Somatic Therapists in Downingtown, PA

Photo of Dr. Kathleen West, PhD, SEP, Psychologist
Dr. Kathleen West
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
I often incorporate cognitive, somatic and mindfulness techniques, as well as using personal narratives to develop and deepen awareness, acceptance, and self empowerment.
A graduate of Temple University, I have been a licensed psychologist since 1996. I work with a wide variety of clients and presenting problems including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss. I have specific expertise in the areas of early trauma, childhood and adolescent issues, parenting and chronic stress. Throughout my experience I have witnessed remarkable healing and a return to a sense of wholeness and aliveness that comes with support through honest and gentle exploration, reflection and self-awareness. The results often manifest in improved relationships, judgment and clarity.
I often incorporate cognitive, somatic and mindfulness techniques, as well as using personal narratives to develop and deepen awareness, acceptance, and self empowerment.
A graduate of Temple University, I have been a licensed psychologist since 1996. I work with a wide variety of clients and presenting problems including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss. I have specific expertise in the areas of early trauma, childhood and adolescent issues, parenting and chronic stress. Throughout my experience I have witnessed remarkable healing and a return to a sense of wholeness and aliveness that comes with support through honest and gentle exploration, reflection and self-awareness. The results often manifest in improved relationships, judgment and clarity.
(610) 624-8743 View (610) 624-8743
Photo of Anthony Yuschak, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony Yuschak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
My therapeutic approach is informed by my background in meditation, Eastern contemplative philosophy, and evolutionary psychology. I work with clients to establish a treatment plan that is uniquely sensitive to their particular clinical needs and concerns. Some of the most common techniques I employ focus on the important relationship between body and mind; these experiential, somatic, and cognitive interventions allow for critical shifts in perspective that promote meaningful and enduring behavioral change.
My therapeutic approach is informed by my background in meditation, Eastern contemplative philosophy, and evolutionary psychology. I work with clients to establish a treatment plan that is uniquely sensitive to their particular clinical needs and concerns. Some of the most common techniques I employ focus on the important relationship between body and mind; these experiential, somatic, and cognitive interventions allow for critical shifts in perspective that promote meaningful and enduring behavioral change.
(484) 851-9192 View (484) 851-9192
Photo of Katie Gillespie - Buttonwood A Place To Heal -Now offering IOP!, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Buttonwood A Place To Heal -Now offering IOP!
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Buttonwood A Place To Heal is now offering : IOP Eating Disorders for Adults, IOP Eating Disorders Adolescents, Somatic Therapy Mental Health IOP Adults, Outpatient therapy including individual, family and assessments.
My passion in life is to help others break free from eating disorders and disordered eating so that they can live fuller lives. I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Practicing Counselor with many years in the field. I believe each person's needs are different and unique. Part of recovery is becoming more connected to the self and ultimately more aware of your needs so that symptoms become less desirable. I work with clients with eating disorders as well as family members who may need guidance and direction in how to help their loved ones.
Buttonwood A Place To Heal is now offering : IOP Eating Disorders for Adults, IOP Eating Disorders Adolescents, Somatic Therapy Mental Health IOP Adults, Outpatient therapy including individual, family and assessments.
My passion in life is to help others break free from eating disorders and disordered eating so that they can live fuller lives. I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Practicing Counselor with many years in the field. I believe each person's needs are different and unique. Part of recovery is becoming more connected to the self and ultimately more aware of your needs so that symptoms become less desirable. I work with clients with eating disorders as well as family members who may need guidance and direction in how to help their loved ones.
(484) 430-3676 View (484) 430-3676
Photo of Tracy Rappold, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Rappold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
If you are seeking a gentle and effective way to address emotional regulation, somatic and mindfulness perspectives may give you clarity and connection.
When anxiety becomes too much it starts affecting the quality of your life. You may find you have difficulty with the day-to-day: looking after yourself, holding down a job, trying new things or simply enjoying your leisure time. Social situations can be a source of stress in which your body might tighten up for a fight response. You feel overwhelmed; thinking no way I am capable of interacting. Your body can develop symptoms from anxiety. Physical symptoms from anxiety feel like they are filling up your body: pain, fatigue, stomach upset, headaches, backache, dizziness, etc. Somatic Anxiety is the physical presentation of anxiety.
If you are seeking a gentle and effective way to address emotional regulation, somatic and mindfulness perspectives may give you clarity and connection.
When anxiety becomes too much it starts affecting the quality of your life. You may find you have difficulty with the day-to-day: looking after yourself, holding down a job, trying new things or simply enjoying your leisure time. Social situations can be a source of stress in which your body might tighten up for a fight response. You feel overwhelmed; thinking no way I am capable of interacting. Your body can develop symptoms from anxiety. Physical symptoms from anxiety feel like they are filling up your body: pain, fatigue, stomach upset, headaches, backache, dizziness, etc. Somatic Anxiety is the physical presentation of anxiety.
(484) 459-9808 View (484) 459-9808
Photo of Allison Brunner, MSW, LCSW
Allison Brunner
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
(484) 214-2477 View (484) 214-2477
Photo of Laura Orsatti Weissflog, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, SEP
Laura Orsatti Weissflog
MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, SEP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
My trauma-focused training in NARM® & Somatic Experiencing® brings a much needed option for clients in need of healing.
If you have had an experience that seems traumatic to you despite what others may think or say, or any extremely stressful life challenge recently or in the past, I specialize in helping with these issues. If there is something you have never shared with anyone or are frightened by the prospect of disclosing what you've carried for a long time, I am here to listen. The impact of distressing experiences may result in extreme anxiety or fear, episodes of depression, repeated difficulties in personal or family relationships and even physical health issues. Emotional experiences during developmental years may result in complex PTSD.
My trauma-focused training in NARM® & Somatic Experiencing® brings a much needed option for clients in need of healing.
If you have had an experience that seems traumatic to you despite what others may think or say, or any extremely stressful life challenge recently or in the past, I specialize in helping with these issues. If there is something you have never shared with anyone or are frightened by the prospect of disclosing what you've carried for a long time, I am here to listen. The impact of distressing experiences may result in extreme anxiety or fear, episodes of depression, repeated difficulties in personal or family relationships and even physical health issues. Emotional experiences during developmental years may result in complex PTSD.
(610) 915-8007 View (610) 915-8007
Photo of Lori Valentino, MSS, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Valentino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19372
I utilize parts work, mindfulness, somatic practices, and guided imagery to cultivate self-compassion and to promote the ability to be present from moment to moment with acceptance and non-judgment.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and wellness advocate who believes in focusing on the mind-body connection for a holistic approach to healing. I am committed to creating collaborative spaces ​where people feel seen, heard, and valued. My therapeutic approach integrates contemporary psychology and Eastern spirituality. My style is warm and focused on offering a compassionate presence. I practice from a strengths-based perspective and believe in every individual’s ability to heal, grow, transform, and thrive.
I utilize parts work, mindfulness, somatic practices, and guided imagery to cultivate self-compassion and to promote the ability to be present from moment to moment with acceptance and non-judgment.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and wellness advocate who believes in focusing on the mind-body connection for a holistic approach to healing. I am committed to creating collaborative spaces ​where people feel seen, heard, and valued. My therapeutic approach integrates contemporary psychology and Eastern spirituality. My style is warm and focused on offering a compassionate presence. I practice from a strengths-based perspective and believe in every individual’s ability to heal, grow, transform, and thrive.
(484) 388-4344 View (484) 388-4344
Photo of Angela Sylvina, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Sylvina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Are you going through a difficult life transition or feeling confused about your relationships? Are you wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? If this resonates, therapy could be beneficial in aiding you with self-reflection and by empowering you to seek the life you desire. I believe that the therapeutic relationship itself can be a powerful agent for change, and that emotional safety within our relationship is paramount. I provide a safe and judgment-free environment so that you can learn to trust yourself and others in your life.
Are you going through a difficult life transition or feeling confused about your relationships? Are you wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? If this resonates, therapy could be beneficial in aiding you with self-reflection and by empowering you to seek the life you desire. I believe that the therapeutic relationship itself can be a powerful agent for change, and that emotional safety within our relationship is paramount. I provide a safe and judgment-free environment so that you can learn to trust yourself and others in your life.
(610) 379-1941 View (610) 379-1941
Photo of Keli Laverty, BC-DMT, LPC
Keli Laverty
BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
If you are looking for a therapy experience that goes beyond talking and helps you connect to your whole self, Dance/movement therapy could be for you!! If you have tried traditional "talk" therapy and it has not produced the changes you are wanting, a Dance/Movement therapy session will help you make shifts in session (literally!) that you can apply in your everyday life. If you or your child or teen does not like to "talk" about your feelings, DMT is a solution! At my core, I see movement as our path to wellness. Movement connects us to our physiology and psychology to really affect change- we cannot just think our way to change, we need to move it! I use the body, which is never in the past or future, as a tool to help clients become aware of your own physical and emotional states in the present. I strive to connect my clients to your bodies and from there we practice techniques to empower you to embrace living in your bodies and connecting to your whole self.
If you are looking for a therapy experience that goes beyond talking and helps you connect to your whole self, Dance/movement therapy could be for you!! If you have tried traditional "talk" therapy and it has not produced the changes you are wanting, a Dance/Movement therapy session will help you make shifts in session (literally!) that you can apply in your everyday life. If you or your child or teen does not like to "talk" about your feelings, DMT is a solution! At my core, I see movement as our path to wellness. Movement connects us to our physiology and psychology to really affect change- we cannot just think our way to change, we need to move it! I use the body, which is never in the past or future, as a tool to help clients become aware of your own physical and emotional states in the present. I strive to connect my clients to your bodies and from there we practice techniques to empower you to embrace living in your bodies and connecting to your whole self.
(484) 812-3044 View (484) 812-3044
Photo of Maria Christina Salomone Gabelberger, PsyD, Psychologist
Maria Christina Salomone Gabelberger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
In my experience, inside every person there is a psychological center, like a ‘Light’ leading us to love, healing, joy and growth. In a deep place in each of us, it is always present, though sometimes hidden. Known by many different names and through many different senses - center, core, soul, real-self, heart or unconscious, it is wise and kind and delights to do no harm, and intends only good. We all have a longing to connect to this profound potential, goodness and love within ourselves, within others and in all. I enjoy supporting you on your journey.
In my experience, inside every person there is a psychological center, like a ‘Light’ leading us to love, healing, joy and growth. In a deep place in each of us, it is always present, though sometimes hidden. Known by many different names and through many different senses - center, core, soul, real-self, heart or unconscious, it is wise and kind and delights to do no harm, and intends only good. We all have a longing to connect to this profound potential, goodness and love within ourselves, within others and in all. I enjoy supporting you on your journey.
(610) 915-8793 View (610) 915-8793
Photo of Peggy Phipps L.C.S.W. - Main Line Adult Counseling, LLC, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Line Adult Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Waitlist for new clients
Private Psycho-Dynamic Therapy Practice in Downingtown, PA Specializing in anxiety, depression, and stress-induced body pain. I listen to and coach adults through life's transitions, changes, and challenges, helping them build natural, creative coping mechanisms. Using Brainspotting—a holistic body, mind, and spirit treatment modality—I help you get unstuck organically and live your best life.
Private Psycho-Dynamic Therapy Practice in Downingtown, PA Specializing in anxiety, depression, and stress-induced body pain. I listen to and coach adults through life's transitions, changes, and challenges, helping them build natural, creative coping mechanisms. Using Brainspotting—a holistic body, mind, and spirit treatment modality—I help you get unstuck organically and live your best life.
(484) 320-7735 View (484) 320-7735
Photo of Sara Watt, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
If you are struggling at home with power struggles, tantrums, big emotions feeling out of control, or an event has occurred where you want extra support, I am here to meet you where you are. All parts are welcome no matter how big or small they feel. I believe that the heart can guide us if we turn toward it to give it love. The body holds innate wisdom of unconditional love and acceptance within. I am here to walk with you on your journey home to yourself. We offer in person appointments in West Chester, PA and Telemental Health for Colorado. I am licensed in both states.
If you are struggling at home with power struggles, tantrums, big emotions feeling out of control, or an event has occurred where you want extra support, I am here to meet you where you are. All parts are welcome no matter how big or small they feel. I believe that the heart can guide us if we turn toward it to give it love. The body holds innate wisdom of unconditional love and acceptance within. I am here to walk with you on your journey home to yourself. We offer in person appointments in West Chester, PA and Telemental Health for Colorado. I am licensed in both states.
(215) 515-4922 View (215) 515-4922
Photo of Lai T. Moy, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lai T. Moy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“I feel like I'm stuck in the past." "I don't know how to make sense of what's happened to me." “I don’t know who I am.” Sound familiar? If you've ever said these words to yourself (I know I certainly have), I invite you on a journey of discovering who you are beyond what you've had to do to survive; to turn toward your inner wisdom and strengths; to build connection with yourself and with others; and to recognize your self-value and self-worth as differentiated from what you do and what’s happened to you.
“I feel like I'm stuck in the past." "I don't know how to make sense of what's happened to me." “I don’t know who I am.” Sound familiar? If you've ever said these words to yourself (I know I certainly have), I invite you on a journey of discovering who you are beyond what you've had to do to survive; to turn toward your inner wisdom and strengths; to build connection with yourself and with others; and to recognize your self-value and self-worth as differentiated from what you do and what’s happened to you.
(267) 682-7866 View (267) 682-7866
Photo of Kelley Nolan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Nolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
In therapy, I believe creating a safe, open, and supportive space helps to foster healing and growth. My passion is to help children, teens, and young adults find their unique strengths and skills and use these to build self-confidence and determine their purpose in life. I understand that barriers & challenges can get in the way but my focus is to guide and empower my clients to trust their ability to make it through these challenges and develop healthy ways to cope.
In therapy, I believe creating a safe, open, and supportive space helps to foster healing and growth. My passion is to help children, teens, and young adults find their unique strengths and skills and use these to build self-confidence and determine their purpose in life. I understand that barriers & challenges can get in the way but my focus is to guide and empower my clients to trust their ability to make it through these challenges and develop healthy ways to cope.
(484) 428-6870 View (484) 428-6870
Photo of Marisol Alcantara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisol Alcantara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
Hi there! Are you feeling alone, stressed, confused, overwhelmed, hopeless or helpless? Do you feel you lost control of your life? Just remember that you are not alone. I am here to guide you and support you in the journey to learn identify, process, and overcome your challenges so that you can regain full control of your life. My goal is also to empower you to discover the capable, strong, and sufficient you that can defeat the anxiety, depression, or day-to-day life stress affecting you.
Hi there! Are you feeling alone, stressed, confused, overwhelmed, hopeless or helpless? Do you feel you lost control of your life? Just remember that you are not alone. I am here to guide you and support you in the journey to learn identify, process, and overcome your challenges so that you can regain full control of your life. My goal is also to empower you to discover the capable, strong, and sufficient you that can defeat the anxiety, depression, or day-to-day life stress affecting you.
(570) 678-1756 View (570) 678-1756
Photo of Kristin McMahon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin McMahon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
Hi everyone! My name is Kristin (she/her)! As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I love what I do! This includes working with clients to reach their goals, reinforce their strengths and work towards inner healing. I strive to utilize reflective listening, empathetic understanding and compassion with my clients to provide a safe enough environment where they can feel comfortable sharing with me in our therapy sessions. I utilize modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, but work towards an individualized treatment approach as each client is different!
Hi everyone! My name is Kristin (she/her)! As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I love what I do! This includes working with clients to reach their goals, reinforce their strengths and work towards inner healing. I strive to utilize reflective listening, empathetic understanding and compassion with my clients to provide a safe enough environment where they can feel comfortable sharing with me in our therapy sessions. I utilize modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, but work towards an individualized treatment approach as each client is different!
(484) 789-8953 View (484) 789-8953
Photo of Dr. Peter Thompson, EdD, LPC, CMPC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Peter Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CMPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Do anxiety, self-doubt, self-criticism, performance pressure, perfectionism, depression, or low self-confidence impact you or your child? I specialize in working with competitive athletes as well as young adults in their 20's & 30's who's thoughts, behaviors, & emotions limit their authentic expression, sense of well-being, performance potential & opportunities to flourish. In a safe, supportive environment I strategically guide my clients past what is troubling them while challenging and supporting them to realize their own self-worth, authenticity, and internal strength. In short, to help them Think, Do, and Feel Better.
Do anxiety, self-doubt, self-criticism, performance pressure, perfectionism, depression, or low self-confidence impact you or your child? I specialize in working with competitive athletes as well as young adults in their 20's & 30's who's thoughts, behaviors, & emotions limit their authentic expression, sense of well-being, performance potential & opportunities to flourish. In a safe, supportive environment I strategically guide my clients past what is troubling them while challenging and supporting them to realize their own self-worth, authenticity, and internal strength. In short, to help them Think, Do, and Feel Better.
(484) 214-2580 View (484) 214-2580
Photo of Rebecca Toddes-Miller, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Toddes-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples who are going through transitions, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and/or who are troubled by substance abuse. I also see many people who have chronic syndromes such as autoimmune disorders. I have a collaborative approach and a conversational style, and provide a safe and confidential place where people can share their story. I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to develop greater self awareness and skills to improve relationships, and to enhance coping and decision making skills so that they are in keeping with the client's values and goals.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples who are going through transitions, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and/or who are troubled by substance abuse. I also see many people who have chronic syndromes such as autoimmune disorders. I have a collaborative approach and a conversational style, and provide a safe and confidential place where people can share their story. I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to develop greater self awareness and skills to improve relationships, and to enhance coping and decision making skills so that they are in keeping with the client's values and goals.
(610) 594-1494 View (610) 594-1494
Photo of Sherry G Rubin, LCSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry G Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
My approach in working has always and continues to be holistic and strength-based, interactive and collaborative. Although I am not taking new clients for psychotherapy, I am offering supervision and consultation for mental health practitioners and yoga therapists. I have 20 years experience offering supervision and mentoring, and 40 years experience working directly with clients.
My approach in working has always and continues to be holistic and strength-based, interactive and collaborative. Although I am not taking new clients for psychotherapy, I am offering supervision and consultation for mental health practitioners and yoga therapists. I have 20 years experience offering supervision and mentoring, and 40 years experience working directly with clients.
(610) 915-8719 View (610) 915-8719
Photo of Andrea Morganstein, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
Current appt. availability on my website. People come to me because they are struggling and feel stuck. I specialize in working with adults and children/families who are challenged by anxiety, ADHD, or "Asperger's" but have experience with many different issues. My approach involves providing info about how the brain works, how to use it as your ally instead of an enemy, and how to find strength in the very things that challenge you. (ex: There are so many wonderful things about having ADHD!) I do this in the context of interpersonal relationships where we talk about things like identity and communication/conflict resolution skills.
Current appt. availability on my website. People come to me because they are struggling and feel stuck. I specialize in working with adults and children/families who are challenged by anxiety, ADHD, or "Asperger's" but have experience with many different issues. My approach involves providing info about how the brain works, how to use it as your ally instead of an enemy, and how to find strength in the very things that challenge you. (ex: There are so many wonderful things about having ADHD!) I do this in the context of interpersonal relationships where we talk about things like identity and communication/conflict resolution skills.
(610) 314-0799 View (610) 314-0799
1

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.