Somatic Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Beth Wagner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a student of Somatic Experiencing, a body-oriented method for healing trauma and stress.
My approach to counseling builds on existing strengths and situates you, the client, as the expert on your own life. I believe that relationships with self, others, and our broader communities are foundational to wellbeing, and encourage exploration of these areas through a trauma-informed, culturally attuned lens. I take a compassionate approach to existing dynamics and coping methods and work alongside you to bring patterns and the emotions that underlie them into conscious awareness. I am affirming of all people, including multicultural, neuroexpansive, LGBTQ+, and polyamorous people and relationships.
I am a student of Somatic Experiencing, a body-oriented method for healing trauma and stress.
My approach to counseling builds on existing strengths and situates you, the client, as the expert on your own life. I believe that relationships with self, others, and our broader communities are foundational to wellbeing, and encourage exploration of these areas through a trauma-informed, culturally attuned lens. I take a compassionate approach to existing dynamics and coping methods and work alongside you to bring patterns and the emotions that underlie them into conscious awareness. I am affirming of all people, including multicultural, neuroexpansive, LGBTQ+, and polyamorous people and relationships.
(480) 712-4252 View (480) 712-4252
Photo of Eva Cristina Norheim, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Eva Cristina Norheim
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Inspired by mindfulness, somatic work, EMDR, and IFS, my approach is integrative, client-centered, and holistic.
It takes time to pick up the pieces. Parts of you may feel broken, paralyzed, and unheard. With intergenerational systems of dysfunction, very few of us grew up with anything approaching healthy relating. As mammals, we can use the natural force towards connection along with regulating our autonomic fitness to return to our joyful and intuitive self. I can help adults and teens create movement in the isolated "stuck places" and integrate unprocessed pain and suffering. I am passionate about serving children who also highly benefit from therapy by communicating their inner world through play.
Inspired by mindfulness, somatic work, EMDR, and IFS, my approach is integrative, client-centered, and holistic.
It takes time to pick up the pieces. Parts of you may feel broken, paralyzed, and unheard. With intergenerational systems of dysfunction, very few of us grew up with anything approaching healthy relating. As mammals, we can use the natural force towards connection along with regulating our autonomic fitness to return to our joyful and intuitive self. I can help adults and teens create movement in the isolated "stuck places" and integrate unprocessed pain and suffering. I am passionate about serving children who also highly benefit from therapy by communicating their inner world through play.
(480) 613-4993 View (480) 613-4993
Photo of Sandra O'Connell, MS, LPC, Counselor
Sandra O'Connell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
EMDR therapy facilitates clearing the distorted messages, somatic responses, and emotional dysregulation that are a result of trauma or distress.
Are you struggling to function in the present or feeling paralyzed by events of the past? Are you experiencing the effects of debilitating grief and loss? Are you feeling stifled from reaching your full potential and connecting to how you are being led moment by moment? Whether your blocks are the result of PTSD, abuse, chronic pain or illness, or painful losses, there is hope for the future. It is possible to live a life freed from the symptoms that prevent you from engaging fully in life. Now you can live the life purpose for which you have been created. You can soar freed from the chains that bind.
EMDR therapy facilitates clearing the distorted messages, somatic responses, and emotional dysregulation that are a result of trauma or distress.
Are you struggling to function in the present or feeling paralyzed by events of the past? Are you experiencing the effects of debilitating grief and loss? Are you feeling stifled from reaching your full potential and connecting to how you are being led moment by moment? Whether your blocks are the result of PTSD, abuse, chronic pain or illness, or painful losses, there is hope for the future. It is possible to live a life freed from the symptoms that prevent you from engaging fully in life. Now you can live the life purpose for which you have been created. You can soar freed from the chains that bind.
(602) 428-9445 View (602) 428-9445
Photo of Glenda Roberts Henman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glenda Roberts Henman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I practice from modalities including play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, client-centered, somatic therapies, mindfulness and others.
We all face struggles in life that can throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. I believe you are the expert on your own life and seeking support through counseling can help you discover inner strengths that have helped you survive and explore new skills that can help you learn to thrive.
I practice from modalities including play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, client-centered, somatic therapies, mindfulness and others.
We all face struggles in life that can throw us off balance. These experiences may range from early life adversity to recent life transitions and stressors. I believe you are the expert on your own life and seeking support through counseling can help you discover inner strengths that have helped you survive and explore new skills that can help you learn to thrive.
(602) 932-6569 View (602) 932-6569
Photo of Jen Benacci, LPC, SEP, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Benacci
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping clients achieve their goals and overcome barriers that may be holding them back from living a fulfilling and satisfying life. By providing tools and support, clients increase self-awareness, clarity, and find a path to healing. Common concerns address in sessions include PTSD and symptoms stemming from trauma, persistent anxiety/ fear, depression, low self -esteem, loss of sense of self, and relationship issues. I utilize a Somatic approach, aimed to give a voice to the body and to the trauma that it may be holding in a space that is safe and supportive.
I am committed to helping clients achieve their goals and overcome barriers that may be holding them back from living a fulfilling and satisfying life. By providing tools and support, clients increase self-awareness, clarity, and find a path to healing. Common concerns address in sessions include PTSD and symptoms stemming from trauma, persistent anxiety/ fear, depression, low self -esteem, loss of sense of self, and relationship issues. I utilize a Somatic approach, aimed to give a voice to the body and to the trauma that it may be holding in a space that is safe and supportive.
(602) 610-4138 View (602) 610-4138
Photo of Candace M Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace M Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I have trained in Somatic Experiencing, which is a very effective model for working with trauma.
I believe in a holistic, mind, body, spirit, model of therapy. I am highly trained and skilled to help clients heal from Trauma, Attachment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family of Origin, Self-Esteem, and Grief and Complicated Grief issues, as well as other types of issues. I believe that therapy is based on the relationship with my client and is very important. I provide a warm, safe environment in which my client can fully heal. I can work somatically, using Peter Levine's model of Somatic Experiencing, as well as Gestalt, and other modalities. I look forward to our work together.
I have trained in Somatic Experiencing, which is a very effective model for working with trauma.
I believe in a holistic, mind, body, spirit, model of therapy. I am highly trained and skilled to help clients heal from Trauma, Attachment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family of Origin, Self-Esteem, and Grief and Complicated Grief issues, as well as other types of issues. I believe that therapy is based on the relationship with my client and is very important. I provide a warm, safe environment in which my client can fully heal. I can work somatically, using Peter Levine's model of Somatic Experiencing, as well as Gestalt, and other modalities. I look forward to our work together.
(602) 281-4206 View (602) 281-4206
Photo of Victoria Muñoz, MC, LPC, SEP, CDWF-C, Counselor
Victoria Muñoz
Counselor, MC, LPC, SEP, CDWF-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I’m trained in Somatic Experiencing, Somatic Resilience and Regulation, DARe, PACT, and The Daring Way.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s many demands? Many of my clients manage complex relationships and responsibilities and want to do more than "just talk about it." If you're tired of feeling anxious, want to learn self-regulation, or need help with communication, you're in the right place. My goal is to help you become more present, vibrant, and resilient. Let’s work together to help you find balance and a renewed sense of aliveness.
I’m trained in Somatic Experiencing, Somatic Resilience and Regulation, DARe, PACT, and The Daring Way.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s many demands? Many of my clients manage complex relationships and responsibilities and want to do more than "just talk about it." If you're tired of feeling anxious, want to learn self-regulation, or need help with communication, you're in the right place. My goal is to help you become more present, vibrant, and resilient. Let’s work together to help you find balance and a renewed sense of aliveness.
(480) 418-7815 View (480) 418-7815
Photo of Suzanne Berndt, MC, LPC, MHSA, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne Berndt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, MHSA, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
My training in Somatic Experiencing helps to address the disconnect often experienced by addiction and unresolved trauma.
Humans are by nature social animals and yet many of us have lost connection within ourselves and our community. I believe this is due, in part, to a frantic world that has led to relational trauma, a poor sense of self, health challenges, addiction, loss and isolation. Feeling relevant, finding meaning, having a mission, knowing joy and learning emotional regulation/tolerance/resiliency are ways in which we can heal ourselves and the world at large. I work with individuals (adults only) and couples.
My training in Somatic Experiencing helps to address the disconnect often experienced by addiction and unresolved trauma.
Humans are by nature social animals and yet many of us have lost connection within ourselves and our community. I believe this is due, in part, to a frantic world that has led to relational trauma, a poor sense of self, health challenges, addiction, loss and isolation. Feeling relevant, finding meaning, having a mission, knowing joy and learning emotional regulation/tolerance/resiliency are ways in which we can heal ourselves and the world at large. I work with individuals (adults only) and couples.
(480) 442-9918 View (480) 442-9918
Photo of Caileigh Smith, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caileigh Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I use a unique approach that interweaves somatic techniques into EMDR therapy which offers both visceral & emotional healing.
I'm a licensed professional counselor originally from Dublin, Ireland. Two key components of my practice are the teachings of Pia Mellody and laughter. I believe therapy is a collaborative process whereby together we can find what issues are hindering you from being the best version of you and develop a skill set to help you overcome these blocks. I practice therapy through a trauma focused lens using the model of codependence, EMDR, SE & polyvagal theory. I aim to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to embark on your journey, with a few laughs along the way.
I use a unique approach that interweaves somatic techniques into EMDR therapy which offers both visceral & emotional healing.
I'm a licensed professional counselor originally from Dublin, Ireland. Two key components of my practice are the teachings of Pia Mellody and laughter. I believe therapy is a collaborative process whereby together we can find what issues are hindering you from being the best version of you and develop a skill set to help you overcome these blocks. I practice therapy through a trauma focused lens using the model of codependence, EMDR, SE & polyvagal theory. I aim to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to embark on your journey, with a few laughs along the way.
(602) 461-7955 View (602) 461-7955
Photo of Tahirih Herrera, MSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tahirih Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I use EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy.
I work with kids, tweens, and teens who are struggling. You’ve noticed they’re not as interested in their friends, school, or activities they used to love. They have difficulty sleeping and complain of aches and pains. They were outgoing but now they’re anxious. Or something unimaginable has happened to your family- and you've tried to help your child, and it's not working. Maybe you’re not sure what’s causing this behavior - you’re worried you’re parenting wrong when all you want to do is love and support your child.
I use EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy.
I work with kids, tweens, and teens who are struggling. You’ve noticed they’re not as interested in their friends, school, or activities they used to love. They have difficulty sleeping and complain of aches and pains. They were outgoing but now they’re anxious. Or something unimaginable has happened to your family- and you've tried to help your child, and it's not working. Maybe you’re not sure what’s causing this behavior - you’re worried you’re parenting wrong when all you want to do is love and support your child.
(480) 418-2293 View (480) 418-2293
Photo of Forrest Marvin, LMSW-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Forrest Marvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Waitlist for new clients
I use a psychodynamic framework, trauma-focused psychotherapy, and somatic techniques to support my clients in unpacking their trauma and finding healing.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
I use a psychodynamic framework, trauma-focused psychotherapy, and somatic techniques to support my clients in unpacking their trauma and finding healing.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
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Photo of Marissa Sandoval, LCSW, BC-THM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Sandoval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-THM
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
If your goal is to move effortlessly from a dysregulated state to a regulated state as life continues, welcome to Aligned Somatic Healing with me, Marissa Sandoval.
Accepting NEW clients! Life can be challenging after the last few years and Marissa wants to meet you where you are in this journey to help you not only survive but also thrive in life in whatever manner that looks like for you. You might be someone who is currently living or has lived through trauma, anxiety, not being able to leave the house or even suffering from depression. Marissa is committed to helping you reach the goals of living your fullest life with the least amount of mental and physical discomfort that has brought to you. Marissa is kind, caring and attentive to details when it comes to the care that you need.
If your goal is to move effortlessly from a dysregulated state to a regulated state as life continues, welcome to Aligned Somatic Healing with me, Marissa Sandoval.
Accepting NEW clients! Life can be challenging after the last few years and Marissa wants to meet you where you are in this journey to help you not only survive but also thrive in life in whatever manner that looks like for you. You might be someone who is currently living or has lived through trauma, anxiety, not being able to leave the house or even suffering from depression. Marissa is committed to helping you reach the goals of living your fullest life with the least amount of mental and physical discomfort that has brought to you. Marissa is kind, caring and attentive to details when it comes to the care that you need.
(623) 294-7501 View (623) 294-7501
Photo of Marina Doering, LMHC, ATR-BC, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Doering
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
, cognitive behavioral therapy) and expressive therapeutic techniques, as well as behavior-, somatic-, and trauma-sensitive approaches.
I'm happy you're here for YOU. I believe that none of us were meant to navigate the ups and downs of life alone. Consider this your sign to redefine, reintegrate, and rebalance your life with someone along the way. As a licensed professional counselor, a board-certified art therapist, trauma specialist, yoga practitioner, and creative spirit I draw from my deep, yet eclectic, training to tailor my support for you on your journey. My practice centers around feeling seen and heard, hard work, exploration, growth, interaction, enthusiasm, and important touches of humor and creativity.
, cognitive behavioral therapy) and expressive therapeutic techniques, as well as behavior-, somatic-, and trauma-sensitive approaches.
I'm happy you're here for YOU. I believe that none of us were meant to navigate the ups and downs of life alone. Consider this your sign to redefine, reintegrate, and rebalance your life with someone along the way. As a licensed professional counselor, a board-certified art therapist, trauma specialist, yoga practitioner, and creative spirit I draw from my deep, yet eclectic, training to tailor my support for you on your journey. My practice centers around feeling seen and heard, hard work, exploration, growth, interaction, enthusiasm, and important touches of humor and creativity.
(602) 714-7883 View (602) 714-7883
Photo of Chelsea Sneller, LCSW, 18641, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Sneller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 18641
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am currently completing training in Somatic Experiencing which takes a bottom up approach in trauma healing and addresses how trauma is stored in our bodies.
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Often when we finally decide to reach out we are already experiencing overwhelm and feeling discouraged. Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, having difficulty sleeping, being more irritable than usual, or having difficulty enjoying things in your day to day life. If you've experienced trauma you could be struggling with flashbacks, fear, avoidance, and difficulty moving forward in you life. Maybe your child or teen is having new behaviors, tantrums, isolation, or difficulty with connection. I am here for all of you and will stand with you on your healing journey.
I am currently completing training in Somatic Experiencing which takes a bottom up approach in trauma healing and addresses how trauma is stored in our bodies.
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Often when we finally decide to reach out we are already experiencing overwhelm and feeling discouraged. Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, having difficulty sleeping, being more irritable than usual, or having difficulty enjoying things in your day to day life. If you've experienced trauma you could be struggling with flashbacks, fear, avoidance, and difficulty moving forward in you life. Maybe your child or teen is having new behaviors, tantrums, isolation, or difficulty with connection. I am here for all of you and will stand with you on your healing journey.
(623) 404-8829 View (623) 404-8829
Photo of Brenna Gonzales, MS, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenna Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I utilize EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, DBT, Pia Mellody's Model of Codependency and other techniques to help you reach your goals for treatment.
I am dedicated to helping adults heal from all types of trauma. I am trained in several different trauma resolution modalities and will make it my mission to find the right combination of treatments that work for you and your goals. I believe in the power of therapy to promote personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
I utilize EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, DBT, Pia Mellody's Model of Codependency and other techniques to help you reach your goals for treatment.
I am dedicated to helping adults heal from all types of trauma. I am trained in several different trauma resolution modalities and will make it my mission to find the right combination of treatments that work for you and your goals. I believe in the power of therapy to promote personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
(602) 483-6253 View (602) 483-6253
Photo of Jill Sena, MA, LPC, SEP, DARe, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Sena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, DARe
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85008  (Online Only)
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, DARe (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience, and Kathy Kain's touch therapy.
Hi! I am so glad you are seeking help at this time! I love the healing process, and I currently work with adults and teens online. I am trained and certified in Somatic Experiencing and DARe (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience). I specialize in attachment repair and healing trauma from the nervous system. I believe everyone can heal.
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, DARe (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience, and Kathy Kain's touch therapy.
Hi! I am so glad you are seeking help at this time! I love the healing process, and I currently work with adults and teens online. I am trained and certified in Somatic Experiencing and DARe (Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience). I specialize in attachment repair and healing trauma from the nervous system. I believe everyone can heal.
(833) 459-1053 View (833) 459-1053
Photo of Anne Douglas, MAPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Waitlist for new clients
My primary approach is through providing support and healing to the body and mind through Somatic Experiencing.
Did you experience childhood trauma or unmet childhood needs and are struggling with vulnerability, safety, and feeling connected in your relationships? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression and difficulty with experiencing a sense of purpose? I have a passion and drive for supporting people in growth and in navigating life's inherent changes that come along with development from childhood to adulthood. Freedom comes with resolving the past. There are patterns and behaviors that may have once served a purpose to cope with your environment but are keeping you in a survival response that may no longer be needed in the present.
My primary approach is through providing support and healing to the body and mind through Somatic Experiencing.
Did you experience childhood trauma or unmet childhood needs and are struggling with vulnerability, safety, and feeling connected in your relationships? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression and difficulty with experiencing a sense of purpose? I have a passion and drive for supporting people in growth and in navigating life's inherent changes that come along with development from childhood to adulthood. Freedom comes with resolving the past. There are patterns and behaviors that may have once served a purpose to cope with your environment but are keeping you in a survival response that may no longer be needed in the present.
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Photo of Blake Beams, MC, NCC, LAC, Counselor
Blake Beams
Counselor, MC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I have additional training in expressive arts modalities, somatic experiencing, CBT, and DBT.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults addressing challenges with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and eating disorders. I utilize EMDR, expressive art therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills to help you improve your coping skills and work through your core issues for lasting healing.
I have additional training in expressive arts modalities, somatic experiencing, CBT, and DBT.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults addressing challenges with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and eating disorders. I utilize EMDR, expressive art therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills to help you improve your coping skills and work through your core issues for lasting healing.
(928) 693-4266 View (928) 693-4266
Photo of Debra Teresa Legge - Trinity-One Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LAC, Counselor
Trinity-One Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am training in and use the following modalities when counseling clients: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Mindfulness, Client-Centered approach EMDR, and somatic therapy.
I am here to help you with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and overall well-being. I offer specialized services in a safe and supportive environment.
I am training in and use the following modalities when counseling clients: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Mindfulness, Client-Centered approach EMDR, and somatic therapy.
I am here to help you with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and overall well-being. I offer specialized services in a safe and supportive environment.
(480) 660-3589 View (480) 660-3589
Photo of Nathan Rehm, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Rehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I specialize in stress and nervous system regulation using Somatic Experiencing (SE), EMDR, DBT, CBT.
Are you an adult struggling with persistent stress, anxiety, or feeling stuck in a cycle of emotional pain? It's possible to feel balanced and connected to yourself and others again, even with life's responsibilities. I help my clients find relief from constant tension, a way to calm their nervous system, and a path to reconnect with their inner peace and strength. Let's get you feeling more grounded, resilient, and capable of facing life’s challenges with ease.
I specialize in stress and nervous system regulation using Somatic Experiencing (SE), EMDR, DBT, CBT.
Are you an adult struggling with persistent stress, anxiety, or feeling stuck in a cycle of emotional pain? It's possible to feel balanced and connected to yourself and others again, even with life's responsibilities. I help my clients find relief from constant tension, a way to calm their nervous system, and a path to reconnect with their inner peace and strength. Let's get you feeling more grounded, resilient, and capable of facing life’s challenges with ease.
(623) 343-5322 View (623) 343-5322
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Somatic Therapists

How does somatic therapy work?

Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.

Is EMDR a somatic therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.

Is somatic therapy evidence-based?

Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.

What is somatic trauma therapy?

Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.