Somatic Therapists in DFW, TX
Mentally Healthier, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
DFW, TX 75261 (Online Only)
I have 8 years of experience in helping people using Cognitive Behavioral (top down), Somatic Experiencing (Bottom up), EMDR, and some Ego-State interventions.
Do you have persistent memories of something that happened to you a long time ago? Does something that someone said to you still echo in your mind? Do you feel the grip of anxiety nearly all the time, and have found very few healthy things that can make that anxiety stop? You are not alone, and I have helped many people that have experienced very similar things. This tragically is a very common problem, and there is not a pharmaceutical long-term answer for any of it. That is because it is not a biological problem. It may be a journey that takes time and really hard work to resolve.
I have 8 years of experience in helping people using Cognitive Behavioral (top down), Somatic Experiencing (Bottom up), EMDR, and some Ego-State interventions.
Do you have persistent memories of something that happened to you a long time ago? Does something that someone said to you still echo in your mind? Do you feel the grip of anxiety nearly all the time, and have found very few healthy things that can make that anxiety stop? You are not alone, and I have helped many people that have experienced very similar things. This tragically is a very common problem, and there is not a pharmaceutical long-term answer for any of it. That is because it is not a biological problem. It may be a journey that takes time and really hard work to resolve.
Laura Wright Quintanar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RYT 200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DFW, TX 75261
These include EMDR, body-centered and somatic psychology, internal family systems therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, therapeutic yoga interventions, and nature-based therapy.
Schedule your initial consult here: unearthed.janeapp.com Laura Wright Quintanar is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor based in Keller, Texas. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling, complemented by her training as a Yoga Teacher, Laura brings a comprehensive + holistic perspective to her practice. If you’re navigating trauma, relationship challenges, parenting issues, or dealing with anxiety and depression, Laura fosters a safe and nurturing environment to support your healing and personal growth. She also provides valuable supervision for LPC Associates.
These include EMDR, body-centered and somatic psychology, internal family systems therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, therapeutic yoga interventions, and nature-based therapy.
Schedule your initial consult here: unearthed.janeapp.com Laura Wright Quintanar is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor based in Keller, Texas. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling, complemented by her training as a Yoga Teacher, Laura brings a comprehensive + holistic perspective to her practice. If you’re navigating trauma, relationship challenges, parenting issues, or dealing with anxiety and depression, Laura fosters a safe and nurturing environment to support your healing and personal growth. She also provides valuable supervision for LPC Associates.
Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW
Verified Verified
DFW, TX 75261 (Online Only)
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As an experienced behavioral specialist, I am committed to offering extensive support for a variety of challenges that you or your family may be facing. My specialty is nurturing personal well-being, catering to both individuals and families. With the goal of steering you towards realizing your full potential, I am honored to possess dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Over my expansive career spanning more than 25 years in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have gained priceless experience.
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As an experienced behavioral specialist, I am committed to offering extensive support for a variety of challenges that you or your family may be facing. My specialty is nurturing personal well-being, catering to both individuals and families. With the goal of steering you towards realizing your full potential, I am honored to possess dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Over my expansive career spanning more than 25 years in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have gained priceless experience.
Katerina Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
DFW, TX 75261 (Online Only)
I am available for Walk & Talk Therapy in South and Central Austin. Are you finding yourself in repeated conflicts with your partner or loved ones? Do you notice that past wounds resurface in the heat of an argument or leave you feeling unseen, insecure, or overwhelmed? Perhaps your relationship with your parents or children brings up difficult emotions and old patterns you thought were long buried. Together, we will explore how your past is showing up in your present, uncover the root causes of emotional pain, and work to create healthier relationships.
I am available for Walk & Talk Therapy in South and Central Austin. Are you finding yourself in repeated conflicts with your partner or loved ones? Do you notice that past wounds resurface in the heat of an argument or leave you feeling unseen, insecure, or overwhelmed? Perhaps your relationship with your parents or children brings up difficult emotions and old patterns you thought were long buried. Together, we will explore how your past is showing up in your present, uncover the root causes of emotional pain, and work to create healthier relationships.
More Therapists Nearby
I offer somatic and mindfulness-based therapies blended with cognitive processing tools to support your healing.
Has your life journey become arduous and painful? When feeling desperate and alone, it is only natural to seek support. I am here to guide you in redefining your core beliefs, so that you may find inner peace, deepen self-worth and develop healthy relationships. I will help you root out the beliefs and perspectives you formed at a young age which may have kept you safe then, but have become unhelpful and maladaptive for your life today.
I offer somatic and mindfulness-based therapies blended with cognitive processing tools to support your healing.
Has your life journey become arduous and painful? When feeling desperate and alone, it is only natural to seek support. I am here to guide you in redefining your core beliefs, so that you may find inner peace, deepen self-worth and develop healthy relationships. I will help you root out the beliefs and perspectives you formed at a young age which may have kept you safe then, but have become unhelpful and maladaptive for your life today.
Hannah Brents
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MTS
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019 (Online Only)
Is purity culture or religious messaging preventing you from dating, sex, and healthy relationships? Do you feel panicked before a date, uninterested in physical intimacy, or embarrassed to say you're still a virgin? I help millennials like you by using a holistic approach to therapy. I combine CBT, IFS therapy, mindfulness, and somatic practices like nervous system regulation to heal at the root of your issues; cultivate self compassion; create new, healthy relationships; and step into your sexual liberation era. I also offer CPT Intensives if you want to heal NOW without spending months in the traditional therapy model.
Is purity culture or religious messaging preventing you from dating, sex, and healthy relationships? Do you feel panicked before a date, uninterested in physical intimacy, or embarrassed to say you're still a virgin? I help millennials like you by using a holistic approach to therapy. I combine CBT, IFS therapy, mindfulness, and somatic practices like nervous system regulation to heal at the root of your issues; cultivate self compassion; create new, healthy relationships; and step into your sexual liberation era. I also offer CPT Intensives if you want to heal NOW without spending months in the traditional therapy model.
Erin Wysong-Warren
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT, SEP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
Waitlist for new clients
Some modalities I use include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing (SE).
If you struggle with sexually compulsive behaviors, sexual addiction, or have a partner who has caused devastation in your life, I can help. Trying to stop compulsive behaviors on your own is difficult, and you may find yourself failing and experiencing shame because you don't have the tools you need. Whether these compulsive behaviors come from being betrayed by a partner, experiencing PTSD, being enmeshed with a partner or parent, or grieving a divorce, I can teach you the necessary skills to handle life's challenges. I'm passionate about my work and want to help you.
Some modalities I use include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing (SE).
If you struggle with sexually compulsive behaviors, sexual addiction, or have a partner who has caused devastation in your life, I can help. Trying to stop compulsive behaviors on your own is difficult, and you may find yourself failing and experiencing shame because you don't have the tools you need. Whether these compulsive behaviors come from being betrayed by a partner, experiencing PTSD, being enmeshed with a partner or parent, or grieving a divorce, I can teach you the necessary skills to handle life's challenges. I'm passionate about my work and want to help you.
Meghan Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75039 (Online Only)
I use a holistic approach which includes tapping, yoga, guided meditation, art, and somatic parts work.
Do loud, anxious thoughts and feelings of restlessness or being on edge take up your energy daily? Does it seem like you can't stop bullying yourself? Most of my clients struggle with "big" emotions, fear abandonment, and often blow up at others. Drinking, smoking, shopping, and sex is how they often impulsively self-soothe. Relationships are often difficult to create and keep due to past sexual, family, and religious traumas that are coming out as intense thoughts, feelings, and actions that feel hard to stop. If you overthink, feel guilt, shame, self-loathing, and exhaustion most of the time, change is possible.
I use a holistic approach which includes tapping, yoga, guided meditation, art, and somatic parts work.
Do loud, anxious thoughts and feelings of restlessness or being on edge take up your energy daily? Does it seem like you can't stop bullying yourself? Most of my clients struggle with "big" emotions, fear abandonment, and often blow up at others. Drinking, smoking, shopping, and sex is how they often impulsively self-soothe. Relationships are often difficult to create and keep due to past sexual, family, and religious traumas that are coming out as intense thoughts, feelings, and actions that feel hard to stop. If you overthink, feel guilt, shame, self-loathing, and exhaustion most of the time, change is possible.
Holistic Approach to Mental Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75061
Whose life has not been touched by loss or trauma? It differs in intensity and complexity. Tired of old patterns that end up with similar results...depression, estrangement, addiction, sleep problems, nightmares, anger, denial, guilt, regret, shame and/or fear? With varying benefits and risks, I have seen time and time again the benefits of therapy. Holistic-oriented EMDR psychotherapist, Mindfulness and Somatic/body-oriented therapist, and Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health. Initial phone consultation is free! Telehealth (telephonic and video sessions). https://www.holisticapproachmentalhealth.net/
Whose life has not been touched by loss or trauma? It differs in intensity and complexity. Tired of old patterns that end up with similar results...depression, estrangement, addiction, sleep problems, nightmares, anger, denial, guilt, regret, shame and/or fear? With varying benefits and risks, I have seen time and time again the benefits of therapy. Holistic-oriented EMDR psychotherapist, Mindfulness and Somatic/body-oriented therapist, and Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health. Initial phone consultation is free! Telehealth (telephonic and video sessions). https://www.holisticapproachmentalhealth.net/
Anusha Atmakuri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Coppell, TX 75019 (Online Only)
I offer a unique blend of both CBT and somatic work (aka holistic healing via the mind-body connection) that paves the way for sustainable healing that lasts beyond the therapy room! Through our collaborative work, you will gain the necessary tools to become more self-aware and heal your emotional wounds so you can re-gain the control to live authentically.
I empower low-self esteem, anxious people pleasers learn to heal, break cycles, and strengthen relationships. Are you tired of your negative thoughts about yourself, have a hard time communicating in a way you feel heard and validated, and/or want change but feel stuck? Then you are in the right place. As my client, you will learn how to heal the root cause of your issues, break unhelpful cycles, and strengthen your relationship to yourself and to your loved ones through learning and practicing new skills. We will collaborate together because while you may seek me out for my expertise, YOU are the expert on your life.
I offer a unique blend of both CBT and somatic work (aka holistic healing via the mind-body connection) that paves the way for sustainable healing that lasts beyond the therapy room! Through our collaborative work, you will gain the necessary tools to become more self-aware and heal your emotional wounds so you can re-gain the control to live authentically.
I empower low-self esteem, anxious people pleasers learn to heal, break cycles, and strengthen relationships. Are you tired of your negative thoughts about yourself, have a hard time communicating in a way you feel heard and validated, and/or want change but feel stuck? Then you are in the right place. As my client, you will learn how to heal the root cause of your issues, break unhelpful cycles, and strengthen your relationship to yourself and to your loved ones through learning and practicing new skills. We will collaborate together because while you may seek me out for my expertise, YOU are the expert on your life.
Jennifer Shonkwiler
MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Waitlist for new clients
Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.`` - Khalil Gibran My ideal clients are willing to look at the somatic elements of who they are, become more mindful of their internal sensations and return to the present moment. They'll begin to understand that change can happen, that they can become unstuck, and find healing and growth. "The greatest thing then, in all education, is to make our nervous system our ally as opposed to our enemy." - William James
Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.`` - Khalil Gibran My ideal clients are willing to look at the somatic elements of who they are, become more mindful of their internal sensations and return to the present moment. They'll begin to understand that change can happen, that they can become unstuck, and find healing and growth. "The greatest thing then, in all education, is to make our nervous system our ally as opposed to our enemy." - William James
Maryam Munis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75039 (Online Only)
Using a combination of EMDR and somatic techniques, we’ll work through the thoughts and feelings that might be holding you back.
Welcome, sweet soul. If you’re a South Asian woman who feels torn between staying true to yourself and fitting into the expectations of others, you’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves sacrificing authenticity for the sake of attachment and being liked in our relationships. As a Pakistani Muslim therapist, I’m here to help you navigate these challenges. We’ll work together to understand these feelings and use techniques like EMDR and somatic practices to help you reconnect with who you truly are. Let’s find a balance where you can feel authentic and valued, both by yourself and others.
Using a combination of EMDR and somatic techniques, we’ll work through the thoughts and feelings that might be holding you back.
Welcome, sweet soul. If you’re a South Asian woman who feels torn between staying true to yourself and fitting into the expectations of others, you’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves sacrificing authenticity for the sake of attachment and being liked in our relationships. As a Pakistani Muslim therapist, I’m here to help you navigate these challenges. We’ll work together to understand these feelings and use techniques like EMDR and somatic practices to help you reconnect with who you truly are. Let’s find a balance where you can feel authentic and valued, both by yourself and others.
I have specialized experience in play therapy for children and somatic-based therapy for adults and adolescents with histories of trauma.
I co-own and work as a therapist at Radish Counseling, a small holistic counseling practice rooted in acceptance, trust, and companionship. My practice serves adults, adolescents, and children of all ages. I believe that when my clients are fully accepted and understood by others, they begin discovering self-acceptance and move toward healing. My therapy style is nurturing and relationship centered, always trusting that everything my clients need to heal is already within them. I am here as a companion who helps my clients move toward greater self-understanding and self-acceptance, honoring all parts of my clients' identities.
I have specialized experience in play therapy for children and somatic-based therapy for adults and adolescents with histories of trauma.
I co-own and work as a therapist at Radish Counseling, a small holistic counseling practice rooted in acceptance, trust, and companionship. My practice serves adults, adolescents, and children of all ages. I believe that when my clients are fully accepted and understood by others, they begin discovering self-acceptance and move toward healing. My therapy style is nurturing and relationship centered, always trusting that everything my clients need to heal is already within them. I am here as a companion who helps my clients move toward greater self-understanding and self-acceptance, honoring all parts of my clients' identities.
Linda Doutre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LMFT, LPC, CBT, ETT
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
Somatic therapy (Bioenergetics) for the body, ETT, color and light therapy to reorganize behavior patterns and sound resonance to calm the nervous system.
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy. I have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; I provide couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
Somatic therapy (Bioenergetics) for the body, ETT, color and light therapy to reorganize behavior patterns and sound resonance to calm the nervous system.
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy. I have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; I provide couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
Becca Little Alley
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
I have training in child-centered play therapy, and somatic-based therapy.
I work at Radish Counseling, a small holistic counseling practice rooted in acceptance, trust, and companionship. My practice serves adults, children, adolescents, and teenagers of all ages. I strive for alignment with myself and my clients through a person-centered approach, focused on compassion, collaboration and empathy. Relationship is the vehicle for growth and change, so I prioritize it with unconditional acceptance of our clients at the center. I believe that resiliency and the ability to grow already exists within my clients. My job is to walk alongside them as they access these existing tools.
I have training in child-centered play therapy, and somatic-based therapy.
I work at Radish Counseling, a small holistic counseling practice rooted in acceptance, trust, and companionship. My practice serves adults, children, adolescents, and teenagers of all ages. I strive for alignment with myself and my clients through a person-centered approach, focused on compassion, collaboration and empathy. Relationship is the vehicle for growth and change, so I prioritize it with unconditional acceptance of our clients at the center. I believe that resiliency and the ability to grow already exists within my clients. My job is to walk alongside them as they access these existing tools.
Harper Carfa
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
To do this, I use an eclectic approach, utilizing different modalities such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, and CBT to best meet your needs.
Welcome! My name is Harper and I am passionate and dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and learn how to thrive. My ideal client is someone who resonates with a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. You understand that true healing involves addressing not only psychological symptoms but also considering physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of your well-being. You seek a therapist who views you as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms, and who can help you cultivate balance and resilience in all areas of your life.
To do this, I use an eclectic approach, utilizing different modalities such as Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, and CBT to best meet your needs.
Welcome! My name is Harper and I am passionate and dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and learn how to thrive. My ideal client is someone who resonates with a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. You understand that true healing involves addressing not only psychological symptoms but also considering physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of your well-being. You seek a therapist who views you as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms, and who can help you cultivate balance and resilience in all areas of your life.
Charla Janecka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA MFT, LPC, EMDRt
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I work with clients to help heal by re-processing past pain & trauma by fusing the clinical, practical and spiritual to heal the mind, body, soul & spirit. Every person is unique, so we find the modality that works best for you. I am Trauma trained in EMDR, practice SRI and somatic experience. I see minors, married, partners, and adults in crisis. I help clients discover and develop in identity, restore their voice and renew purpose as they heal. I believe that when we do by intention what we have been doing by intuition, acceleration occurs. I am faith based, but work with secular clients as well.
I work with clients to help heal by re-processing past pain & trauma by fusing the clinical, practical and spiritual to heal the mind, body, soul & spirit. Every person is unique, so we find the modality that works best for you. I am Trauma trained in EMDR, practice SRI and somatic experience. I see minors, married, partners, and adults in crisis. I help clients discover and develop in identity, restore their voice and renew purpose as they heal. I believe that when we do by intention what we have been doing by intuition, acceleration occurs. I am faith based, but work with secular clients as well.
Melissa White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012 (Online Only)
I utilize modalities like Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Work, and love to incorporate the Enneagram.
I have found that my love for adventure and exploration has bled into the work I like to do in therapy. I struggle with "surface level" in the same way I have always struggled with small talk. I want to go deeper into what has shaped the lives of others and how this has impacted their current level of functioning. Ideally, I want to work with people who are interested in doing the same. The ones who are ready to take the ride and see what lies beneath. Within us is an entire universe of possibility, you just have to be open to it.
I utilize modalities like Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Work, and love to incorporate the Enneagram.
I have found that my love for adventure and exploration has bled into the work I like to do in therapy. I struggle with "surface level" in the same way I have always struggled with small talk. I want to go deeper into what has shaped the lives of others and how this has impacted their current level of functioning. Ideally, I want to work with people who are interested in doing the same. The ones who are ready to take the ride and see what lies beneath. Within us is an entire universe of possibility, you just have to be open to it.
Jason Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Jason adopts an integrative and holistic approach to therapy drawing from various modalities (EMDR, ART, CBT, Somatic).
Jason Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor focusing on trauma counseling, and individual and marriage/family relationships. As a former police officer and military veteran, Jason brings a unique blend to the therapeutic process and his understanding of the trauma and struggles First Responders go through. Jason also has several professional certifications including Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) –Master ART Clinician, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Jason adopts an integrative and holistic approach to therapy drawing from various modalities (EMDR, ART, CBT, Somatic).
Jason Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor focusing on trauma counseling, and individual and marriage/family relationships. As a former police officer and military veteran, Jason brings a unique blend to the therapeutic process and his understanding of the trauma and struggles First Responders go through. Jason also has several professional certifications including Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) –Master ART Clinician, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Ben C Salicco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Ben also incorporates Somatic Experiencing® into his practice as he is a SE practitioner in training.
Maintaining relationships, managing a family, keeping friends and regulate your emotions may feel impossible at times. Learning skills and strategies to help regulate your emotions can be done with a counselor. Ben has experience helping individuals and couples find balance and peace in their lives through assisting with identifying meaning and articulating goals. You don't have to be a prisoner of your emotional life forever. There is hope!! Finding peace in difficult situations is possible. If you are struggling with emotional problems there is likely a solution, don't suffer alone. visit www.bensalicco.com
Ben also incorporates Somatic Experiencing® into his practice as he is a SE practitioner in training.
Maintaining relationships, managing a family, keeping friends and regulate your emotions may feel impossible at times. Learning skills and strategies to help regulate your emotions can be done with a counselor. Ben has experience helping individuals and couples find balance and peace in their lives through assisting with identifying meaning and articulating goals. You don't have to be a prisoner of your emotional life forever. There is hope!! Finding peace in difficult situations is possible. If you are struggling with emotional problems there is likely a solution, don't suffer alone. visit www.bensalicco.com
See more therapy options for DFW
Nearby Somatic Therapists Searches for DFW
- Arlington
- Colleyville
- Coppell
- Euless
- Farmers Branch
- Flower Mound
- Grand Prairie
- Grapevine
- Hurst
- Irving
- North Richland Hills
- Southlake
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.