Somatic Therapists in Greenville, SC

Photo of Allison Conroy, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Conroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in anxiety and trauma recovery. With sincerity, humor, and warmth, I strive to create a trusting and nurturing environment where clients can build capacity for self-compassion and resilience. I draw on my trainings in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and EMDR. I am also informed by Social Justice, Mindfulness, Somatic, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) frameworks. I help individuals and couples to connect with their bodies and emotions, enhance self-awareness, and foster more authentic relationships with themselves and others.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in anxiety and trauma recovery. With sincerity, humor, and warmth, I strive to create a trusting and nurturing environment where clients can build capacity for self-compassion and resilience. I draw on my trainings in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and EMDR. I am also informed by Social Justice, Mindfulness, Somatic, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) frameworks. I help individuals and couples to connect with their bodies and emotions, enhance self-awareness, and foster more authentic relationships with themselves and others.
(864) 519-2746 View (864) 519-2746
Photo of Jaclyn Lenz, LPC, ATR-BC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaclyn Lenz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LPCS
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29609
It is proven that through expressive art, creative writing, and somatic movement that insight, resiliency, and self esteem can be ignited.
Hello brave one. I look forward to being part of your growth and healing journey. I have a bit of a gypsy soul and have traveled to many parts of the world studying diverse cultures and healing modalities. As an art therapist and artist myself I have witnessed the creative process improve communication, emotional regulation and stress tolerance.
It is proven that through expressive art, creative writing, and somatic movement that insight, resiliency, and self esteem can be ignited.
Hello brave one. I look forward to being part of your growth and healing journey. I have a bit of a gypsy soul and have traveled to many parts of the world studying diverse cultures and healing modalities. As an art therapist and artist myself I have witnessed the creative process improve communication, emotional regulation and stress tolerance.
(864) 756-5907 View (864) 756-5907
Photo of Courtney Chandler, LPC, ATR-BC, AADC, E-RYT, Art Therapist
Courtney Chandler
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR-BC, AADC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a licensed professional counselor and board-certified art therapist with specialized training in somatic (body focused) healing practices to provide you with a unique and holistic approach to support your personal growth.
You've tried therapy before but it wasn't helpful; it was painful to stir up the past and difficult to put words to overwhelming emotions. You're ready to find freedom from unhealthy habits or relationships, but feel stuck. You're searching for something new, and are ready to put yourself first. Art therapy can support you differently, to help bring calmness and clarity to your thoughts and feelings. You’re tired of wearing a proverbial mask pretending everything is fine. You’re ready to get your life back in balance. It takes courage to ask for support, especially when you're used to handling everything on your own.
I'm a licensed professional counselor and board-certified art therapist with specialized training in somatic (body focused) healing practices to provide you with a unique and holistic approach to support your personal growth.
You've tried therapy before but it wasn't helpful; it was painful to stir up the past and difficult to put words to overwhelming emotions. You're ready to find freedom from unhealthy habits or relationships, but feel stuck. You're searching for something new, and are ready to put yourself first. Art therapy can support you differently, to help bring calmness and clarity to your thoughts and feelings. You’re tired of wearing a proverbial mask pretending everything is fine. You’re ready to get your life back in balance. It takes courage to ask for support, especially when you're used to handling everything on your own.
(864) 633-3763 View (864) 633-3763
Photo of Kirby Barkley, LPC-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirby Barkley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
When you're ready to explore mindfulness and somatic practices as transformative tools, I encourage you to reach out.
Immediately accepting new clients! Maybe your style of constant mental noise is to second guess every interaction you have. “Why did I say that?" or “I should have done...” Maybe your style is a habit you’re acting out and wish you could change. Call it anxiety, stress, depression, etc. Regulating our emotions and forming healthier connections is possible. Our conditioning gets in the way of us relating to each other and manifests in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and attitudes. Awareness can help us unhook from conditioning that leads us into unwanted patterns. I utilize mindfulness and somatic therapy to help achieve your goals.
When you're ready to explore mindfulness and somatic practices as transformative tools, I encourage you to reach out.
Immediately accepting new clients! Maybe your style of constant mental noise is to second guess every interaction you have. “Why did I say that?" or “I should have done...” Maybe your style is a habit you’re acting out and wish you could change. Call it anxiety, stress, depression, etc. Regulating our emotions and forming healthier connections is possible. Our conditioning gets in the way of us relating to each other and manifests in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and attitudes. Awareness can help us unhook from conditioning that leads us into unwanted patterns. I utilize mindfulness and somatic therapy to help achieve your goals.
(864) 657-4599 View (864) 657-4599
Photo of Kateryna Barnes, MA, LPC, NCC, CCPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kateryna Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCPS
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
I am skilled in utilizing a wide range of evidence-based interventions, which include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy/Theraplay, and Art Therapy.
In my tenure as a mental health professional I have served diverse populations in multiple settings to include: school-based, residential, community mental health and higher-education environments. Proficient in four languages (Ukrainian, Russian, French, and English), I provide culturally competent and trauma-informed clinical services to help people from all walks of life obtain access to mental health services. As a strong generalist, my therapeutic interests include a range of mental health issues and complications in individuals, couples, and families. As a trauma specialist, I hope to make the world as safer place for all.
I am skilled in utilizing a wide range of evidence-based interventions, which include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy/Theraplay, and Art Therapy.
In my tenure as a mental health professional I have served diverse populations in multiple settings to include: school-based, residential, community mental health and higher-education environments. Proficient in four languages (Ukrainian, Russian, French, and English), I provide culturally competent and trauma-informed clinical services to help people from all walks of life obtain access to mental health services. As a strong generalist, my therapeutic interests include a range of mental health issues and complications in individuals, couples, and families. As a trauma specialist, I hope to make the world as safer place for all.
(864) 453-9008 View (864) 453-9008
Photo of Amie Gill, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Amie Gill
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29609
I strive to create a non-judgmental space for my clients and believe that your life is made of unique stories that you are the expert on. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize an integrative approach that draws from a variety of techniques and theories including attachment theory, somatic experiencing, internal family systems, and reality therapy. For those who have experienced trauma, it can be challenging to feel connected to yourself and those around you. In therapy we will work together to develop a plan specific to your needs, prioritizing building connection to your own emotions and body.
I strive to create a non-judgmental space for my clients and believe that your life is made of unique stories that you are the expert on. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize an integrative approach that draws from a variety of techniques and theories including attachment theory, somatic experiencing, internal family systems, and reality therapy. For those who have experienced trauma, it can be challenging to feel connected to yourself and those around you. In therapy we will work together to develop a plan specific to your needs, prioritizing building connection to your own emotions and body.
(864) 523-9156 View (864) 523-9156
Photo of Corinne Blackmon, MA, NCC, LCMHCA, LPCA
Corinne Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults with childhood trauma, Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), disordered eating, and binge eating. I work from a parts work, somatic, and nervous system informed lens with my clients, and I also utilize intuitive eating and weight neutral approaches.
I specialize in working with adults with childhood trauma, Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), disordered eating, and binge eating. I work from a parts work, somatic, and nervous system informed lens with my clients, and I also utilize intuitive eating and weight neutral approaches.
Photo of Anna Dittenhauser, MEd, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Dittenhauser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I work closely with clients experiencing chronic traumatic stress and/or PTSD, whether it be past, present, or a bit of both, interpersonal challenges and/or family conflict, anxiety, mood disorders, and somatic-related challenges (i.
The process of change requires us to start somewhere, and it is our very first steps that consequentially reveal our true strength and ability to invest in ourselves, our well-being, and find meaning in our lives. I work with adolescent and adult clients and have been so fortunate to discover my true passion for trauma-focused care and my eclectic, authentic style. As a firm believer in the significance of both our past and present experiences, I integrate evidence-based, universal practices to promote increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and optimal self-growth. Come as you are; nothing more, and nothing less!
I work closely with clients experiencing chronic traumatic stress and/or PTSD, whether it be past, present, or a bit of both, interpersonal challenges and/or family conflict, anxiety, mood disorders, and somatic-related challenges (i.
The process of change requires us to start somewhere, and it is our very first steps that consequentially reveal our true strength and ability to invest in ourselves, our well-being, and find meaning in our lives. I work with adolescent and adult clients and have been so fortunate to discover my true passion for trauma-focused care and my eclectic, authentic style. As a firm believer in the significance of both our past and present experiences, I integrate evidence-based, universal practices to promote increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and optimal self-growth. Come as you are; nothing more, and nothing less!
(864) 664-2599 View (864) 664-2599
Photo of Shelly M. Smith - Nature's Way Home Counseling and Life Coaching, LPC, LMFT, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nature's Way Home Counseling and Life Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29605
Are you looking for a holistic alternative to traditional counseling - one that goes beyond talk-therapy and helps you get to the root of the problem? Would you like to learn how to release stress, negative emotions and reactions, and the subconscious programs that are driving them, in a way that's easeful and practical? I specialize in a somatic (also called body-informed) approach to counseling and coaching.
Are you looking for a holistic alternative to traditional counseling - one that goes beyond talk-therapy and helps you get to the root of the problem? Would you like to learn how to release stress, negative emotions and reactions, and the subconscious programs that are driving them, in a way that's easeful and practical? I specialize in a somatic (also called body-informed) approach to counseling and coaching.
(864) 661-2008 View (864) 661-2008
Photo of Jessica Loving, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Loving
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601  (Online Only)
Some of these include somatic therapy, DBT, CBT, and expressive therapies.
There are many challenges or stages in life that can cause us to feel out of control and uncertain. Having a safe person to help us along the way can make all the difference. Sometimes we just need a safe person to understand our feelings and thoughts. Other times we may need guidance with finding the best tools that allow us to overcome a challenging time. I believe that therapy works best when it is a collaborative effort between therapist and client. My goal is to get to know you and help you find what works best for your life.
Some of these include somatic therapy, DBT, CBT, and expressive therapies.
There are many challenges or stages in life that can cause us to feel out of control and uncertain. Having a safe person to help us along the way can make all the difference. Sometimes we just need a safe person to understand our feelings and thoughts. Other times we may need guidance with finding the best tools that allow us to overcome a challenging time. I believe that therapy works best when it is a collaborative effort between therapist and client. My goal is to get to know you and help you find what works best for your life.
(864) 528-3339 View (864) 528-3339
Photo of Penny Orr, LPC-S, ATR-BC, RPT, Counselor
Penny Orr
Counselor, LPC-S, ATR-BC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
I use a combination of somatic approaches, with art therapy and talk therapy from a person-centered theoretical orientation.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you working on your gender, personal or professional identity? Are you looking for support and direction to manage your life. Do you have a history or trauma that is contributing to your emotional turmoil.
I use a combination of somatic approaches, with art therapy and talk therapy from a person-centered theoretical orientation.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you working on your gender, personal or professional identity? Are you looking for support and direction to manage your life. Do you have a history or trauma that is contributing to your emotional turmoil.
(854) 946-5109 View (854) 946-5109
Photo of Hope Wood - Hope Wood LMFT, Counseling & Coaching  , LMFT, BSN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope Wood LMFT, Counseling & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29614
I also use a combination of Collaborative, Somatic, Family Systems, & Life Coaching.
Are you dealing with spiritual abuse, religious trauma, clergy abuse, clergy sexual misconduct, existential angst, or questioning your faith? Are you living with grief, the death of a partner by suicide, or deep loss of any kind? Do you need support surrounding your or a loved one’s sexual or gender identity? I'd love to collaborate with you in your care, human to human. I believe you know yourself best. I can help you learn to use your own knowledge to create more space and openness for growth. Everyone deserves to feel fully accepted & valued. I will see you, hear you, and believe you.
I also use a combination of Collaborative, Somatic, Family Systems, & Life Coaching.
Are you dealing with spiritual abuse, religious trauma, clergy abuse, clergy sexual misconduct, existential angst, or questioning your faith? Are you living with grief, the death of a partner by suicide, or deep loss of any kind? Do you need support surrounding your or a loved one’s sexual or gender identity? I'd love to collaborate with you in your care, human to human. I believe you know yourself best. I can help you learn to use your own knowledge to create more space and openness for growth. Everyone deserves to feel fully accepted & valued. I will see you, hear you, and believe you.
(864) 613-6090 View (864) 613-6090
Photo of Dawn Salveson, LISW-CP, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Salveson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
I use a mix of therapeutic modalities, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral, Person-centered, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Therapy.
Are you or your loved one (child or aging parent) in a difficult season of life? My passion is working with individuals, in life transitions, doing hard things, experiencing hard places. Let me sit with you, hold space for you. I will provide gentle, compassionate guidance; empowering & honoring your vulnerability, strengths, and values. In order to heal, sometimes we have to sit in the uncomfortable, for a season. At Seasons Child & Family Wellness, I provide a nurturing and accepting environment for you to be seen, feel safe; leading you to balance, joy, and a sense of peace.
I use a mix of therapeutic modalities, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral, Person-centered, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Therapy.
Are you or your loved one (child or aging parent) in a difficult season of life? My passion is working with individuals, in life transitions, doing hard things, experiencing hard places. Let me sit with you, hold space for you. I will provide gentle, compassionate guidance; empowering & honoring your vulnerability, strengths, and values. In order to heal, sometimes we have to sit in the uncomfortable, for a season. At Seasons Child & Family Wellness, I provide a nurturing and accepting environment for you to be seen, feel safe; leading you to balance, joy, and a sense of peace.
(864) 732-1948 View (864) 732-1948
Photo of Kim Peake, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Peake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29605  (Online Only)
Hi there! In the midst of life's demands, it's easy to feel emotionally and mentally drained. Balancing roles as parents, partners, colleagues, and caretakers often leads us to overlook our own well-being. It can feel like an endless cycle of battling anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, leaving us feeling stuck in a hamster wheel of stress. While we prioritize relationships with others, it's equally crucial to nurture our relationship with ourselves. If you're grappling with self-criticism or navigating life's transitions while seeking identity, remember: self-care isn't a luxury; it's vital for our well-being.
Hi there! In the midst of life's demands, it's easy to feel emotionally and mentally drained. Balancing roles as parents, partners, colleagues, and caretakers often leads us to overlook our own well-being. It can feel like an endless cycle of battling anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, leaving us feeling stuck in a hamster wheel of stress. While we prioritize relationships with others, it's equally crucial to nurture our relationship with ourselves. If you're grappling with self-criticism or navigating life's transitions while seeking identity, remember: self-care isn't a luxury; it's vital for our well-being.
(803) 710-4542 View (803) 710-4542
Photo of Ingrid Sthare~~Relationship Expert, BCC, ACC, CTLC
Ingrid Sthare~~Relationship Expert
BCC, ACC, CTLC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Considering Divorce? Please call me before you call an attorney. Feeling betrayed. Feeling stuck. Falling out of love. Feeling you’ve lost yourself. With over 20 years of experience, I understand why relationships break or breakthrough. Even if you’ve tried other methods before and it didn’t work, please call me for a 15 minute free consultation. Single? It can feel hopeless. Learn how to break bad dating habits. Take time to discover who you are and what you want. Find yourself after a breakup. About to walk down the aisle? My programs help curb divorce statistics. I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and feel.
Considering Divorce? Please call me before you call an attorney. Feeling betrayed. Feeling stuck. Falling out of love. Feeling you’ve lost yourself. With over 20 years of experience, I understand why relationships break or breakthrough. Even if you’ve tried other methods before and it didn’t work, please call me for a 15 minute free consultation. Single? It can feel hopeless. Learn how to break bad dating habits. Take time to discover who you are and what you want. Find yourself after a breakup. About to walk down the aisle? My programs help curb divorce statistics. I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and feel.
(864) 916-1497 View (864) 916-1497
Photo of Shanna Martin, MA, LPC-A
Shanna Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
The experience of being human in today's world means we have life stories of hope and heartbreak; we undergo seasons of growth and times of intense pain. Sometimes these places feel too big, overwhelming, or distressing to bear. Sometimes our life plans go awry and we are disoriented. Others have been harmed by people we trusted, creating deep betrayal wounds. While no one else shares your exact story, we all share this human experience and at times every one of us can benefit from supportive therapeutic care. I am privileged to witness clients courageously work to change their life narratives into stories of hope and healing.
The experience of being human in today's world means we have life stories of hope and heartbreak; we undergo seasons of growth and times of intense pain. Sometimes these places feel too big, overwhelming, or distressing to bear. Sometimes our life plans go awry and we are disoriented. Others have been harmed by people we trusted, creating deep betrayal wounds. While no one else shares your exact story, we all share this human experience and at times every one of us can benefit from supportive therapeutic care. I am privileged to witness clients courageously work to change their life narratives into stories of hope and healing.
(864) 763-5473 View (864) 763-5473
Photo of Anna Christina Prather, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anna Christina Prather
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
Therapy is like co-authoring a story—embarking on a great journey, overcoming obstacles, noticing the softer moments, and forging a path toward hope. It's an honor to witness my clients' growth, as authenticity and well-being positively shape their world and narratives. I am committed to helping my clients bravely explore new ways toward self-compassion, authenticity, and wholeness. My work focuses on deepening relational satisfaction, creating safe and meaningful connections, and establishing healthy patterns that promote both individual and collective well-being.
Therapy is like co-authoring a story—embarking on a great journey, overcoming obstacles, noticing the softer moments, and forging a path toward hope. It's an honor to witness my clients' growth, as authenticity and well-being positively shape their world and narratives. I am committed to helping my clients bravely explore new ways toward self-compassion, authenticity, and wholeness. My work focuses on deepening relational satisfaction, creating safe and meaningful connections, and establishing healthy patterns that promote both individual and collective well-being.
(864) 214-5169 View (864) 214-5169
Photo of Joe Paciarelli, PsyD, Psychologist
Joe Paciarelli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
You have an unmet need to feel heard in the midst of the noise, distractions, loss, never ending pressure, and stress that surrounds you. You want to break free so that you can enjoy a focused, balanced, and functional life, but don't know how. The anxiety, grief, depression, worry, insomnia, trauma, and chaos associated with coping and fitting in can be so overwhelming that you need some hope, directions, and solutions. Simply put, you need a blueprint for your own revolution so that you can continue moving forward, instead of running around in circles.
You have an unmet need to feel heard in the midst of the noise, distractions, loss, never ending pressure, and stress that surrounds you. You want to break free so that you can enjoy a focused, balanced, and functional life, but don't know how. The anxiety, grief, depression, worry, insomnia, trauma, and chaos associated with coping and fitting in can be so overwhelming that you need some hope, directions, and solutions. Simply put, you need a blueprint for your own revolution so that you can continue moving forward, instead of running around in circles.
(864) 606-6945 View (864) 606-6945
Photo of Carly Guari, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carly Guari
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
Waitlist for new clients
Yes, you can cuss here. I thought I'd get that out of the way so you know you can be yourself with me. You’ve likely been to therapy before but it didn’t seem to get to the root of the problem. You know deep down there’s more to your healing than merely changing your thoughts. You have a voice inside telling you things like, “I’m not good enough, I have to be perfect, I’m an imposter, I’m unlovable.” You’re tired of believing these messages and fighting them off by yourself. You’ve tried many things to feel better. You've read books, done therapy, saved all the Instagram and/or tik-tok posts about self-care, started a yoga practice…
Yes, you can cuss here. I thought I'd get that out of the way so you know you can be yourself with me. You’ve likely been to therapy before but it didn’t seem to get to the root of the problem. You know deep down there’s more to your healing than merely changing your thoughts. You have a voice inside telling you things like, “I’m not good enough, I have to be perfect, I’m an imposter, I’m unlovable.” You’re tired of believing these messages and fighting them off by yourself. You’ve tried many things to feel better. You've read books, done therapy, saved all the Instagram and/or tik-tok posts about self-care, started a yoga practice…
(864) 713-1141 View (864) 713-1141
Photo of Ana Kelley, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
Our childhood wounds don’t just go away. They shape the way our nervous system responds to stress, the way we seek connection, & the meaning we make of our experiences. Many people don’t even realize how much their past affects them, especially if they never suffered any horrific trauma. But let me tell you what you may notice instead. Your heart and mind races for no reason at all. You react defensively rather than responding calmly. You keep thinking about what you “should” do rather than what you NEED. You work so hard but still feel empty. It’s never enough.
Our childhood wounds don’t just go away. They shape the way our nervous system responds to stress, the way we seek connection, & the meaning we make of our experiences. Many people don’t even realize how much their past affects them, especially if they never suffered any horrific trauma. But let me tell you what you may notice instead. Your heart and mind races for no reason at all. You react defensively rather than responding calmly. You keep thinking about what you “should” do rather than what you NEED. You work so hard but still feel empty. It’s never enough.
(864) 334-1721 View (864) 334-1721
1

Nearby Somatic Therapists Searches for Greenville

See More Somatic Therapists
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.