Somatic Therapists in South Plainfield, NJ

Photo of Pauline David, MS, LPC, CCTP, NBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pauline David
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, NBC
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
I have worked with addiction, trauma, severe mental illness, and clients moving through various life phases of self-development and growth. This has strengthened my humanistic approach in aiding clients in their healing and self-discovery journey. I strongly believe that no two people are the same even when presenting as extremely similar. In my humanistic approach, everyone has their own experiences, despite their mental health status, and should be equipped with the tools that will help them thrive in the world.
I have worked with addiction, trauma, severe mental illness, and clients moving through various life phases of self-development and growth. This has strengthened my humanistic approach in aiding clients in their healing and self-discovery journey. I strongly believe that no two people are the same even when presenting as extremely similar. In my humanistic approach, everyone has their own experiences, despite their mental health status, and should be equipped with the tools that will help them thrive in the world.
(908) 827-6523 View (908) 827-6523
Photo of Sharona Anderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharona Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Are you feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected in your personal or relational life? Do you find yourself struggling with past trauma, communication issues, or emotional pain? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings, and I’m here to support. My name is Sharona Anderson, and I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing and growth. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experiences of pain and healing. This personal insight drives my empathetic approach to therapy, where I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your experience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected in your personal or relational life? Do you find yourself struggling with past trauma, communication issues, or emotional pain? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings, and I’m here to support. My name is Sharona Anderson, and I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing and growth. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experiences of pain and healing. This personal insight drives my empathetic approach to therapy, where I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your experience.
(908) 247-4451 View (908) 247-4451
Photo of Vasista Behavioral Health - Vasista, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vasista
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
(732) 800-4598 View (732) 800-4598
Photo of Leigh Polin - Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Waitlist for new clients
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
(732) 605-6271 View (732) 605-6271
Photo of John A Gore - Clear Conscience Counseling, EdD, LPC, LCADC, CAMS-II, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Clear Conscience Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, EdD, LPC, LCADC, CAMS-II, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Let's talk about it, and work together towards solutions.
Let's talk about it, and work together towards solutions.
(973) 434-7830 View (973) 434-7830

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Burchell, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Burchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
In our therapy sessions, I will utilize a combination of evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, Somatic approaches, and Polyvagal Theory.
Accepting new clients! Have you been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Perhaps you feel like you don’t know what to do or who to turn too. I understand this feeling, but I also know what it feels like to fully recover from this dark place. I believe that anyone who wants to change their life is able to take the steps necessary if they have the right support. At Olive Branch Therapy Group we are here for you to start that journey. During this therapeutic journey, we will begin by building a strong, supportive rapport. I understand that nothing is more important than feeling heard and understood.
In our therapy sessions, I will utilize a combination of evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, Somatic approaches, and Polyvagal Theory.
Accepting new clients! Have you been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Perhaps you feel like you don’t know what to do or who to turn too. I understand this feeling, but I also know what it feels like to fully recover from this dark place. I believe that anyone who wants to change their life is able to take the steps necessary if they have the right support. At Olive Branch Therapy Group we are here for you to start that journey. During this therapeutic journey, we will begin by building a strong, supportive rapport. I understand that nothing is more important than feeling heard and understood.
(732) 523-6402 x500 View (732) 523-6402 x500
Photo of Sarah Lundy, LCSW, LCADC, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lundy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brunswick, NJ 08901  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Humor, mindfulness, creativity, and somatic approaches are all essential to my practice.
Hi! My name is Sarah, I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist and community partner at Healing Reimagined. I've been providing trauma informed counseling in non-profits, sexual violence prevention programs, and long-term mental health & substance abuse treatment since 2017. I primarily work with individuals who are navigating anxiety and life changes, folks who have been affected by interpersonal violence, addiction, or other traumas. My intention at my practice, Rising Luna Integrative Therapy is creating a space that feels secure for folks to feel seen and heard for who they are, while moving through their own healing process.
Humor, mindfulness, creativity, and somatic approaches are all essential to my practice.
Hi! My name is Sarah, I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist and community partner at Healing Reimagined. I've been providing trauma informed counseling in non-profits, sexual violence prevention programs, and long-term mental health & substance abuse treatment since 2017. I primarily work with individuals who are navigating anxiety and life changes, folks who have been affected by interpersonal violence, addiction, or other traumas. My intention at my practice, Rising Luna Integrative Therapy is creating a space that feels secure for folks to feel seen and heard for who they are, while moving through their own healing process.
(908) 663-1340 View (908) 663-1340
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Rahway, NJ 07065
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(732) 902-4650 View (732) 902-4650
Photo of Nicole Mednis, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Mednis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
To achieve this change, I combine empowerment and strength-based psychotherapy with MBCT, somatic experiencing, CBT, and creative arts therapy.
Imagine you had a friend struggling with a problem, wouldn’t you do everything in your power to help them? Now imagine that friend is you. Give yourself the same grace, respect, and attention you would give to a friend in need. Whether you have been struggling with depression throughout the pandemic in silence or are just realizing your persistent anxiety is not getting better with exercise. Therapy can be the solution to heal the past and keep you focused on the present.
To achieve this change, I combine empowerment and strength-based psychotherapy with MBCT, somatic experiencing, CBT, and creative arts therapy.
Imagine you had a friend struggling with a problem, wouldn’t you do everything in your power to help them? Now imagine that friend is you. Give yourself the same grace, respect, and attention you would give to a friend in need. Whether you have been struggling with depression throughout the pandemic in silence or are just realizing your persistent anxiety is not getting better with exercise. Therapy can be the solution to heal the past and keep you focused on the present.
(732) 329-7414 View (732) 329-7414
Photo of Dr. Zaynab Khan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Zaynab Khan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816  (Online Only)
I have a wealth of experience across the lifespan using the best treatment interventions for your problems, including somatic therapy.
Welcome! Seeking therapy is both an exciting and anxious step. Whether you are new to counseling or wanting a fresh start, I am committed to helping you. I believe that within each of us is the strength to overcome even the most difficult of circumstances. Giving up is not an option. I will work with you to figure out what you need to get better even if its not with me. My wish for you is to be the person you want to be and live the life you've always wanted to live. I will get you there.
I have a wealth of experience across the lifespan using the best treatment interventions for your problems, including somatic therapy.
Welcome! Seeking therapy is both an exciting and anxious step. Whether you are new to counseling or wanting a fresh start, I am committed to helping you. I believe that within each of us is the strength to overcome even the most difficult of circumstances. Giving up is not an option. I will work with you to figure out what you need to get better even if its not with me. My wish for you is to be the person you want to be and live the life you've always wanted to live. I will get you there.
View
Photo of Ashante Taylorcox, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashante Taylorcox
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR-trained clinician with additional extensive ​experience in treating trauma through somatic practices and art-based ​therapies with communities of color and 2SLGBTQ+ folx.
I'm so happy you are here! I am a Queer Licensed ​Professional Counselor in the states of New Jersey & Pennsylvania, offering virtual ​trauma therapy services to adult individuals who ​identify as LGBTQIA+, Black, Latina/o, ​Indigenous, and individuals of color who've ​experienced sexual violence, childhood trauma, ​and attachment issues due to adoption. You want a therapist who gently pushes you and has a nurturing approach to the work. You are tired of feeling stuck and want a deeper connection to the work.
I am an EMDR-trained clinician with additional extensive ​experience in treating trauma through somatic practices and art-based ​therapies with communities of color and 2SLGBTQ+ folx.
I'm so happy you are here! I am a Queer Licensed ​Professional Counselor in the states of New Jersey & Pennsylvania, offering virtual ​trauma therapy services to adult individuals who ​identify as LGBTQIA+, Black, Latina/o, ​Indigenous, and individuals of color who've ​experienced sexual violence, childhood trauma, ​and attachment issues due to adoption. You want a therapist who gently pushes you and has a nurturing approach to the work. You are tired of feeling stuck and want a deeper connection to the work.
(856) 588-1630 View (856) 588-1630
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(908) 628-1748 View (908) 628-1748
Photo of Vanessa Morales, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
I utilize interventions informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Therapy to support you through challenges like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? If you’re ready to work collaboratively, motivated to make a change, and open to exploring new ways to grow, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll focus on helping you find balance and live in alignment with your values. If you’re ready to attend to your mental health needs and embrace the healing process, I’d be honored to support you on this journey toward a more fulfilling life.
I utilize interventions informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Therapy to support you through challenges like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? If you’re ready to work collaboratively, motivated to make a change, and open to exploring new ways to grow, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll focus on helping you find balance and live in alignment with your values. If you’re ready to attend to your mental health needs and embrace the healing process, I’d be honored to support you on this journey toward a more fulfilling life.
(732) 333-8520 View (732) 333-8520
Photo of Rachel Samet, LSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Samet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
My therapeutic perspective draws from psychodynamic, Trauma & attachment, somatic experiencing, CBT, and mindfulness techniques, as well as the RITTM approach for trauma-focused care.
As a Licensed Social Worker and certified Trauma therapist, I aim to support my clients in navigating life's challenges, fostering a transformative experience that promotes inner purpose and resilience. Seeing primarily adults, my focus is on creating a safe and empowering environment through a client-centered and strength-based approach.
My therapeutic perspective draws from psychodynamic, Trauma & attachment, somatic experiencing, CBT, and mindfulness techniques, as well as the RITTM approach for trauma-focused care.
As a Licensed Social Worker and certified Trauma therapist, I aim to support my clients in navigating life's challenges, fostering a transformative experience that promotes inner purpose and resilience. Seeing primarily adults, my focus is on creating a safe and empowering environment through a client-centered and strength-based approach.
(732) 652-9453 View (732) 652-9453
Photo of Susan Gutwill, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Gutwill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08820
But each of us suffers in our specific and deep personal and somatic ways.
I am a trained and experienced therapist in relational psychoanalysis as well as traumatology. I was part of bringing these two together some decades ago. In addition I understand eating problems and body image distortion. My professional writing covers these areas. I work with hypnosis, guided visualization and the body, as well as sharing a deepening conversation about you. I want to meet you right there with curiosity, warmth, growing empathy and care. I am an open and informal person by nature yet, of course, I work within professional boundaries. It is about you. I look forward to meeting you.
But each of us suffers in our specific and deep personal and somatic ways.
I am a trained and experienced therapist in relational psychoanalysis as well as traumatology. I was part of bringing these two together some decades ago. In addition I understand eating problems and body image distortion. My professional writing covers these areas. I work with hypnosis, guided visualization and the body, as well as sharing a deepening conversation about you. I want to meet you right there with curiosity, warmth, growing empathy and care. I am an open and informal person by nature yet, of course, I work within professional boundaries. It is about you. I look forward to meeting you.
(732) 719-7991 View (732) 719-7991
Photo of Lana Church, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lana Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08820
I provide integrated care incorporating cognitive therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, solution-focused, & trauma-sensitive somatic work to help people manage overwhelming emotions, conquer anxiety, & resolve PTSD symptoms.
Do you want to build a better life, let go of things that no longer help you, and finally be at peace? You don't have to suffer in silence. There are many ways to get out of a situation you are stuck in, and I can help, drawing from 10+ years of experience helping people 18 to 92 to overcome challenges, see different options to make wise decisions, create meaning, balance, and mindfulness. Teaching social work at Rutgers University for 8 years, I bring you the latest evidence-based research and practice.
I provide integrated care incorporating cognitive therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, solution-focused, & trauma-sensitive somatic work to help people manage overwhelming emotions, conquer anxiety, & resolve PTSD symptoms.
Do you want to build a better life, let go of things that no longer help you, and finally be at peace? You don't have to suffer in silence. There are many ways to get out of a situation you are stuck in, and I can help, drawing from 10+ years of experience helping people 18 to 92 to overcome challenges, see different options to make wise decisions, create meaning, balance, and mindfulness. Teaching social work at Rutgers University for 8 years, I bring you the latest evidence-based research and practice.
(551) 213-6390 View (551) 213-6390
Photo of Miriam Jaffe, PhD, LSW
Miriam Jaffe
Licensed Social Worker, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I am trained in EMDR, sandtray therapy, somatic experiencing, energy healing, guided meditation, and breath medicine.
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I am trained in EMDR, sandtray therapy, somatic experiencing, energy healing, guided meditation, and breath medicine.
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(848) 220-1712 View (848) 220-1712
Photo of Jae Guy, MSW , MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jae Guy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08817  (Online Only)
My work is informed by queer and feminist theory, somatic psychology, and neurobiology.
Are you feeling stuck? Disconnected from you desires? Confused? Have you struggled with feeling different or building satisfying relationships? Strong, loving relationships are essential to wellbeing. No relationship is more important than the one you have with yourself. I want to help you achieve better integration of mind and body through self-compassion, acceptance, mindfulness, and embodiment. I have specialized experience working with LGBQ, Trans, Poly/ENM, GNC/NB, Kinky, and Sex Working individuals. I offer sliding scale services to individuals $40-$150 based on need. I only accept AETNA insurance.
My work is informed by queer and feminist theory, somatic psychology, and neurobiology.
Are you feeling stuck? Disconnected from you desires? Confused? Have you struggled with feeling different or building satisfying relationships? Strong, loving relationships are essential to wellbeing. No relationship is more important than the one you have with yourself. I want to help you achieve better integration of mind and body through self-compassion, acceptance, mindfulness, and embodiment. I have specialized experience working with LGBQ, Trans, Poly/ENM, GNC/NB, Kinky, and Sex Working individuals. I offer sliding scale services to individuals $40-$150 based on need. I only accept AETNA insurance.
(267) 666-0733 View (267) 666-0733
Photo of Ali Longo, LAC, Counselor
Ali Longo
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
I utilize a variety of techniques and approaches like balancing broad perspective and attention to detail and pattern, mindfulness, expressive arts, spirituality, somatic re-experiencing, values inventory, and identity exploration.
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I assist clients in exploring and affirming their own neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual and romantic orientations, ability, and beliefs. I hold space for the “outcasts” and “outsiders” (and their special interests!). I am eager to meet with family of queer people to help provide support with coming out, transition, individuation, and creating queer community. I have a longstanding passion and practice to support the liberation, autonomy, and healing of survivors of complex trauma, abuse, sobriety, and mental and physical health struggles including suicidal ideation and chronic pain.
I utilize a variety of techniques and approaches like balancing broad perspective and attention to detail and pattern, mindfulness, expressive arts, spirituality, somatic re-experiencing, values inventory, and identity exploration.
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I assist clients in exploring and affirming their own neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual and romantic orientations, ability, and beliefs. I hold space for the “outcasts” and “outsiders” (and their special interests!). I am eager to meet with family of queer people to help provide support with coming out, transition, individuation, and creating queer community. I have a longstanding passion and practice to support the liberation, autonomy, and healing of survivors of complex trauma, abuse, sobriety, and mental and physical health struggles including suicidal ideation and chronic pain.
(732) 333-8520 View (732) 333-8520
Photo of Sam Seigerman - Life Transitions Anxiety - Complex Trauma- Somatic Therapist, LSW, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Seigerman - Life Transitions Anxiety - Complex Trauma- Somatic Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I offer psychedelic integration, therapeutic yoga, and somatic work for holistic healing.
Navigating life in your 20s, 30s, or 40s involves finding balance and authenticity in a world that often feels chaotic and demanding. As a holistic therapist, I provide a nurturing space where we can explore the interconnectedness of your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life and relationships, disconnected from your inner sense of peace, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll gently unravel the knots of stress and uncertainty, using mindfulness practices and body awareness to reconnect you with your inner wisdom and well-being.
Additionally, I offer psychedelic integration, therapeutic yoga, and somatic work for holistic healing.
Navigating life in your 20s, 30s, or 40s involves finding balance and authenticity in a world that often feels chaotic and demanding. As a holistic therapist, I provide a nurturing space where we can explore the interconnectedness of your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life and relationships, disconnected from your inner sense of peace, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll gently unravel the knots of stress and uncertainty, using mindfulness practices and body awareness to reconnect you with your inner wisdom and well-being.
(848) 280-7971 View (848) 280-7971

See more therapy options for South Plainfield

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.