Somatic Therapists in Vaughan, ON
Reaching out for support in navigating your deepest concerns takes courage. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, or overwhelm from the heaviness of life’s challenges, searching for connection, or hoping to gain personal insight, I recognize how important it is to feel heard and understood. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed, and I will work alongside you with compassion and nonjudgment as we move through your healing journey. I implement a trauma-informed perspective and incorporate somatic practices into the therapeutic space as well.
Reaching out for support in navigating your deepest concerns takes courage. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, or overwhelm from the heaviness of life’s challenges, searching for connection, or hoping to gain personal insight, I recognize how important it is to feel heard and understood. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed, and I will work alongside you with compassion and nonjudgment as we move through your healing journey. I implement a trauma-informed perspective and incorporate somatic practices into the therapeutic space as well.
Justin Appler
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
I integrate mindfulness (staying grounded in the present moment), somatic techniques (listening to the wisdom of the body), and my knowledge of internal family systems therapy in my approach.
Modern life is full of uncertainty which is why I offer therapy seekers a safe space to journey from the life of their busy heads to the presence of their loving hearts. Through my compassionate and integrative approach, I help my clients access the vast power of their inner resources. Whether, you are struggling with a major life transition, dealing with a challenging relationship or significant loss, or the pain of trauma I will help you come to terms with your present reality and make meaningful changes to enhance your well-being and personal growth.
I integrate mindfulness (staying grounded in the present moment), somatic techniques (listening to the wisdom of the body), and my knowledge of internal family systems therapy in my approach.
Modern life is full of uncertainty which is why I offer therapy seekers a safe space to journey from the life of their busy heads to the presence of their loving hearts. Through my compassionate and integrative approach, I help my clients access the vast power of their inner resources. Whether, you are struggling with a major life transition, dealing with a challenging relationship or significant loss, or the pain of trauma I will help you come to terms with your present reality and make meaningful changes to enhance your well-being and personal growth.
I will do this by focusing on a range of therapeutic modalities, such as Psychoanalytic Therapy based on Object Relations Theory, Ego states Therapy (EST), Hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems(IFS), Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Based Therapy.
Your journey towards clarity, growth, and success matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way! Your improvement will be my priority, and I look forward to working with you to overcome your obstacles. Let's work together to turn your challenges into opportunities and your goals into achievements.
I will do this by focusing on a range of therapeutic modalities, such as Psychoanalytic Therapy based on Object Relations Theory, Ego states Therapy (EST), Hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems(IFS), Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Based Therapy.
Your journey towards clarity, growth, and success matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way! Your improvement will be my priority, and I look forward to working with you to overcome your obstacles. Let's work together to turn your challenges into opportunities and your goals into achievements.
Brain Healthy Clinic/Evelyne Keslassy
Pre-Licensed Professional, BAA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
I offer a client-centred somatic experience in my counselling with an emphasis on humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, helping clients who are stuck in their negative thinking, relationships, or other undesired behaviours.
I'm here to help you with your trauma-related challenges including anxiety, depression, anger, and grief, and to achieve more emotional regulation. Your body may be storing memories of unresolved experiences and trauma that have become the narrator of your negative thoughts, unsafe feelings, or negative coping behaviours. Processing early childhood experiences and their associated emotions in the mind-body will move you into a more conscious state of being with deeper awareness and self-compassion for healthier relationships and behaviours, and the capacity to live a more vibrant and balanced life that is self-directed with meaning.
I offer a client-centred somatic experience in my counselling with an emphasis on humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, helping clients who are stuck in their negative thinking, relationships, or other undesired behaviours.
I'm here to help you with your trauma-related challenges including anxiety, depression, anger, and grief, and to achieve more emotional regulation. Your body may be storing memories of unresolved experiences and trauma that have become the narrator of your negative thoughts, unsafe feelings, or negative coping behaviours. Processing early childhood experiences and their associated emotions in the mind-body will move you into a more conscious state of being with deeper awareness and self-compassion for healthier relationships and behaviours, and the capacity to live a more vibrant and balanced life that is self-directed with meaning.
Michael Szendrei
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Methods I use can include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychotherapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Strength-Based Therapy (SBT).
The clients who choose to work with me all want change, and I believe the path forward lies within us. I have experience working specifically with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, coping, infidelity, shame, and anger. I have supported clients ranging from high school-aged adolescents to senior populations. Our goals together can involve harnessing stronger emotional regulation, improving self-esteem, understanding the deeper meaning of behaviours and thought processes, or even decision making. Progress is a matter of reconciling what we possess inside to move ourselves forward.
Methods I use can include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychotherapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Strength-Based Therapy (SBT).
The clients who choose to work with me all want change, and I believe the path forward lies within us. I have experience working specifically with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, coping, infidelity, shame, and anger. I have supported clients ranging from high school-aged adolescents to senior populations. Our goals together can involve harnessing stronger emotional regulation, improving self-esteem, understanding the deeper meaning of behaviours and thought processes, or even decision making. Progress is a matter of reconciling what we possess inside to move ourselves forward.
Andrew Youssef
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MTS, MPS, PhD, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Are you seeking support to navigate life’s challenges, deepen your relationships, or find healing from past trauma? Specializing in individual and couples therapy, I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach tailored to your needs.
Whether you're struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, insomnia, life transitions, or religious trauma, I integrate a variety of models—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, & Psychospiritual Therapy—to guide you toward healing and self-discovery. My approach is flexible and holistic, so I can meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.
Are you seeking support to navigate life’s challenges, deepen your relationships, or find healing from past trauma? Specializing in individual and couples therapy, I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach tailored to your needs.
Whether you're struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, insomnia, life transitions, or religious trauma, I integrate a variety of models—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, & Psychospiritual Therapy—to guide you toward healing and self-discovery. My approach is flexible and holistic, so I can meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.
I also use somatic approaches (e.
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
I also use somatic approaches (e.
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
Jace Armstrong
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
I work from a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based modalities, including DBT, EFT, somatic practices, humanistic values, brief solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality.
As a registered social worker, psychotherapist, I specialize in couples therapy, supporting relationships through breakdowns, pre-marital transitions, and strengthening long-term partnerships. As a gay male therapist, I offer LGBTQ+ affirming counselling, providing an inclusive space for diverse identities and orientations. My expertise extends to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, or Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with a compassionate and mindfulness approach to managing emotional challenges. I also focus on men’s issues, exploring identity, masculinity, and overall well-being.
I work from a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based modalities, including DBT, EFT, somatic practices, humanistic values, brief solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality.
As a registered social worker, psychotherapist, I specialize in couples therapy, supporting relationships through breakdowns, pre-marital transitions, and strengthening long-term partnerships. As a gay male therapist, I offer LGBTQ+ affirming counselling, providing an inclusive space for diverse identities and orientations. My expertise extends to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, or Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with a compassionate and mindfulness approach to managing emotional challenges. I also focus on men’s issues, exploring identity, masculinity, and overall well-being.
Taylor Macaulay | Open Roads Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Free same-day consults available! I support adults and teens on the journey towards the things they want to see for themselves. Over the past few years I have worked with clients navigating concerns surrounding depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, relationships, grief, trauma, and general feelings of being "stuck." I use an eclectic approach that combines somatic work with self-compassion, CBT, DBT, and narrative theories to help find the most effective path towards desired client outcomes. Let's get connected today!
Free same-day consults available! I support adults and teens on the journey towards the things they want to see for themselves. Over the past few years I have worked with clients navigating concerns surrounding depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, relationships, grief, trauma, and general feelings of being "stuck." I use an eclectic approach that combines somatic work with self-compassion, CBT, DBT, and narrative theories to help find the most effective path towards desired client outcomes. Let's get connected today!
Alicia Aquino-Mandel
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
My goal is to turn off the "Auto-Pilot" and begin living presently by using psychodynamic/ somatic interventions to help clients dig deep.
Accepting clients! On the surface, you may be experiencing a variety of symptoms that are causing you to feel dysfunctional, unable to manage or cope with your every day life. These symptoms are not only impacting the way you feel, but in the way you’re functioning and interacting with everyone and everything else in your life. You are struggling to put words to the pain and unsure of where to begin. You want to have functionality, fulfillment and happiness but it feels so out of reach. You want to get to a place of deeper understanding to cope and regulate better, and go from surviving to living. Welcome to your journey.
My goal is to turn off the "Auto-Pilot" and begin living presently by using psychodynamic/ somatic interventions to help clients dig deep.
Accepting clients! On the surface, you may be experiencing a variety of symptoms that are causing you to feel dysfunctional, unable to manage or cope with your every day life. These symptoms are not only impacting the way you feel, but in the way you’re functioning and interacting with everyone and everything else in your life. You are struggling to put words to the pain and unsure of where to begin. You want to have functionality, fulfillment and happiness but it feels so out of reach. You want to get to a place of deeper understanding to cope and regulate better, and go from surviving to living. Welcome to your journey.
Svitlana Chechel
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Using somatic, behavioral, and cognitive techniques, we’ll address daily challenges while working on healing, growth, and managing symptoms by uncovering root causes.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders. I understand that struggles are rarely isolated and that seeking help takes immense courage. With a deep respect for the mind-body connection, I take a collaborative approach to healing.
Together, we’ll address trauma and mental health challenges using somatic, behavioral, and cognitive techniques. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can share, reflect, and heal.
For over 8 years, I’ve helped individuals build resilience, find happiness, and feel truly heard and understood.
Using somatic, behavioral, and cognitive techniques, we’ll address daily challenges while working on healing, growth, and managing symptoms by uncovering root causes.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders. I understand that struggles are rarely isolated and that seeking help takes immense courage. With a deep respect for the mind-body connection, I take a collaborative approach to healing.
Together, we’ll address trauma and mental health challenges using somatic, behavioral, and cognitive techniques. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can share, reflect, and heal.
For over 8 years, I’ve helped individuals build resilience, find happiness, and feel truly heard and understood.
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I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, RODBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples & Somatic Experiencing; I am also a Mindful Eating Practitioner and can work with you to regain a healthy relationship with food and your body.
At times, your way of being is inconsistent with your goals & desires. You may need help understanding your current thoughts & behaviour patterns. Relationships can be tough, Life can be challenging. Your relationships with others, & with yourself effect everything in your life; including the choices you make & how you interact with others. We can all use the support and guidance of someone who will not judge, & will help you find insight, gain clarity, &work with you to discover the perspective and tools you need to move forward &take charge of your life.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, RODBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples & Somatic Experiencing; I am also a Mindful Eating Practitioner and can work with you to regain a healthy relationship with food and your body.
At times, your way of being is inconsistent with your goals & desires. You may need help understanding your current thoughts & behaviour patterns. Relationships can be tough, Life can be challenging. Your relationships with others, & with yourself effect everything in your life; including the choices you make & how you interact with others. We can all use the support and guidance of someone who will not judge, & will help you find insight, gain clarity, &work with you to discover the perspective and tools you need to move forward &take charge of your life.
Daniella Haddad
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BFA, DKATI, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I believe in the transformative power of connection, seeing healing as inherently relational. My approach emphasizes community, creativity, and play, promoting curiosity and openness. I also understand how well-being is linked to context, environment, and history, alongside systemic factors. As an Arab woman, my cultural identity and lived experience guide my commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, culturally sensitive care as I walk beside you. While using a range of tools (e.g., art, somatic and breath work), I aim to co-create a safe, supportive space that empowers you to reframe challenges and find new paths to wellness.
I believe in the transformative power of connection, seeing healing as inherently relational. My approach emphasizes community, creativity, and play, promoting curiosity and openness. I also understand how well-being is linked to context, environment, and history, alongside systemic factors. As an Arab woman, my cultural identity and lived experience guide my commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, culturally sensitive care as I walk beside you. While using a range of tools (e.g., art, somatic and breath work), I aim to co-create a safe, supportive space that empowers you to reframe challenges and find new paths to wellness.
I combine neurobiologically-informed modalities including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and trauma-informed CBT to help my clients integrate the pain of their past and move from stuckness to wellness.
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
I combine neurobiologically-informed modalities including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and trauma-informed CBT to help my clients integrate the pain of their past and move from stuckness to wellness.
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
I utilize evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, IFS, CBT, DBT and Somatic approaches.
You might be feeling hurt, angry, and uncertain after being betrayed by someone close to you. Are you struggling with sexual concerns that are affecting your relationships, causing you to feel disconnected from your partner, and alone? When we are faced with feelings of distrust, resentment, guilt, or shame, the hope for change can seem far away. Therapy can provide a safe place for you to identify these feelings, identify the root causes, and feel empowered.
I utilize evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, IFS, CBT, DBT and Somatic approaches.
You might be feeling hurt, angry, and uncertain after being betrayed by someone close to you. Are you struggling with sexual concerns that are affecting your relationships, causing you to feel disconnected from your partner, and alone? When we are faced with feelings of distrust, resentment, guilt, or shame, the hope for change can seem far away. Therapy can provide a safe place for you to identify these feelings, identify the root causes, and feel empowered.
I specialize in a blend of EMDR, neurofeedback, ego state and somatic therapy to target anxiety, depression, PTSD and attachment trauma.
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
I specialize in a blend of EMDR, neurofeedback, ego state and somatic therapy to target anxiety, depression, PTSD and attachment trauma.
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
Emily Hostland
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, ExAT, DTATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A
I offer individual therapy informed by a variety of approaches including internal family systems, somatic, existentialism, systems theory, feminist theory, neuroscience, polyvagal theory, expressive arts therapy and psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Do you feel a sense of yearning… for change, to understand yourself, to understand why certain challenges keep arising, and how to build a more meaningful and enjoyable life for yourself? I know this yearning is a resource, and it shows your capacity and curiousity to learn and care for yourself. I offer space to connect to yourself in a meaningful way, to overcome challenging and traumatic experiences with compassion and support, and to realize your full capacity. I am here to offer a way through. You don’t have to do it on your own. My role is to help guide you to find what works and what’s helpful.
I offer individual therapy informed by a variety of approaches including internal family systems, somatic, existentialism, systems theory, feminist theory, neuroscience, polyvagal theory, expressive arts therapy and psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Do you feel a sense of yearning… for change, to understand yourself, to understand why certain challenges keep arising, and how to build a more meaningful and enjoyable life for yourself? I know this yearning is a resource, and it shows your capacity and curiousity to learn and care for yourself. I offer space to connect to yourself in a meaningful way, to overcome challenging and traumatic experiences with compassion and support, and to realize your full capacity. I am here to offer a way through. You don’t have to do it on your own. My role is to help guide you to find what works and what’s helpful.
I am certified in and train on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Clinical Hypnotherapy, EFT, TIME Techniques, and somatic healing.
Are you overcome with guilt about your addiction and behaviours? Maybe you find yourself saying that it was the last time...only to find yourself relapsing. Choosing the right specialist is essential to your recovery. As an internationally certified addiction counsellor and holistic health practitioner, I have helped hundreds of individuals and families treat addiction and heal unhealthy patterns. Using evidence-based therapeutic methods, I’ll work with you to create a recovery path that fits your lifestyle and goals. Recovery means something different to everyone. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
I am certified in and train on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Clinical Hypnotherapy, EFT, TIME Techniques, and somatic healing.
Are you overcome with guilt about your addiction and behaviours? Maybe you find yourself saying that it was the last time...only to find yourself relapsing. Choosing the right specialist is essential to your recovery. As an internationally certified addiction counsellor and holistic health practitioner, I have helped hundreds of individuals and families treat addiction and heal unhealthy patterns. Using evidence-based therapeutic methods, I’ll work with you to create a recovery path that fits your lifestyle and goals. Recovery means something different to everyone. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
Talk-only therapy limits our healing process as so much of our automatic responses are mediated by the unconscious mind and live at the body-level! I use experiential and neurobiologically-based modalities such as EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy to help my clients re-organize their nervous system and core beliefs.
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
Talk-only therapy limits our healing process as so much of our automatic responses are mediated by the unconscious mind and live at the body-level! I use experiential and neurobiologically-based modalities such as EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy to help my clients re-organize their nervous system and core beliefs.
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
Lauren Jin Yong Schneider
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, BASc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I take a trauma-informed approach that draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, somatic experiencing, and Gottman therapy.
Taking the first step to seek help can feel overwhelming, and my priority is to create a welcoming, supportive space where you feel heard, safe, and respected. Together, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing and develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults, as well as couple therapy for those seeking to strengthen their relationships and work towards meaningful, positive change.
I take a trauma-informed approach that draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, somatic experiencing, and Gottman therapy.
Taking the first step to seek help can feel overwhelming, and my priority is to create a welcoming, supportive space where you feel heard, safe, and respected. Together, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing and develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults, as well as couple therapy for those seeking to strengthen their relationships and work towards meaningful, positive change.
See more therapy options for Vaughan
Nearby Somatic Counsellors Searches for Vaughan
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Somatic Counsellors
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.