles, and race/ethnic identity exploration. I work from a trauma-informed lens that explores childhood experiences, relational attachments, cultural environments, and how the brain/body is developmentally affected through traumatic experiences. I integrate somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and mindfulness to address and process trauma.
Welcome, my name is Erika! My work focuses on providing culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and affirming therapeutic services to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks experiencing anxiety, depression, generational trauma, immigrant struggles, and race/ethnic identity exploration. I work from a trauma-informed lens that explores childhood experiences, relational attachments, cultural environments, and how the brain/body is developmentally affected through traumatic experiences. I integrate somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and mindfulness to address and process trauma.
(872) 278-1423 View (872) 278-1423
Photo of Kelsey Weissburg, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Weissburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
I draw from principles of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy ( Somatic Experiencing), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Relational/Attachment Based therapy.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. I believe that everyone has an in wisdom which can guide their healing. Together, we will create space for deep reflection and/or somatic experiencing to better understand yourself, your grief, and your relationships. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you are struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
I draw from principles of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy ( Somatic Experiencing), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Relational/Attachment Based therapy.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. I believe that everyone has an in wisdom which can guide their healing. Together, we will create space for deep reflection and/or somatic experiencing to better understand yourself, your grief, and your relationships. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you are struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
(312) 584-3152 x1 View (312) 584-3152 x1
Photo of Stephanie Rotman, MA, LCPC, RYT, TIYT, NCC, Counselor
Stephanie Rotman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RYT, TIYT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize customized somatic therapy practices like yoga and mindfulness to help you release mental and physical tension and heal the mind and body.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the increasing demands of work and personal life, constantly battling anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout? Do you want to make a change, but you’re not sure where to start? I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and we shouldn't wait until things become unmanageable to get support. My therapeutic approach combines processing with skill-building. We will seek to understand past and present difficulties and the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, relationships, and lifestyle factors contributing to these difficulties. I will also provide you with practical tools to help you not only heal but thrive.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize customized somatic therapy practices like yoga and mindfulness to help you release mental and physical tension and heal the mind and body.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the increasing demands of work and personal life, constantly battling anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout? Do you want to make a change, but you’re not sure where to start? I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and we shouldn't wait until things become unmanageable to get support. My therapeutic approach combines processing with skill-building. We will seek to understand past and present difficulties and the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, relationships, and lifestyle factors contributing to these difficulties. I will also provide you with practical tools to help you not only heal but thrive.
(872) 278-5641 View (872) 278-5641
Photo of Kelli Klinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli Klinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families challenged by anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, addiction and the changes of everyday life. While grounded in traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also integrate interpersonal neurobiology and body-based therapies, including Neuroaffective Relational Model (NARM) for developmental trauma, Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Often, insight alone is not enough to shift patterns we find ourselves stuck in and repeating in ourselves and our relationships.
I work with individuals, couples, and families challenged by anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, addiction and the changes of everyday life. While grounded in traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also integrate interpersonal neurobiology and body-based therapies, including Neuroaffective Relational Model (NARM) for developmental trauma, Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Often, insight alone is not enough to shift patterns we find ourselves stuck in and repeating in ourselves and our relationships.
(847) 752-9013 View (847) 752-9013
Photo of Stacia Noll, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacia Noll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I incorporate components of the Health at Every Size (HAES) model and I am currently studying Somatic Experiencing.
As both a therapist and yoga teacher, I believe we have the capacity to access our own inner knowing and sense of awareness. Sometimes we just need some redirection about how to get there. I believe in a compassionate approach to therapy, which expands resiliency, encourages self-agency, and invites discovery.
I incorporate components of the Health at Every Size (HAES) model and I am currently studying Somatic Experiencing.
As both a therapist and yoga teacher, I believe we have the capacity to access our own inner knowing and sense of awareness. Sometimes we just need some redirection about how to get there. I believe in a compassionate approach to therapy, which expands resiliency, encourages self-agency, and invites discovery.
(773) 840-0306 View (773) 840-0306
Photo of Lillian de Blecourt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lillian de Blecourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611
I blend somatic therapy, IFS and other models in my work.
I have current availability in Lincoln Park and online. I provide a calm space for you to gain ground in reducing anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and more. I work collaboratively to help you identify goals and how to move toward achieving them. Being in the moment in and outside of session is something I help clients develop or strengthen. If you're looking to face difficult aspects of your life, past and present, I have effective and gentle methods for helping you approach them with less fear.
I blend somatic therapy, IFS and other models in my work.
I have current availability in Lincoln Park and online. I provide a calm space for you to gain ground in reducing anxiety, depression, relationship conflict and more. I work collaboratively to help you identify goals and how to move toward achieving them. Being in the moment in and outside of session is something I help clients develop or strengthen. If you're looking to face difficult aspects of your life, past and present, I have effective and gentle methods for helping you approach them with less fear.
(773) 888-4446 View (773) 888-4446
Photo of Sue Shekut, LCPC, Counselor
Sue Shekut
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained in somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, and psychodrama.
I look forward to working with you to help you heal! As a specialist in treating trauma, I am passionate about helping clients strengthen resilience & improve relationships. My aim is to help you better handle difficult emotions and feel more self-compassion and self-acceptance. I enjoy helping couples and individuals with relationship issues (such as ineffective patterns of communicating, intimacy/attachment issues, invalidation, shame, defense mechanisms) to heal and grow. I integrate wellness, interpersonal neurobiology, somatic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory in my work.
Additionally, I am trained in somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, and psychodrama.
I look forward to working with you to help you heal! As a specialist in treating trauma, I am passionate about helping clients strengthen resilience & improve relationships. My aim is to help you better handle difficult emotions and feel more self-compassion and self-acceptance. I enjoy helping couples and individuals with relationship issues (such as ineffective patterns of communicating, intimacy/attachment issues, invalidation, shame, defense mechanisms) to heal and grow. I integrate wellness, interpersonal neurobiology, somatic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory in my work.
(773) 206-1866 View (773) 206-1866
Photo of Kayleen Kuhn, MA, LCPC
Kayleen Kuhn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I often utilize non-traditional approaches such as somatic, art, and other creative tools that go beyond traditional "talk therapy".
I know taking the plunge into therapy can feel scary…you are not alone! If you are looking for a warm, unconditional, and potentially even non-traditional approach to therapy, you have come to the right place. As your therapist, my top priority is to curate an empowering therapeutic environment, fit to your needs. Through my warm energy, goofy sense of humor, and passion for your health, I aim to make therapy a safe place to be your authentic self. I recognize each of my clients are unique beings with unique experiences. Your therapeutic care deserves to have the same consideration.
I often utilize non-traditional approaches such as somatic, art, and other creative tools that go beyond traditional "talk therapy".
I know taking the plunge into therapy can feel scary…you are not alone! If you are looking for a warm, unconditional, and potentially even non-traditional approach to therapy, you have come to the right place. As your therapist, my top priority is to curate an empowering therapeutic environment, fit to your needs. Through my warm energy, goofy sense of humor, and passion for your health, I aim to make therapy a safe place to be your authentic self. I recognize each of my clients are unique beings with unique experiences. Your therapeutic care deserves to have the same consideration.
(847) 892-7149 View (847) 892-7149
Photo of Annie Novotny, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
(708) 572-3801 View (708) 572-3801
Photo of Gloria Bernard
Gloria Bernard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I engage in creative strategizing coupled with somatic (body-oriented) & EMDR interventions that have helped my clients reach their goals.
My clients generally have a sense that something in their lives requires a big shift & seek support & guidance from a professional. Whether it is clarity about relationships, healing from a traumatic event, or taking control of anxiety - I work with you to reveal blind spots, be less reactive, more grounded, and stop getting in your own way; by empowering you to reclaim your inner peace and move forward with renewed strength and resilience. I genuinely trust that my clients know what is best for them and my job is to guide them toward their personal truth that was there all along.
I engage in creative strategizing coupled with somatic (body-oriented) & EMDR interventions that have helped my clients reach their goals.
My clients generally have a sense that something in their lives requires a big shift & seek support & guidance from a professional. Whether it is clarity about relationships, healing from a traumatic event, or taking control of anxiety - I work with you to reveal blind spots, be less reactive, more grounded, and stop getting in your own way; by empowering you to reclaim your inner peace and move forward with renewed strength and resilience. I genuinely trust that my clients know what is best for them and my job is to guide them toward their personal truth that was there all along.
(312) 584-3734 View (312) 584-3734
Photo of Kelvin Caldwell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelvin Caldwell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
Seeking therapy takes courage, congrats on taking the first step! I am here to help you connect with your body and mind to uncover deeper insights and foster your personal growth using a trauma-informed, somatic, and decolonial lens. As a committed advocate for sexual health education and inclusion, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those exploring kink, as they navigate trauma, anxiety, identity crises, race-based stress, and relationship challenges.
Seeking therapy takes courage, congrats on taking the first step! I am here to help you connect with your body and mind to uncover deeper insights and foster your personal growth using a trauma-informed, somatic, and decolonial lens. As a committed advocate for sexual health education and inclusion, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those exploring kink, as they navigate trauma, anxiety, identity crises, race-based stress, and relationship challenges.
(708) 866-1520 View (708) 866-1520
Photo of Jenna K Feldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna K Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
In this work, I approach therapy with a strengths-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens and depending on your needs, I may pull from a variety of Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing (SE) and other body-centered approaches.
Many of the individuals and couples I work with experience anxiety, professional/work-related stress, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and unresolved trauma. Often, clients are looking to reflect on their personal and family history, build self-awareness, process everyday stressors, and/or develop coping skills. In my work with clients, I seek to establish a supportive, empathetic, and consistent relationship that will be the foundation for deep introspection and growth.
(312) 766-7142 View (312) 766-7142
Photo of Masha Erofeeva, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Masha Erofeeva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
I am a licensed clinical therapist on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability to help new clients. I received my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northern Arizona University and trained in CBT, Gottman Method, ERP, client-centered therapy, as well as other traditional therapies. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, I incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal and Somatic Experiencing Therapies. As an experienced therapist, I value continued professional learning and growth, allowing me to provide my clients with the very best treatment.
I am a licensed clinical therapist on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability to help new clients. I received my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northern Arizona University and trained in CBT, Gottman Method, ERP, client-centered therapy, as well as other traditional therapies. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, I incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal and Somatic Experiencing Therapies. As an experienced therapist, I value continued professional learning and growth, allowing me to provide my clients with the very best treatment.
(630) 552-6945 View (630) 552-6945
Photo of Arielle Zimmerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60611
Waitlist for new clients
I borrow from attachment theory, parts work, mindfulness, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
As a queer and neurodivergent affirming therapist, I am passionate about working with folks whose experience is shaped by feeling "different"- due to sexuality, gender, ADHD/Autism, or relationship orientation. Many of my clients experience interpersonal challenges including social anxiety, people-pleasing, and fears of rejection. I am here to provide gentle feedback about the ways you can be kinder to yourself and practice firm but flexible boundaries.
I borrow from attachment theory, parts work, mindfulness, systems theory, and somatic therapy.
As a queer and neurodivergent affirming therapist, I am passionate about working with folks whose experience is shaped by feeling "different"- due to sexuality, gender, ADHD/Autism, or relationship orientation. Many of my clients experience interpersonal challenges including social anxiety, people-pleasing, and fears of rejection. I am here to provide gentle feedback about the ways you can be kinder to yourself and practice firm but flexible boundaries.
(872) 228-2494 View (872) 228-2494
Photo of Mie Tamura, LCPC , ATR, Counselor
Mie Tamura
Counselor, LCPC , ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is the integration of various methods including EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS model, somatic-based therapy, Mindfulness and Art therapy / Sand tray therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the effects of trauma, by challenging circumstances, or just feeling stuck in life? Do you have a hard time expressing or describing your feeling in words?  My therapy is rooted in care and trust. With compassion, understanding and guidance, I assist my clients to increase their self-esteem, confidence, and self-awareness and reconnect with their own inner strength to overcome the hardships in their lives. With my background as a clinical trauma specialist, an expressive artist and a Japanese immigrant, I am uniquely positioned to help guide you towards a more positive and empowered life journey.
My approach is the integration of various methods including EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS model, somatic-based therapy, Mindfulness and Art therapy / Sand tray therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the effects of trauma, by challenging circumstances, or just feeling stuck in life? Do you have a hard time expressing or describing your feeling in words?  My therapy is rooted in care and trust. With compassion, understanding and guidance, I assist my clients to increase their self-esteem, confidence, and self-awareness and reconnect with their own inner strength to overcome the hardships in their lives. With my background as a clinical trauma specialist, an expressive artist and a Japanese immigrant, I am uniquely positioned to help guide you towards a more positive and empowered life journey.
(224) 204-0995 View (224) 204-0995
Photo of Allyson Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allyson Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streeterville, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I am trained and use interventions in EMDR therapy, ego-state interventions, parts work, and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training.
Hi there, I'm Allyson! I am so proud that you have made this step. I’m glad you are here. There is a reason you are here, and I understand how vulnerable this can be. It is so brave that you have started this process and are ready to start your healing journey.
I am trained and use interventions in EMDR therapy, ego-state interventions, parts work, and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training.
Hi there, I'm Allyson! I am so proud that you have made this step. I’m glad you are here. There is a reason you are here, and I understand how vulnerable this can be. It is so brave that you have started this process and are ready to start your healing journey.
(847) 320-9053 View (847) 320-9053
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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.