Somatic Therapists in Washington, PA

Photo of Joseph Michael Kanotz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Michael Kanotz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301
Hello! I am Joe Kanotz. Finding the right therapist can be daunting. All therapists are not alike. So much depends on personal fit and this feels right. I have had a successful private practice since 1990. Prior to that I worked in just about every setting imaginable: group practice, psychiatric practice, community mental health, community hospital, partial hospital, VA hospital, and state hospital. I have watched theories and treatment methods evolve so I will try to tailor what is best for your therapy. This therapy, this space is for you! I continue to learn and expand my skill base with continuing training and consultation.
Hello! I am Joe Kanotz. Finding the right therapist can be daunting. All therapists are not alike. So much depends on personal fit and this feels right. I have had a successful private practice since 1990. Prior to that I worked in just about every setting imaginable: group practice, psychiatric practice, community mental health, community hospital, partial hospital, VA hospital, and state hospital. I have watched theories and treatment methods evolve so I will try to tailor what is best for your therapy. This therapy, this space is for you! I continue to learn and expand my skill base with continuing training and consultation.
(724) 605-4352 View (724) 605-4352
Photo of Lindsay Carter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, PA 15301  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Lindsay Carter, and I am an LPC specializing in family and individual therapy. I take a systemic, and faith-based approach to my work, and my belief is to work with clients in a collaborative way to ensure you feel heard, understood and are able to address issues at a pace that is most comfortable for you. I strive to make certain that my clients view therapy as a place that is safe, provides support, and also promotes change in a way that is nurturing, yet challenging. Together we will get to the root of the issues, in order to make long-standing changes in your life, healing on a deeper level!
Welcome! My name is Lindsay Carter, and I am an LPC specializing in family and individual therapy. I take a systemic, and faith-based approach to my work, and my belief is to work with clients in a collaborative way to ensure you feel heard, understood and are able to address issues at a pace that is most comfortable for you. I strive to make certain that my clients view therapy as a place that is safe, provides support, and also promotes change in a way that is nurturing, yet challenging. Together we will get to the root of the issues, in order to make long-standing changes in your life, healing on a deeper level!
(878) 881-1885 View (878) 881-1885
Photo of Ivan L Lambert, MA, LPC, ACHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ivan L Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACHT
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a Wellness approach focusing improving quality of life, and working through the emotional blocks that stop emotional & spiritual growth. I bring almost 40 plus years of experience towards a large variety of life issues. Using Heart-Centered therapies - working a soul level, informed by Positive Psychology/Clean Language, I help clients tap into resources found deep within that strive to surface for resolution, wholeness and health.
I provide a Wellness approach focusing improving quality of life, and working through the emotional blocks that stop emotional & spiritual growth. I bring almost 40 plus years of experience towards a large variety of life issues. Using Heart-Centered therapies - working a soul level, informed by Positive Psychology/Clean Language, I help clients tap into resources found deep within that strive to surface for resolution, wholeness and health.
(412) 567-3961 View (412) 567-3961
Photo of Kristen Keeper, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Keeper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, PA 15301
I primarily work with those suffering from trauma-based issues, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, and Women’s issues (such as pregnancy and postpartum). I enjoy working with those looking to heal from past trauma or adverse experiences in order to heal and live a more fulfilling life. I also seek to assist those suffering from anxiety in the present, as well as those experiencing feelings that are overwhelming and difficult. If you are looking to heal from your past and be more comfortable in your present, I am here to help.
I primarily work with those suffering from trauma-based issues, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, and Women’s issues (such as pregnancy and postpartum). I enjoy working with those looking to heal from past trauma or adverse experiences in order to heal and live a more fulfilling life. I also seek to assist those suffering from anxiety in the present, as well as those experiencing feelings that are overwhelming and difficult. If you are looking to heal from your past and be more comfortable in your present, I am here to help.
(878) 728-9911 View (878) 728-9911

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Martin - Maria Martin, LPC, MEd, MA, LPC, EMDRIA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Martin, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Swearing is allowed! I utilize talk therapy, EMDR, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I work with women who struggle with blended high/low self esteem. To the outside world, we are successful and have our shit together. Except we are masters at hiding pain. Inside, we have a black hole filled with guilt, shame, and feeling unworthy. We feel stress managing family, life, career, relationships, and don't feel good enough. We carry trauma in our bodies and it shows up in our daily life. From a young age, we learned self betrayal was pivotal to be worthy of love and to feel good enough. We didn't have a voice. My focus is repairing the damage due to past experiences and how it’s created a critical view to our own self.
Swearing is allowed! I utilize talk therapy, EMDR, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I work with women who struggle with blended high/low self esteem. To the outside world, we are successful and have our shit together. Except we are masters at hiding pain. Inside, we have a black hole filled with guilt, shame, and feeling unworthy. We feel stress managing family, life, career, relationships, and don't feel good enough. We carry trauma in our bodies and it shows up in our daily life. From a young age, we learned self betrayal was pivotal to be worthy of love and to feel good enough. We didn't have a voice. My focus is repairing the damage due to past experiences and how it’s created a critical view to our own self.
(412) 716-3149 View (412) 716-3149
Photo of Angela Failor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Failor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
(412) 538-6128 View (412) 538-6128

Online Therapists

Photo of Dan Duffy, MSW, LCSW, C-ISTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-ISTT
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I offer evening and Saturday availability both virtually and in-person in Mt. Lebanon, PA. I am honored to work with individuals in the areas of addiction, mood, and personality; as well as partnerships in relational distress. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Gottman Institute trained. My work continues with adolescents with acute life experiences at Southwood Psychiatric Hospital. I see clients ages 14 and up. I utilize gender affirming care, as I have served the LGBTQIA+ community directly.
I offer evening and Saturday availability both virtually and in-person in Mt. Lebanon, PA. I am honored to work with individuals in the areas of addiction, mood, and personality; as well as partnerships in relational distress. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Gottman Institute trained. My work continues with adolescents with acute life experiences at Southwood Psychiatric Hospital. I see clients ages 14 and up. I utilize gender affirming care, as I have served the LGBTQIA+ community directly.
(412) 285-1681 View (412) 285-1681
Photo of James Bowen, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Bowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I see therapy as a way of deepening relationship to purpose, land, bodies, and each other. I help people build capacity so they can show up in more meaningful ways in their relationships and the world.  I draw upon body-based (somatic) and insight-based (psychodynamic) therapies to help open up places where people are stuck, uncover what is held in the body and psyche, explore troubled aspects of the self, and create new possibilities.
I see therapy as a way of deepening relationship to purpose, land, bodies, and each other. I help people build capacity so they can show up in more meaningful ways in their relationships and the world.  I draw upon body-based (somatic) and insight-based (psychodynamic) therapies to help open up places where people are stuck, uncover what is held in the body and psyche, explore troubled aspects of the self, and create new possibilities.
(412) 501-2467 View (412) 501-2467
Photo of Michael Craig Clemmens, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Craig Clemmens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My specialties are working with somatic process in clients , restoring "somatic intelligence" for clients who are dealing with historical trauma, substance use and styles of coping that although useful at some point have limited application.
I have been a psychologist for 35 years and work with clients who are interested in exploring their options in how they live in the world. I see the therapeutic process as a dialogue between two partners in exploration and developing resources. For me choice supports health and that clients sometime come with a lack of awareness of these choices or needing to develop more internal and interpersonal supports. I work in the present moment as well as connecting present patterns to client's history as well as the larger contextual field. My approach is relational and somatic from a Gestalt Therapy base.
My specialties are working with somatic process in clients , restoring "somatic intelligence" for clients who are dealing with historical trauma, substance use and styles of coping that although useful at some point have limited application.
I have been a psychologist for 35 years and work with clients who are interested in exploring their options in how they live in the world. I see the therapeutic process as a dialogue between two partners in exploration and developing resources. For me choice supports health and that clients sometime come with a lack of awareness of these choices or needing to develop more internal and interpersonal supports. I work in the present moment as well as connecting present patterns to client's history as well as the larger contextual field. My approach is relational and somatic from a Gestalt Therapy base.
(412) 275-4534 View (412) 275-4534
Photo of Terri Fessler - Terri Fessler LCSW , LCSW, Reiki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri Fessler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Waitlist for new clients
I offer Mindfulness, Somatic Informed Practices, EMDR, and Reiki to calm and gain access to healing.
I believe each of us has a gift of Self to unwrap and embrace along life's journey, especially when we've lived through a life threatening event or a series of chronic traumas. I know first hand how impossible connecting to ourselves can seem afterward. We grieve the loss of a sense of safety and often believe that our identity has changed to what has happened to us. We fear life will always be tarnished and feel set apart by our shame. Through my own life journey and my experiences as a Trauma therapist I have witnessed the reclaiming of Self that arises from the ashes of violence when healing begins to happen!
I offer Mindfulness, Somatic Informed Practices, EMDR, and Reiki to calm and gain access to healing.
I believe each of us has a gift of Self to unwrap and embrace along life's journey, especially when we've lived through a life threatening event or a series of chronic traumas. I know first hand how impossible connecting to ourselves can seem afterward. We grieve the loss of a sense of safety and often believe that our identity has changed to what has happened to us. We fear life will always be tarnished and feel set apart by our shame. Through my own life journey and my experiences as a Trauma therapist I have witnessed the reclaiming of Self that arises from the ashes of violence when healing begins to happen!
(412) 567-9375 View (412) 567-9375
Photo of Mandy Kushner, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Kushner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Certifications: Somatic Trauma Counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
Certifications: Somatic Trauma Counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
(412) 999-2244 View (412) 999-2244
Photo of G Hoffer, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
G Hoffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate mindfulness, somatic work, movement, and other techniques into the therapy sessions.
I view therapy as an opportunity to better understand yourself as a whole along with addressing concerns in your life. When we take time to explore how we act, think, and feel we are able to access new parts of ourselves and new perspectives on life. The process of therapy can be powerful. I can offer this opportunity for you to explore yourself & possible changes in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, & welcoming environment. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, which means YOU are the expert and we work together to offer you healing. I am happy to provide letters for gender affirming surgeries for Trans/GNC folx.
I incorporate mindfulness, somatic work, movement, and other techniques into the therapy sessions.
I view therapy as an opportunity to better understand yourself as a whole along with addressing concerns in your life. When we take time to explore how we act, think, and feel we are able to access new parts of ourselves and new perspectives on life. The process of therapy can be powerful. I can offer this opportunity for you to explore yourself & possible changes in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, & welcoming environment. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, which means YOU are the expert and we work together to offer you healing. I am happy to provide letters for gender affirming surgeries for Trans/GNC folx.
(412) 339-1787 x4 View (412) 339-1787 x4
Photo of Elizabeth Higginbotham, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Higginbotham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Using my specialty of somatic therapy with CBT, we can take a holistic approach to your mental health and well-being.
I believe that every individual has the power within themselves to achieve any treatment goal they come to Harmony Bay to work towards. My ideal client would be willing to put in the hard work needed to heal, who is willing to learn how to see the power and strength within themselves, and who believes that change is possible. If you are here at Harmony Bay seeking support from our services, you are already there!
Using my specialty of somatic therapy with CBT, we can take a holistic approach to your mental health and well-being.
I believe that every individual has the power within themselves to achieve any treatment goal they come to Harmony Bay to work towards. My ideal client would be willing to put in the hard work needed to heal, who is willing to learn how to see the power and strength within themselves, and who believes that change is possible. If you are here at Harmony Bay seeking support from our services, you are already there!
(412) 453-3290 View (412) 453-3290
Photo of Courtney Brooke Kubovcik, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Brooke Kubovcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Connellsville, PA 15425
Are you ready for something different? Courtney not only offers you support through life's ups and downs, but also provides clients with practical, integrative tools and strategies. Courtney specializes in Mental Health and Nutrition to help clients improve brain and gut health, as well as spiritual and somatic tools for supporting the mind and body. As an integrative practitioner, Courtney helps clients learn how to support their bodies to manage stress, overcome barriers that our minds put around us to prevent us from changing, and find spiritual tools that support spiritual growth and development.
Are you ready for something different? Courtney not only offers you support through life's ups and downs, but also provides clients with practical, integrative tools and strategies. Courtney specializes in Mental Health and Nutrition to help clients improve brain and gut health, as well as spiritual and somatic tools for supporting the mind and body. As an integrative practitioner, Courtney helps clients learn how to support their bodies to manage stress, overcome barriers that our minds put around us to prevent us from changing, and find spiritual tools that support spiritual growth and development.
(724) 414-6202 View (724) 414-6202
Photo of Catherine Ferguson, MA, LPC, LCPC, CCTP-1, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CCTP-1
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
As a Certified Trauma Professional with a certificate in Integrative Somatic Psychology, I focus on trauma as well as BPD and anxiety.
I believe therapy is most effective when the clinician presents themselves as the client does-a person with a unique past and personality. When you take out a therapist’s humanity and lived experience, there is no true therapeutic connection and trust from the client. I strive to be both a person and therapist through my conversational, authentic, and collaborative style. I am knowledgeable in serving those with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, somatic complaints, dissociation, attachment issues, and psychosis. I also have extensive experience working with Veterans/Service Members and the Senior population.
As a Certified Trauma Professional with a certificate in Integrative Somatic Psychology, I focus on trauma as well as BPD and anxiety.
I believe therapy is most effective when the clinician presents themselves as the client does-a person with a unique past and personality. When you take out a therapist’s humanity and lived experience, there is no true therapeutic connection and trust from the client. I strive to be both a person and therapist through my conversational, authentic, and collaborative style. I am knowledgeable in serving those with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, somatic complaints, dissociation, attachment issues, and psychosis. I also have extensive experience working with Veterans/Service Members and the Senior population.
(412) 547-5786 View (412) 547-5786
Photo of Andrea Bigenho - Lucent Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucent Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
The interventions we draw from include: Dialectical Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychedelic Integration therapies.
Being a human is hard. Some of the things that make it harder are big life transitions, unexpected or chronic illness, loss of a loved one, experiencing abuse or neglect, past or present trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. At Lucent Counseling, we find it a privilege to help you process and integrate these experiences so that you can heal and move through the difficult times in your life. Our Master's level therapists have excellent training and draw from an eclectic variety of techniques. Our interventions are guided by the therapeutic relationship, and are individually curated to help you move toward your goals.
The interventions we draw from include: Dialectical Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, EMDR, Somatic, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychedelic Integration therapies.
Being a human is hard. Some of the things that make it harder are big life transitions, unexpected or chronic illness, loss of a loved one, experiencing abuse or neglect, past or present trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. At Lucent Counseling, we find it a privilege to help you process and integrate these experiences so that you can heal and move through the difficult times in your life. Our Master's level therapists have excellent training and draw from an eclectic variety of techniques. Our interventions are guided by the therapeutic relationship, and are individually curated to help you move toward your goals.
(878) 645-3643 View (878) 645-3643
Photo of Maddie Canel, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maddie Canel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have completed trainings in DBT and somatic therapy interventions.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
View
Photo of Elizabeth Porter, MS, LPC, Counselor
Elizabeth Porter
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
I am trained in professional counseling, specializing in trauma therapy including attachment work and somatic experiencing.
My ideal client is ready to show up for themselves. They have an idea or sense that there are things to work on. Maybe they know what the issues are or maybe they'd like some guidance through that exploration. The first step is seeking connection. A therapeutic relationship can be powerful towards setting and achieving goals! I understand there is a lot of stigma around mental health services. I have both personal and professional experience in this realm. I strive to create an open and safe space for clients regardless of where they are on their journey.
I am trained in professional counseling, specializing in trauma therapy including attachment work and somatic experiencing.
My ideal client is ready to show up for themselves. They have an idea or sense that there are things to work on. Maybe they know what the issues are or maybe they'd like some guidance through that exploration. The first step is seeking connection. A therapeutic relationship can be powerful towards setting and achieving goals! I understand there is a lot of stigma around mental health services. I have both personal and professional experience in this realm. I strive to create an open and safe space for clients regardless of where they are on their journey.
(412) 231-9540 View (412) 231-9540
Photo of Claire Fior, PsyD, Psychologist
Claire Fior
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
My orientation to psychology integrates interpersonal, psychodynamic, creative, and somatic/mindfulness approaches, each looking at different aspects of our relationship to the world around us.
I believe how humans experience growth and how they change are the big themes of psychology. We grow and change through our relationships with others, but sometimes we can get stuck in certain relationship patterns that cause distress. Uncovering the dynamics of these patterns, how they affect our self-concept, our feelings, our understanding of others, and our nervous systems can be healing. Practicing new patterns of emotion, thought, and behavior, whether through talk- therapy, mindfulness practices, or a combination of both, can assist growth and change toward more compassion and connection in our lives.
My orientation to psychology integrates interpersonal, psychodynamic, creative, and somatic/mindfulness approaches, each looking at different aspects of our relationship to the world around us.
I believe how humans experience growth and how they change are the big themes of psychology. We grow and change through our relationships with others, but sometimes we can get stuck in certain relationship patterns that cause distress. Uncovering the dynamics of these patterns, how they affect our self-concept, our feelings, our understanding of others, and our nervous systems can be healing. Practicing new patterns of emotion, thought, and behavior, whether through talk- therapy, mindfulness practices, or a combination of both, can assist growth and change toward more compassion and connection in our lives.
(412) 871-6296 View (412) 871-6296
Photo of Kayla Brehm, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Brehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windber, PA 15963  (Online Only)
I also incorporate mindfulness and somatic based practices.
Welcome & thanks for being here! I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. Through community mental health settings and now my own private practice, I have spent the last 9 years supporting adolescents, families, & adults with mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances, life transitions and stress, trauma related distress, & substance use issues.
I also incorporate mindfulness and somatic based practices.
Welcome & thanks for being here! I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. Through community mental health settings and now my own private practice, I have spent the last 9 years supporting adolescents, families, & adults with mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances, life transitions and stress, trauma related distress, & substance use issues.
(814) 527-3849 View (814) 527-3849
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.