Somatic Therapists in Victor, NY

Photo of Rene A Jones - Couple & Relationship Therapy: An MFT Practice, PC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Couple & Relationship Therapy: An MFT Practice, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
Some are certified by American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, & Therapists; Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute.
If you are overwhelmed, confused, hurt and/or just need support we are here for you. For over 20 years, we have helped couples, families & individuals achieve health & healing & it would be an honor to help you. Most clients are stuck in unhealthy patterns that create & maintain distance & emotional pain. Often communication is about defending instead of understanding. We work to create safety so clients can have the connection they desire. We help our clients heal the pain & resentment, while creating healthy patterns that allows each person to be their authentic self. We are open to all people who are seeking growth & stability.
Some are certified by American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, & Therapists; Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute.
If you are overwhelmed, confused, hurt and/or just need support we are here for you. For over 20 years, we have helped couples, families & individuals achieve health & healing & it would be an honor to help you. Most clients are stuck in unhealthy patterns that create & maintain distance & emotional pain. Often communication is about defending instead of understanding. We work to create safety so clients can have the connection they desire. We help our clients heal the pain & resentment, while creating healthy patterns that allows each person to be their authentic self. We are open to all people who are seeking growth & stability.
(585) 312-1587 View (585) 312-1587
Photo of Lisa van Leeuwen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa van Leeuwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victor, NY 14564
My work uses trauma-focused and mind-body (psycho- somatic) practices, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming (EMDR), Ego State Therapies, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), DBT, and others.
I'm passionate about providing a safe and therapeutic space for those who have experienced childhood, sexual, race or gender based, or combat-related trauma. I'm trained in trauma-informed mental health care and developed my therapeutic approach working with a diverse population of individuals, couple, parents, and families. I'm deeply sensitive to racial, cultural, occupational, economic, and social justice-related influences on how we experience and heal from trauma.
My work uses trauma-focused and mind-body (psycho- somatic) practices, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming (EMDR), Ego State Therapies, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), DBT, and others.
I'm passionate about providing a safe and therapeutic space for those who have experienced childhood, sexual, race or gender based, or combat-related trauma. I'm trained in trauma-informed mental health care and developed my therapeutic approach working with a diverse population of individuals, couple, parents, and families. I'm deeply sensitive to racial, cultural, occupational, economic, and social justice-related influences on how we experience and heal from trauma.
(585) 636-3195 View (585) 636-3195
Photo of Bridget Lucchesi - Bridget Lucchesi, LCSW, PC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Lucchesi, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
If you feel anxious, depressed, fearful, relationship or family problems? We offer a cutting edge integrative assessment to address possible sources of your mental health symptoms versus simply treating the symptoms. We look at your overall health including hormones, vitamin deficiency and environmental issues that may play a role. We develop a unique individualized evidence based treatment plan to manage or resolve your symptoms. I bring an integrative strength based perspective to my counseling. We teach mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
If you feel anxious, depressed, fearful, relationship or family problems? We offer a cutting edge integrative assessment to address possible sources of your mental health symptoms versus simply treating the symptoms. We look at your overall health including hormones, vitamin deficiency and environmental issues that may play a role. We develop a unique individualized evidence based treatment plan to manage or resolve your symptoms. I bring an integrative strength based perspective to my counseling. We teach mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
(585) 326-8191 View (585) 326-8191
Photo of Carrie Medley, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Carrie Medley
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victor, NY 14564
Are you tired of struggling? Ready for a different way to approach things? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I partner with my clients to inspire change. My job is to help diagnose the issues and teach the tools so you can learn to cope and feel better. Let me help you live the best life for you! I am experienced at working with individuals, couples and families with a variety of mental health and relationship issues.
Are you tired of struggling? Ready for a different way to approach things? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I partner with my clients to inspire change. My job is to help diagnose the issues and teach the tools so you can learn to cope and feel better. Let me help you live the best life for you! I am experienced at working with individuals, couples and families with a variety of mental health and relationship issues.
(585) 286-3246 View (585) 286-3246
Photo of Kim Mossbrook, CCEP, MEd, BS
Kim Mossbrook
CCEP, MEd, BS
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
Core Energetics is a dynamic system for personal growth, healing, and transformation. Together we work to unblock your innate life force through the use of movement, breath, voice, and other techniques. You gain greater understanding of what makes you tick. This understanding opens up more choices about what you create in your life. When your energy is blocked, your body and personality suffer. When your energy is flowing, long standing patterns shift. You have more clarity, purpose, pleasure.
Core Energetics is a dynamic system for personal growth, healing, and transformation. Together we work to unblock your innate life force through the use of movement, breath, voice, and other techniques. You gain greater understanding of what makes you tick. This understanding opens up more choices about what you create in your life. When your energy is blocked, your body and personality suffer. When your energy is flowing, long standing patterns shift. You have more clarity, purpose, pleasure.
(585) 412-2599 View (585) 412-2599
Photo of Jaime Mahler, MS, LMHC, CCH
Jaime Mahler
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victor, NY 14564  (Online Only)
You may deal with issues related to your relationships, late diagnosed ADHD/Autism (or maybe you suspect it) , Anxiety, CPTSD or general life stressors. I help you recover in tangible ways. I'm very proactive, so we get started right away. I aim to leave with you something useful each & every session. I shine in helping people recover from difficult relationships & complex trauma. I'm the published author of the book, Toxic Relationship Recovery so you can know that I devote my heart to this work! Come in your PJs or fancy work attire (I'm telehealth only!) & let's get you started on your healing journey. I can't wait to meet you!
You may deal with issues related to your relationships, late diagnosed ADHD/Autism (or maybe you suspect it) , Anxiety, CPTSD or general life stressors. I help you recover in tangible ways. I'm very proactive, so we get started right away. I aim to leave with you something useful each & every session. I shine in helping people recover from difficult relationships & complex trauma. I'm the published author of the book, Toxic Relationship Recovery so you can know that I devote my heart to this work! Come in your PJs or fancy work attire (I'm telehealth only!) & let's get you started on your healing journey. I can't wait to meet you!
(585) 522-2308 View (585) 522-2308
Photo of Patricia Petrone - Whole Wellness Services, LMHC, CMHIMP, NCC, MS, CNC, Counselor
Patricia Petrone - Whole Wellness Services
Counselor, LMHC, CMHIMP, NCC, MS, CNC
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
I am dedicated to helping you through mental health, family, and couples issues with empathy and expertise. Your first session will always be offered within 7 days, and guiding you to your "best self" is my priority. As owner of practice Whole Wellness Services, I have designed a treatment team of experts that are solution focused and utilize evidence based practices while retaining a holistic philosophy. Individuals that come to us for therapy are looking for help with getting to a more joyful place and alleviating symptoms or behaviors that may be holding them back from doing so.
I am dedicated to helping you through mental health, family, and couples issues with empathy and expertise. Your first session will always be offered within 7 days, and guiding you to your "best self" is my priority. As owner of practice Whole Wellness Services, I have designed a treatment team of experts that are solution focused and utilize evidence based practices while retaining a holistic philosophy. Individuals that come to us for therapy are looking for help with getting to a more joyful place and alleviating symptoms or behaviors that may be holding them back from doing so.
(585) 524-0008 View (585) 524-0008

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jill Covert, LMSW, RYT, C-IAYT
Jill Covert
LMSW, RYT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Canandaigua, NY 14424
My work is somatic and allows you to release pent up energy from negative life experiences by moving the body.
What are you looking for? What is happening that causes you to search for a therapist? Are you struggling to find happiness? What would things look like if things were just the way you want then? How would it feel if this changed? Close your eyes. Take a breath. Picture this change happening. Feel your body right now. Listen. What is your body saying right now? If it says something that you want to listen to. Call me. We can talk just for 10-15 minutes. You can find even 10 minutes to see if Yoga Therapy might be right for you. What do you have to lose? It's a big decision to start a new journey.
My work is somatic and allows you to release pent up energy from negative life experiences by moving the body.
What are you looking for? What is happening that causes you to search for a therapist? Are you struggling to find happiness? What would things look like if things were just the way you want then? How would it feel if this changed? Close your eyes. Take a breath. Picture this change happening. Feel your body right now. Listen. What is your body saying right now? If it says something that you want to listen to. Call me. We can talk just for 10-15 minutes. You can find even 10 minutes to see if Yoga Therapy might be right for you. What do you have to lose? It's a big decision to start a new journey.
(585) 476-1818 View (585) 476-1818
Photo of Jen Saul Agnitti, MS, ReikiMT, RYT
Jen Saul Agnitti
MS, ReikiMT, RYT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
I offer a holistic, spiritual approach, specializing in working with Empaths/HSP/OSP and C-PTSD, as well as difficulties around nourishing the Self (eating disorder concerns), and addressing C-PTSD and trauma using somatic and holistic modalities including energy therapy, yoga therapy, nature therapy, guided imagery and therapeutic sound. I am skilled in assisting individuals in attuning to both their internal guidance system of intuition, as well as to their body felt sensation and awareness as vehicles for healing. I am also gifted at working with families and in assisting individuals in working through relational difficulties.
I offer a holistic, spiritual approach, specializing in working with Empaths/HSP/OSP and C-PTSD, as well as difficulties around nourishing the Self (eating disorder concerns), and addressing C-PTSD and trauma using somatic and holistic modalities including energy therapy, yoga therapy, nature therapy, guided imagery and therapeutic sound. I am skilled in assisting individuals in attuning to both their internal guidance system of intuition, as well as to their body felt sensation and awareness as vehicles for healing. I am also gifted at working with families and in assisting individuals in working through relational difficulties.
(585) 209-5263 View (585) 209-5263
Photo of Adriana Gulli, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adriana Gulli
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534  (Online Only)
I use an integrated trauma-informed approach, incorporating relational, psychodynamic, somatic internal family systems, & humanistic therapy.
I am a therapist who works with individuals that are hoping to improve their relationship with themselves and with others. I have experience working with adults across the lifespan experiencing a variety of difficulties such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders. My area of specialty is with clients who have a history of disordered eating patterns, as well as a history of trauma.
I use an integrated trauma-informed approach, incorporating relational, psychodynamic, somatic internal family systems, & humanistic therapy.
I am a therapist who works with individuals that are hoping to improve their relationship with themselves and with others. I have experience working with adults across the lifespan experiencing a variety of difficulties such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders. My area of specialty is with clients who have a history of disordered eating patterns, as well as a history of trauma.
(585) 549-3089 View (585) 549-3089
Photo of Kate Lynch, MS, LCAT, MT-BC, Art Therapist
Kate Lynch
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534  (Online Only)
Some techniques I use to achieve this include talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques (such as DBT), creative arts, somatic exercises, and EMDR.
In our fast-paced world, it is easy to become anxious, depressed, angry, and/or overwhelmed. If it feels unmanageable at times, that makes sense. Our brains weren’t designed to be flooded with so much information globally and in our personal lives with minimal support. Add in additional stressors such as trauma, challenging family dynamics, or parenting, and it can feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode. However, you are not alone. Therapy is a wonderful tool to help release pressure and learn ways to manage challenging emotions so that you can be your best self.
Some techniques I use to achieve this include talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques (such as DBT), creative arts, somatic exercises, and EMDR.
In our fast-paced world, it is easy to become anxious, depressed, angry, and/or overwhelmed. If it feels unmanageable at times, that makes sense. Our brains weren’t designed to be flooded with so much information globally and in our personal lives with minimal support. Add in additional stressors such as trauma, challenging family dynamics, or parenting, and it can feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode. However, you are not alone. Therapy is a wonderful tool to help release pressure and learn ways to manage challenging emotions so that you can be your best self.
(585) 517-2642 View (585) 517-2642
Photo of James Drooz, LMHC, MS
James Drooz
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534  (Online Only)
Together, we’ll explore holistic, somatic & experiential practices that honor your autonomy & resilience, helping you reclaim your story & cultivate a life aligned with your values.
Welcome! I am a white, queer, nonbinary therapist. I bring both lived experience & extensive learnings/unlearnings to my work with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, who are neurodivergent, navigating complex trauma, spoonies, as well as people who work in healing professions. I provide an affirming therapeutic space where experiences can be processed, meaningful connection with self & others nurtured, & life stressors, emotions & identities explored. My practice is relational, affirming, culturally responsive, attuned and rooted in trauma-informed, justice & collective liberation-oriented values.
Together, we’ll explore holistic, somatic & experiential practices that honor your autonomy & resilience, helping you reclaim your story & cultivate a life aligned with your values.
Welcome! I am a white, queer, nonbinary therapist. I bring both lived experience & extensive learnings/unlearnings to my work with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, who are neurodivergent, navigating complex trauma, spoonies, as well as people who work in healing professions. I provide an affirming therapeutic space where experiences can be processed, meaningful connection with self & others nurtured, & life stressors, emotions & identities explored. My practice is relational, affirming, culturally responsive, attuned and rooted in trauma-informed, justice & collective liberation-oriented values.
(585) 575-2688 View (585) 575-2688
Photo of Siera Weiss, LCAT, Art Therapist
Siera Weiss
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
I incorporate techniques from Art Therapy, somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
There are times in most people’s lives when we get stuck in patterns of behavior or feelings that weigh us down and hold us back. During those times, the compassionate support and guidance from a therapist may be what we need to get to the root of what hinders us, work though it, and grow past it.
I incorporate techniques from Art Therapy, somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
There are times in most people’s lives when we get stuck in patterns of behavior or feelings that weigh us down and hold us back. During those times, the compassionate support and guidance from a therapist may be what we need to get to the root of what hinders us, work though it, and grow past it.
(585) 626-4819 View (585) 626-4819
Photo of Erika Bondi, PhD, MHC LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erika Bondi
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MHC LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Hi, I’m so glad you found me. I’m a bilingual (hablo español) emotion focused, and somatic (body-centered) mental health counselor and I believe in your innate ability to heal. I specialize in healing trauma: PTSD, complex (attachment, developmental, continuous), generational and racial. I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, connection to self and others. Also, those who have previously done therapy and have reached an impasse may benefit from deep emotional and somatic work with me. Together, we collaborate to create a safe and supportive container to process deep-seated emotions.
Hi, I’m so glad you found me. I’m a bilingual (hablo español) emotion focused, and somatic (body-centered) mental health counselor and I believe in your innate ability to heal. I specialize in healing trauma: PTSD, complex (attachment, developmental, continuous), generational and racial. I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, connection to self and others. Also, those who have previously done therapy and have reached an impasse may benefit from deep emotional and somatic work with me. Together, we collaborate to create a safe and supportive container to process deep-seated emotions.
(585) 632-7588 View (585) 632-7588
Photo of Vanessa Mangione, MS, MHC LP
Vanessa Mangione
MS, MHC LP
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
I use experiential, relational, attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches, including experiential dynamic therapies, somatic experiencing and internal family systems.
I believe that everyone possesses the innate ability to heal and grow. My role as your counselor is to support and guide you towards the part of you that has always held that wisdom within. Together, we will explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck and discover the root of your current struggles, empowering you to become the author of your life. In my practice I support adults struggling with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, challenges with identity, self-worth and connection to self and others. These challenges can be devastating and difficult to navigate, but you don't have to face them alone.
I use experiential, relational, attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches, including experiential dynamic therapies, somatic experiencing and internal family systems.
I believe that everyone possesses the innate ability to heal and grow. My role as your counselor is to support and guide you towards the part of you that has always held that wisdom within. Together, we will explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck and discover the root of your current struggles, empowering you to become the author of your life. In my practice I support adults struggling with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, challenges with identity, self-worth and connection to self and others. These challenges can be devastating and difficult to navigate, but you don't have to face them alone.
(585) 584-4498 View (585) 584-4498
Photo of Sarah Adams - Sustainable Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sustainable Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
(585) 302-2431 View (585) 302-2431
Photo of Courtney Valekone - Quantum SOL Wellness, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Quantum SOL Wellness
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize somatic techniques, trauma-focused interventions, meditation, spirituality and creative wellness in the therapy process.
Hello, and thank you for taking time to learn about my practice. My name is Courtney and I have been practicing psychotherapy and Creative Arts Therapy for almost 20 years. I view the therapy relationship as a collaboration, with my primary role as a guide in creating a safe container for healing, achieving balance & empowerment and developing insight & conscious awareness for a more positive and fulfilling life. My style is that of curiosity, non-judgement and compassion for your experience, while together we cocreate a therapeutic path forward to heal old wounds and evolve into new healthy behaviors and coping abilities.
I utilize somatic techniques, trauma-focused interventions, meditation, spirituality and creative wellness in the therapy process.
Hello, and thank you for taking time to learn about my practice. My name is Courtney and I have been practicing psychotherapy and Creative Arts Therapy for almost 20 years. I view the therapy relationship as a collaboration, with my primary role as a guide in creating a safe container for healing, achieving balance & empowerment and developing insight & conscious awareness for a more positive and fulfilling life. My style is that of curiosity, non-judgement and compassion for your experience, while together we cocreate a therapeutic path forward to heal old wounds and evolve into new healthy behaviors and coping abilities.
(585) 549-2981 View (585) 549-2981
Photo of Kirsten Linnea Bonnell - Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, Counselor
Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a holistic therapist and I use EMDR, extensive training and experience in IFS and somatic/ body based therapies.
I love working with neurodivergent high performing and Motivated clients/couples with relationship struggles who use therapy as an avenue for healing. I also enjoy working with teenagers and young adults exploring their identity and family of origin. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches could help. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. This work requires commitment and motivation to change current patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I believe accountability is paramount to change, I provide a safe space.
I’m a holistic therapist and I use EMDR, extensive training and experience in IFS and somatic/ body based therapies.
I love working with neurodivergent high performing and Motivated clients/couples with relationship struggles who use therapy as an avenue for healing. I also enjoy working with teenagers and young adults exploring their identity and family of origin. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches could help. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. This work requires commitment and motivation to change current patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I believe accountability is paramount to change, I provide a safe space.
(315) 288-7087 View (315) 288-7087
Photo of Shannon Bohlin, LPMHC, CASAC-T, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shannon Bohlin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
East Rochester, NY 14445
In addition to traditional talk therapy, art, writing, mindfulness, and somatic, or body-based healing techniques are used in sessions to help make the unconscious, conscious.
Are you ready to step into your most authentic self? I am here to help you along the way. Painful experiences and emotions that we hide away control how we feel, view the world and behave. In our sessions together, all of you is welcome.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, art, writing, mindfulness, and somatic, or body-based healing techniques are used in sessions to help make the unconscious, conscious.
Are you ready to step into your most authentic self? I am here to help you along the way. Painful experiences and emotions that we hide away control how we feel, view the world and behave. In our sessions together, all of you is welcome.
(585) 541-2528 View (585) 541-2528
Photo of Kimberly Tyler, MS
Kimberly Tyler
MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Welcome! If you are seeking comprehensive health care that combines functional medicine, psychiatric expertise, & specialized knowledge of holstically based techniques, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward a hopeful tomorrow. As a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who has worked in a variety of functional medicine settings with an emphasis on psychiatric care, I bring a unique skillset to my practice that enables me to treat clients using a multitude of medical and therapeutic interventions that ensure excellent outcomes.
Welcome! If you are seeking comprehensive health care that combines functional medicine, psychiatric expertise, & specialized knowledge of holstically based techniques, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward a hopeful tomorrow. As a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who has worked in a variety of functional medicine settings with an emphasis on psychiatric care, I bring a unique skillset to my practice that enables me to treat clients using a multitude of medical and therapeutic interventions that ensure excellent outcomes.
(585) 524-0008 View (585) 524-0008
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.