Somatic Therapists in Villanova, PA

Photo of Candace Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
I also offer sessions with a somatic, body-based approach, where sessions combine breath work, movement, and hone a deeper awareness and capacity to utilize the mind-body connection.
You deserve to find clarity, healing, and growth. You deserve to be seen and heard when you are struggling. Sometimes, we all need a little help on our path to feeling better and creating the life that we want. Healing is a collaborative process; my role is to help you recognize and shift out of patterns that stagnate your growth and keep you from harnessing your potential in the present moment. In sessions, we explore internally and externally; getting to know ourselves more deeply so we can more effectively cultivate that we want in life.
I also offer sessions with a somatic, body-based approach, where sessions combine breath work, movement, and hone a deeper awareness and capacity to utilize the mind-body connection.
You deserve to find clarity, healing, and growth. You deserve to be seen and heard when you are struggling. Sometimes, we all need a little help on our path to feeling better and creating the life that we want. Healing is a collaborative process; my role is to help you recognize and shift out of patterns that stagnate your growth and keep you from harnessing your potential in the present moment. In sessions, we explore internally and externally; getting to know ourselves more deeply so we can more effectively cultivate that we want in life.
(215) 770-1434 View (215) 770-1434
Photo of Elana Gotfried, PsyD, Psychologist
Elana Gotfried
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085
I utilize an integrative approach and use techniques from various modalities including, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in the treatment of trauma, addiction, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation. When your coping mechanisms are no longer sufficient, and you're feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, anxious, or disconnected, therapy is an opportunity to learn how to increase your ability to manage life's demands, improve your quality of life, and achieve the change you are looking for. Therapy will begin with a conversation about your hopes for our work. Together we will deepen our understanding of your concerns, and establish new ways of feeling and being in the world.
I utilize an integrative approach and use techniques from various modalities including, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in the treatment of trauma, addiction, depression, grief/loss, and emotional dysregulation. When your coping mechanisms are no longer sufficient, and you're feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, anxious, or disconnected, therapy is an opportunity to learn how to increase your ability to manage life's demands, improve your quality of life, and achieve the change you are looking for. Therapy will begin with a conversation about your hopes for our work. Together we will deepen our understanding of your concerns, and establish new ways of feeling and being in the world.
(484) 380-9191 View (484) 380-9191
Photo of Dawn Altman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Altman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
To that end, we use dream interpretation, traditional psychodynamic talk therapy, and somatic therapy.
Are you feeling lost, bored with life, disconnected from yourself? As a Jungian psychotherapist, I specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transitions, be it midlife changes, divorce, new parenthood, or grief. Anxiety, depression, loss of vitality, disordered eating, and addictions are all symptoms of a deeper issue whose root cause must be treated in order to fully heal. Together, we will work to understand and heal the issues that are impeding your well-being to bring you back to a state of balance. Additionally, I work with adult individuals struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
To that end, we use dream interpretation, traditional psychodynamic talk therapy, and somatic therapy.
Are you feeling lost, bored with life, disconnected from yourself? As a Jungian psychotherapist, I specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transitions, be it midlife changes, divorce, new parenthood, or grief. Anxiety, depression, loss of vitality, disordered eating, and addictions are all symptoms of a deeper issue whose root cause must be treated in order to fully heal. Together, we will work to understand and heal the issues that are impeding your well-being to bring you back to a state of balance. Additionally, I work with adult individuals struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(610) 991-7737 View (610) 991-7737
Photo of Amy Gibbons Titzer - Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
I am trained in Flash, somatic experiencing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and I have a client centered approach often drawing on a person's strengths.
You are overwhelmed, burned out and exhausted from trying too many different things. I don't like to waste time in helping people get to the heart of the matter to heal and move forward. I am trained in Flash and relaxation and somatic approaches. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. You know quickly when you vibe with someone and let's see if we click! I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person. Let's talk soon to see :)
I am trained in Flash, somatic experiencing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and I have a client centered approach often drawing on a person's strengths.
You are overwhelmed, burned out and exhausted from trying too many different things. I don't like to waste time in helping people get to the heart of the matter to heal and move forward. I am trained in Flash and relaxation and somatic approaches. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. You know quickly when you vibe with someone and let's see if we click! I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person. Let's talk soon to see :)
(717) 415-5287 View (717) 415-5287
Photo of Toni Teixeira, LCSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Teixeira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
32 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
Somatic Therapy with me will help you focus on new ways to process the sensations in your body and allow your nervous system, your mind and your body, to develop new, clear ways to communicate your needs, wants and feelings to yourself and to others so that you can find new ways to respond.
Tension is building inside of you and lashing out or shutting down seem to be the only way to deal with this feeling. But this is not how you want to live your life. Acting in these ways is harming you and your relationships. You vow to stop this, to do things differently, but it keeps happening over and over again. They say you are “too sensitive” or you need to “lighten up.” But it just feels like no one sees you or understands you. There is so much responsibility on you and when you are dismissed the resentment gets even bigger. You can't imagine how therapy can possibly help when it feels like everyone else is the problem.
Somatic Therapy with me will help you focus on new ways to process the sensations in your body and allow your nervous system, your mind and your body, to develop new, clear ways to communicate your needs, wants and feelings to yourself and to others so that you can find new ways to respond.
Tension is building inside of you and lashing out or shutting down seem to be the only way to deal with this feeling. But this is not how you want to live your life. Acting in these ways is harming you and your relationships. You vow to stop this, to do things differently, but it keeps happening over and over again. They say you are “too sensitive” or you need to “lighten up.” But it just feels like no one sees you or understands you. There is so much responsibility on you and when you are dismissed the resentment gets even bigger. You can't imagine how therapy can possibly help when it feels like everyone else is the problem.
(732) 592-5843 View (732) 592-5843
Photo of Marta W Ludwig, MSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marta W Ludwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085
I work well with clients who are interested in transformation. I have learned that in order to heal we need to attend to our core wounds. Therefore, I pay a lot of attention to the relational field, relational trauma and disconnect. I am deeply aware of the impact both social oppression and intergenerational trauma have on us and our communities. In addition, I believe that in order for us to be in our full power we need to become embodied. Therefore, a transformational treatment needs to be both relational and somatic. Despite being trained in very many Western therapeutic approaches I draw from other healing modalities.
I work well with clients who are interested in transformation. I have learned that in order to heal we need to attend to our core wounds. Therefore, I pay a lot of attention to the relational field, relational trauma and disconnect. I am deeply aware of the impact both social oppression and intergenerational trauma have on us and our communities. In addition, I believe that in order for us to be in our full power we need to become embodied. Therefore, a transformational treatment needs to be both relational and somatic. Despite being trained in very many Western therapeutic approaches I draw from other healing modalities.
(610) 379-3049 View (610) 379-3049
Photo of Brittney A Whitman - Tree Of Hope Counseling, MEd, LPC, Counselor
Tree Of Hope Counseling
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
As an inclusive clinician, I have connected with hundreds of clients to help them focus on their most important goals. A common goal for all individuals is to be happy and increase their well-being. I use hands-on activities incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, somatic experiencing, expressive arts, and Brainspotting. I love counseling and incorporating mind-body interventions to assist clients in rediscovering strengths and aligning their minds, body, and energy.
As an inclusive clinician, I have connected with hundreds of clients to help them focus on their most important goals. A common goal for all individuals is to be happy and increase their well-being. I use hands-on activities incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, somatic experiencing, expressive arts, and Brainspotting. I love counseling and incorporating mind-body interventions to assist clients in rediscovering strengths and aligning their minds, body, and energy.
(484) 986-2327 View (484) 986-2327
Photo of Brittany Cilento Kopycienski, NCC, CAADC, CCTP, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Cilento Kopycienski
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CAADC, CCTP, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
I am an expert in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Treatment, Somatic Therapy, & ACT.
Taking the time to learn about & care for yourself is a brave and rewarding journey. To cope, grow, and heal are intergyral parts of therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel empowered and to live as authentically as you can. I work with clients ranging from teens to adults. I practice in the states of Pennsylvania & New Jersey. I pride myself on being culturally informed and affirming to all. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, identity struggles, life transitions, self-esteem struggles, childhood trauma, emotional trauma, workplace trauma, medical trauma, personality disorders and addictions.
I am an expert in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Treatment, Somatic Therapy, & ACT.
Taking the time to learn about & care for yourself is a brave and rewarding journey. To cope, grow, and heal are intergyral parts of therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel empowered and to live as authentically as you can. I work with clients ranging from teens to adults. I practice in the states of Pennsylvania & New Jersey. I pride myself on being culturally informed and affirming to all. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, identity struggles, life transitions, self-esteem struggles, childhood trauma, emotional trauma, workplace trauma, medical trauma, personality disorders and addictions.
(267) 209-6596 View (267) 209-6596
Photo of Sari Goldman - Goldman Psychological Services, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist
Goldman Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
(215) 798-7011 View (215) 798-7011
Photo of Angela Romano Lucky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Romano Lucky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
If you experience anxiety or depression due to relationship issues, challenges with work/school, uncertainties of where your symptoms stem from I am here to help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania that specializes in working with individuals with suicidal thoughts, and domestic violence. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults.
If you experience anxiety or depression due to relationship issues, challenges with work/school, uncertainties of where your symptoms stem from I am here to help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania that specializes in working with individuals with suicidal thoughts, and domestic violence. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults.
(484) 466-8580 View (484) 466-8580
Photo of Rennie Volpe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rennie Volpe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
I primarily work with individuals struggling to manage their anxiety. My clients come to me seeking relief from intrusive and racing thoughts, difficulty relaxing, sleep disruptions, and relationship & life difficulties. I help clients identify connections between past traumas and current behaviors and beliefs, and provide strategies and insight to highlight the path to change. You are courageous and resilient, and I am honored to be a part of your healing journey.
I primarily work with individuals struggling to manage their anxiety. My clients come to me seeking relief from intrusive and racing thoughts, difficulty relaxing, sleep disruptions, and relationship & life difficulties. I help clients identify connections between past traumas and current behaviors and beliefs, and provide strategies and insight to highlight the path to change. You are courageous and resilient, and I am honored to be a part of your healing journey.
(610) 890-6463 View (610) 890-6463
Photo of Kayla Schubert-Wirth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Schubert-Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
(484) 930-1006 View (484) 930-1006
Photo of Amy Gillaspie, LMSW
Amy Gillaspie
LMSW
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
If you’re looking for support to help you manage tough emotions, build resilience, or just make life feel a little more manageable, I would love to work alongside you in your journey! I enjoy creating a compassionate and open-minded space for diverse and misunderstood populations. In our space we will utilize multiple approaches, including humor, to gain deeper understanding of how your mind works and obstacles preventing you from moving forward. I believe connection and trust are vital in our therapeutic relationship.
If you’re looking for support to help you manage tough emotions, build resilience, or just make life feel a little more manageable, I would love to work alongside you in your journey! I enjoy creating a compassionate and open-minded space for diverse and misunderstood populations. In our space we will utilize multiple approaches, including humor, to gain deeper understanding of how your mind works and obstacles preventing you from moving forward. I believe connection and trust are vital in our therapeutic relationship.
(215) 918-7871 View (215) 918-7871
Photo of Lori J Budman, MSS, LCSW, CP, PAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori J Budman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CP, PAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
We all have within us the ability to heal. In our work together the goal will be to help you identify and navigate barriers that keep you from having the life you deserve to enjoy. The idea that we are wounded in relationship and so healing must also occur in relationship is at the root of the therapeutic process and the work we will do together. My style is open, authentic and warm. Together, we will discover what is present for you in the here-and-now, explore the underlying issues & repeating themes, and tap into your innate healing power so you can live a more full and satisfying life.
We all have within us the ability to heal. In our work together the goal will be to help you identify and navigate barriers that keep you from having the life you deserve to enjoy. The idea that we are wounded in relationship and so healing must also occur in relationship is at the root of the therapeutic process and the work we will do together. My style is open, authentic and warm. Together, we will discover what is present for you in the here-and-now, explore the underlying issues & repeating themes, and tap into your innate healing power so you can live a more full and satisfying life.
(484) 380-9045 View (484) 380-9045
Photo of Allison Middleton, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Middleton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
(215) 910-4073 View (215) 910-4073
Photo of Yulia S Otdushi - Otdushi Therapy, LMHC, LPC, MSEd
Otdushi Therapy
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
Imagine yourself stepping into a new chapter, ready to embrace confidence, peace, and stronger relationships. You’re seeking a therapist who understands your unique cultural background and offers a safe, supportive space for growth. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Russian and English, I specialize in helping individuals like you reach their full potential. Together, we’ll work to overcome challenges and achieve your goals, all within a culturally sensitive and empowering environment.
Imagine yourself stepping into a new chapter, ready to embrace confidence, peace, and stronger relationships. You’re seeking a therapist who understands your unique cultural background and offers a safe, supportive space for growth. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Russian and English, I specialize in helping individuals like you reach their full potential. Together, we’ll work to overcome challenges and achieve your goals, all within a culturally sensitive and empowering environment.
(484) 371-5931 View (484) 371-5931

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christina Belknap, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Belknap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
I have experience in many modalities, from CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy approaches.
My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
I have experience in many modalities, from CBT, DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy approaches.
My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
(267) 282-6221 View (267) 282-6221
Photo of Sarah Barry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I also integrate elements of somatic therapy, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and contextual therapy.
I love working with all different kinds of people, and I’ll always start with your family (yep, that's your childhood!). I specialize in attachment work. This can help kids/teens and their parents, couples stuck in a cycle of conflict or disconnect, and individuals experiencing anxiety or depression - especially around big life transitions. Folks who come to me (and who stay the longest) are ready to do the deeper work in their lives. They aren't looking for a quick fix - they are looking to truly understand the systems they're a part of, and the agency they have in their own lives to create change.
I also integrate elements of somatic therapy, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and contextual therapy.
I love working with all different kinds of people, and I’ll always start with your family (yep, that's your childhood!). I specialize in attachment work. This can help kids/teens and their parents, couples stuck in a cycle of conflict or disconnect, and individuals experiencing anxiety or depression - especially around big life transitions. Folks who come to me (and who stay the longest) are ready to do the deeper work in their lives. They aren't looking for a quick fix - they are looking to truly understand the systems they're a part of, and the agency they have in their own lives to create change.
(267) 209-6497 View (267) 209-6497
Photo of Daniella E Brown, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniella E Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My person-centered, somatic and humanistic approach to movement therapy encourages you to tap into your sensations, feelings, intuition and interpretation.
My focus of interest is to become a therapeutic container to support the exploration of the mind-body connection within children and teens. I believe that the body carries valuable information about ourselves and our minds are actively trying to interpret it. I specialize in children who seek to improve their body awareness which provides coping skills for self-regulation, positive self-talk and overall physical/mental wellness. I have experience working with children with autism, adopted families, neurodivergent movers and people simply want a better connection with their bodies
My person-centered, somatic and humanistic approach to movement therapy encourages you to tap into your sensations, feelings, intuition and interpretation.
My focus of interest is to become a therapeutic container to support the exploration of the mind-body connection within children and teens. I believe that the body carries valuable information about ourselves and our minds are actively trying to interpret it. I specialize in children who seek to improve their body awareness which provides coping skills for self-regulation, positive self-talk and overall physical/mental wellness. I have experience working with children with autism, adopted families, neurodivergent movers and people simply want a better connection with their bodies
(215) 598-6894 View (215) 598-6894
Photo of Gabrielle Harman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Harman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
I have found that utilizing a somatic approach to integrate mind, body and emotions, is one of the most effective paths towards healing.
I am a relational therapist who believes the path to healing is best done in partnership. My therapeutic style is based in understanding and compassion; I will meet you where you are so we can work towards where you want to be. It is my goal to offer you a space in sessions where you can feel heard, understood, and connected. Together we will work to identify and overcome unhelpful patterns that have been built to protect and navigate difficult situations. In this therapeutic space, these unhelpful patterns can be transformed into confident behaviors.
I have found that utilizing a somatic approach to integrate mind, body and emotions, is one of the most effective paths towards healing.
I am a relational therapist who believes the path to healing is best done in partnership. My therapeutic style is based in understanding and compassion; I will meet you where you are so we can work towards where you want to be. It is my goal to offer you a space in sessions where you can feel heard, understood, and connected. Together we will work to identify and overcome unhelpful patterns that have been built to protect and navigate difficult situations. In this therapeutic space, these unhelpful patterns can be transformed into confident behaviors.
(484) 573-7869 View (484) 573-7869

See more therapy options for Villanova

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.