Somatic Therapists in Mahtomedi, MN

Photo of Julie Kraai, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Kraai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
(651) 505-3201 View (651) 505-3201
Photo of David Kraai, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
David Kraai
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
Melding my experience in small business, non-profit organizations, and coaching, I am at home with a broad range of individuals of varied backgrounds. I am passionate about relationships and development, and have been told I have a knack for pressing gently but firmly into the rough spaces around seasons of change. I find great joy in helping people lean into the transitional moments of life and find meaning in the ‘stuck' places so they can grow, learn and heal. I tend to bring practical tools to sessions to help my clients build the skills they need to get healed and get on with life and relationships.
Melding my experience in small business, non-profit organizations, and coaching, I am at home with a broad range of individuals of varied backgrounds. I am passionate about relationships and development, and have been told I have a knack for pressing gently but firmly into the rough spaces around seasons of change. I find great joy in helping people lean into the transitional moments of life and find meaning in the ‘stuck' places so they can grow, learn and heal. I tend to bring practical tools to sessions to help my clients build the skills they need to get healed and get on with life and relationships.
(651) 372-3018 View (651) 372-3018
Photo of Julie A. Kaufman, MA, LPCC
Julie A. Kaufman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping others re-experience themselves. While we all experience struggles, there are times when managing them can be more difficult. Feelings of vulnerability, shame, and fear can easily become chains that hold us down. We begin to give away our power by allowing others to decide how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and our lives. We use food, emotions, behaviors, alcohol, and drugs hoping to protect ourselves. In these attempts we surrender even more power. The energy we once used to live in love, abundance, and wellness is no longer available: as a limited resource, it's now all used up.
I am dedicated to helping others re-experience themselves. While we all experience struggles, there are times when managing them can be more difficult. Feelings of vulnerability, shame, and fear can easily become chains that hold us down. We begin to give away our power by allowing others to decide how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and our lives. We use food, emotions, behaviors, alcohol, and drugs hoping to protect ourselves. In these attempts we surrender even more power. The energy we once used to live in love, abundance, and wellness is no longer available: as a limited resource, it's now all used up.
(651) 433-6074 View (651) 433-6074
Photo of Dan Hinderaker, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Hinderaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
Hello! As a psychotherapist, I will strive to connect with you, support you, and help you identify and achieve your goals. Therapy can be as simple as learning new tools, or it can be a more complex and deeper process. For example, anxiety and depression can be indicators of deeper wounds or that a person has gone off course in some way. In either case, working with me is a dance between treating problems and building on strengths. Whatever the nature of your therapy, I believe everyone has the power to heal, grow, and reach their full potential emotionally, intellectually and physically.
Hello! As a psychotherapist, I will strive to connect with you, support you, and help you identify and achieve your goals. Therapy can be as simple as learning new tools, or it can be a more complex and deeper process. For example, anxiety and depression can be indicators of deeper wounds or that a person has gone off course in some way. In either case, working with me is a dance between treating problems and building on strengths. Whatever the nature of your therapy, I believe everyone has the power to heal, grow, and reach their full potential emotionally, intellectually and physically.
(651) 571-4841 View (651) 571-4841
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn - Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 710-3288 View (763) 710-3288

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mollie Newhouse - Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I also can incorporate somatic work into my therapeutic approach.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
I also can incorporate somatic work into my therapeutic approach.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
(651) 240-2660 View (651) 240-2660
Photo of Jake Pierce-Walsh, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jake Pierce-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
With over 15 years of experience, my training blends somatic (mind-body) therapies, attachment-informed therapies, and ego-state (IFS / "parts") therapies, offering a grounded and holistic approach.
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
With over 15 years of experience, my training blends somatic (mind-body) therapies, attachment-informed therapies, and ego-state (IFS / "parts") therapies, offering a grounded and holistic approach.
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
(218) 343-3406 View (218) 343-3406
Photo of Mel Pascoe, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mel Pascoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
I use an attachment lens and various modalities like somatic experiencing, DBT, EMDR and parts work to help adults or couples with issues of trauma, anxiety, or relationship conflicts.
I am passionate about working people to help them feel better about themselves, their relationships, and their life! We all struggle sometimes, and choosing therapy is a brave choice. I am always honored to be part of someone’s journey. Together we will work to address the root of any pain or anxiety you are feeling. We will explore where your issues come from, honor your past, while learning new ways to make peace with your present. I will help you learn new ways to cope with your emotions while working to address the deep stuff that is making life feel so hard sometimes.
I use an attachment lens and various modalities like somatic experiencing, DBT, EMDR and parts work to help adults or couples with issues of trauma, anxiety, or relationship conflicts.
I am passionate about working people to help them feel better about themselves, their relationships, and their life! We all struggle sometimes, and choosing therapy is a brave choice. I am always honored to be part of someone’s journey. Together we will work to address the root of any pain or anxiety you are feeling. We will explore where your issues come from, honor your past, while learning new ways to make peace with your present. I will help you learn new ways to cope with your emotions while working to address the deep stuff that is making life feel so hard sometimes.
(651) 318-4825 View (651) 318-4825
Photo of Jessica Mcintosh, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Mcintosh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MN 55109
I provide virtual or in-person therapy sessions for adults ages 17 yrs & up and apply the following treatment approach: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy through Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Relational, Narrative, Solution Focused and Strength Based Therapy,.
Current openings for evenings or weekend sessions! Is your mental health wellness manageable on some days and at other times you feel over come by certain thoughts, emotions, past trauma response experiences, as well as interpersonal relationship conflicts? I will provide a safe space for you to process your concerns, empathize and validate your experiences. Our partnership will reflect how we work together as you cultivate the necessary skills to manage the areas of concern you have.
I provide virtual or in-person therapy sessions for adults ages 17 yrs & up and apply the following treatment approach: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy through Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Relational, Narrative, Solution Focused and Strength Based Therapy,.
Current openings for evenings or weekend sessions! Is your mental health wellness manageable on some days and at other times you feel over come by certain thoughts, emotions, past trauma response experiences, as well as interpersonal relationship conflicts? I will provide a safe space for you to process your concerns, empathize and validate your experiences. Our partnership will reflect how we work together as you cultivate the necessary skills to manage the areas of concern you have.
(612) 261-0346 View (612) 261-0346
Photo of Monica L. Sowden, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica L. Sowden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
As a Master ART Clinician, with some training in Somatic Experiencing, I know that trauma--indeed, all of what we think of as "mental health"--occurs in the body as much as the mind.
I am not currently taking new clients. In my practice I focus on the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for understanding how the brain and body interconnect, and respecting the client's own innate capacity to heal. I have experience working with ethnically and socioeconomically diverse individuals with a range of issues, including anxiety, anger, addiction, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma.
As a Master ART Clinician, with some training in Somatic Experiencing, I know that trauma--indeed, all of what we think of as "mental health"--occurs in the body as much as the mind.
I am not currently taking new clients. In my practice I focus on the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for understanding how the brain and body interconnect, and respecting the client's own innate capacity to heal. I have experience working with ethnically and socioeconomically diverse individuals with a range of issues, including anxiety, anger, addiction, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma.
(612) 400-8947 View (612) 400-8947
Photo of Erin Rowlson - FamilyMeans, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
FamilyMeans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
(833) 624-0402 View (833) 624-0402
Photo of Kim A Lundholm-Eades, MS, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim A Lundholm-Eades
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Centerville, MN 55038
I have over 30 years working in mental health and addiction. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents dealing with addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, parenting, crisis intervention, trauma, relationship issues, women's issues, LGBLTQ+, work life issues and life transitions. I am strength based in my approach and strive to assist people to empower themselves and to have the courage to change the things they can. I have completed the three year intensive training in Somatic Experiencing (SE) qualifying me as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
I have over 30 years working in mental health and addiction. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents dealing with addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, parenting, crisis intervention, trauma, relationship issues, women's issues, LGBLTQ+, work life issues and life transitions. I am strength based in my approach and strive to assist people to empower themselves and to have the courage to change the things they can. I have completed the three year intensive training in Somatic Experiencing (SE) qualifying me as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
(651) 400-8548 View (651) 400-8548
Photo of Katie Fisher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
I have several years of experience working with adolescents and their families. I enjoy guiding clients to explore their family values, communication, behavior patterns, emotions and changing needs of individual family members. I am Brain Spotting Level 2 trained and integrate Somatic Experiencing into my sessions.
I have several years of experience working with adolescents and their families. I enjoy guiding clients to explore their family values, communication, behavior patterns, emotions and changing needs of individual family members. I am Brain Spotting Level 2 trained and integrate Somatic Experiencing into my sessions.
(763) 878-6827 View (763) 878-6827
Photo of Rachel L Kusilek - Sunstone Counseling LLC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sunstone Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Rachel specializes in body-based trauma therapy techniques including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Let's Do This Together! Rachel (she/her) connects with clients from a place of acceptance using humor and warmth to make the therapeutic process collaborative and comfortable. Rachel takes a systemic perspective striving to understand how an individual’s difficulties and symptoms arise from their life experiences and relationships. She views the therapeutic process as a way to come alongside clients in an effort to improve their satisfaction with life and relationships. Rachel specializes in trauma, perinatal mental health, adolescents, child anxiety.
Rachel specializes in body-based trauma therapy techniques including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Let's Do This Together! Rachel (she/her) connects with clients from a place of acceptance using humor and warmth to make the therapeutic process collaborative and comfortable. Rachel takes a systemic perspective striving to understand how an individual’s difficulties and symptoms arise from their life experiences and relationships. She views the therapeutic process as a way to come alongside clients in an effort to improve their satisfaction with life and relationships. Rachel specializes in trauma, perinatal mental health, adolescents, child anxiety.
(651) 383-9324 View (651) 383-9324
Photo of Bee Thomas, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bee Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I offer Brainspotting and parts work to help us internally explore our own healing from a somatic lens.
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I bring authenticity to the therapy room, creating a comfortable space for you to express yourself as you wish (slippers and coziness welcome!). I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing complex trauma and exploring gender/identity.
I offer Brainspotting and parts work to help us internally explore our own healing from a somatic lens.
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I bring authenticity to the therapy room, creating a comfortable space for you to express yourself as you wish (slippers and coziness welcome!). I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing complex trauma and exploring gender/identity.
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Photo of Julia Rodriguez, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I like to blend modalities in my practice, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic approaches.
Hi there! I'm glad you're here. I believe we all deserve healing, and welcome clients from diverse identities and backgrounds. Whether there is processing needed for the past, or the present, I want to provide a space where you feel comfortable and safe to be a human, with all of your emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring that language is not a hindrance to accessing quality mental health support. I practice in English, Spanish, or both :)
I like to blend modalities in my practice, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic approaches.
Hi there! I'm glad you're here. I believe we all deserve healing, and welcome clients from diverse identities and backgrounds. Whether there is processing needed for the past, or the present, I want to provide a space where you feel comfortable and safe to be a human, with all of your emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring that language is not a hindrance to accessing quality mental health support. I practice in English, Spanish, or both :)
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Photo of Nicole Petersen, MA, RYT, AP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Petersen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RYT, AP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is informed by somatic, mindful, and relational modalities including Hakomi, parts-work, and person-centered psychotherapy.
I believe every individual's path of healing is unique. I approach therapy collaboratively, placing emphasis on your innate wisdom to support processes of growth and transformation. I also work holistically and am attentive to the intersections of mind and body in addition to the environmental, systemic, and intergenerational factors that influence our lives and wellbeing. I aspire to create a trauma-informed, nurturing, and compassionate space in which you can explore your inner world and relationship to life and Self.
My practice is informed by somatic, mindful, and relational modalities including Hakomi, parts-work, and person-centered psychotherapy.
I believe every individual's path of healing is unique. I approach therapy collaboratively, placing emphasis on your innate wisdom to support processes of growth and transformation. I also work holistically and am attentive to the intersections of mind and body in addition to the environmental, systemic, and intergenerational factors that influence our lives and wellbeing. I aspire to create a trauma-informed, nurturing, and compassionate space in which you can explore your inner world and relationship to life and Self.
(612) 887-3430 View (612) 887-3430
Photo of Sandra Struthers, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sandra Struthers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55126
Your healing will be supported with evidence-based interventions drawn from IFS, EFT, Narrative and Somatic theories.
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage. I cannot accept traditional insurance.
Your healing will be supported with evidence-based interventions drawn from IFS, EFT, Narrative and Somatic theories.
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage. I cannot accept traditional insurance.
(612) 324-5525 View (612) 324-5525
Photo of Eric Peterson, MA, LADC
Eric Peterson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Arden Hills, MN 55126
I currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration services. I focus on treating chemical addictions, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. I believe that developing a safe and secure relationship with each of my patients is essential for them to learn new ways of thinking and behaving, to find meaning and purpose in their life, and to move towards creating a whole and complete sense of self. My approach to healing is informed by acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, transpersonal psychology, person-centered therapy, & somatic approaches to healing.
I currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration services. I focus on treating chemical addictions, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. I believe that developing a safe and secure relationship with each of my patients is essential for them to learn new ways of thinking and behaving, to find meaning and purpose in their life, and to move towards creating a whole and complete sense of self. My approach to healing is informed by acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, transpersonal psychology, person-centered therapy, & somatic approaches to healing.
(763) 225-1349 View (763) 225-1349
Photo of Michael Kaup, MA
Michael Kaup
MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
I practice person-centered therapy that draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, somatic awareness, motivational interview, internal family systems, gestalt, trauma-focused, solution-focused, and strengths-based approaches.
Do things feel more difficult than they used to? Does it feel confusing or tender? Not make sense? Would you rather feel whole, authentic, and capable? I approach therapy with an emphasis on helping you understand your experience with clarity, recognize what is happening, and build your ability to work through challenges, understand what has been difficult, and grow into a wholeness that helps you feel like you, and sets you on a path of fulfilling your goals and aspirations. For many of us, lasting relief best happens with the support of a receptive, caring, professional, who can understand us, and offer skillful tools.
I practice person-centered therapy that draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, somatic awareness, motivational interview, internal family systems, gestalt, trauma-focused, solution-focused, and strengths-based approaches.
Do things feel more difficult than they used to? Does it feel confusing or tender? Not make sense? Would you rather feel whole, authentic, and capable? I approach therapy with an emphasis on helping you understand your experience with clarity, recognize what is happening, and build your ability to work through challenges, understand what has been difficult, and grow into a wholeness that helps you feel like you, and sets you on a path of fulfilling your goals and aspirations. For many of us, lasting relief best happens with the support of a receptive, caring, professional, who can understand us, and offer skillful tools.
(651) 877-4690 View (651) 877-4690

See more therapy options for Mahtomedi

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.