Somatic Therapists in Pittsboro, NC

Photo of Ricki L Geiger, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ricki L Geiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Online Only. Check your insurance. I can help you unravel difficult experiences-past and present, work through bad feelings and cultivate positive change. As a process relational psychotherapist coupled with a somatic and PolyVagal Theory lens, I specialize in healing childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma related stress and symptoms: shame, depression, loss of self, numbing, anxiety, self-destructive behavior, chronic grief and pain, attachment and trust issues, feeling helpless and hopeless. Over time, you will relinquish old self-defeating internal messages, behaviors; gain confidence and skills and enjoy a fuller life.
Online Only. Check your insurance. I can help you unravel difficult experiences-past and present, work through bad feelings and cultivate positive change. As a process relational psychotherapist coupled with a somatic and PolyVagal Theory lens, I specialize in healing childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma related stress and symptoms: shame, depression, loss of self, numbing, anxiety, self-destructive behavior, chronic grief and pain, attachment and trust issues, feeling helpless and hopeless. Over time, you will relinquish old self-defeating internal messages, behaviors; gain confidence and skills and enjoy a fuller life.
(919) 642-2133 View (919) 642-2133
Photo of Asia Elzein Platt - 2nd Spring CCC, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
2nd Spring CCC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
My trauma-focused approach integrates Brainspotting, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and more, for lasting personal transformations.
If what you need is a healing journey from life's challenges or relationship complexities, I'm here to guide you. Whether you're navigating traumas, in need of coping strategies, or wanting lasting positive changes, your journey is at the heart of my warm, personalized approach. From self-discovery to resilience, find a genuine connection and expert support crafted just for you. Let's embark together on a personal path to well-being, where the focus is on your needs and aspirations with understanding, compassion, and heartfelt expertise.
My trauma-focused approach integrates Brainspotting, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and more, for lasting personal transformations.
If what you need is a healing journey from life's challenges or relationship complexities, I'm here to guide you. Whether you're navigating traumas, in need of coping strategies, or wanting lasting positive changes, your journey is at the heart of my warm, personalized approach. From self-discovery to resilience, find a genuine connection and expert support crafted just for you. Let's embark together on a personal path to well-being, where the focus is on your needs and aspirations with understanding, compassion, and heartfelt expertise.
(919) 646-6860 View (919) 646-6860
Photo of Eliza Harris, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Eliza Harris
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Have you found that talk therapy isn’t for you, or are you ready to try something different? Does your low self-image get in the way of your enjoyment? Perhaps you have a history of trauma or abuse, but are at a safe place and ready to become more authentic, engaged, easeful and present. You aren’t afraid to look at the stuck places where your patterns keep repeating. You know you want more energy, more loving kindness towards yourself or others and most of all more peace. This journey takes courage, and it is my great honor to be able to be a witness and support as you engage in your creative becoming.
Have you found that talk therapy isn’t for you, or are you ready to try something different? Does your low self-image get in the way of your enjoyment? Perhaps you have a history of trauma or abuse, but are at a safe place and ready to become more authentic, engaged, easeful and present. You aren’t afraid to look at the stuck places where your patterns keep repeating. You know you want more energy, more loving kindness towards yourself or others and most of all more peace. This journey takes courage, and it is my great honor to be able to be a witness and support as you engage in your creative becoming.
(984) 213-4311 View (984) 213-4311
Photo of Clare R Brown, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clare R Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
What is it that brings vitality? What gets you stuck? Often times we don't realize, we are not taught, that the key to well being is our relationship with self and with what is actually happening, not what we think should happen. As we learn to trust what is arising rather than believe it is bad, and we learn to value and process emotions and experiences, we start to relate to our self and to life differently. Setting limits, bold choices, passion and clarity become more possible and natural. And so we find: our suffering, our symptoms turn out not to be a problem to be fixed, but a gateway to our freedom.
What is it that brings vitality? What gets you stuck? Often times we don't realize, we are not taught, that the key to well being is our relationship with self and with what is actually happening, not what we think should happen. As we learn to trust what is arising rather than believe it is bad, and we learn to value and process emotions and experiences, we start to relate to our self and to life differently. Setting limits, bold choices, passion and clarity become more possible and natural. And so we find: our suffering, our symptoms turn out not to be a problem to be fixed, but a gateway to our freedom.
(919) 344-0148 View (919) 344-0148
Photo of Tatyana Kholodkov, PhD, DYRT, Psychologist
Tatyana Kholodkov
Psychologist, PhD, DYRT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27228
Suffering presents itself in a number of ways- behaviors and relationships we desire to change, uncomfortable emotions, chronic health problems, and feeling out of touch with meaning in our lives. I aim to help clients not only feel better, but live a life according to their values. I work with adults across the lifespan to heal trauma, anxiety, and depression. Clients come seeking deeper insights and growth. I also offer customized intensives, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic preparation/integration, and end of life support to individuals and families. My group practice affirms diversity, sex and body positivity.
Suffering presents itself in a number of ways- behaviors and relationships we desire to change, uncomfortable emotions, chronic health problems, and feeling out of touch with meaning in our lives. I aim to help clients not only feel better, but live a life according to their values. I work with adults across the lifespan to heal trauma, anxiety, and depression. Clients come seeking deeper insights and growth. I also offer customized intensives, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic preparation/integration, and end of life support to individuals and families. My group practice affirms diversity, sex and body positivity.
(919) 351-8251 View (919) 351-8251
Photo of Antonia Leonore Verhine, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonia Leonore Verhine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27228
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
(984) 368-4697 View (984) 368-4697
Photo of Kelly K Jerome, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly K Jerome
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
(919) 642-3408 View (919) 642-3408
Photo of Cindy W Hickman, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of Sharon Lynn Sheppard, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Lynn Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
(919) 373-3355 View (919) 373-3355
Photo of Rachel Mills-Brantley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Mills-Brantley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Not accepting new clients
Using a combination of mindfulness, self-compassion, somatic awareness practices, CBT, and talk therapy, I guide clients to discover and develop the resources they need to address unconscious beliefs and behaviors that are holding them back from living in alignment with their values and purpose.
I am a caring and non-judgmental therapist ready to support you in living a balanced, fulfilling life. I will help you gently and compassionately open to the struggle or suffering you are holding as well as to the joy and awe in everyday life so you can skillfully process your emotions, build resilience, and live mindfully. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to nurturing the soil for all human beings to feel belonging, dignity, and flourishing. I use a heart-centered, strengths-based, mind-body approach to collaborate with adults to nourish their innate wisdom and resilience to heal and flourish.
Using a combination of mindfulness, self-compassion, somatic awareness practices, CBT, and talk therapy, I guide clients to discover and develop the resources they need to address unconscious beliefs and behaviors that are holding them back from living in alignment with their values and purpose.
I am a caring and non-judgmental therapist ready to support you in living a balanced, fulfilling life. I will help you gently and compassionately open to the struggle or suffering you are holding as well as to the joy and awe in everyday life so you can skillfully process your emotions, build resilience, and live mindfully. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to nurturing the soil for all human beings to feel belonging, dignity, and flourishing. I use a heart-centered, strengths-based, mind-body approach to collaborate with adults to nourish their innate wisdom and resilience to heal and flourish.
(984) 265-2449 View (984) 265-2449
Photo of Ruth Morgans, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Morgans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Not accepting new clients
Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Trouble communicating with others in your life or navigating life's ups and downs? Wondering if therapy might help? Human interactions sometimes cause misunderstandings and conflicts. Whether working with children, adolescents, adults, couples or families, I believe that the idea of fairness and responsibility within our relationships is important. Problems arise when we are not treated fairly or do not take responsibility for our own actions. Psychotherapy is a unique collaboration between psychotherapist and client. It can vary depending on the personalities of the psychotherapist and the client and the particular issues you bring forward.
Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Trouble communicating with others in your life or navigating life's ups and downs? Wondering if therapy might help? Human interactions sometimes cause misunderstandings and conflicts. Whether working with children, adolescents, adults, couples or families, I believe that the idea of fairness and responsibility within our relationships is important. Problems arise when we are not treated fairly or do not take responsibility for our own actions. Psychotherapy is a unique collaboration between psychotherapist and client. It can vary depending on the personalities of the psychotherapist and the client and the particular issues you bring forward.
(919) 295-3962 View (919) 295-3962

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Olga Naroditskaya, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olga Naroditskaya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Does your daily life leave you in a state of constant analysis paralysis, exhaustion, or fight-or-flightiness? Craving freedom from anxiety, overthinking, and a constant stream of inner criticism? As a fellow recovering perfectionist, I got you. I help neurodivergent women and members of the LGBTQ+ community heal the root cause of their anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout using a combination of somatic modalities, IFS, and psychodynamic therapies. I believe in therapy that helps you regulate your nervous system, understand the root cause of patterns that aren’t serving you, and focuses on making your life better. Like right now.
Does your daily life leave you in a state of constant analysis paralysis, exhaustion, or fight-or-flightiness? Craving freedom from anxiety, overthinking, and a constant stream of inner criticism? As a fellow recovering perfectionist, I got you. I help neurodivergent women and members of the LGBTQ+ community heal the root cause of their anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout using a combination of somatic modalities, IFS, and psychodynamic therapies. I believe in therapy that helps you regulate your nervous system, understand the root cause of patterns that aren’t serving you, and focuses on making your life better. Like right now.
(919) 343-9657 View (919) 343-9657
Photo of Simon Spire, MA, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simon Spire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I am currently accepting new clients, and I always respond within 24 hours. I partner with adults of all ages who are seeking psychotherapy within a setting that’s able to hold the fullness of who they are and the larger arc of their path. Located on Pickards Mountain at the edge of Chapel Hill, I describe my approach as somatic, depth-oriented, and mindfulness-based. Another term I use is soulcentric. Why? Because the word soul points to the deeper dimensions of one’s life. It evokes the rich, sometimes veiled currents running through our lives and orients us toward our ever-unfolding authenticity and path.
I am currently accepting new clients, and I always respond within 24 hours. I partner with adults of all ages who are seeking psychotherapy within a setting that’s able to hold the fullness of who they are and the larger arc of their path. Located on Pickards Mountain at the edge of Chapel Hill, I describe my approach as somatic, depth-oriented, and mindfulness-based. Another term I use is soulcentric. Why? Because the word soul points to the deeper dimensions of one’s life. It evokes the rich, sometimes veiled currents running through our lives and orients us toward our ever-unfolding authenticity and path.
(919) 891-8269 View (919) 891-8269
Photo of Beatrice Andres, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beatrice Andres
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
(984) 205-7210 View (984) 205-7210
Photo of Francesca Nicole Morfesis, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
Francesca Nicole Morfesis
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I specialize in Somatic Experiencing (therapy for resolving trauma/nervous system dysregulation and returning to resilience, flow and wellbeing in the nervous system) and Mindfulness/Spirituality.
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
I specialize in Somatic Experiencing (therapy for resolving trauma/nervous system dysregulation and returning to resilience, flow and wellbeing in the nervous system) and Mindfulness/Spirituality.
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
(919) 759-5384 View (919) 759-5384
Photo of Allison Schad, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Schad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner & use this body-oriented approach to increase resilience, relieve stress, & heal trauma.
Let’s be real, life can be stressful. Whether it’s coping with present day experiences, unpacking past hurts, or finding different ways to be in the future, therapy can help. As a somatic psychotherapist, I believe in your ability to heal, to be present, & to change. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, adjusting to personal & professional life challenges, & sustaining recovery from substance use. I enjoy working with students, professionals, & those in the healthcare field.
I am a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner & use this body-oriented approach to increase resilience, relieve stress, & heal trauma.
Let’s be real, life can be stressful. Whether it’s coping with present day experiences, unpacking past hurts, or finding different ways to be in the future, therapy can help. As a somatic psychotherapist, I believe in your ability to heal, to be present, & to change. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, adjusting to personal & professional life challenges, & sustaining recovery from substance use. I enjoy working with students, professionals, & those in the healthcare field.
(919) 918-0361 View (919) 918-0361
Photo of Katie Brader, LMFT, LPC, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Brader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, SEP
Not Verified Not Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
(919) 842-3701 View (919) 842-3701
Photo of Stephanie Levin, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Stephanie Levin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
EMDR (Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR), and ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), and also pull from DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy begins with developing a strong rapport with the client. I work to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy, and support. You can expect a laid-back, nonjudgmental environment – perhaps even a bit of humor. Seeking therapy is a sign of strength that should be appreciated as such.
EMDR (Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR), and ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), and also pull from DBT and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy begins with developing a strong rapport with the client. I work to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship through compassion, empathy, and support. You can expect a laid-back, nonjudgmental environment – perhaps even a bit of humor. Seeking therapy is a sign of strength that should be appreciated as such.
(984) 422-3947 View (984) 422-3947
Photo of Susan Lipiec, LCMHC
Susan Lipiec
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
If you are at a place where you are experiencing some difficulties in life, you do not have to stay in that place. I offer a wide variety of knowledge, experience, compassion, and empathy into my time with others. I enjoy infusing my work with a lot of humor, and creativity, while embracing the holistic model of the mind/body connection.
If you are at a place where you are experiencing some difficulties in life, you do not have to stay in that place. I offer a wide variety of knowledge, experience, compassion, and empathy into my time with others. I enjoy infusing my work with a lot of humor, and creativity, while embracing the holistic model of the mind/body connection.
(919) 568-5309 View (919) 568-5309
Photo of Charleen Enns - Scout Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scout Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have successfully treated a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges. I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have successfully treated a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges. I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults.
(919) 283-4961 View (919) 283-4961
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.