Somatic Therapists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Dr. Laurie Maddox, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laurie Maddox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
My approach includes existential, somatic, humanistic, psychoanalytic, ACT, IFS, and EFT for finding your truest self-expression.
I believe therapy is sacred work, and I approach each encounter with reverence. Transformation is possible through mindful presence, and the meditative practice of acceptance of reality as it is. There are many changes that occur when people are able to bring unconscious emotions into awareness, which does happen naturally, but is amplified during non-ordinary states of consciousness. When we deepen the awareness of how our mind operates-its patterns, tendencies, weak spots and vulnerabilities-we are able to connect with our deepest desires, and most creative expressions of who we are, and who we are capable of becoming.
My approach includes existential, somatic, humanistic, psychoanalytic, ACT, IFS, and EFT for finding your truest self-expression.
I believe therapy is sacred work, and I approach each encounter with reverence. Transformation is possible through mindful presence, and the meditative practice of acceptance of reality as it is. There are many changes that occur when people are able to bring unconscious emotions into awareness, which does happen naturally, but is amplified during non-ordinary states of consciousness. When we deepen the awareness of how our mind operates-its patterns, tendencies, weak spots and vulnerabilities-we are able to connect with our deepest desires, and most creative expressions of who we are, and who we are capable of becoming.
(321) 765-3102 View (321) 765-3102
Photo of Edit Vidalon, Somatic, Coach
Edit Vidalon
Somatic, Coach
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32810  (Online Only)
I am a Somatic Coach who specializes in somatic coaching with neuroscience that understands how the triune nature of the brain explains human behavior in ways that empower us. Using a blend of evidence-based in somatic techniques, and psychology, you will transform your life immediately. I want you to know you can understand yourself, heal, rewire, move forward, and become a new version. Your brain interacts with your emotions, behavior, and body as a whole. I can help you become conscious of how science and your fantastic brain play a role in your thoughts, environment, relationships with others, habits, and values.
I am a Somatic Coach who specializes in somatic coaching with neuroscience that understands how the triune nature of the brain explains human behavior in ways that empower us. Using a blend of evidence-based in somatic techniques, and psychology, you will transform your life immediately. I want you to know you can understand yourself, heal, rewire, move forward, and become a new version. Your brain interacts with your emotions, behavior, and body as a whole. I can help you become conscious of how science and your fantastic brain play a role in your thoughts, environment, relationships with others, habits, and values.
(321) 204-8712 View (321) 204-8712
Photo of Shelby Bliss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelby Bliss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32808  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of techniques including Solution Focused, CBT, Gottman, Forgiveness, DBT, Narrative, and Somatic Therapy.
Hey there! My name is Shelby Bliss and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Titusville, FL. I have over 10 years of experience working with men and women struggling to make sense of this crazy thing called life. I have an eclectic, strength-based approach that is designed to meet you where you’re at.
I draw from a variety of techniques including Solution Focused, CBT, Gottman, Forgiveness, DBT, Narrative, and Somatic Therapy.
Hey there! My name is Shelby Bliss and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Titusville, FL. I have over 10 years of experience working with men and women struggling to make sense of this crazy thing called life. I have an eclectic, strength-based approach that is designed to meet you where you’re at.
(321) 475-8678 View (321) 475-8678
Photo of Sara Nixon, MA, RMHCI
Sara Nixon
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
With a trauma-informed and story-focused posture, I utilize Internal Family Systems, attachment-based models, Psychodynamic interventions, and somatic and mindfulness-based practices.
Hello! You have taken a courageous step by simply exploring therapy options, and my hope is that you continue to receive clarity and empowerment to take the next step. To be human is to experience both immense joy and overwhelming sadness or fear. Sometimes the fear just becomes too much, and we find helpful but harmful ways of coping. My desire is that the therapeutic, safe space invites you to return to hope, to play, and to belonging through relationship. This return will require walking through - not around - the pain and sadness. I would love to come alongside you in this process!
With a trauma-informed and story-focused posture, I utilize Internal Family Systems, attachment-based models, Psychodynamic interventions, and somatic and mindfulness-based practices.
Hello! You have taken a courageous step by simply exploring therapy options, and my hope is that you continue to receive clarity and empowerment to take the next step. To be human is to experience both immense joy and overwhelming sadness or fear. Sometimes the fear just becomes too much, and we find helpful but harmful ways of coping. My desire is that the therapeutic, safe space invites you to return to hope, to play, and to belonging through relationship. This return will require walking through - not around - the pain and sadness. I would love to come alongside you in this process!
(689) 260-6176 View (689) 260-6176
Photo of Irene Struif, LMHC, Counselor
Irene Struif
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32810  (Online Only)
The foundation of my approach is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive-Behavioral therapy with Somatic therapy (mind-body approach/techniques), but I also draw from EMDR, Laughter Therapy, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Transpersonal Psychology, and nutrition.
Hello! I’m Irene Struif, a licensed therapist. I've been helping people improve their lives since 2004. Here I work with adults via a few different schools of thought that have helped many others achieve the results they desired.
The foundation of my approach is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive-Behavioral therapy with Somatic therapy (mind-body approach/techniques), but I also draw from EMDR, Laughter Therapy, Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Transpersonal Psychology, and nutrition.
Hello! I’m Irene Struif, a licensed therapist. I've been helping people improve their lives since 2004. Here I work with adults via a few different schools of thought that have helped many others achieve the results they desired.
(321) 459-6042 View (321) 459-6042
Photo of Becky Romero, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, QS, Counselor
Becky Romero
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, I offer a unique approach that integrates emotional and somatic experiences, allowing for profound healing and transformation.
Are you finding it difficult to navigate through each day, weighed down by the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, and the lingering effects of past traumas? Perhaps you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, making it hard to find joy in life. Maybe anxiety constantly tightens its grip on you, leaving you feeling on edge, restless, or overwhelmed by worry. And the echoes of past traumas may haunt you, manifesting as intrusive memories, flashbacks, or a pervasive sense of disconnection from yourself and others.
Using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, I offer a unique approach that integrates emotional and somatic experiences, allowing for profound healing and transformation.
Are you finding it difficult to navigate through each day, weighed down by the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, and the lingering effects of past traumas? Perhaps you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, making it hard to find joy in life. Maybe anxiety constantly tightens its grip on you, leaving you feeling on edge, restless, or overwhelmed by worry. And the echoes of past traumas may haunt you, manifesting as intrusive memories, flashbacks, or a pervasive sense of disconnection from yourself and others.
(321) 413-8035 View (321) 413-8035
Photo of Sonica Sharma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonica Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32825  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sonica (pronounced just like Monica, but with an S). I specialize in self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, people-pleasing behaviors, and perfectionism. I am truly passionate about helping clients find self-love and reach self-acceptance. I often draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and mindfulness based and somatic practices. My approach is to help you gain insight, practical tools/coping skills, and get to the root of your problems, not just bandaid them.
Hi, I'm Sonica (pronounced just like Monica, but with an S). I specialize in self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, people-pleasing behaviors, and perfectionism. I am truly passionate about helping clients find self-love and reach self-acceptance. I often draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and mindfulness based and somatic practices. My approach is to help you gain insight, practical tools/coping skills, and get to the root of your problems, not just bandaid them.
(321) 334-3079 View (321) 334-3079
Photo of Rebecca Keck - Embrace Authenticity Counseling, MS, LMHC
Embrace Authenticity Counseling
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
You have been struggling to reconnect to yourself. You have done your best for so long to survive and now you are feeling disconnected, numb, lost and alone. The things that once brought you joy now feel lifeless and distant. You don’t feel like yourself. You value therapy and want to find a good fit with someone who understands. After working together you will learn skills to help find meaning and value in your life. We utilize a holistic approach to therapy including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness & Acceptance and Commitment therapy as needed for clients who are experiencing the impact of trauma.
You have been struggling to reconnect to yourself. You have done your best for so long to survive and now you are feeling disconnected, numb, lost and alone. The things that once brought you joy now feel lifeless and distant. You don’t feel like yourself. You value therapy and want to find a good fit with someone who understands. After working together you will learn skills to help find meaning and value in your life. We utilize a holistic approach to therapy including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness & Acceptance and Commitment therapy as needed for clients who are experiencing the impact of trauma.
(407) 993-2342 View (407) 993-2342
Photo of Ericka Roberts, MS, RMHCI, E-CYT, CNHP
Ericka Roberts
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI, E-CYT, CNHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I view counseling from a systemic, integrative lens. I integrate the psychophysiology of trauma and attachment-based approaches using a variety of therapeutic modalities such as somatic body experiences, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gottman, EFT, and Mindful-based therapies. My expertise is in interpersonal relationships, trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
I view counseling from a systemic, integrative lens. I integrate the psychophysiology of trauma and attachment-based approaches using a variety of therapeutic modalities such as somatic body experiences, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gottman, EFT, and Mindful-based therapies. My expertise is in interpersonal relationships, trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
(407) 247-6311 View (407) 247-6311
Photo of Yanlin Tso - Common Ground Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Common Ground Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
I use Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing training to address trauma in the body.
Are you feeling stuck, unworthy, unmotivated or hopeless? You have goals and you try to move forward, because you know you have a lot to offer, but something always seems to get in the way of your career and your relationships. You feel like you are never enough, like you don’t belong. You wonder how things would be different if you were white, straight, able-bodied or cis-gendered. Every piece of self-help advice you read must be filtered through the lens of being marginalized and having less privilege. You wish someone could understand you. You try to cope, but you find that you just can’t change by willpower alone.
I use Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing training to address trauma in the body.
Are you feeling stuck, unworthy, unmotivated or hopeless? You have goals and you try to move forward, because you know you have a lot to offer, but something always seems to get in the way of your career and your relationships. You feel like you are never enough, like you don’t belong. You wonder how things would be different if you were white, straight, able-bodied or cis-gendered. Every piece of self-help advice you read must be filtered through the lens of being marginalized and having less privilege. You wish someone could understand you. You try to cope, but you find that you just can’t change by willpower alone.
(404) 882-5937 View (404) 882-5937
Photo of River Marino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
River Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32816  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Internal Family Systems-informed and incorporate somatic + mindfulness-based approaches into sessions.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
I’m Internal Family Systems-informed and incorporate somatic + mindfulness-based approaches into sessions.
Healing happens when we feel safe enough to show up exactly as we are. All parts of you are welcome here. I’m not here to change you or fix you. I don’t think you are “broken” or that there's anything "wrong" with you. Together we'll create an accepting + compassionate environment, with respect for your intuition + body's wisdom underlying all that we do. I’m trauma + social justice-informed and view therapy through an intersectional lens (mind, body, environment, culture). During our time together, we’ll likely look at environmental factors (interpersonal, economic, oppression) that create individual/collective stress and trauma.
(352) 415-9266 View (352) 415-9266
Photo of denise v. jones, MS, MBA
denise v. jones
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
My practice is primarily grounded in helping you accept all parts of yourself, embrace your past, the present and believe in the person you want to become by using mainly EMDR, parts work / internal family systems, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
Relationship struggles, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or dealing with life challenges, can be painful and hold us back. As we work together, you will gain the necessary insight and skills to navigate these dificulties and unlock your full potential. My professional background consists mainly treating people who have experienced trauma -big or small- and addressing the different ways it shows up: anxiety, depression, low self esteem, attention issues, among other personal struggles.
My practice is primarily grounded in helping you accept all parts of yourself, embrace your past, the present and believe in the person you want to become by using mainly EMDR, parts work / internal family systems, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
Relationship struggles, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or dealing with life challenges, can be painful and hold us back. As we work together, you will gain the necessary insight and skills to navigate these dificulties and unlock your full potential. My professional background consists mainly treating people who have experienced trauma -big or small- and addressing the different ways it shows up: anxiety, depression, low self esteem, attention issues, among other personal struggles.
(904) 593-2990 View (904) 593-2990
Photo of Serena Yeager - Expansive Counseling , MA, CHT, LMHC
Expansive Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, CHT, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
We work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We are passionate about providing affirming therapy for LGBTQ+, polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, and kinky individuals as well. We are primarily a queer trauma-focused somatic therapy practice utilizing mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and parts work to help clients understand and reconnect with themselves.
We work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We are passionate about providing affirming therapy for LGBTQ+, polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, and kinky individuals as well. We are primarily a queer trauma-focused somatic therapy practice utilizing mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and parts work to help clients understand and reconnect with themselves.
(689) 202-3664 View (689) 202-3664
Photo of Lauren Tobia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Tobia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I integrate primarily body-based and and holistic approaches, including EMDR, somatic, and mindfulness practices.
​​A well-known psychologist, Carl Jung, once said, "We all walk around in shoes far too small for us." I see therapy as a space where we can explore and expand beyond these limitations, helping you step into a fuller and more authentic version of yourself. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all process, and I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of each person.
I integrate primarily body-based and and holistic approaches, including EMDR, somatic, and mindfulness practices.
​​A well-known psychologist, Carl Jung, once said, "We all walk around in shoes far too small for us." I see therapy as a space where we can explore and expand beyond these limitations, helping you step into a fuller and more authentic version of yourself. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all process, and I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of each person.
(904) 977-3644 View (904) 977-3644
Photo of Amanda Rodriguez, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Rodriguez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32828  (Online Only)
This treatment approach reduces the emotional impact of traumatic memories using a guided method of breathing, tapping, and somatic (body) awareness to promote healing, safety, and empowerment.
Thank you for taking this first step in finding me here. You're likely tired of the same patterns of fear and self-doubt holding you back in your personal life, at work, and in your relationships. I help guide my clients tap into their own resources of strength, resilience, and softness. You do not need to do it all and do not need to do it alone. I specialize my approach to what you need at the moment, whether that’s developing healthy boundaries, communication skills, or connecting with a deeper purpose. I work primarily with adults who have symptoms of PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and/or relationship issues.
This treatment approach reduces the emotional impact of traumatic memories using a guided method of breathing, tapping, and somatic (body) awareness to promote healing, safety, and empowerment.
Thank you for taking this first step in finding me here. You're likely tired of the same patterns of fear and self-doubt holding you back in your personal life, at work, and in your relationships. I help guide my clients tap into their own resources of strength, resilience, and softness. You do not need to do it all and do not need to do it alone. I specialize my approach to what you need at the moment, whether that’s developing healthy boundaries, communication skills, or connecting with a deeper purpose. I work primarily with adults who have symptoms of PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and/or relationship issues.
(773) 232-5298 View (773) 232-5298
Photo of Katherine Lance, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Katherine Lance
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
Katherine offers insight into your experiences, helps you identify patterns, and provides evidenced based treatment approaches, such as CBT, DBT, IFS, Trauma Focused and Somatic interventions.
Is anxiety causing problems in your relationships and/or career? Is there something you're struggling to move past? Katherine is passionate about helping people heal from their trauma, break their anxiety cycle, learn how to soothe their nervous system and reclaim their personal power. Having 16 years counseling experience, Katherine enjoys helping people live in the present, tend to their wounds from the past, regulate emotions, challenge irrational beliefs, build healthier boundaries and find secure attachment within themself and with their partner.
Katherine offers insight into your experiences, helps you identify patterns, and provides evidenced based treatment approaches, such as CBT, DBT, IFS, Trauma Focused and Somatic interventions.
Is anxiety causing problems in your relationships and/or career? Is there something you're struggling to move past? Katherine is passionate about helping people heal from their trauma, break their anxiety cycle, learn how to soothe their nervous system and reclaim their personal power. Having 16 years counseling experience, Katherine enjoys helping people live in the present, tend to their wounds from the past, regulate emotions, challenge irrational beliefs, build healthier boundaries and find secure attachment within themself and with their partner.
(321) 449-2161 View (321) 449-2161
Photo of Alejandro Rodriguez, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Alejandro Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
This can include a Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Somatic (body-focused), Internal Family Systems, Gottman relationship approach, or others.
I am here to help you address the issues holding you back from living your best life. Are depression or anxiety overwhelming you and your life? Or are you currently experiencing grief due to a loss in your life? Are you struggling in your relationship? By providing a safe space, I can help you in your process of healing and/or reaching your goals. Whatever your struggle, you don’t have to go through it alone. We can walk through the pain together and find what solutions may work for you. Let's begin.
This can include a Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Somatic (body-focused), Internal Family Systems, Gottman relationship approach, or others.
I am here to help you address the issues holding you back from living your best life. Are depression or anxiety overwhelming you and your life? Or are you currently experiencing grief due to a loss in your life? Are you struggling in your relationship? By providing a safe space, I can help you in your process of healing and/or reaching your goals. Whatever your struggle, you don’t have to go through it alone. We can walk through the pain together and find what solutions may work for you. Let's begin.
(321) 414-8667 View (321) 414-8667
Photo of Judy Irizarry, IMH, Intern
Judy Irizarry
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, IMH, Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
I am a trained therapist in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experience, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
As a mental health counselor and coach, I take a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I believe being a therapist who utilizes evidence-based practices to help clients overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I am determined that every client leaves each and every session with actionable steps to improve their well-being and mental health.
I am a trained therapist in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experience, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
As a mental health counselor and coach, I take a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I believe being a therapist who utilizes evidence-based practices to help clients overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I am determined that every client leaves each and every session with actionable steps to improve their well-being and mental health.
(407) 993-1547 View (407) 993-1547
Photo of Chase C. Colter, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chase C. Colter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I use somatic, attachment, ecological, and relational therapies rooted in collective liberation and abolition.
As a therapist, I consider the various intersecting dimensions of human experience to provide a comprehensive and contextual understanding of the clients I collaborate with. In navigating one’s rich internal landscape, I ensure my clients are compassionately supported throughout this process, fostering a felt sense of wholeness, respect, and humility. You are invited to cultivate greater self-compassion, resilience, and psychological flexibility as we unfold your journey together. With a firm trust in the evolutionary potential of all beings, I describe my approach to psychotherapy as integrative and process-oriented.
I use somatic, attachment, ecological, and relational therapies rooted in collective liberation and abolition.
As a therapist, I consider the various intersecting dimensions of human experience to provide a comprehensive and contextual understanding of the clients I collaborate with. In navigating one’s rich internal landscape, I ensure my clients are compassionately supported throughout this process, fostering a felt sense of wholeness, respect, and humility. You are invited to cultivate greater self-compassion, resilience, and psychological flexibility as we unfold your journey together. With a firm trust in the evolutionary potential of all beings, I describe my approach to psychotherapy as integrative and process-oriented.
(352) 280-3927 View (352) 280-3927
Photo of Dr. Skyler Hamilton, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Skyler Hamilton
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803  (Online Only)
Specializing in somatic therapy.
Creating a setting for you to feel safe, heard, and validated, I guide you to feel empowered over your emotions bringing you to a place of peace.
Specializing in somatic therapy.
Creating a setting for you to feel safe, heard, and validated, I guide you to feel empowered over your emotions bringing you to a place of peace.
(321) 273-8039 View (321) 273-8039
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.