Somatic Therapists in Huntingdon County, PA

Photo of Sarah Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Sarah Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
(814) 619-0627 View (814) 619-0627

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I am trained in somatic experiencing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and I have a client centered approach often drawing on a person's strengths.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders as well as life adjustment issues. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. Although I have much experience and knowledge as a therapist, I believe people won't care how much you know until they know how much you care. We all need to be seen, heard, and understood, and so much healing happens then. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person.
I am trained in somatic experiencing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and I have a client centered approach often drawing on a person's strengths.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders as well as life adjustment issues. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. Although I have much experience and knowledge as a therapist, I believe people won't care how much you know until they know how much you care. We all need to be seen, heard, and understood, and so much healing happens then. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person.
(717) 415-5287 View (717) 415-5287
Photo of Ramona Ndlovu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Ramona Ndlovu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMT, CST-L3, TTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annville, PA 17003
I actively incorporate a whole-person perspective including somatic therapy and spirituality to address my clients' concerns.
Are you living with the painful consequences of bad decisions and want more joy, ease, and fulfillment? Do you want to stop fighting and start cooperating, connecting, and communicating in your relationships? Maybe you feel frozen, on an emotional rollercoaster, or both depending on the day. Do you want to experience your emotions as supporting your richer more satisfying life? Are you feeling lonely and isolated, like no one gets you or even wants to? Would you like more mutually loving relationships where you are seen, heard, and treated with respect? Are you looking for an LGBTQ ally?
I actively incorporate a whole-person perspective including somatic therapy and spirituality to address my clients' concerns.
Are you living with the painful consequences of bad decisions and want more joy, ease, and fulfillment? Do you want to stop fighting and start cooperating, connecting, and communicating in your relationships? Maybe you feel frozen, on an emotional rollercoaster, or both depending on the day. Do you want to experience your emotions as supporting your richer more satisfying life? Are you feeling lonely and isolated, like no one gets you or even wants to? Would you like more mutually loving relationships where you are seen, heard, and treated with respect? Are you looking for an LGBTQ ally?
(717) 985-7058 View (717) 985-7058
Photo of Rosanne G Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Rosanne G Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RYT 200, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist with over 20 yrs of private practice experience, I draw upon a blend of cognitive, somatic and integrative therapies to help women assess and address their mental wellness goals. I believe... at the core of our "issues", lies invaluable wisdom to help us on this sojourn of life.
As a psychotherapist with over 20 yrs of private practice experience, I draw upon a blend of cognitive, somatic and integrative therapies to help women assess and address their mental wellness goals. I believe... at the core of our "issues", lies invaluable wisdom to help us on this sojourn of life.
(717) 306-9211 View (717) 306-9211
Photo of Allison Brunner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Allison Brunner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Using mindful, somatic psychology (and shamanic energy if you wish), we'll facilitate deeper, more lasting healing so that you can live and embody your full potential.
You who are highly sensitive and feel more deeply, welcome! You'll explore more deeply with me than in traditional talk therapy. You’ve likely tried psychotherapy before but have noticed that the work has either gone nowhere or taken you only so far, or you felt misunderstood. With an uncanny and intuitive ability to really “get” people from many walks of life, I will invite you to go beneath your thoughts, connect with your body and emotions, and gently access the root of your emotional discomfort and hurts to facilitate noticeable shifts with each session.
Using mindful, somatic psychology (and shamanic energy if you wish), we'll facilitate deeper, more lasting healing so that you can live and embody your full potential.
You who are highly sensitive and feel more deeply, welcome! You'll explore more deeply with me than in traditional talk therapy. You’ve likely tried psychotherapy before but have noticed that the work has either gone nowhere or taken you only so far, or you felt misunderstood. With an uncanny and intuitive ability to really “get” people from many walks of life, I will invite you to go beneath your thoughts, connect with your body and emotions, and gently access the root of your emotional discomfort and hurts to facilitate noticeable shifts with each session.
(717) 528-2760 View (717) 528-2760
Photo of Malinda Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Malinda Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
It is easy to feel stuck. It is easy to believe you can't feel better. Let me show you a different way. My name is Malinda Myers. I believe that mental health is health, and just like we get physical injuries, we can get mental ones as well. I use attachment theory, embodiment and somatic healing as some of the ways to help you heal. I draw on Bessel van der Kolk, Gabor Mate and Stephen Porges for much of my inspiration and guidance in sessions.
It is easy to feel stuck. It is easy to believe you can't feel better. Let me show you a different way. My name is Malinda Myers. I believe that mental health is health, and just like we get physical injuries, we can get mental ones as well. I use attachment theory, embodiment and somatic healing as some of the ways to help you heal. I draw on Bessel van der Kolk, Gabor Mate and Stephen Porges for much of my inspiration and guidance in sessions.
(412) 435-4888 View (412) 435-4888
Photo of Hannah Avers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Hannah Avers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Much of my continuing education has focused around treating trauma, somatic therapy, DBT, CBT, mindfulness approaches, internal family systems (IFS), as well as EFT tapping.
I believe that healing and change are possible and my goal is to provide a warm and safe therapeutic environment to help assist you on your journey. I utilize a strengths-based and holistic approach in my work and believe that therapy should be a collaborative process where we are working together to find solutions to the struggles you are facing. I enjoy seeing diverse populations and have worked extensively with women, young adults, teenagers, and survivors of trauma and domestic violence.
Much of my continuing education has focused around treating trauma, somatic therapy, DBT, CBT, mindfulness approaches, internal family systems (IFS), as well as EFT tapping.
I believe that healing and change are possible and my goal is to provide a warm and safe therapeutic environment to help assist you on your journey. I utilize a strengths-based and holistic approach in my work and believe that therapy should be a collaborative process where we are working together to find solutions to the struggles you are facing. I enjoy seeing diverse populations and have worked extensively with women, young adults, teenagers, and survivors of trauma and domestic violence.
(717) 308-5263 View (717) 308-5263
Photo of Sage Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Sage Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemont, PA 16851  (Online Only)
I incorporate IFS, DBT, trauma-informed CBT, Somatic healing, and art and dance skills to best support your needs.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, connection, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the therapy room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
I incorporate IFS, DBT, trauma-informed CBT, Somatic healing, and art and dance skills to best support your needs.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, connection, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the therapy room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
(814) 980-6286 View (814) 980-6286
Photo of Elizabeth Porter, Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Elizabeth Porter
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
I am trained in professional counseling, specializing in trauma therapy including attachment work and somatic experiencing.
My ideal client is ready to show up for themselves. They have an idea or sense that there are things to work on. Maybe they know what the issues are or maybe they'd like some guidance through that exploration. The first step is seeking connection. A therapeutic relationship can be powerful towards setting and achieving goals! I understand there is a lot of stigma around mental health services. I have both personal and professional experience in this realm. I strive to create an open and safe space for clients regardless of where they are on their journey.
I am trained in professional counseling, specializing in trauma therapy including attachment work and somatic experiencing.
My ideal client is ready to show up for themselves. They have an idea or sense that there are things to work on. Maybe they know what the issues are or maybe they'd like some guidance through that exploration. The first step is seeking connection. A therapeutic relationship can be powerful towards setting and achieving goals! I understand there is a lot of stigma around mental health services. I have both personal and professional experience in this realm. I strive to create an open and safe space for clients regardless of where they are on their journey.
(412) 231-9540 View (412) 231-9540
Photo of Julia Veser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Julia Veser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Landisville, PA 17538  (Online Only)
I am certified in somatic attachment therapy and trauma informed care (specific to complex trauma).
I currently have openings for new clients who are available early morning to early afternoon. I specialize in attachment based relationship challenges and complex trauma. In addition to those specialities, I support clients who are challenged with depression, anxiety, general stress, and the emotional aspects of weight loss and challenges associated with weight loss. I encourage those I work with to think about all areas of wellness including: social, emotional, mental, & physical well-being. I believe it is necessary first to heal from harm done in the past and have an open mind for the future.
I am certified in somatic attachment therapy and trauma informed care (specific to complex trauma).
I currently have openings for new clients who are available early morning to early afternoon. I specialize in attachment based relationship challenges and complex trauma. In addition to those specialities, I support clients who are challenged with depression, anxiety, general stress, and the emotional aspects of weight loss and challenges associated with weight loss. I encourage those I work with to think about all areas of wellness including: social, emotional, mental, & physical well-being. I believe it is necessary first to heal from harm done in the past and have an open mind for the future.
(610) 897-7855 View (610) 897-7855
Photo of Andreya Jones Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Andreya Jones Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Our providers are sex and relationship specialists who have extensive training and certifications in sex therapy, marriage counseling, alternative relationship styles, and somatic-based modalities.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, lack of sexual desire, or difficulty in your relationship(s), we will work alongside you from a place of non-judgment to identify your goals and lay out a path to create meaningful and lasting change. We work with clients who find themselves in relationships where they don’t know how to communicate effectively, have lost intimate connection, struggle with sexual desire, and feel void of eroticism. We have a passion for helping clients cultivate connection, pleasure, play, intimacy, and respect in their relationship(s).
Our providers are sex and relationship specialists who have extensive training and certifications in sex therapy, marriage counseling, alternative relationship styles, and somatic-based modalities.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, lack of sexual desire, or difficulty in your relationship(s), we will work alongside you from a place of non-judgment to identify your goals and lay out a path to create meaningful and lasting change. We work with clients who find themselves in relationships where they don’t know how to communicate effectively, have lost intimate connection, struggle with sexual desire, and feel void of eroticism. We have a passion for helping clients cultivate connection, pleasure, play, intimacy, and respect in their relationship(s).
(717) 897-6164 View (717) 897-6164
Photo of Michelle Batz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Michelle Batz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
Hello. I offer both online and in person sessions. Welcome to your journey towards healing. In my practice we look to understand. There is no judgment. You cannot get there before you get there or know something before you know it. We focus on releasing the dysregulation we carry so there is more room for joy. My process is to teach people about their nervous system, how and why we become dysregulated, for example anxious or depressed, and offer ways to self-regulate and release the dysregulation through EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and other supporting approaches.
Hello. I offer both online and in person sessions. Welcome to your journey towards healing. In my practice we look to understand. There is no judgment. You cannot get there before you get there or know something before you know it. We focus on releasing the dysregulation we carry so there is more room for joy. My process is to teach people about their nervous system, how and why we become dysregulated, for example anxious or depressed, and offer ways to self-regulate and release the dysregulation through EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and other supporting approaches.
(717) 949-7380 View (717) 949-7380
Photo of Maria T Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Maria T Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Utilizing Somatic Experiencing training, I am able to effectively help clients resolve past trauma.
I view therapy as an opportunity that clients create for self-exploration, healing, growth, and relationship enhancement. I strongly believe that at the heart of every successful therapeutic outcome is a trusting and supportive client-therapist relationship, and it is in that context that my clients are able to explore historical and developmental issues, and their overall sense of self.
Utilizing Somatic Experiencing training, I am able to effectively help clients resolve past trauma.
I view therapy as an opportunity that clients create for self-exploration, healing, growth, and relationship enhancement. I strongly believe that at the heart of every successful therapeutic outcome is a trusting and supportive client-therapist relationship, and it is in that context that my clients are able to explore historical and developmental issues, and their overall sense of self.
(717) 916-5040 View (717) 916-5040
Photo of Eve Yelinek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Eve Yelinek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I use the more traditional treatment modalities, as well as somatic, psychodynamic, feminism orientation, neuropsychology, and evolutionary psychology.
Since therapy is about connection, finding the right fit for you is important. I aim to make this process more comfortable. I provide a safe and confidential environment. I have my Master of Art degree in Counseling with specialization in Clinical Mental Health. I am currently working on my doctorate in Psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Among my areas of training and experience are the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, and women’s issues.
I use the more traditional treatment modalities, as well as somatic, psychodynamic, feminism orientation, neuropsychology, and evolutionary psychology.
Since therapy is about connection, finding the right fit for you is important. I aim to make this process more comfortable. I provide a safe and confidential environment. I have my Master of Art degree in Counseling with specialization in Clinical Mental Health. I am currently working on my doctorate in Psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Among my areas of training and experience are the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, and women’s issues.
(878) 206-1491 View (878) 206-1491
Photo of Kayla Brehm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Kayla Brehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windber, PA 15963  (Online Only)
I also incorporate mindfulness and somatic based practices.
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
I also incorporate mindfulness and somatic based practices.
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
(814) 527-3849 View (814) 527-3849
Photo of Jesse A. Virago, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Jesse A. Virago
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Waitlist for new clients
That's the raison d'être for my practice of relational, somatic psychotherapy, in which midlife adults are invited to explore the transformative potential of embodied and emotionally attuned relationships.
The second half of life can be much better than the first. In fact, midlife is an ideal time for healing, change, and growth. So if your ship launched on choppy waters or rocky shoals and you're still navigating rough seas, a midlife course correction could help. What's required? Openness to new experiences, willingness to engage, capacity to commit, and a therapist who knows what's possible and how to achieve it. So whether you're sailing solo or with a shipmate, set sail with a seasoned mariner to help navigate the midlife passage with the art of healing, the science of change, and the "hard work miracle" of growth.
That's the raison d'être for my practice of relational, somatic psychotherapy, in which midlife adults are invited to explore the transformative potential of embodied and emotionally attuned relationships.
The second half of life can be much better than the first. In fact, midlife is an ideal time for healing, change, and growth. So if your ship launched on choppy waters or rocky shoals and you're still navigating rough seas, a midlife course correction could help. What's required? Openness to new experiences, willingness to engage, capacity to commit, and a therapist who knows what's possible and how to achieve it. So whether you're sailing solo or with a shipmate, set sail with a seasoned mariner to help navigate the midlife passage with the art of healing, the science of change, and the "hard work miracle" of growth.
(412) 385-3597 View (412) 385-3597
Photo of Janice L. Lawrence, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Janice L. Lawrence, MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
I use an integrative approach to counseling and psychotherapy to help meet the individual needs of each client. I understand that a strong therapeutic relationship, including a foundation of trust, is essential to the therapeutic process. Learning about my client and understanding the presenting issue(s), we work collaboratively to identify goals for therapy. A Treatment Plan, tailored to each client, involves a combination of cognitive, affective, behavioral, and somatic techniques. I draw from a variety of methodologies and techniques to incorporate what is most helpful in resolving current and long-standing issues.
I use an integrative approach to counseling and psychotherapy to help meet the individual needs of each client. I understand that a strong therapeutic relationship, including a foundation of trust, is essential to the therapeutic process. Learning about my client and understanding the presenting issue(s), we work collaboratively to identify goals for therapy. A Treatment Plan, tailored to each client, involves a combination of cognitive, affective, behavioral, and somatic techniques. I draw from a variety of methodologies and techniques to incorporate what is most helpful in resolving current and long-standing issues.
(717) 885-9543 View (717) 885-9543
Photo of Elizabeth Higginbotham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Elizabeth Higginbotham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
Using my specialty of somatic therapy with CBT, we can take a holistic approach to your mental health and well-being.
I believe that every individual has the power within themselves to achieve any treatment goal they come to Harmony Bay to work towards. My ideal client would be willing to put in the hard work needed to heal, who is willing to learn how to see the power and strength within themselves, and who believes that change is possible. If you are here at Harmony Bay seeking support from our services, you are already there!
Using my specialty of somatic therapy with CBT, we can take a holistic approach to your mental health and well-being.
I believe that every individual has the power within themselves to achieve any treatment goal they come to Harmony Bay to work towards. My ideal client would be willing to put in the hard work needed to heal, who is willing to learn how to see the power and strength within themselves, and who believes that change is possible. If you are here at Harmony Bay seeking support from our services, you are already there!
(717) 904-7650 View (717) 904-7650
Photo of Kristie Gerson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntingdon County, PA
Kristie Gerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
I work with adults and adolescents and utilize a client-centered approach using Mindfulness-Based interventions as well as CBT and Somatic Therapy.
Accepting new clients both in office and virtual. Life can be challenging and sometimes it can be hard to cope or figure out exactly how to work through those challenges. I understand the struggle and how overwhelming it can sometimes be. We can work together to help you to navigate those challenges and achieve the life you desire. I use a mindfulness-based holistic therapeutic approach focusing on the whole person including body, mind, spirit, and community. My approach to counseling is client focused, culturally sensitive, and integrative.
I work with adults and adolescents and utilize a client-centered approach using Mindfulness-Based interventions as well as CBT and Somatic Therapy.
Accepting new clients both in office and virtual. Life can be challenging and sometimes it can be hard to cope or figure out exactly how to work through those challenges. I understand the struggle and how overwhelming it can sometimes be. We can work together to help you to navigate those challenges and achieve the life you desire. I use a mindfulness-based holistic therapeutic approach focusing on the whole person including body, mind, spirit, and community. My approach to counseling is client focused, culturally sensitive, and integrative.
(717) 912-9313 View (717) 912-9313
Photo of Becca King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntingdon County, PA
Becca King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
With a focus on mind-body connection, I've practiced EMDR since 2015, using this in combination with Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be daunting. It takes effort and intention, things that don't come easily when experiencing stress or crisis. I understand this and want to support you in the step you're about to take. Perhaps you'd like to consider the "why's" behind certain decisions, or connect better with significant people in your life. Maybe you're struggling to keep the lid on hurtful or damaging experiences.
With a focus on mind-body connection, I've practiced EMDR since 2015, using this in combination with Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be daunting. It takes effort and intention, things that don't come easily when experiencing stress or crisis. I understand this and want to support you in the step you're about to take. Perhaps you'd like to consider the "why's" behind certain decisions, or connect better with significant people in your life. Maybe you're struggling to keep the lid on hurtful or damaging experiences.
(717) 696-0662 View (717) 696-0662

See more therapy options for Huntingdon County

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.