Somatic Therapists in Chicago Ridge, IL
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![Photo of Jessica Heise, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7050cd0-7dcd-4ee1-8b5f-e0eeb1e1ceec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Heise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Riverside, IL 60546
I specialize in trauma-informed and mind-body therapies, and am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with experience in using somatic and reprocessing techniques, and guided imagery to alleviate stress, overcome trauma, and foster serenity.
Sometimes we struggle with unhealthy patterns and feel lost or less able to cope. Our sessions are a safe place to process relationship issues, work on making changes, & acquire tools to deal with life's stressors. We store much of our emotional past within our physical bodies; together, we'll learn to release that energy using all 5 senses to become more present. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, sexuality and gender-affirming. Since 2009, I have worked with a diversity of people in both inpatient and outpatient settings and helped many of them take the steps to turn pain into growth and regain control of their lives.
I specialize in trauma-informed and mind-body therapies, and am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with experience in using somatic and reprocessing techniques, and guided imagery to alleviate stress, overcome trauma, and foster serenity.
Sometimes we struggle with unhealthy patterns and feel lost or less able to cope. Our sessions are a safe place to process relationship issues, work on making changes, & acquire tools to deal with life's stressors. We store much of our emotional past within our physical bodies; together, we'll learn to release that energy using all 5 senses to become more present. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, sexuality and gender-affirming. Since 2009, I have worked with a diversity of people in both inpatient and outpatient settings and helped many of them take the steps to turn pain into growth and regain control of their lives.
![Photo of Kelsey Di Pirro, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ed1bf3-26bd-46cd-88e8-f9673e380145/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Di Pirro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CAADC, AASW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60628
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, which essentially means that instead of connecting brain to brain; I connect to your body directly and let your system direct our work together.
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, which essentially means that instead of connecting brain to brain; I connect to your body directly and let your system direct our work together.
Building resiliency isn't always about overcoming the mountain sized obstacles. Sometimes, its about overcoming the desire to stay in bed all day, or have popcorn for dinner the fifth day in a row, or have just one more drink at the end of the day. Trauma, and its positive counter-part- Healing, is within each of us. Cultivating a positive support system and partnership is all about accessing the natural power you hold within yourself. Within each individual, and couple, embracing healing is possible. I believe in empowering people to build a relationship with themselves in such a way that they develop internal trust and reliance.
![Photo of Tesa Emmart, MA, LCPC, LMHC, SEP, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70dbc017-0e1b-49ce-9257-aef43e2bd002/4/320x400.jpeg)
I have supplemented my traditional psychotherapy education with additional training in body-centered psychotherapy, including Somatic Experiencing and Somatic Experiencing Touch.
I am offering both virtual and in-person counseling services. I specialize in treating the issues that arise from unresolved trauma, difficult early life experiences, and perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. My goal is to support and empower my clients by using an integrative and collaborative stance, incorporating my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy with body-centered and mindfulness-based techniques. It is my hope that by equipping my clients with the skills to develop their own self-awareness, self-compassion, clarity, and peace, they can go on to experience more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
I have supplemented my traditional psychotherapy education with additional training in body-centered psychotherapy, including Somatic Experiencing and Somatic Experiencing Touch.
I am offering both virtual and in-person counseling services. I specialize in treating the issues that arise from unresolved trauma, difficult early life experiences, and perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. My goal is to support and empower my clients by using an integrative and collaborative stance, incorporating my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy with body-centered and mindfulness-based techniques. It is my hope that by equipping my clients with the skills to develop their own self-awareness, self-compassion, clarity, and peace, they can go on to experience more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Sierra Hobson, MSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1e52d7f-2f64-4241-a964-2a97cb9140c4/1/320x400.png)
Sierra Hobson
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Springs, IL 60480
Hello, my name is Sierra! I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who graduated with my Master’s Degree from Aurora University. I am currently working toward my clinical license (LCSW). I have experience working with both teen and adult clients with struggles ranging from anxiety and relationship conflict, to depression, grief and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. I am also a certified yoga instructor who aims to help clients reconnect to their body through mindful and somatic experiences such as yoga and breath work.
Hello, my name is Sierra! I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who graduated with my Master’s Degree from Aurora University. I am currently working toward my clinical license (LCSW). I have experience working with both teen and adult clients with struggles ranging from anxiety and relationship conflict, to depression, grief and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. I am also a certified yoga instructor who aims to help clients reconnect to their body through mindful and somatic experiences such as yoga and breath work.
![Photo of Ana Javier, MA, LCPC, LPC, PATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2b6cd2-451f-4b91-9092-aaa4c64566e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a highly trained somatic therapist, clinical hypnotherapist, attachment therapist, trauma therapist, Gottman trained, and a Certified Psychedelic assisted therapist.
Reaching out for support during a difficult time takes courage. Oftentimes we tend to be harsh on ourselves in an effort to push ourselves out of a rut only to find that despite our efforts we remain stuck in it. We can become entrenched in cyclical patterns of anxious, angry, or depressing thoughts that prevent us from functioning exactly as we'd like, whether at work, home, or in relationships. Whether you would like to address an emotional wound, gain confidence, heal from trauma, reach goals, or improve your relationships, I am confident I can help you. CHANGE really is possible!
I am a highly trained somatic therapist, clinical hypnotherapist, attachment therapist, trauma therapist, Gottman trained, and a Certified Psychedelic assisted therapist.
Reaching out for support during a difficult time takes courage. Oftentimes we tend to be harsh on ourselves in an effort to push ourselves out of a rut only to find that despite our efforts we remain stuck in it. We can become entrenched in cyclical patterns of anxious, angry, or depressing thoughts that prevent us from functioning exactly as we'd like, whether at work, home, or in relationships. Whether you would like to address an emotional wound, gain confidence, heal from trauma, reach goals, or improve your relationships, I am confident I can help you. CHANGE really is possible!
![Photo of Jenna McGill, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3214cc39-0d6f-41a3-9b62-69c4552aff9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Techniques that I utilize include CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness based.
My name is Jenna, I am a clinical mental health counselor and certified Pilates instructor. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being and personal growth. I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help clients navigate through life's challenges. The experience I have developed since my time working with clients has been depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, neurodivergence, play therapy, couples counseling, family issues, self-esteem, and abuse.
Techniques that I utilize include CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness based.
My name is Jenna, I am a clinical mental health counselor and certified Pilates instructor. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being and personal growth. I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help clients navigate through life's challenges. The experience I have developed since my time working with clients has been depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, neurodivergence, play therapy, couples counseling, family issues, self-esteem, and abuse.
![Photo of Elizabeth Einig, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac785b9a-5fba-4db1-adad-3e148ee5e63b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Einig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a mix of evidence-based treatment methods including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, somatic techniques, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I enjoy working with youth and adults facing a variety of concerns, including trauma, disordered eating, challenging family dynamics, anxiety, and depression. I aim to create a safe, trusting, and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients, and my approach is strengths-based and attachment/trauma-focused, exploring systemic trauma(s) as well. My goal is to help you reach your goals and feel a greater sense of connection to yourself and others. I'd love to be a part of your journey!
I utilize a mix of evidence-based treatment methods including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, somatic techniques, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I enjoy working with youth and adults facing a variety of concerns, including trauma, disordered eating, challenging family dynamics, anxiety, and depression. I aim to create a safe, trusting, and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients, and my approach is strengths-based and attachment/trauma-focused, exploring systemic trauma(s) as well. My goal is to help you reach your goals and feel a greater sense of connection to yourself and others. I'd love to be a part of your journey!
![Photo of Char Pierce, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34378b87-cef5-47aa-a008-f820264babca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and trained in somatic touch therapies.
Thank-you for visiting my profile! I believe it is very important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I am a body oriented therapist, and I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, respectful, and optimal for healing and growth.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and trained in somatic touch therapies.
Thank-you for visiting my profile! I believe it is very important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I am a body oriented therapist, and I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, respectful, and optimal for healing and growth.
![Photo of Kristina M Sundermann, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7149d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Using somatic therapy, EMDR, art journaling, mindfulness and a deep curiosity we will work together to discover what’s holding you back and how you can let that go to be present in this moment. My approach combines insight oriented work with development of mindful, cognitive, emotional and behavioral skills to address anxiety, addiction, self-esteem, trauma, perfectionism, and a variety of life transitions. Working from this model is extremely helpful for those that desire a deeper understanding of the underlying patterns that effect their daily lives and create challenges for them in a variety of relationships.
Using somatic therapy, EMDR, art journaling, mindfulness and a deep curiosity we will work together to discover what’s holding you back and how you can let that go to be present in this moment. My approach combines insight oriented work with development of mindful, cognitive, emotional and behavioral skills to address anxiety, addiction, self-esteem, trauma, perfectionism, and a variety of life transitions. Working from this model is extremely helpful for those that desire a deeper understanding of the underlying patterns that effect their daily lives and create challenges for them in a variety of relationships.
![Photo of Christina Marie Sprayberry, AM, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8c2684-170c-485d-83dc-6546e899b731/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Marie Sprayberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60628 (Online Only)
I offer a supportive, strength-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy integrating mindfulness, somatic, mind-body approaches and parts-work.
Trauma, loss, struggles with identity and belonging, overwhelming emotions, sensitivities, and not feeling confident may interfere with feeling fully alive. Longing to feel more belonging, ease, and being and becoming fully you? Its possible. Youre not alone. All of you is welcome - seen and unseen.
I offer a supportive, strength-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy integrating mindfulness, somatic, mind-body approaches and parts-work.
Trauma, loss, struggles with identity and belonging, overwhelming emotions, sensitivities, and not feeling confident may interfere with feeling fully alive. Longing to feel more belonging, ease, and being and becoming fully you? Its possible. Youre not alone. All of you is welcome - seen and unseen.
![Photo of Semah Shammas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b281996b-59d8-4401-b081-3a1664cd973d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Semah Shammas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm licensed as a clinical social worker and certified as a psychologically sensitive, trauma-informed yoga teacher through Chicago Room to Breathe. Additionally, I am currently going through the Somatic Attachment Therapy certification program through The Embody Lab. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and complex trauma recovery. I'm an attuned therapist with the intention of meeting clients where they are.
I'm licensed as a clinical social worker and certified as a psychologically sensitive, trauma-informed yoga teacher through Chicago Room to Breathe. Additionally, I am currently going through the Somatic Attachment Therapy certification program through The Embody Lab. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and complex trauma recovery. I'm an attuned therapist with the intention of meeting clients where they are.
![Photo of Grant Buhr, LMSW, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da8dc197-1cb3-498c-abef-c282028f73c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grant Buhr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
In my work, I use somatic parts work, a compassion-centered, bottom-up approach to healing.
I am here to support individuals from all walks of life, including diverse backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. My focus is particularly on trauma, men, and male-identified adults navigating with issues related to masculinity. Trauma affects our sense of safety, self, and our ability to manage emotions and relationships. It can come from painful experiences or from the absence of essential positive experiences, like warmth and acceptance. To cope with trauma, we might disconnect from parts of ourselves and adapt in ways that help us survive, but this can also create a sense of distance from who we truly are.
In my work, I use somatic parts work, a compassion-centered, bottom-up approach to healing.
I am here to support individuals from all walks of life, including diverse backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. My focus is particularly on trauma, men, and male-identified adults navigating with issues related to masculinity. Trauma affects our sense of safety, self, and our ability to manage emotions and relationships. It can come from painful experiences or from the absence of essential positive experiences, like warmth and acceptance. To cope with trauma, we might disconnect from parts of ourselves and adapt in ways that help us survive, but this can also create a sense of distance from who we truly are.
![Photo of Tatiana Rohner del Sordo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86cf9b12-5705-4911-83b2-5eadcaf385f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I integrate the knowledge acquired in training in Somatic Experience, Perinatal Mood Disorders, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to teach my clients skills to help regulate their emotions, gain clarity in their personal experiences, and feel comfortable in their bodies.
Hola! I am a bilingual therapist passionate about supporting my clients on their healing path. Since 2014, I have been offering services to adults who have experienced trauma in their lives and deal with intense emotions of sadness, fear, anger, worry, and low self-esteem that might be affecting their bodies and their health. I offer my clients a safe space to process their feelings and experiences, teaching them skills that can help them regulate their emotions, feel safe in their bodies, and improve their quality of life. I believe healing occurs by creating and promoting a safe therapeutic relationship.
I integrate the knowledge acquired in training in Somatic Experience, Perinatal Mood Disorders, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to teach my clients skills to help regulate their emotions, gain clarity in their personal experiences, and feel comfortable in their bodies.
Hola! I am a bilingual therapist passionate about supporting my clients on their healing path. Since 2014, I have been offering services to adults who have experienced trauma in their lives and deal with intense emotions of sadness, fear, anger, worry, and low self-esteem that might be affecting their bodies and their health. I offer my clients a safe space to process their feelings and experiences, teaching them skills that can help them regulate their emotions, feel safe in their bodies, and improve their quality of life. I believe healing occurs by creating and promoting a safe therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Annie Novotny, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0efafb43-59ec-4749-b7ff-396393f23bc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
![Photo of Casey McEllen, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4843278a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Casey McEllen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palos Park, IL 60464 (Online Only)
Through bottom up trauma processing, you will increase awareness of cognitions, emotions, and physical responses to reduce somatic symptoms, promote emotion regulation, process traumatic beliefs, and attachment patterns.
Do you find yourself struggling with memories of past events, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, or difficulty connecting to others? Trauma leaves a profound and lasting impact, and healing requires: compassion, understanding, and support. I believe that people don’t develop habits or ways of viewing the world that didn’t, at least at some point, serve and/or protect them. Oftentimes, what once was previously beneficial becomes the reason someone seeks services, because it’s no longer helpful or needed. I want to support you to feel empowered, befriend your emotions, trust yourself, and take back control of your life.
Through bottom up trauma processing, you will increase awareness of cognitions, emotions, and physical responses to reduce somatic symptoms, promote emotion regulation, process traumatic beliefs, and attachment patterns.
Do you find yourself struggling with memories of past events, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, or difficulty connecting to others? Trauma leaves a profound and lasting impact, and healing requires: compassion, understanding, and support. I believe that people don’t develop habits or ways of viewing the world that didn’t, at least at some point, serve and/or protect them. Oftentimes, what once was previously beneficial becomes the reason someone seeks services, because it’s no longer helpful or needed. I want to support you to feel empowered, befriend your emotions, trust yourself, and take back control of your life.
![Photo of Kelsey Brasic, LSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1761196-df5c-4407-ae4b-e132a648226e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Brasic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Springs, IL 60480
Sessions with me are customized to integrate a variety of healing modalities including somatic practices, mindfulness techniques to reduce stress, trauma-informed yoga therapy, and energy and sound healing. My approach is warm and ensures we are addressing the root causes of imbalances, rather than just treating the symptoms. I deeply believe in our natural ability to come back to homeostasis when given the proper tools and nourishment. I strive to provide compassionate support to guide you through life's challenges, assisting with overcoming emotional obstacles, and navigating through communication and personal conflicts.
Sessions with me are customized to integrate a variety of healing modalities including somatic practices, mindfulness techniques to reduce stress, trauma-informed yoga therapy, and energy and sound healing. My approach is warm and ensures we are addressing the root causes of imbalances, rather than just treating the symptoms. I deeply believe in our natural ability to come back to homeostasis when given the proper tools and nourishment. I strive to provide compassionate support to guide you through life's challenges, assisting with overcoming emotional obstacles, and navigating through communication and personal conflicts.
![Photo of Lauren Gestes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/365bac1f-d499-4ab1-9048-a455717d6e7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Gestes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402 (Online Only)
In line with this belief, I’m receiving yoga teacher training at Room to Breathe, further enriching my ability to integrate somatic practices into therapy.
Therapy is a process of befriending yourself and finding empowerment in your journey. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe my role is to create a non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe and demonstrate autonomy. Building a meaningful relationship with my clients, rooted in genuine human connection, is at the core of my therapeutic approach. I’m passionate about working with adults and adolescents wanting to explore anxiety, gender identity, body image and self-esteem, racial and ethnic identity, and multicultural experiences.
In line with this belief, I’m receiving yoga teacher training at Room to Breathe, further enriching my ability to integrate somatic practices into therapy.
Therapy is a process of befriending yourself and finding empowerment in your journey. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe my role is to create a non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe and demonstrate autonomy. Building a meaningful relationship with my clients, rooted in genuine human connection, is at the core of my therapeutic approach. I’m passionate about working with adults and adolescents wanting to explore anxiety, gender identity, body image and self-esteem, racial and ethnic identity, and multicultural experiences.
![Photo of Nicole Rodriguez, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b406ae31-685c-4c73-8638-36979e2d730a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (Online Only)
My clients have a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Emotional Disturbance, and Behavioral Issues. Clients often require psychoeducation, identifying emotions and somatic symptoms, use of a variety of coping skills, behavioral management techniques including contingency management, knowledge of social skills and opportunities to practice such skills. My goal for every client is to help them find their motivation, gain knowledge about their issues, and to be able to effectively manage their issues.
My clients have a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Emotional Disturbance, and Behavioral Issues. Clients often require psychoeducation, identifying emotions and somatic symptoms, use of a variety of coping skills, behavioral management techniques including contingency management, knowledge of social skills and opportunities to practice such skills. My goal for every client is to help them find their motivation, gain knowledge about their issues, and to be able to effectively manage their issues.
![Photo of Ben Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/080e7ed2-d826-4757-a06c-3725e8debdc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My work is guided by Mindfulness, CBT, Somatic Experiencing, Family Systems, and existential and psychodynamic perspectives.
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. In therapy, my goal is to help you find and nurture your authentic nature, and to honor the wisdom gained from your lived experiences. Our work will consider the various intersecting aspects of your identity and the social, professional, and other cultural contexts in which you exist. I believe that as you experience yourself holistically, on your own and with guidance, you can naturally open yourself to more opportunities for healing, connection, growth, and other meaningful change.
My work is guided by Mindfulness, CBT, Somatic Experiencing, Family Systems, and existential and psychodynamic perspectives.
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. In therapy, my goal is to help you find and nurture your authentic nature, and to honor the wisdom gained from your lived experiences. Our work will consider the various intersecting aspects of your identity and the social, professional, and other cultural contexts in which you exist. I believe that as you experience yourself holistically, on your own and with guidance, you can naturally open yourself to more opportunities for healing, connection, growth, and other meaningful change.
![Photo of Roserita (Rita) W. James, LCSW, LBS1, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96df63c2-4bf6-411d-a4e8-8535a12866ca/3/320x400.jpeg)
Roserita (Rita) W. James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LBS1
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Depending on the needs of my client, I may pull from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, Mindfulness, Solutions Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Depth Psychology.
I’m Rita and I’m glad you’re here! I specialize in working with young adults (18-35 years old), that identify as artists, creatives, healers and therapists to uncover their motivations, passions, and internal voices. I have advanced training in and specialize in PTSD, Developmental Trauma, and Attachment. Trauma can create global effects on the mind and body, and I work hard, alongside my clients, to remove trauma blocks from their path, in order to clear the way towards the bold lives that they have dreamed for themselves. I utilize EMDR and Somatic Experiencing to help my clients work somatically to heal trauma stored in the body.
Depending on the needs of my client, I may pull from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, Mindfulness, Solutions Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Depth Psychology.
I’m Rita and I’m glad you’re here! I specialize in working with young adults (18-35 years old), that identify as artists, creatives, healers and therapists to uncover their motivations, passions, and internal voices. I have advanced training in and specialize in PTSD, Developmental Trauma, and Attachment. Trauma can create global effects on the mind and body, and I work hard, alongside my clients, to remove trauma blocks from their path, in order to clear the way towards the bold lives that they have dreamed for themselves. I utilize EMDR and Somatic Experiencing to help my clients work somatically to heal trauma stored in the body.
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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.