Photo of Zana Becker, Counsellor & Art Therapist, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Zana Becker, Counsellor & Art Therapist
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RCAT, CCPA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6L
At times I will use DBT and somatic frameworks.
Currently you may feel as if you are in a place of hopelessness, depression, experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed with few resources to draw upon for help. Collaborative through counselling and/or art therapy we can explore and rediscover your internal resources finding your inner resilience and strength; exploring answers to your feelings, inner turmoil and questions. Answers you might seek are how do I deal with the pit in my stomach, or why do I feel so anxious all the time and why can’t I sleep through the night; what is my body trying to tell me?
At times I will use DBT and somatic frameworks.
Currently you may feel as if you are in a place of hopelessness, depression, experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed with few resources to draw upon for help. Collaborative through counselling and/or art therapy we can explore and rediscover your internal resources finding your inner resilience and strength; exploring answers to your feelings, inner turmoil and questions. Answers you might seek are how do I deal with the pit in my stomach, or why do I feel so anxious all the time and why can’t I sleep through the night; what is my body trying to tell me?
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Photo of Michele Kambolis, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Michele Kambolis
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J  (Online Only)
I specialize in meditation, somatic psychotherapy, biofeedback, EMDR, emotional freedom techniques, integrative nutrition, and other methods to expand the potential of your mind and body.
Dr. Michele Kambolis is an acclaimed author, speaker, and holistic therapist with 25 years of experience in the field. She holds a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine. Her evidenced-based resources will set you on a path of self-healing, inner wisdom, and profound mind-body health. Her approach is fresh, empowering, and genuine. Michele is the owner and clinical director of Harbourside Family Counseling Centre, served as Vice Chair for the B.C. Mental Health Foundation, and was twice President of the B.C. Association For Play Therapy. She is also the author of two celebrated books: When Women Rise and Generation Stressed.
I specialize in meditation, somatic psychotherapy, biofeedback, EMDR, emotional freedom techniques, integrative nutrition, and other methods to expand the potential of your mind and body.
Dr. Michele Kambolis is an acclaimed author, speaker, and holistic therapist with 25 years of experience in the field. She holds a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine. Her evidenced-based resources will set you on a path of self-healing, inner wisdom, and profound mind-body health. Her approach is fresh, empowering, and genuine. Michele is the owner and clinical director of Harbourside Family Counseling Centre, served as Vice Chair for the B.C. Mental Health Foundation, and was twice President of the B.C. Association For Play Therapy. She is also the author of two celebrated books: When Women Rise and Generation Stressed.
(866) 330-2975 View (866) 330-2975
Photo of Tajinder Sangara, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Tajinder Sangara
Counsellor, BED, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5R
My approach integrates strengths-based Client-Centred Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based therapies, and somatic therapy.
Are you or your loved one struggling with daily stress, anxiety or depression in this difficult time? You may be experiencing loneliness from isolation, loss of a loved one, physical health challenges and/or emotional pain, or relationship issues. Allow me the privilege to help support you in your time of need. I am a compassionate therapist who is committed to developing healthy individuals, families and communities. I work collaboratively with clients to instil hope; embracing their personal stories, strengths, multicultural and diverse backgrounds. Healing the body, mind and spirit to build healthy individuals.
My approach integrates strengths-based Client-Centred Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based therapies, and somatic therapy.
Are you or your loved one struggling with daily stress, anxiety or depression in this difficult time? You may be experiencing loneliness from isolation, loss of a loved one, physical health challenges and/or emotional pain, or relationship issues. Allow me the privilege to help support you in your time of need. I am a compassionate therapist who is committed to developing healthy individuals, families and communities. I work collaboratively with clients to instil hope; embracing their personal stories, strengths, multicultural and diverse backgrounds. Healing the body, mind and spirit to build healthy individuals.
(604) 670-4073 View (604) 670-4073
Photo of Ellen Yang, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Ellen Yang
Counsellor, PhD(c), RCC, RCS, RETA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
I provide an integrated and interdisciplinary approach to counselling and somatic psychotherapy.
Are you feeling frustrated, empty, or alone? Obtaining empathetic care and support can help you dealing with what you are going through right now. Also, building tools for dealing with life’s challenges and gaining new insights through creativity and self-actualization will bring fulfillment to your life. I can offer you personalized, compassionate and respectful support. I specialize in: (1) stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or low self-esteem. (2) emotional support and changing undesirable behaviours. (3) self-growth, empowerment, and wellbeing. (4) autism and other developmental differences. (5) clinical supervision.
I provide an integrated and interdisciplinary approach to counselling and somatic psychotherapy.
Are you feeling frustrated, empty, or alone? Obtaining empathetic care and support can help you dealing with what you are going through right now. Also, building tools for dealing with life’s challenges and gaining new insights through creativity and self-actualization will bring fulfillment to your life. I can offer you personalized, compassionate and respectful support. I specialize in: (1) stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or low self-esteem. (2) emotional support and changing undesirable behaviours. (3) self-growth, empowerment, and wellbeing. (4) autism and other developmental differences. (5) clinical supervision.
(778) 860-4893 View (778) 860-4893
Photo of Juliette Anglehart Zedda, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Juliette Anglehart Anglehart Zedda
Counsellor, CCC, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Sometimes healing needs to happen first (EMDR, Expressive arts, Somatic (Rolfing) CBT, Yoga).
I WELCOME ALL OF YOU who are ready to make deep and lasting changes in your life to find fulfillment, meaning, new skills and appreciation. I believe that each one of us is on a journey of recovery, healing, repairing, growing and learning how to manifest authentically and creatively. I also believe that the individual personal work we do directly impacts those in our life and our society at large. I know that we need to be connected to our families, neighbours, communities to find health. Similarly, we need to honour our land, our resources and all sentient beings. I look forward to meeting you in person or at a distance.
Sometimes healing needs to happen first (EMDR, Expressive arts, Somatic (Rolfing) CBT, Yoga).
I WELCOME ALL OF YOU who are ready to make deep and lasting changes in your life to find fulfillment, meaning, new skills and appreciation. I believe that each one of us is on a journey of recovery, healing, repairing, growing and learning how to manifest authentically and creatively. I also believe that the individual personal work we do directly impacts those in our life and our society at large. I know that we need to be connected to our families, neighbours, communities to find health. Similarly, we need to honour our land, our resources and all sentient beings. I look forward to meeting you in person or at a distance.
(867) 335-6216 View (867) 335-6216
Photo of John-Michael Parra, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
John-Michael Parra
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6M
The techniques I use include Somatic Experiencing ® trauma therapy, Internal Family Systems, coaching, and outdoor counselling.
We are living through a strange and difficult time. Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
The techniques I use include Somatic Experiencing ® trauma therapy, Internal Family Systems, coaching, and outdoor counselling.
We are living through a strange and difficult time. Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
(604) 670-8354 View (604) 670-8354
Photo of Luke Lee Burton, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Luke Lee Burton
Counsellor, MMT, MTA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
Following the lead of your needs and desires, we’ll use music, holistic assessment (looking at all parts of your life), coaching, cultivating relationships with inner resources (inner child, higher power, symbols, etc…), somatic work and whole host of other tools that may rise in service of your journey.
Do you yearn to break free and yet feel held down by a heavy weight? Do you feel like the flow of life is blocked by a sense of depression and anxiety? Do you long to feel lighter and more alive? Do you have dreams about growing and coming into yourself, and yet feel mostly ruled by fear and insecurities? Do you wish you could find a guide that you could help you bring your dreams into reality? I work in a humanistic and client-centred way. This means that I believe in the intrinsic and unique value of every being, and that we’ll work together to locate you in your unique story.
Following the lead of your needs and desires, we’ll use music, holistic assessment (looking at all parts of your life), coaching, cultivating relationships with inner resources (inner child, higher power, symbols, etc…), somatic work and whole host of other tools that may rise in service of your journey.
Do you yearn to break free and yet feel held down by a heavy weight? Do you feel like the flow of life is blocked by a sense of depression and anxiety? Do you long to feel lighter and more alive? Do you have dreams about growing and coming into yourself, and yet feel mostly ruled by fear and insecurities? Do you wish you could find a guide that you could help you bring your dreams into reality? I work in a humanistic and client-centred way. This means that I believe in the intrinsic and unique value of every being, and that we’ll work together to locate you in your unique story.
(604) 200-7243 View (604) 200-7243
Photo of Husain Vahanvaty, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Husain Vahanvaty
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5N
Husain works through with a variety of therapeutic models and skills but primarily is grounded in a Trauma focused CBT (T-CBT) lens and a somatic processing model like Polyvagal theory.
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
Husain works through with a variety of therapeutic models and skills but primarily is grounded in a Trauma focused CBT (T-CBT) lens and a somatic processing model like Polyvagal theory.
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
(548) 490-2958 View (548) 490-2958
Photo of Amrita Dhoot, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Amrita Dhoot
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5M
Welcome! Do you come from a family with complex dynamics and feel like people don’t quite understand you? Have these experiences led to you being anxious, struggling to trust yourself or others? My unique understanding of these experiences allows me to hold space for those who feel unseen or unheard by people in their past or present life. I use EMDR, internal family systems, and somatic work that specialize in deepening people's understanding of themselves, leading them to rediscover or redefine their authentic selves. I am passionate about doing this work with older youth and adults who are new or have past therapy experience.
Welcome! Do you come from a family with complex dynamics and feel like people don’t quite understand you? Have these experiences led to you being anxious, struggling to trust yourself or others? My unique understanding of these experiences allows me to hold space for those who feel unseen or unheard by people in their past or present life. I use EMDR, internal family systems, and somatic work that specialize in deepening people's understanding of themselves, leading them to rediscover or redefine their authentic selves. I am passionate about doing this work with older youth and adults who are new or have past therapy experience.
(579) 679-1009 View (579) 679-1009
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd , RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(778) 864-5992 View (778) 864-5992
Photo of Harbourside Family Counseling Centre, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Harbourside Family Counseling Centre
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J
Harbourside Family Counseling Centre is a collective of trained professionals who provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to people of all ages who seek greater happiness and fulfillment in their lives. We use science-based approaches and techniques applied to the goals of positive emotion, mindfulness and community connection, which is one of the highest predictors of happiness and well-being.
Harbourside Family Counseling Centre is a collective of trained professionals who provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to people of all ages who seek greater happiness and fulfillment in their lives. We use science-based approaches and techniques applied to the goals of positive emotion, mindfulness and community connection, which is one of the highest predictors of happiness and well-being.
(778) 906-8821 View (778) 906-8821
Photo of Bonnie Zargari, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Bonnie Zargari
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J
Do you feel STUCK? When we feel stuck we start to question our life’s purpose and often start to doubt past and future decisions. Feeling stuck can often lead to confusion, hopelessness, fear, paralysis and lack of motivation. These experiences can generally cause anxiety, panic, depression and generally a low quality of life. Although these feelings can be incredibly painful and may lead you to feel helpless, it’s important to remind yourself that with the right support, you can change your life.
Do you feel STUCK? When we feel stuck we start to question our life’s purpose and often start to doubt past and future decisions. Feeling stuck can often lead to confusion, hopelessness, fear, paralysis and lack of motivation. These experiences can generally cause anxiety, panic, depression and generally a low quality of life. Although these feelings can be incredibly painful and may lead you to feel helpless, it’s important to remind yourself that with the right support, you can change your life.
(709) 400-5431 View (709) 400-5431
Photo of Sophia Kopelow, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Sophia Kopelow
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
The world has changed in the past few years, and so have you. If you're yearning to reconnect with your inner truth, feel more in tune with and loving towards your body, overcome relationship challenges, and heal from trauma, I'm here to support you. I've gone through my own healing journey, and I know how vulnerable it can feel to reach out for support. You can expect compassion, gentle curiosity, and understanding from me in our sessions. I'm here to hold space, and solace so that you can return back home to yourself. I provide a free 20 minute initial consultation, and offer in-person, virtual or walk and talk therapy.
The world has changed in the past few years, and so have you. If you're yearning to reconnect with your inner truth, feel more in tune with and loving towards your body, overcome relationship challenges, and heal from trauma, I'm here to support you. I've gone through my own healing journey, and I know how vulnerable it can feel to reach out for support. You can expect compassion, gentle curiosity, and understanding from me in our sessions. I'm here to hold space, and solace so that you can return back home to yourself. I provide a free 20 minute initial consultation, and offer in-person, virtual or walk and talk therapy.
(778) 400-1793 View (778) 400-1793
Photo of Shannon Wong, Art Therapist in Vancouver, BC
Shannon Wong
Art Therapist, BA, DVATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5M  (Online Only)
I work with primarily neurodivergent and/or queer people (of all ages, genders, identities) who want to pause, explore and reconnect. Societal expectations of how we should act and navigate the world can be exhausting. It can be hard to feel safe enough to reconnect with our inner selves, fearlessly use art materials, explore difficult topics, and live authentically. No art making experience needed. Everyone can make art.
I work with primarily neurodivergent and/or queer people (of all ages, genders, identities) who want to pause, explore and reconnect. Societal expectations of how we should act and navigate the world can be exhausting. It can be hard to feel safe enough to reconnect with our inner selves, fearlessly use art materials, explore difficult topics, and live authentically. No art making experience needed. Everyone can make art.
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Photo of Veronika Paukkunen, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Veronika Paukkunen
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6K
I work with children, youth, adults, couples and families including people from all backgrounds experiencing different challenges. I have worked with individuals struggling with relationships, intimate relationships, communication, grief, loss, addictions, substance misuse, trauma, sexual identity, coping with diagnoses, academic struggles, career challenges, body dissatisfaction, low-confidence, low-self esteem, depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar. I guide my clients through the change they want to accomplish thus helping them cope better in the face of future challenges.
I work with children, youth, adults, couples and families including people from all backgrounds experiencing different challenges. I have worked with individuals struggling with relationships, intimate relationships, communication, grief, loss, addictions, substance misuse, trauma, sexual identity, coping with diagnoses, academic struggles, career challenges, body dissatisfaction, low-confidence, low-self esteem, depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar. I guide my clients through the change they want to accomplish thus helping them cope better in the face of future challenges.
(778) 771-3860 View (778) 771-3860
Photo of Spencer Walker, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Spencer Walker
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5N
My client focus is working with neurodivergent people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Learning Disabilities. Although these differences can be an asset in many situations, individuals may have difficulty navigating a world not necessarily designed for them. Feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and low self esteem may linger from years of feeling misunderstood or being under-equipped in social, school or work settings. Exploring your strengths, obstacles and goals allow you to take charge of your mental health and work with your difference rather than against it.
My client focus is working with neurodivergent people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Learning Disabilities. Although these differences can be an asset in many situations, individuals may have difficulty navigating a world not necessarily designed for them. Feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and low self esteem may linger from years of feeling misunderstood or being under-equipped in social, school or work settings. Exploring your strengths, obstacles and goals allow you to take charge of your mental health and work with your difference rather than against it.
(587) 405-3108 View (587) 405-3108
Photo of Elizabeth Partridge, Psychiatric Nurse in Vancouver, BC
Elizabeth Partridge
Psychiatric Nurse, RPN, BNSc, MN, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
My name is Elizabeth Partridge. I am a Registered Psychiatric Nurse with a Master in Nursing as well as a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Practicing in the Greater Vancouver area of British Columbia, I have over 20 years experience working with children and youth presenting with mental health & substance use concerns. I feel passionate to walk alongside my clients in their journey to reclaim their strength and capacity within their lives. I employ a strength based and client centered approach. I believe in holistic care where we work together in both mind and body to work through and build skills to navigate challenges.
My name is Elizabeth Partridge. I am a Registered Psychiatric Nurse with a Master in Nursing as well as a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Practicing in the Greater Vancouver area of British Columbia, I have over 20 years experience working with children and youth presenting with mental health & substance use concerns. I feel passionate to walk alongside my clients in their journey to reclaim their strength and capacity within their lives. I employ a strength based and client centered approach. I believe in holistic care where we work together in both mind and body to work through and build skills to navigate challenges.
(581) 221-1159 View (581) 221-1159
Photo of Allegra Metcalfe, LPC Intern in Vancouver, BC
Allegra Metcalfe
LPC Intern, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5R
Embarking on the path to mental wellness is a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. If you're seeking a counselor with a compassionate heart, expertise in youth with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges and a deep understanding of the school system, I am ready to be your partner on this transformative journey. Being a mother, I understand the joys and challenges that come with raising children. I appreciate the importance of a strong family support system and work collaboratively with parents to enhance communication, build stronger connections, and navigate relationships.
Embarking on the path to mental wellness is a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. If you're seeking a counselor with a compassionate heart, expertise in youth with autism, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges and a deep understanding of the school system, I am ready to be your partner on this transformative journey. Being a mother, I understand the joys and challenges that come with raising children. I appreciate the importance of a strong family support system and work collaboratively with parents to enhance communication, build stronger connections, and navigate relationships.
(782) 400-6386 View (782) 400-6386
Photo of Liana Yip And Associates, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Liana Yip And Associates
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6C
Everyone goes through hard times, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are here for you whether you are a child, a teen, an adult, a senior, or if you’re looking for support with a romantic relationship. Therapy offers an opportunity for you to grow and expand, for a life with more purpose and meaning. The counsellors at my clinic, Liana Yip and Associates, provide space for you to take a deep breath, reflect, and reconnect with yourself during times when you might be feeling overwhelmed. While we are trained in many different modalities, the most commonly requested ones are EMDR, Jungian work, Couples therapy and CBT.
Everyone goes through hard times, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are here for you whether you are a child, a teen, an adult, a senior, or if you’re looking for support with a romantic relationship. Therapy offers an opportunity for you to grow and expand, for a life with more purpose and meaning. The counsellors at my clinic, Liana Yip and Associates, provide space for you to take a deep breath, reflect, and reconnect with yourself during times when you might be feeling overwhelmed. While we are trained in many different modalities, the most commonly requested ones are EMDR, Jungian work, Couples therapy and CBT.
(343) 321-2068 View (343) 321-2068
Photo of Jilleun Tenning, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Jilleun Tenning
Counsellor, PhD(c), MA, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K  (Online Only)
Welcome to my virtual office, if you're feeling stressed, irritable, or low, or if you're struggling with anxiety, panic, or specific challenges in your life, I'm here to help you discover better ways to cope and manage conflict. Additionally, if you're longing for more meaningful connections in your relationships with your partner, family members, or friends, I can provide guidance on that journey.In my practice, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we can develop coping skills and overcome life's obstacles.
Welcome to my virtual office, if you're feeling stressed, irritable, or low, or if you're struggling with anxiety, panic, or specific challenges in your life, I'm here to help you discover better ways to cope and manage conflict. Additionally, if you're longing for more meaningful connections in your relationships with your partner, family members, or friends, I can provide guidance on that journey.In my practice, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we can develop coping skills and overcome life's obstacles.
(431) 441-5541 View (431) 441-5541

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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.